Camino de Santiago Self-Guided Trail

69 miles. 11 - 17 miles and up to 1,100 feet of ascent in a day.

Day 1: Arrival day.

Day 2: Sarria to Portomarin - Walk from the monastery of La Magdalena in Sarria to the Gallician vineyards and along the banks of the Mino River, to the delightful Portomarin. Our route is lined by shaded groves of chestnuts and oaks, fields enclosed by traditional Celtic 'chantos', and examples of Gallician Romanesque architecture in a landscape little changed for centuries. 14½ miles with 755 feet of ascent.

Day 3: Portomarin to Palas do Rei - Panoramic views as we walk through undulating countryside. Our walk climbs gently to Hospital de la Cruz, then winds through the pine groves and meadows of the Sierra de Ligonde. 14½ miles with 1,116 feet of ascent.

Day 4: Palas do Rei to Arzua - The Camino meanders through villages and river valleys, through wooded trails shaded by oak, pine and eucalyptus, leading us to the hustle and bustle of Arzua, and the ruined former convent of La Magdalena. 17 miles with 459 feet of ascent.

Day 5: Arzua to Rua O-Pina - Tiny hamlets dotted with shingle houses, hidden amidst wooded glades and eucalyptus trees, line the trail to Rua. Visit the ancient church of San Verisimo and the 18th century chapel in Santa Irene. 11 miles with 164 feet of ascent.

Day 6: Rua to Santiago - A triumphant finale. Our first glimpse of the city is from the summit of Monte del Gozo, from where we descend and enter the city of Santiago de Compostela via the Porta do Camino. Your goal awaits - the impressive cathedral, final resting place of the Apostle St James. 12 miles with 492 feet of ascent.

Day 7: Departure day.