Overview Get your Compostela on the famous Camino Francés from Sarria Camino Francés from Sarria (PR18-170): Sarria - Ferreiros - Castromajor - Palas del Rei - Melide - Arzúa - Salceda - Amenal - Santiago de CompostelaDuration: 7, 8, 10 or 12 daysDifficulty: easyDistance: approx. 71 miles / approx. 114 kmFare: from 640 EUR per personFare with dog: from 730 EUR per person Your perfect start to the world of the Caminos Embark on a pilgrimage tailored for beginners along the famous Camino Frances, from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela. Covering just over 100 kilometers, you will earn your Compostela, your certificate for completing the pilgrimage and exploring the rich cultural and religious heritage associated with the Camino. The final section offers wide open landscapes, charming historic towns, and unexpected encounters that promise unique discoveries at every turn. Choose between our standard route with 8 stages or opt for a more relaxed pace with 10 or 12 days divided into shorter stages. Another special feature: the route from Sarria to Santiago is one of the few sections of the Camino de Santiago that you can walk with your dog. Our travel offers for your pilgrimage on the French Way of St. James As you can see, this popular section is ideal for beginners and a perfect introduction to the world of the Caminos – well developed, varied, and also wonderfully doable with a dog. We tailor your pilgrimage individually and ensure that you can enjoy the route at your own pace. All our pilgrimages include: - Luggage transport- Single or double rooms with private bathroom/WC in typical local hotels, country houses, and guesthouses- Breakfast- Pilgrim starter kit with pilgrim passport- City tour in Santiago- 24-hour emergency number in English for when you are on the road We will help you to tailor the trip to your wishes. We are happy to advise you on any questions you may have about individual stages, difficulty levels, or any other concerns you may have about your pilgrimage. Simply send us a travel inquiry or give us a call! 8 day itinerary What could your journey on the Camino look like? Itinerary for 8 days starting in Sarria Day 1: ArrivalIndividual journey to your accommodation in Sarria. Day 2: Sarria - Portomarín (approx. 22.2 km / approx. 6.5 hours / easy)From Sarria, the Camino leads along forest paths first to Barbadelo and then through small villages, along grain fields and finally back through forests to Portomarín. In between, small cafés invite you to take a break. You finally reach Portomarin via an impressive bridge. Day 3: Portomarín - Palas del Rei (approx. 24.8 km / approx. 7.5 hours / easy)Similar to yesterday, today's Camino again leads through an agricultural environment. Depending on the time of year, the mild climate ensures an opulent splendour of plants. In Villar de Donas, we can visit a Romanesque church from the 13th century that is well worth seeing before we reach Palas de Rei via small villages. Day 4: Palas del Rei - Melide (approx. 14.4 km / approx. 4.0 hours / easy)Today you make the pilgrimage to Melide, where the Camino Primitivo and the Camino Francés meet. This geographical centre of Galicia is also known for its pulperia. In other words, it is known for its special preparation of pulpo, which is served with Federweißer wine. Day 5: Melide - Arzúa (approx. 14.1 km / approx. 4.0 hours / easy) Plant lovers will get their money's worth on this stage. Cacti, palm trees, aloe vera plants several metres high, banana trees, huge hydrangeas and finally eucalyptus forests line our path, which is pleasant and slightly hilly. Day 6: Arzúa - Rúa/ O Pedrouzo (approx. 19.3 km / approx. 6 hours / easy) Again eucalyptus forests and scenic, varied sections on narrow, mostly unpaved paths that lead us ever closer to Santiago. Many nice bars and cafés line the way, but it´s also busy with pilgrims. Day 7: Rúa/ O Pedrouzo - Santiago de Compostela (approx. 19.4 km / approx. 6 hours / easy) The last stage - once again the scent of eucalyptus before we walk through the suburbs first to Monte do Gozo and past the famous pilgrim monument, perhaps taking a last break up there before we proudly and happily reach Santiago via the Rúa dos Concheiros and enter the old town through the Porta do Camino and finally stand in front of the Catedral de Santiago de Compostela. Day 8: Departure Today it is time to say goodbye and, if possible, slowly enjoy your journey home. Alternatively, we recommend that you continue your Camino to the so-called end of the world - to Cape Finisterre, which in reality is not quite the most westerly point in Europe. 10 day itinerary Would you prefer to walk a little slower? Itinerary for 10 days from Sarria Day 1: ArrivalIndividual journey to your accommodation in Sarria. Day 2: Sarria - Ferreiros (approx. 