The Camino, a Walking Journey for the Soul
The Camino, a Walking Journey for the Soul
11 Days Starting and ending in Madrid, Spain
Visiting: Madrid, Sarria, Portomarín, Melide, Arzúa, Santiago de Compostela
Tour operator:
Tour code:
5390-2024
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
5-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
The history of the Camino de Santiago goes back to the 9th Century, when the tomb of the evangelical apostle St. James was discovered in what is today Santiago de Compostela. Since then, pilgrims from all over the world have walked St. James' Way, originally seeking forgiveness for their sins, and nowadays often just to spend time on a journey of personal growth. This is a challenging experience as it involves a significant physical effort as you walk through forests and along busy roads for many miles each day for a total of approximately 71 miles. Your rewards will be intangible, but priceless: an opportunity to enjoy nature, meditate, search for answers, and challenge your limits, discover beautiful rural areas of northern Spain, and make friends with whom you’ll have shared one of the most significant experiences of your life. At the end of your journey, relax on an excursion by coach to Finisterre and Muxia and a guided tour of Santiago de Compostela. You will receive the Compostela Certificate upon completion of the entire route on foot.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive In Madrid, Spain
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Praga
Meals Included: Dinner
Check into your hotel and, if you have time, start exploring this bustling city on your own with the help of the CosmosGO app. Later, meet your tour companions during the included welcome dinner at your hotel. Your Tour Director will explain the dos and don’ts of the walk and give you some important advice.
Day 2 : Madrid - Sarria
Location: Sarria
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Alfonso IX
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Transfer to the train station to board the train to Sarria (you will be responsible for carrying your own luggage). On arrival, check in at the hotel and spend the evening at leisure, or spend free time to see the early-Gothic Church of O Salvador on the Main Street, the 13th- century Convent of the Magdalena at the outskirts of the old town, or enjoy a drink with your fellow pilgrims on the river walk next to the hotel. Today’s distance (by train): 313mi / 504 km
Day 3 : Sarria - Portomarín
Location: Portomarín
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Vistalegre Spa Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 23 km/14.3 mi – Average 6 hrs – Difficulty 3/3). This is the real start of the journey. May every step be a thought on peace and an extension of loving kindness. Expect a peaceful walk in shady oak forest and through pretty villages on quiet country roads. The village of Barbadelo has a beautiful Romanesque church that is worth a visit. You will also pass through the village of Ferreiros. On arrival in Portomarín, relax at one of the many outdoor cafes in the main square.
Day 4 : Portomarín - Lestedo
Location: Portomarín
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Casa Roan Y Casa Grande
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 20 km/12.5 mi – Average 4.5 hrs – Difficulty 2/3. Let your mind wander and the feet follow. Begin the day by crossing over the Belesar dam footbridge, then start a gradual climb to the village of Ligonde. This stage mainly runs along andanderos (paths) next to the road or, in some cases, along paved trails. There are many signs indicating the pilgrim route, including the famous cruceiros (crucifixes). Check out the Cruceiro of Lameiros and the Monastery of Our Saviour of Vilar de Donas (2 km/1.2 mi detour off the Camino). Overnight in Lestedo.
Day 5 : Lestedo - Melide
Location: Melide
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Pension San Anton
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 18 km/11.2 mi – Average 4 hrs – Difficulty 2/3. Keep an open mind and heart, let go of expectations, and enjoy the feeling of freedom along this ancient pilgrim path. The Camino takes you into the province of Coruña, with its fine eucalyptus and pine expanses, and numerous medieval bridges, such as the ones in Leboreiro and Furelos. Melide is an obligatory stop for food lovers; the best-known local delicacy here is octopus.
Day 6 : Melide - Arzúa
Location: Arzúa
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Arzua
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 14 km/8.7 mi – Average 3.30 hrs – Difficulty 2/3. The Camino can be a powerful catalyst for positive change. Today’s landscapes are similar to the previous day’s, with some idyllic locations such as the Camino in Ribadiso da Baixo near Arzúa. Arzúa is where the modern town with its bars, restaurants and the Church of St James overshadow the Medieval center.
Day 7 : Arzúa - Amenal
Location: Arzúa
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Gran Hotel Los Abetos
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 25 km/15.5 mi – Average 6 hrs–Difficulty 2/3. Finding the courage to face our fears and stepping outside our comfort zone can lead us to self-discovery. The route today is a nice and leisurely walk over gentle slopes and through woodland, combined with some stretches along the road, which you will have to cross on occasions.
Day 8 : Amenal - Santiago De Compostela
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 15 km/9.5 mi – Average 4 hrs – Difficulty 2/3. Our experiences and encounters are waymarks to the inner path. This is the last stage of your Camino de Santiago. Today, distance will not matter. There is a climb to San Marcos, from Lavacolla, passing Monte do Gozo before descending to Santiago de Compostela. Congratulations, you made it! If you have walked all stages of the Camino, you will receive your Pilgrim Certificate. Give thanks by attending the 
Pilgrim Mass in the magnificent Cathedral.
