Camino de Santiago: advice and guide to routes and stages
According to legend, the appearance of the remains of the apostle St. James led to the construction of Santiago de Compostela in the 9th century. It soon became a pilgrimage destination on a par with Jerusalem and Rome.
The Camino de Santiago de Compostela (the Way), o Way of Saint James in English, is made up of a collection of ancient pilgrimage routes leading to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, in the northwest of Spain. It is home to the 9th century cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
AT A GLANCE:
- 1. The Routes
- 2. Tips for the Camino de Santiago
- 3. How to prepare for the Camino de Santiago.
- 4. The backpack: what to take with you on the Camino de Santiago
- 5. Pilgrim's Credential. The Compostelana
- 6. Accommodation on the Camino de Santiago
- 7. Gastronomy of the Camino
The need to go on pilgrimages has always been a human characteristic. People have travelled to destinations that promised miracles or penance, or atonement for sins. And even in this rational age, people are drawn to spiritual quests to the sacred sites of the world. In the Christian world, few holy sites are more famous than Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, in northern Spain. Pilgrims have walked this route for over 1000 years. And today, more than 100,000 pilgrims make the journey annually What attracts them there?
By doing El Camino you will be able to experience an incredible experience. All you have to do is put on your boots or get on your bike to start discovering one of the wonders of Spain in a very peculiar way. You will be able to go through exciting natural landscapes and you'll find villages that will give you a glimpse of their history. until you reach the end of the route, Santiago de Compostela. You can join the thousands of pilgrims who come to this Galician city every year, where the remains of the apostle St. James the Greater rest.
There are many motivations for doing so: personal or spiritual quest, sporting challenge or simple interest in the whole culture surrounding this path.. It doesn't matter which one you choose, as you will enjoy it either way. In addition to this personal experience, there is also a culinary experience unprecedented, where you will have the opportunity to taste traditional dishes from the north of Spain.
You will come across buildings such as cathedrals and works of art such as countless paintings, but you will also enjoy the culture with its traditions, festivals and customs. You will always keep in touch with the naturewhether you are in the Pyrenees or arriving at your destination. Wonderful cliffs, national parks... great beauty is hidden in every corner you visit. You will meet pilgrims like you, as well as their stories, in an environment that many call home.
READ ALSO: The best trekking routes in Spain".
1. The Routes
Although the final destination is always Santiago de Compostela, there are numerous routes. See what each has to offer.
French Way
READ ALSO: The French Way".
Of all the many roads that lead to Santiago de Compostela, the most popular is known as the "Camino de Santiago de Compostela". French Way. This is a 750-kilometre route starting in France and crossing the Pyrenees at Somport or Roncesvalles.
Stages of the French Way
- Stage 1 : Saint Jean Pied de Port - Roncesvalles (25,7 Km)
- Stage 2 : Roncesvalles - Zubiri (21,5 Km)
- Stage 3 : Zubiri - Pamplona/Iruña (20,4 Km)
- Stage 4 : Pamplona/Iruña - Puente la Reina/Gares (24 Km)
- Stage 1 [via Somport] Somport - Jaca (30,5 Km)
- Stage 2 [via Somport] Jaca - Arrés (25 Km)
- Stage 3 [via Somport] Arrés - Ruesta (28,7 Km)
- Stage 4 [via Somport] Ruesta - Sangüesa (21,8 Km)
- Stage 4+1 [via Somport] Sangüesa - Monreal (27,25 Km)
- Stage 4+2 [via Somport] Monreal - Puente la Reina-Gares (31,1 Km)
- Stage 5 : Puente la Reina/Gares - Estella/Lizarra (22 Km)
- Stage 6 Estella/Lizarra - Torres del Río (29 Km)
- Stage 7 : Torres del Río - Logroño (20 Km)
- Stage 8 : Logroño - Nájera (29,6 Km)
- Stage 9 : Nájera - Sto. Domingo de la Calzada (21 Km)
- Stage 10 : Sto. Domingo de la Calzada - Belorado (22,7 Km)
