Camino de Santiago French Way - Part 8 Sarria to Santiago de Compostela

Itinerary:

Day 1. Sarria
You will be booked in a hotel in the heart of the lively town of Sarria. The rooms are en-suite.

Day 2. Sarria - Portomarin
Expect a peaceful walk in shady oak woods, pretty villages and on quiet country roads. The village of Barbedelo (580m) has a beautiful Romanesque church that is worth a visit. The next significant village is Ferreiros. When you arrive in Portomarin (550m), you can chill out on one of the numerous terraces of the main plaza.
Walking: approx. 6 h, 22km, +230m/ -300m

Day 3. Portomarín - Palace do Rei
From the village, the Camino crosses the river Minho and climbs steadily uphill. On your way, you will be crossing Gonzar and passing the Romanesque Church of Santa María, Castromaior. The calm of the Galician Cemetery in Ligonde on a sunny day is a rest in itself. In Eirexe, the Romanesque portal of the church is a beauty and features a sculpture of Daniel and animals, as well as Santiago de Peregrino inside. You will then arrive in Palace do Rei (565m).
Walking: approx. 6 h15 min, 24,2km, +340m/ -140m

Day 4. Palace do Rei - Malide
Today, the Camino continues slightly downhill, passing the village of Casanova and the charming village of Leboreiro. At Melide (454m), you can rest and eat in one of the many restaurants to try some local specialties. 
Walking: approx. 4 h, 15km, +140m/ -340m

Day 5. Malide - Arzua
Today  the Camino will follow a forest track and cross several streams bringing you to the village of Boente with its church of Santiago. Then the medieval village of Ribadiso, and finally Arzùa (389m). This small town has 2 churches that you can visit, Santa María and La Magdalena.
Walking: approx. 4 h, 15 km, +140m/ -340m

Day 6. Arzùa - Rùa-O Pino
This shaded section of the Camino will pass through woods, along streams and through sleepy villages. Take your time and visit the chapel of Santa Irena, with its unique statues of Santiago. The rest of the way to Rua/Opino is on a good and quiet country road. Rua (310m) is one of the less crowded stopping points before Santiago de Compostela.
Walking: approx. 5 h 15 min, 17,5km, +50m/ -130m

Day 7. Rúa - Santiago de Compostela
You are nearly there! The next stage will be Lavacolla where pilgrims traditionally washed in the river before reaching Santiago de Compostela. The tall eucalyptus trees line your way to Monte del Gozo (368m). From the "Mount of Joy" you can see your goal - the Cathedral of Santiago! After a descent to the city (264m, population 80000) you will be able to witness this UNESCO World Heritage Site up-close. Marvel at the architeture and relish the wonderful atmosphere in this cultural and spiritual mecca.
Walking: approx. 5 h 20 min, 20,5km, +150m/ -186m

Day 8. Santiago de Compostela - departure
After breakfast we bid you farewell. If you wish to stay in the area, we recommend you the magnificent historic centre. Or you can visit the unspoiled sandy coves and beaches of the west coast. With very few tourists, you are guaranteed a very special experience.

Luggage transportation: Luggage will be transported from hotel to hotel. The baggage allowance is one item (maximum 15 kg) per person. If you need to add more bags please contact us in advance.

Good to know:
♦ On Day 4 if you wish to take your time, we can split this walking day in 2 (15km & 13km), staying overnight in the bustling market town of Melide. Here you will stay in a charming 2* hotel in front of the "Refugio de Peligrino", in the centre of the town.