Camino Norte - Ribadeo to Santiago

Arrive in Ribadeo in Spain's Galicia region. The town is known for its Cathedrals Beach, the second most visited site in Galicia - after the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, of course! After check in at your hotel, take some time to look around the compact centre.

The route today takes you through dense and fragrant eucalyptus groves. Villages along the way are often quite small. It's a gradual ascent for most of the day, with one steep section from A Ponte to Vilamartin Grande. From here, a taxi transfer (at 3pm) will take you back to Ribadeo where you stay overnight again. Distance: 18km/11.2mi, highest point approx 400m

This morning (8.30am) transfer back to Villamartin Grande to continue walking from where you left off yesterday. A visit to Lourenzá and its impressive Baroque monastery is one of the day's highlights. From Lourenza the path leads into the rolling hills, where fantastic views make the climbs worthwhile. Continue to Mondonedo, once a capital of the ancient Kingdom of Galicia. Its historic quarter has been declared a Property of Cultural Interest. Wander the picturesque streets or visit the Os Muiños neighbourhood with its traditional architecture and canal structure. Distance: 18km/11.3mi, highest point approx 250m

Today's stage leads you from Mondoñedo, gently ascending through the Valiñadares Valley to the plateau of Terra Chá. There are paved and unpaved sections, offering splendid views and a gradual ascent towards Abadín. Enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage along the way. Distance: 17km/10.6mi, highest point approx 600m

From Abadin you follow paths that wind through rural landscapes and native forests. The route runs parallel to a national road as you make your way to Vilalba. This medieval town had a cultural boom in the 20th century, emerging as a town with rich journalistic and literary activity. San Simón da Costa cheese (D.O.P.) and Vilalba's roscón (cake) stand out. Distance: 21km/13.1mi, highest point approx 540m

Continue walking through rural Galicia, along rural paths and past small villages en route to Seixón de Abaixo. At 4pm a transfer takes you to your accommodation in Friol. Distance: 31km/19.4mi, highest point approx 500m

At 8.30am a transfer takes you back to Seixón to continue walking. There is an option to shorten the long and quite challenging walk by extending the transfer to Miraz (just let the driver know where you would like to be dropped off). The trail today brings you to Sobrado dos Monxes for your overnight accommodation. The town is home to an impressive 10th century monastery. Distance walk: 28km/17.5mi (or 23km/14.3mi), highest point approx 680m

The terrain is easier today as you walk the last part of the Camino Norte and join the Camino Frances. You can stop at one of many villages for lunch. Crossing over the River Seco on the Magdalena Bridge you will reach Furelos, continuing to Arzúa in the province of La Coruña. Overnight in Arzua. Distance: 22km/13.8mi, highest point approx 500m

Today’s walk will bring you to the small town of Rua which has a population of only 50 people. The walking is lovely, with gentle slopes leading past green fields and rural landscapes, gradually becoming more urban. Distance 18km/11.1mi, highest point approx 400m

The last day on the trail is always special. Today you will pass many ancient sites including monuments, chapels and bridges – all have a story to tell. Follow country lanes and forest paths through increasingly populated landscapes. At Monte do Gozo take a small detour for spectacular views of Santiago then continue downhill to the city. Arriving in fabled Santiago de Compostela there is plenty to see and do – or you can simply relax and celebrate the end of your journey. Dinner is not included tonight so you can try one of the many restaurants in town. Distance 21km/13mi, highest point approx 360m

Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. If you'd like to add an extra night, please ask for our rates.