- Stage 11 : Belorado - Agés (27,4 Km)
- Stage 12 : Agés - Burgos (23 Km)
- Stage 13 : Burgos - Hontanas (31,1 Km)
- Stage 14 : Hontanas - Boadilla del Camino (28,5 Km)
- Stage 15 : Boadilla del Camino - Carrion de los Condes (24,6 Km)
- Stage 16 : Carrión de los Condes - Terradillos de los Templarios (26,6 Km)
- Stage 17 : Terradillos de los Templarios - El Burgo Ranero (30,6 Km)
- Stage 18 : El Burgo Ranero - León (37,1 Km)
- Stage 19 : León - San Martín del Camino (25,9 Km)
- Stage 20 : San Martín del Camino - Astorga (24,2 Km)
- Stage 21 : Astorga - Foncebadón (25,9 Km)
- Stage 22 : Foncebadón - Ponferrada (27,3 Km)
- Stage 23 : Ponferrada - Villafranca del Bierzo (24,1 Km)
- Stage 24 : Villafranca del Bierzo - O Cebreiro (28,4 Km)
- Stage 25 : O Cebreiro - Triacastela (21,1 Km)
- Stage 26 : Triacastela - Sarria (18,3 Km)
- Stage 27 : Sarria - Portomarín (22,4 Km)
- Stage 28 : Portomarín - Palas de Rei (25 Km)
- Stage 29 : Palas de Rei - Arzúa (28,8 Km)
- Stage 30 : Arzúa - Pedrouzo (19,1 Km)
- Stage 31 : Pedrouzo - Santiago de Compostela (20 Km)
You will be able to feel like a real time traveller with the numerous stages of this route. It is the most traditional, dating back to the Middle Ages. You will start this cultural tour at the Pyreneesand then along the south face of the Cantabrian Mountains until you finally reach Galicia. You can start this journey from either Roncesvalles (located in Navarra) as well as Somport (in Aragon). Both roads end up joining at the height of Queen's Bridge (also in Navarre). Be prepared to enjoy the beauty and gastronomy.
If you start in Aragon (Aragonese Way of Saint James), you can enjoy huge forests and meadows that will make you feel like you're in a fairy tale, enhanced by the Canfranc Station and the Coll de Ladrones fort, located in Huesca. You can make a stop on the way at Villanúa to visit the Cueva de las Güixas, and then you will arrive at Jaca where you can recharge your batteries and find supplies. You can't start the next stage without tasting the typical cod in ajoarriero sauce. Once you have regained your strength, you can continue on to Arrés, where you can enjoy the marvellous view of the viewpoint of the Berdún Canal.
Once in NavarreYou will be able to taste the famous chistorra sandwich from Pamplona. If you are lucky enough to pass by Pamplona in the second week of July, you will be able to see the running of the bulls of San Fermín. There are villages, such as Obanos and its beautiful architecture, before reaching the Romanesque bridge of Obanos. Queen's Bridge. Built a thousand years ago, you can walk along the same path that the pilgrims of yesteryear followed. Just two kilometres from this emblematic bridge, you will come across one of the symbols of this route: the church of Saint Mary of Eunate. It is very likely that you have already seen it, because this Romanesque building is always shown in images referring to the route. On your walk you will come across Estella-LizarraYou will be amazed by its great monumental heritage. Afterwards you will continue your journey to La RiojaA region known for its great wines, which you can enjoy with some delicious Rioja-style potatoes. At Logroño you'll have to go for tapas on Calle Laurel. The monasteries of Yuso and Suso, at San Millán de la CogollaThe villages are considered to be the cradle of our language and are recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. You will also pass through Santo Domingo de la CalzadaYou'll climb the bell tower to get the best views of the whole area.
On your journey, don't forget to take a break to enjoy the black pudding from Burgos or the Castilian suckling lamb. Without leaving Burgos, you can discover the origins of mankind in the Sierra de AtapuercaThe city is home to one of the largest archaeological sites in Europe, considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will pass through Palenciawhere you can make a stop at Terradillos de los Templarioswhose name recalls the presence of one of the most powerful Christian military orders that populated our country throughout the Middle Ages.
