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Why walk a short Camino?

The Camino de Santiago is one of the world’s most revered pilgrimage routes. It stretches across northern Spain and leads to the grand Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Here, according to legend, the remains of Saint James the Apostle were discovered in the 9th century. A shepherd had followed some stars that led him to the field where he found the body of the saint.

While the pilgrimage originally had religious significance, today many of those who walk the Camino do so for personal reasons. Perhaps spiritual or simply the call of adventure. But let’s face it: not everyone has the time for a month-long trek.

So we suggest a short Camino. Our seven-night Walk takes us through the most scenic and historic parts of the route, from Burgos to Santiago. With a group of like-minded fellows “pilgrims” along the way, we’ll share moments of reflection, enjoy the company of others, and discover the delights of rural Spain.

Camino blog
The Camino is calling — and it’s a journey not to be missed! 

Our take on the legendary Camino de Santiago is the perfect way to reconnect with nature, history – and ourselves.

Following the scallop shells, the symbol of St James, along the way we’ll discover the simple joys of daily walking, savor delicious local food, and enjoy restful nights. It’s a rhythm that brings a peaceful kind of spirituality — one that you don’t find in everyday life.

Many of our past guests have told us that, alongside their fellow walkers, meeting pilgrims from all over the world is a truly inspiring experience. Whether you’re walking for recreation, personal reflection, or simply to take in the journey, the Camino is a trail where every step counts.

Cities rich in history 

Our adventure begins in Burgos, a city rich in history and home to the tomb of El Cid, one of Spain’s most legendary heroes. The stunning Gothic cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We discover León, a city brimming with medieval charm, and stroll through its cobbled streets and ancient monuments. And Astorga, an ancient Roman town, is home to the stunning Bishop’s Palace, designed by Antoni Gaudí.

A towering cross

The Cruz de Hierro is a spiritual and emotional highlight of the Camino. This towering cross stands above a pile of stones left by thousands of pilgrims over the centuries. Each stone symbolizing a prayer, a wish, or a personal sacrifice. There’s a deep sense of connection here to the millions who have walked this path before. Bring your stone from home and add it to the pile.

The 12th-century Templar castle in Ponferrada, is a stern fortress with a fascinating history and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

By contrast, the tiny, charming and unspoiled village of O Cebreiro is a remote and picturesque spot, famous for its ancient, thatched stone huts, known as pallozas.

Awe-inspiring Santiago 

Finally, we get our first sight of the spires of the cathedral of Santiago. This 12th century Romanesque masterpiece was Europe’s tallest building when it was built. The sheer size of the awe-inspiring square – the Praza do Obradoiro – gives a sense of how many thousands of the faithful would pour into the city.

Here, we can join in the centuries-old tradition of attending the Pilgrims’ Mass in the cathedral. It’s an experience that, whatever this pilgrimage has meant to us, is both humbling and uplifting.

Ten top Camino facts

  1. Camino de Santiago means Way of St James St. James and refers to the different routes leading to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia.
  2. Santiago de Compostela means St James of the Field of Stars.
  3. There are many Camino de Santiago routes, starting in France, Portugal, and Spain.
  4. Traditionally, pilgrims would start their ‘Camino’ from their homes.
  5. The yellow scallop shell and yellow arrows mark the way to Santiago de Compostela. Careful: the scallop might be facing different ways depending on the region!
  6. The Camino Primitivo from Oviedo is the oldest Camino de Santiago route.
  7. However, the most famous Camino route is the Camino Frances or French Way, starting in St. Jean Pied de Port in the French Pyrenees.
  8. The trail from St. Jean Pied de Port to Santiago is 800 km long and takes approximately five weeks to complete, but you can start your Camino at any point along the route.
  9. The 12th century Codex Calixtinus is the oldest Camino de Santiago ‘guidebook’.
  10. Santiago de Compostela’s old town is a UNESCO-listed heritage site since 1985. The Council of Europe named the Camino de Santiago as the first European Cultural itinerary in 1987 for its important role in encouraging cultural exchanges since the Middle Ages. In 1993, the trail was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.