Day 9 : Santiago De Compostela - Finisterre - Muxia - Santiago De Compostela
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast
You have reached your goal; now reach the end of the world. Complete the experience with a morning excursion by coach to the stunning Cape Finisterre peninsula, on the Atlantic Ocean, believed in Roman times to be the end of the world. Stop in Muxia, a small town on the coast, and visit the Sanctuary of our Lady of the Boat. This very scenic region not only offers wild beauty, but also delicious seafood and interesting legends. Return to Santiago in the early afternoon and meet your Local Guide for a guided walking sightseeing tour of the magical old city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today's Distance by coach: 117 mi / 187 km
Day 10 : Santiago De Compostela - Madrid
Location: Madrid
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take the spiritual growth and appreciation for simple things back home with you. This is your most important souvenir of the Camino. Today we transfer to the Santiago train station to catch a train to Madrid (you will be responsible for carrying your own luggage). Your Tour Director will be at hand for any assistance or suggestions on how to spend the last night in the Spanish capital. Today’s Distance by train: 373 mi / 600 km
Day 11 : Madrid
Location: Madrid
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay in a variety of accommodations including the Hotel Praga in Madrid, Alfonso IX in Sarria, Vistalegre Spa Hotel in Portomarin, and more. Enjoy modern amenities, free Wi-Fi, and unique settings ranging from historic buildings to rural hamlets, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.
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Transport
Travel by train from Madrid to Sarria and from Santiago to Madrid, covering distances of 504 km and 600 km respectively. Local transfers and walking are integral parts of the journey, with luggage transport provided between hotels.
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Meals
Buffet breakfasts daily, 8 dinners.
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Small Group
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select faith-based dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Cosmos escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority.
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UNESCO Sites
Routes of Santiago de Compostela: Routes of Northern Spain and Santiago de Compostela (Old Town).
What's Not Included
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Physical Fitness Requirement
This tour is largely completed on foot, requiring a good level of physical fitness, and some physical training prior to departure is highly recommended.
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Accessibility
This itinerary is not accessible by wheelchair or other ambulatory devices due to some uneven and unpaved paths.
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Additional Transportation Costs
If unable to complete any of the stages on foot, transportation by taxi will be arranged at an extra cost.
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Luggage Limitations
One piece of luggage per person, not exceeding 20 kg/44 lbs will be transported daily during the walk from the lobby of your overnight hotel to the next overnight hotel.
You will need to pack a backpack containing essentials for the day (such as water, raincoat, essential medication, money, sunblock, etc.
) that you will carry during the walk. -
Hotel Standards
Hotel accommodation is of simple standards, often with no elevators, and porterage at the hotels is not provided.
Small Group
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select faith-based dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Cosmos escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
UNESCO Sites
Routes of Santiago de Compostela: Routes of Northern Spain|Santiago de Compostela (Old Town)
Notes
Small groups (maximum 20) This tour is largely completed on foot, requiring a good level of physical fitness, and some physical training prior to departure is highly recommended. This itinerary is not accessible by wheelchair or other ambulatory devices due to some uneven and unpaved paths. If unable to complete any of the stages on foot, transportation by taxi will be arranged at an extra cost. One piece of luggage per person, not exceeding 20 kg/44 lbs will be transported daily during the walk from the lobby of your overnight hotel to the next overnight hotel. You will need to pack a backpack containing essentials for the day (such as water, raincoat, essential medication, money, sunblock, etc.) that you will carry during the walk. Mass services may be in local language and venues are subject to change. Hotel accommodation is of simple standards, often with no elevators, and porterage at the hotels is not provided.
Meals
Buffet breakfasts daily, 8 dinners
Mode of Transport
Travel by train from Madrid to Sarria and from Santiago to Madrid, covering distances of 504 km and 600 km respectively. Local transfers and walking are integral parts of the journey, with luggage transport provided between hotels.
Check out our Q&As
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What should I carry during the walking stages?
You will need to carry a backpack containing essentials for the day such as water, raincoat, essential medication, money, sunblock, etc.
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Are there any special notes regarding the physical requirements for this tour?
This tour is largely completed on foot, requiring a good level of physical fitness, and some physical training prior to departure is highly recommended. The itinerary is not accessible by wheelchair or other ambulatory devices due to some uneven and unpaved paths.
-
What is the difficulty level of the walking stages?
The difficulty level varies by day, with most stages rated between 2/3 and 3/3. The stages involve walking through shady oak forests, pretty villages, and along quiet country roads.
-
What type of transportation is provided during the tour?
Travel by train from Madrid to Sarria and from Santiago to Madrid, covering distances of 504 km and 600 km respectively. Local transfers and walking are integral parts of the journey, with luggage transport provided between hotels.
-
Is there luggage transport provided during the walking stages?
Yes, one piece of luggage per person, not exceeding 20 kg/44 lbs, will be transported daily during the walk from the lobby of your overnight hotel to the next overnight hotel. You will need to pack a backpack containing essentials for the day.
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What is the significance of the Pilgrim Certificate?
If you have walked all stages of the Camino, you will receive your Pilgrim Certificate upon reaching Santiago de Compostela.
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What kind of accommodations can I expect during the tour?
You will stay in a variety of accommodations including the Hotel Praga in Madrid, Alfonso IX in Sarria, Vistalegre Spa Hotel in Portomarin, and more. These accommodations offer modern amenities, free Wi-Fi, and unique settings ranging from historic buildings to rural hamlets.
-
What can I expect during the excursion to Cape Finisterre?
The excursion includes a morning coach trip to the stunning Cape Finisterre peninsula, believed in Roman times to be the end of the world. You will also visit the small town of Muxia and the Sanctuary of our Lady of the Boat, and enjoy the wild beauty, delicious seafood, and interesting legends of the region.
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What happens if I am unable to complete a walking stage?
If you are unable to complete any of the stages on foot, transportation by taxi will be arranged at an extra cost.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes buffet breakfasts daily and 8 dinners.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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Low Deposit
Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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