It will take you a while to get to LeonMany people choose this community as the start of the Camino. There is no better way to start than by visiting León Cathedral. Another highlight of the city is its old Hospital de San Marcos. A few kilometres from the capital, in AstorgaYou will be able to visit the Episcopal Palace, built by Gaudí. If you continue on to your destination, you will pass through the region of El Bierzowhere you can find PonferradaThe city was built next to an old castle where the Templars used to live. If you have time, you can make a stop at Villafranca del BierzoThe old quarter of the town is considered an Asset of Cultural Interest. You will have the opportunity to taste the delicious cured beef cecina, very similar to Serrano ham. From this point onwards, the route becomes more complicated, requiring a greater effort on your part in order to reach passes such as that of the Iron CrossThis is considered the highest point on this route. When you reach the church of Santa María la Real, you will be able to catch a glimpse of a beautiful valley, hidden in case of fog. Once in the Galician countryside, you will enter the last stage of the whole route. You will be able to enjoy the marvellous Galician forests, streams and pastures. Don't forget to taste the Galician gastronomy, with its comforting broths or its delicious pies. Once in LugoOn the way, you will be surprised by the Romanesque church of Santa María de Ferreiros, located in the middle of the route. Passing through the Abbey of Samos, the Benedictine monks who live there will offer you accommodation and the chance to join them in their morning prayers. Also important is the church of San Salvador de Vilar de Donas, near Palas de Rei. Inside is an extravagant museum with sculptures and altarpieces from around the 12th century.
You will soon be entering the province of A Coruña, where the finish line of the route is located: Santiago de Compostela. It is a majestic city full of magic and spirituality. When you arrive at thea plaza del Obradoiro you can catch a glimpse of the imposing cathedral. Enjoy the atmosphere and the culture.
North Road
READ ALSO: The Way of the North".
If you choose this path, you will walk along the shore of the Cantabrian Sea. It is one of the oldest routes, like the French Way, and it is also one of the most beautiful. You can take the opportunity to see the beauty, both cultural and culinary, of communities such as Cantabria, Asturias or Basque Country.
Stages of the Camino del Norte
- Stage 1 : Irun - San Sebastián-Donostia (27,6 Km)
- Stage 2 : San Sebastián-Donostia - Zarautz (20,3 Km)
- Stage 3 : Zarautz - Deba (22 Km)
- Stage 4 : Deba - Markina-Xemein (24,3 Km)
- Stage 5 : Markina Xemein - Gernika Lumo (25 Km)
- Stage 6 : Gernika - Lezama (21,8 Km)
- Stage 7 : Lezama - Bilbao (11,2 Km)
- Stage 8 - Bilbao - Portugalete (19,7 Km)
- Stage 9 : Portugalete - Pobeña (12,3 Km)
- Stage 10 : Pobeña - Castro Urdiales (23,5 Km)
- Stage 11 Castro Urdiales - Laredo (30,6 Km)
- Stage 12 : Laredo - Güemes (29,5 Km)
- Stage 13 : Güemes - Santander (20,5 Km)
- Stage 14 : Santander - Queveda (41,4 Km)
- Stage 15 : Queveda - Comillas (26,4 Km)
- Stage 16 : Comillas - Unquera (26,6 Km)
- Stage 17 : Unquera - Llanes (25,1 Km)
- Stage 18 : Llanes - San Esteban de Leces (33,9 Km)
- Stage 19 : San Esteban de Leces - Sebrayo (27,8 Km)
- Stage 20 | Sebrayo - Gijón / Link up to Oviedo and Primitive Way (34,3 Km)
- Stage 21 : Gijón - Avilés (22,7 Km)
- Stage 22 : Avilés - Soto de Luiña (38 Km)
- Stage 23 : Soto de Luiña - Cadavedo (23,9 Km)
- Stage 24 : Cadavedo - Luarca (16,3 Km)
- Stage 25 : Luarca - La Caridad (29,3 Km)
- Stage 26 : La Caridad - Ribadeo (22,3 Km)
- Stage 27 : Ribadeo - Lourenzá (29,5 Km)
- Stage 28 : Lourenzá - Abadín (24,8 Km)
- Stage 29 : Abadín - Vilalba (20,6 Km)
- Stage 30 : Vilalba - Baamonde (20,7 Km)
- Stage 31 : Baamonde - Sobrado dos Monxes (41,3 Km)
- Stage 32 : Sobrado dos Monxes - Arzúa (21,5 Km)
You will be immersed in Green Spain, a region of immense natural beauty with mountainous landscapes, crystal-clear streams, cliffs and lush forests and meadows. You will pass through numerous towns and villages that will tell you all about their history. It is important to note that this variant of the Way is the one with the most World Heritage Sites.