12.9 km / approx. 4 hours / easy)From Sarria, the Camino leads along forest paths first to Barbadelo and then through small villages, along grain fields to Ferreiros. Day 3: Ferreiros - Castromajor (approx. 18.5 km / approx. 5.5 hours / easy)Today you cycle through forests until you cross an impressive bridge in Portomarín. In between, small cafés invite you to take a break. Similar to yesterday, today's Camino again leads through an agricultural environment. Depending on the time of year, the mild climate ensures an opulent splendour of plants. Day 4: Castromajor - Palas del Rei (approx. 15.6 km / approx. 4.5 hours / easy) From Castromajor you visit a Romanesque church from the 13th century in Villar de Donas, which is well worth seeing, before we reach Palas de Rei via small villages Day 5: Palas del Rei - Melide (approx. 14.4 km / approx. 4.0 hours / easy) Make a pilgrimage today to Melide, where the Camino Primitivo and the Camino Francés meet. This geographical centre of Galicia is also known for its pulperia, its special preparation of pulpo, which is served with Spring white wine. Day 6: Melide - Arzúa (approx. 14.1 km / approx. 4.0 hours / easy) Plant lovers will get their money's worth on this stage. Cacti, palm trees, aloe vera plants several metres high, banana trees, giant hydrangeas and finally eucalyptus forests line our path, which is pleasant and slightly hilly. Day 7: Arzúa - Salceda (approx. 11.3 km / approx. 3.5 hours / easy) Again eucalyptus forests and scenic, varied sections on narrow, mostly unpaved paths that lead us ever closer to Santiago. Many nice bars and cafés line the way, but also many pilgrims who are travelling on this section. Day 8: Salceda - Amenal (approx. 11.3 km / approx. 3.5 hours / easy) As yesterday, there is a very similar stage today, which runs via Pedrouzo to Amenal. Day 9: Amenal - Santiago de Compostela (approx. 16.1 km / approx. 4.5 hours / easy) The last stage - once again the scent of eucalyptus before we walk through the suburbs first to Monte do Gozo and past the famous pilgrim monument, perhaps taking a last break up there before we proudly and happily reach Santiago via the Rúa dos Concheiros and enter the old town through the Porta do Camino and finally stand in front of the Catedral de Santiago de Compostela. Day 10: Departure Today it is time to say goodbye and, if possible, slowly enjoy your journey home. Alternatively, we recommend that you continue your Camino to the so-called end of the world - to Cape Finisterre, which in reality is not quite the most westerly point in Europe. FAQ Frequently asked questions about the Caminos + What services are included in this Camino Frances? Services included: Accomodation with breakfast (in either single resp. double room with shower/wc in simple to medium category) Pilgrim´s Starter Kit (Pilgrim's Guide, Pilgrim's Pass, Pilgrim's Shell, description of stages) Luggage transportation service (exclusion of luggage transport upon request) Typical galician cheese tasting in the old town of Santiago de Compostela 24h emergency number Transfers Dates:From the beginning of April until the end of October.Add-on:Camino Finisterre afterwards within about 3-4 additional days. + How long does the Camino de Santiago take? The classic "Camino Francés" in its entire length starts in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France and ends in Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Pilgrims need around 34 days to walk the approx. 780 km. We are also happy to divide your individual Camino into smaller sections, depending on your wishes. The Spanish coastal path "Camino del Norte" leads from San Sebastián along the Atlantic coast to Santiago de Compostela. We plan 39 days for the approx. 800 km. On the original "Camino primitivo", you will walk for 15 days for approx. 300 km from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela. You can walk the last 114 km from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela in 8 days in a guided group. The Portuguese Camino from Porto to Santiago de Compostela takes 15 days and is approx. 