Walking the Camino de Santiago in 7 days: A Guide to the Last 100km
- Tides and Trails
- Apr 9
- 5 min read
One of Europe’s most famous pilgrimages, the Camino de Santiago (or the Way of St. James), is a trek across northwest Spain. It leads to the shrine of the apostle James in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, Galicia.
People walk the Camino for many reasons—whether as a religious pilgrimage, a journey of personal growth, a break from daily routines, or a chance to immerse themselves in Spanish history and culture.
You don’t need to be an experienced hiker to complete this trek. The trails are paved, well signposted, and easy to follow. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and busy, while winter is quieter but often rainy. Be sure to wear comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes, pack light, and carry a pilgrim passport to collect stamps along the way.
While there are routes from across Spain and Portugal, this guide will focus on one of the most famous: the last 100km of the Camino Francés, from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela.
Day 1: Arrive in Sarria
Your journey begins with getting to Sarria, the traditional starting point for the last 100km of the Camino Francés. There are plenty of options from the UK, with the easiest being to fly into Madrid and take the direct Renfe train (around 6 hours). Alternatively, you can fly into Santiago de Compostela, Sarria’s nearest international airport, and take a 2.5-hour Renfe train.
There’s no shortage of lodgings in Sarria, but we recommend checking out either Albergue San Lázaro, which sits right on the Camino Francés, less than 500m from the train station, or Hotel Alfonso IX comfortable stay before starting your trek.
Day 2: Sarria to Portomarín
Today you’ll walk 22 km/13.6 miles from Sarria to Portomarín. Passing through hamlets and farmland, this day is a gentle introduction to your journey. Stop by the Romanesque church in the village of Barbadelo, and take in the sights of the traditional Galician ‘hórreos’ (granaries).
Spend the night in Portomarín, a town built around the Iglesia de San Juan, a 13th-century church built by the Knights of St. John.. Most accommodation in town is geared towards pilgrims, but our recommendation is Ultreia Portomarín.
Day 3: Portomarín to Palas de Rei
Walking around 25 km today, you’ll start by crossing the longest river in Galicia, the River Miño, and head uphill towards the Serra de Ligonde. Passing through hamlets such as Gonzar and Ventas de Narón, make sure you take some time to visit the Romanesque churches in Castromaior and Eirexe, once part of the monastery of Samos.
There are plenty of hostels and albergues in Palas de Rei, you’ve no shortage of options. Our choices are Albergue a Casina di Marcello (budget-friendly, great atmosphere) or Hotel Balneario Rio Pambre (for a bit more comfort).
Day 4: Palas de Rei to Melide
Good news! Today’s walk is mostly downhill and one of the easiest sections of your journey. You’ll make your way from Palas de Rei through the villages of Casanova and Leboreiro before reaching the lively market town of Melide. Along the way, take a moment to admire the twelfth-century Iglesia de San Julián, and consider stopping for lunch in Pontecampaña.
Before settling in for the evening, visit the Museo de Terra de Melide to learn about the region’s history and way of life. And of course, no visit to Melide is complete without trying pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus). Pulpería Ezequiel is the top spot for this local specialty!
For a good night’s rest, we recommend Rúa San Antonio or Xaneiro II.
Day 5: Melide to Arzúa
Today’s walk involves a fair bit of uphill and downhill as you pass through Galicia’s small valleys. You’ll walk through peaceful eucalyptus forests and pass through the towns of Raído and A Peroxa before making your final climb toward Arzúa. Once you arrive, reward yourself with Arzúa-Ulloa cheese, a creamy local specialty. Be sure to try it at a local spot like Casa Teodora or Panadería Meli.
Traditionally the final stop before Santiago, there are plenty of accommodation options. Our picks for Arzúa are Santiago Apóstol or Teodora.
Day 6: Arzúa to O Pedrouzo
Your last long leg of the journey today. The end is in sight! Rewarded with a day of pretty woods, sleepy villages, and streams, you’ll make your way from Arzúa to O Pedrouzo for your penultimate evening. One must-see stop along the way is the Chapel of Santa Irene, home to a beautiful 17th-century Baroque fountain, believed to have healing properties. Just beyond, the hamlet of Rúa is a great spot for a quick rest—perhaps with a café con leche or a freshly baked pastry from a local bakery.
Take the opportunity to spend your last night in an albergue, we love Albergue O Burgo or Albergue Rem.
Day 7: O Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostela
Only 18 km left before you reach Santiago Cathedral. You’ll start your day heading uphill past the airport, where you’ll pass a large stone marking your arrival in the district of Santiago. Your next point of interest will be Lavacolla, where pilgrims traditionally wash themselves in the river in preparation for the arrival in Santiago de Compostela. Regardless of your reason for walking the Camino, this is a moment to pause and reflect before reaching your final destination. More eucalyptus trees mark your route today, particularly on the way to Monte de Gozo, where you will get your first glimpse of the cathedral.
You should make it to Santiago in time for the pilgrim mass, daily at 12pm. Take some time to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s architecture and delight in the amazing atmosphere this city holds. Enjoy some bites and socialise with other pilgrims about your adventure over a glass (or many) of local wine.
No matter when or why you walk the Camino, arriving in Santiago means stepping into a city shaped by over 2,000 years of history. From its roots in early Christianity to its place as a modern-day pilgrimage hub, Santiago de Compostela is a place where past and present meet. Whether you come for faith, adventure, or personal reflection, the Camino leaves its mark—just as countless pilgrims have left theirs on the trail before you.
Want to start planning your pilgrimage? Tides and Trails Travel Co. are here to help you!
Alternative Routes: If you’re looking for a different challenge, consider the Camino del Norte (coastal route) or the Camino Portugués from Porto. Our favourite place to find information is Camino Ways.
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