If you're interested in touring it in its entirety, it's important that you start at Irun (located in the Basque Country) which borders France. You will travel all over the Gipuzkoa to its capital, San SebastianA beautiful coastal city with white sandy beaches between the Urgull and Igeldo mountains. It is a very touristy city, with farmhouses, stately mansions and modern neighbourhoods in a beautiful contrast. It is important to visit the San Telmo Museum, the Peine del Viento or the Kursaal, always with a mixture of tradition and modernity. The gastronomy Donostia is truly impressive, with the highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants per square metre in the world. You will be able to taste the white wine called txakolí. The next stages will take you through great coastal towns such as Zumaia, Deba o Zarautz. You will be lucky enough to observe the so-called "flysch"These geological formations are the result of tides and erosion. You can also enjoy great views from high altitude villages such as Elorriaga and Itziar.
If you continue on your way you will eventually enter the province of Vizcaya. You will pass through Guernikaa city where you can feel its history. It was destroyed by German/Italian forces during the Civil War, which inspired Pablo Picasso's painting of the same name. You can also visit BilbaoThe provincial capital, where you can enjoy one of the most avant-garde architectural compositions in the world. A visit to the Guggenheim is almost obligatory, with its particular shape and its works of art, the work of Frank Gehry. In the old town you will enjoy the pintxos, the Basque tapas. Don't forget to accompany your meal with a good wine. Only a few kilometres separate you from Cantabriawhere you will visit beautiful places such as Laredo, Noja o Castro Urdialesbefore arriving at Santander. This city combines mountain and sea, with one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Its many viewpoints offer breathtaking views of the area, and its old town is full of buildings with a long history.
If you continue along the Cantabrian coast you will end up at ComillasIt has been declared a historic-artistic site. If you stroll through its streets, you will come across innumerable ancestral homes and buildings with a modernist air. It is essential to visit some of the buildings such as Gaudí's El Capricho, the neo-Gothic Palacio de Sobrellano and the Pontifical University, a symbol of the town. You are only a few kilometres away from the town of Santillana del Marhome of the Upper Palaeolithic man who inhabits the cave at Altamira. It is 18,000 years old and is considered the country's greatest cave treasure, obviously a World Heritage Site. Once you enter the Asturias the stages will be made bearable, with the great food that characterises the area. The councils of Ribadesella o Llanes contain many parishes where you can rest from your wanderings. It is important to enjoy the area surrounding the church of Nuestra Señora de los Dolores and the beach of San Antolin.
It won't be long before you reach GijónThe Asturian capital, which combines a mixture of sea air, historical heritage and modern urban structure just a few metres from the beach. We are sure you will love it. Both the church of San Andrés de Ceares and the church of Santa María Magdalena are examples of Romanesque architecture. Other important towns are Cudillero y LuarcaThe latter is known as the White Village of the Costa Verde, located just a few kilometres from Galicia. Once there, in Lugoyou will visit Modoñedo. Its old town has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest, and contains one of the most imposing neoclassical cathedrals in Europe. As for gastronomy, you can't miss its traditional cake, with ingredients such as puff pastry, nuts and candied fruit. When you pass through Arzúajust 40 kilometres from Santiago, you will be able to meet the pilgrims of the French Way.
Primitive Way
READ ALSO: The Primitive Way".
It is the oldest route of all. It is based on the 9th century pilgrims' route through the inland west of Asturias. It is much less popular than the other two routes mentioned, although it is just as well signposted. On top of that, its wooded areas are easy to traverse and the tarmac is conspicuous by its absence, giving you the best overall views of all the routes.