260 km long. + Can I walk the Camino de Santiago with my dog? You are welcome to walk the last section of the Camino Francés from Sarria to Santiago with your dog. You can find all the information about this Way of St. James on our travel page. On all other pilgrimage routes, dogs of any size are only allowed in very few accommodations. The accommodations that allow dogs rarely meet our standards of comfort and cleanliness, so we are currently unable to offer trips with dogs on the other pilgrimage routes. + Is it safe for women to walk the Camino the Santiago alone? Yes, the Camino de Santiago is generally very safe, including for women traveling alone. With several routes leading to Santiago de Compostela, choosing one of the more popular paths, like the French Way or the Portuguese Way, ensures a secure journey. These well-traveled routes are ideal for first-time pilgrims, offering safety and a sense of community throughout the walk. There’s little risk involved, so there’s no need to worry. Don’t let fear hold you back from embarking on this incredible adventure! + Which Camino de Santiago is best for beginners? The Portuguese Way of St James along the coast, the "Camino portugues de la costa", 15 days from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, or the last 114 kilometres from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela, which pilgrims can walk in 8 days, are both suitable for beginners. + Which on is the nicest Camino de Santiago? For pilgrims who want to walk long distances along the rugged North Atlantic coast, the Camino del Norte. For pilgrims who want to walk short distances and love the sea and beaches, the Portuguese coastal route. For pilgrims who are particularly interested in culture and historic old towns, the Portuguese inland route. For pilgrims who want a challenging Camino, definitely the Camino Primitivo. To experience the true Way of St James feeling, the Camino frances in its classic version. Apart from the coast, the Camino frances has everything to offer: challenges, spirituality, diverse landscapes, mountains, great encounters with other people. In its entirety, the Camino frances represents the real, authentic Way of St James experience. + Can I get lost on the Camino de Santiago? Our stage maps provide a rough overview of the individual stages - the idea is not to follow them step by step. We recommend that you always follow the current signposts on the Way of St. James. All routes on the Way of St James are well identified with signposts showing the typical shell, so it is very unlikely to get lost. + How fit do i need to be for the Camino de Santiago? Thanks to the many different sections you can walk, there is something for every fitness level. While some of the mountainous sections - like the route from St. Jean Pied de Port across the Pyrenees to Burgos - can certainly be a challenge for your muscles, there are also plenty of more relaxed routes, like the portuguese Camino along the coast. + How far do I have to walk on the Camino de Santiago to get the Compostela? The Compostela is a document issued to pilgrims who have completed the Camino de Santiago, the famous Way of St James that leads to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. This certificate is traditionally awarded to those who have covered at least 100 kilometres on foot or 200 kilometres by bicycle to the shrine Santiago and serves as "proof" of the pilgrimage. The issue of the Compostela is controlled by the Pilgrims' Office in Santiago de Compostela and has become a symbol of the rich cultural and religious heritage associated with the Camino de Santiago. + Can the luggage transport take me if I can't walk? The luggage transport service cannot and must not carry passengers - they do not have permission to carry passengers.If customers are unable or unwilling to walk, they must take a cab or bus at their own expense. + How does luggage transportation work? Luggage must be left at reception by 08.00 in the morning to ensure a smooth collection process. Either simply leave it there before breakfast or leave it at reception the evening before (and keep everything you need, such as a toothbrush, in your small luggage).The deliverers usually have to deliver the luggage to the next accommodation by 15:30 local time. The accommodations we book accept the luggage even if they do not open for pilgrims to check in until later. + What happens if luggage is added en route? If luggage is added en route, it must be booked in addition, for which costs will be incurred, please let us know immediately. Please do not under any circumstances try to tie the two pieces of luggage together! For the additional luggage, attach a piece of paper with the same name as on the other piece of luggage. Simply ask at the hotel reception for paper and something to stick on. + Can I book luggage transportation only for certain stages? Unfortunately, it is not organizationally feasible for you to carry the luggage yourself on some days and not on others. This means that you can either use the transportation on all days (which is normally included in the package) or do without it completely. If you do not wish to use transportation, please let us know at least 10 days before arrival. + What is the pilgrim's starter kit? You will find the pilgrim's