Stages of the Primitive Way
- Stage 1 : Oviedo - San Juan de Villapañada (30,5 Km)
- Stage 2 : San Juan de Villapañada - Salas (20,2 Km)
- Stage 3 : Salas - Tineo (20,2 Km)
- Stage 4 : Tineo - Pola de Allande (28,2 Km)
- Stage 5 : Pola de Allande - La Mesa (22,8 Km)
- Stage 6 : La Mesa - Grandas de Salime (16,8 Km)
- Stage 7 : Grandas de Salime - Fonsagrada (28,1 Km)
- Stage 8 : A Fonsagrada (Padrón) - O Cádavo Baleira (23,4 Km)
- Stage 9 : Cádavo Baleira - Lugo (30,5 Km)
- Stage 10 : Lugo - San Romao da Retorta (19,7 Km)
- Stage 11 : San Romao da Retorta - Melide (27,7 Km)
- Stage 12 : Melide - O Pedrouzo (33,3 Km)
- Stage 13 : O Pedrouzo - Santiago de Compostela (20 Km)
It starts in OviedoThe Asturian capital, which has great historical treasures. You will find many pre-Romanesque churches such as Santa María del Naranco, San Miguel de Lillo or San Julián de Prados, all of them World Heritage Sites. As the old quarter is completely pedestrianised, walking through the streets of Oviedo is always a pleasure. In its cathedral, San Salvador, you can visit the Holy Chamber, a small chapel whose function was to store relics such as the Holy Shroud. If you get going, you can see how nature invades you, with its numerous rivers, forests, waterfalls and oak groves. You can visit picturesque villages such as Salas, a Historic Site.
You should not forget to visit the collegiate church of Santa María, one of the best examples of Asturian architecture from the Renaissance period, as well as the medieval tower, with a museum inside. In the cemetery, whose views are breathtaking, you will find the Yew Tree of San Martín de Salas, 15 metres high and 6 metres in perimeter. Afterwards, you will go into the councils of Allande y Grandas de SalimeIts Protected Landscape will surprise you. As you approach Galicia, you will enjoy the wonderful views of the Salime reservoir. At Palas de Rei you will end up meeting the French Waybut first you will crown the picturesque Alto del Acebowith a height of one kilometre.
Don't forget to try the Asturian gastronomy, such as the popular cachopos or fabada. And don't forget to try the rice pudding and cider.
Other Roads
It is possible to get to Santiago by other routes. You can go by the English Wayused by British and northern pilgrims starting in Ferrol, or the Path Portuguesewhich takes you from Lisbon to Galicia, passing through Oporto. Nor can you forget the Via de la PlataThe route starts in Seville and goes all the way to Gijón, passing through many sections of the Camino. And don't forget that other routes reach the Pyrenees and then face the final part of the paths we have just discussed.
2. Tips for the Camino de Santiago
To do so, you should prepare yourself very well. Here are a few tips to make it easier for you.
We advise you to try to get out of the busiest times of the year.The Camino has become so fashionable that at certain times of the year it is a "pilgrimage" for many people.
On foot
If you want to go more traditional, walking is a great way, and the most affordable. You can go at your own pace, enjoy the experience and chat with other walkers. You can also choose not to talk and focus on your personal experience, especially if you want to meditate. You should have a good a full rucksack weighing no more than 8 kilos. It is important that you choose a footwear comfortable, such as hiking boots or a good pair of used trainers. It is recommended that you wear baton for support in steep areas. Don't forget a first aid kit and toiletries.
It is important to remember that temperatures can drop even during the summer. Especially in the early stages of the Camino, in the Pyrenees. You should take some warm clothes and a mackintosh in case it rains. You shouldn't forget sun cream and a hat either, as it can get very sunny. While some hostels offer a bed where you can spread out your sleeping bag, there are times when you will have to sleep on the ground, so a mat is a good idea.
The following links will be useful for your preparation:
- Blisters on the Camino de Santiago.
- Physical preparation for the Camino de Santiago
- What are the most common injuries and physical problems among hikers and cyclists on the Camino de Santiago?
Whatever the reason for the pilgrimage, finally arriving at the great Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is a moving experience. True pilgrims embrace the statue of St. James and often break down in tears of joy. And even those who travelled for pleasure or experience were affected in ways they cannot explain.
By bicycle
If pedalling is your thing, cycling is a good option. You'll go much faster and you'll be able to visit the sights more efficiently. If you want to enjoy yourself, choose a route according to your fitness level and a season with mild temperatures and very occasional rain (although it's possible to do it at any time of year, thanks to the large number of hostels). Both the French and English Ways are easy for cyclists.. The Camino de la Costa/Norte and Primitivo have exceptional weather during spring and summer.. The Silver Route can have very high temperatures during the summer.The routes for cyclists are varied, so this should be taken into account. There are variants on the routes for cyclists. The signposting is very good, although you can always get information beforehand. Everything we recommend for walkers is suitable for cyclists. We will also add the bicycle equipment (spare parts, air pump, degreaser...) and for you (good glasses, helmet, reflective waistcoat...).