starter kit in your first accommodation, it contains the scallop shell, the pilgrim's passport, the luggage tags and brief descriptions of each stage. You can get stamps for the pilgrim's passport in every hotel, but also in the restaurants and cafés along the way. You can get an additional stamp at places that you particularly like. Otherwise, please make sure that you get 2 stamps on every stage of the last 100 kilometres, every day. You need them to receive the Compostela at the pilgrims' office at the end. + Is my diet taken into consideration? Please let us know, we will inform the accommodations about intolerances (lactose, gluten) or allergies and it is usually well implemented. + What is the best time to walk the camino? We recommend pilgrimage in April, May, June, September and October due to the more moderate temperatures, but you can choose your travel period individually. + Are the stages of the Camino de Santiago fixed? Changes to your camino pilgrimage route according to individual wishes, such as certain stage combinations or shortenings, are possible. We will be happy to create an individual offer for you. + Can I walk the Camino de Santiago spontaneously? We are happy to receive short notice requests and will do everything we can to make your trip possible spontaneously, although this depends on the availability of the accommodations. Otherwise, please try to book your Camino de Santiago with us 6 weeks before your desired departure date. + Is travel to the departure stage of the Camino included? The arrival at the starting point of the Camino must be arranged by travellers individually. We´d be happy to help you find a suitable train connection.Transfers to/from the train station are not included unless otherwise stated. Upon request, we would be happy to organize a transfer from/to the train station or airport (price for a maximum of 3 people with luggage). Otherwise, we recommend taking a taxi or public transport to your first (or from your last) accommodation. + How do the transfers from the airport work? If you have booked a transfer, the driver will be waiting at the airport with a sign with your name on it as soon as you come out of baggage collection. + What are the cancellation conditions? Cancellation fees up to 30 days before departure 15%, 29-15 days before departure 25%, 14-10 days before departure 50% and from 9 days before departure 100% of the tour price. Notes and advice for your journey on the Way of St. James Please remember to bring your ID or passport. We recommend - depending on the level of difficulty - to ensure that you are in good physical condition. Sure-footed, broken-in mountaineering boots are a must. A head for heights is also advantageous. We will be happy to advise you in detail on the individual requirements and levels of difficulty of the various Caminos. Please note the current entry and health regulations and recommendations, as well as the health and entry regulations of your travel country. There is no minimum number of participants. The organizer of this trip is SLOWTRAVEL. Packing list Packing list: What should you pack for your Camino? Apparel backpack (incl. rain protection): 35-50 l - max. 2 Kg/ 4.4 lbs 2 pair of trekking pants: 1 convertable with zipper & 1 shorts 2 shirts (functional material such as merino wool) 1 long sleeve (best merino wool) 2 pairs of hiking socks (compression socks are also recommended) (possibly also nylon stockings - under the hiking socks against blisters) 2 functional underpants hiking boots (no sneakers) 1 sweater flipflops or crocs and/ or sandals rain jacket & pants (or poncho) - max. 0,5 Kg/ 1.1 lbs wind stopper small travel towel sun hat poss. swimming gear (for the camino to Fisterra, for the portugese and spanish camino along the coast) Sanitary Articles washbag (or big Zip-Lock-Bag) shower gel (small travel version) toothpaste (small travel version) & dental floss toothbrush disinfectant, needle & thread (best to treat blisters) or blister pads deer cream (to prevent blisters) - 50-100 ml magnesium sun cream - 50-100 ml deodorant headache pills (preferably Ibuprofen 400) razor tissues tiger balm Technical Equipment headlamp ebook-reader phone camera pocket knife Documents & Money purse cash credit card passport (for non-europeans) or ID train tickets health insurance ID (or travel health insurance for non-europeans) emergency phone numbers of your insurance and bank Miscellaneous Pilgrim Guide & Itinerary Pilgrim’s Credencial diary & pen St. James's scallop sunglasses drinking system (e.g. camel bag) - max. 2 l zip lock bags or 10 liter freezer bags (for the modular pack system) first aid kit trekking poles or hiking/ pilgrim stick stone as symbol (especially for the Camino Francés)