It is important for you to know that in public hostels give preference to pilgrims travelling on foot when it comes to resting..
READ ALSO: Camino de Santiago by bike: advice, route and stage guide
On horseback
You will be able to enjoy a thousand-year-old experience. It is a very picturesque way of walking the Pilgrims' Route to Santiago de Compostela. In this case, the preparation time will be much longer, since you will have to reserve places where your horse can restand prepare the feed for your equine friend to eat.
Although it is a relaxed way to do the Camino, it does require some fitness. Don't walk too much of the Camino in one go because you might miss out on many of the experiences. You will have to give several days' notice if you want to enter Santiago on horseback.. You will have to call the local police (092), who will tell you when and where you are allowed to enter. They will also give you a permit to enter the Plaza del Obradoiro.
By sailboat
Since 2016 you can also do the route by boat, on the Cantabrian Sea. The pioneers of this way of walking the Camino were the English and the Irish, back in the 12th century. It is a good way to increase the level of adventure of the Camino. During the route, called "Sail the Way - Navigate the Way"You will cross the sea in parallel with the North Road, stopping at the 17 marinas spread over the Basque Country, Asturias, Galicia and Cantabria.. If you want to get your Compostela, you must have covered 100 nautical miles (182 kilometres), stamp your credential at each of the authorised ports and finish the last stage, which comprises the Monte do Gozo-Santiago route, on foot.
3. How to prepare for the Camino de Santiago.
A good preparation in advance is the key to successfully complete a great route such as the Camino de Santiago. It will help you to enjoy trekking more and avoid dreaded injuries and physical problems.s.
A good training and preparation plan for the Camino de Santiago can have a positive impact on your health and well-being. duration of 3 monthsThe level of physical activity will gradually increase and you will become familiar with the equipment and clothing you will be wearing on route.
You may be interested in the following article based on a scientific article about the physical preparation for walking the Camino de Santiago.
In order to guide you, here are some articles that will give you some guidance. keys for you to prepare a long-distance route (Click here) such as the Camino de Santiago. You will have to train your muscles as well as your cardiorespiratory fitness y resistance.
4. The backpack: what to take with you on the Camino de Santiago
The big debate you are going to have as soon as you decide to venture out on the Camino de Santiago is going to be: which backpack should I take?
Our recommendation is that you go for minimalist equipment that fits easily into a 25 to 40 litre backpack. Which is a backpack that we would carry for a day hiking trip. Why? Because the different routes of the Camino de Santiago generally run between towns and cities where you will have all kinds of amenities. Because you can go from hostel to hostel and in them you will have a place where you can wash the clothes of the day (yes, with a spare garment and another one to put on can be enough), blankets (with what with a sleeping bag will be enough) and food and supplies in each village. Because you will see that you can spend the day with very few things and that this is one of the things you will learn on a route like this. Because you will enjoy it a lot.
Choose your backpack (remember: 25-40 litres) and choose from the basic hiking equipment yours for the Camino de Santiago, but above all minimalist. In the following list you have food ideas to take on the road.
5. Pilgrim's Credential. The Compostelana
Today's pilgrims make this journey for a number of reasons, some of which are spiritual. In fact, more than 100,000 pilgrims from over 100 countries make the journey each year on foot, bicycle, donkey or horseback. And that's just the official pilgrims with an official pilgrimage permit. pilgrim 'passport': the credential. Most conclude that it is a moving and rewarding experience in ways they did not anticipate.
So, as a record of your great personal achievement, you will be given the Compostela, a certificate. In order to obtain it, you will need both your personal documentation and your pilgrim's badgewhich you will go to stamping at hostels, parishes, town halls or approved bars. If you want this credential, you should go to the parish or hostel where you start the Camino de Santiago or to an association of Friends of the Camino de Santiago. You can get the St. James stamp from your Pilgrim's Office.
First of all, you must obtain a pilgrim "credential". by registering in a town such as Roncesvalles on the border with France (depending on your starting point). This document identifies you as a pilgrim and will allow you to stay in refugios or albergues along the way with some preference over other travellers. These albergues dot the routes along the different routes of the Camino de Santiago, often cheap or even free accommodation. These generally have communal rooms with bunk beds, and will provide you with everything you need during your stay there.
The credential is also needed to obtain the Compostelanathe certificate awarded to pilgrims who complete the camino. To earn this, you need to walk a minimum of 100 kilometres or cover a minimum of 200 kilometres on your pilgrimage. To get your compostelana, you must have your credential stamped in the towns you pass through on your pilgrimage. This proves that you walked the route recognised by the Association of Friends of the Camino de Santiago. It is also a requirement to have done the Camino for religious or spiritual reasons. If your reason is other, you can apply for the pilgrim's certificate. You have to start deciding how you want to do the Camino.
6. Accommodation on the Camino de Santiago
Where will you stay? There are many different types of accommodation, each offering a different set of features and experiences.
Hostels
This is the most authentic experience, and it involves spending the night in the great network of hostels on the Camino. There are two types. The public ones have a reduced price (in some of them you will only have to pay a small donation). Places are limited, but there are always preference for walkers and horseback riders about those on bicycles. Don't be afraid of running out of room, as there are private hostels if there is not enough space. Churches, sports centres and even schools are also available for pilgrims.
You have to keep in mind that you will need to follow the hostel rulesThe pilgrims should be aware of the timetables for departure and entry and the order of silence during the night. Solidarity between pilgrims is important. This is the most authentic experience you will ever have.
Hotels
On the Camino there is a wide variety of private hotels that will adapt to your budget and tastes. There are hotels of all kinds, spas with spa... and even rural houses, with a very close and modest treatment.
Camping
There are many green areas that are equipped, most of them in the towns that you will pass through naturally. All of them have basic services, and some even have a swimming pool or leisure activities. The Camino del Norte has the most campsites. Bear in mind that, in Spain, free camping is regulatedYou will need to find out where you can do it.
Paradores de turismo
If you want to enjoy the Camino, this is a great way. They are unique buildings in privileged locations: palaces, convents, castles... Monuments with all the comforts of modern times. All of them offer a wide range of gastronomic options, especially traditional regional cuisine. There are now almost a hundred of them all over Spain.
If you are on the Camino del Norte, there is a Parador in Santillana del Mar (Cantabria), located in a typical mountain mansion. If you pass through Asturias, specifically Cangas de Onís, you may be surprised by the Monastery of San Pedro de Villanueva, surrounded by the Picos de Europa. In the region of Galicia you will have wonderful views while staying in the so-called "pazos". These are typical houses of the region, with a stately character, which you can enjoy at the Parador de Verín, in Ourense. Right in that province you can also stay at the Monastery of Santo Estevo. If the Portuguese Way is your choice, you can stay at the Parador de Baiona, in a large fortress in Pontevedra.
7. Gastronomy of the Camino
The vast majority of restaurants have available the so called ".pilgrim menus"A great way to get a taste of the region without breaking the bank. At the Basque Country you can enjoy stews such as cod (pil-pil or Biscayan-style), the marmitako (a bonito stew) or the baby squid in its ink. Navarre has a vegetables excellent, grown next to the Ebro, so you can't miss the baked borage or the cardoon with clams. Also well known are the white asparagus. The community of La Rioja has an unparalleled wine culture, and if you visit one of them, you'll be able to winery you can see how they use the vine shoots, i.e. dry vine branches, for roasting lamb chops. Another typical dish is the eggs Rioja stylehard-boiled eggs sautéed with garlic and red pepper. If you go through Aragon don't forget to try the chicken chilindrónwith Aragonese vegetables in a delicious stir-fry. The roasts of suckling lamb y veal are well known in this community. By Leonare very typical of the cecinas and botillo (a sausage). Cantabria features stews such as the lebaniego or mountain stewand in Asturias have many varieties of cheeses. There are also some very picturesque specialities, such as the octopus a feirathe Galician stew or the delicious filloas and even the Santiago cake. The gastronomy of the Camino will certainly not leave you indifferent.
