Camino de Invierno
The Camino de Invierno (“Winter Way”) is often called the secret Camino, a quiet and scenic route leading pilgrims from Monforte de Lemos in Galicia’s Ribeira Sacra wine region to Santiago de Compostela.
Traditionally, pilgrims took this way in winter to avoid the snowy O Cebreiro pass on the Camino Francés. Today, it is better known for its peace, solitude, and breathtaking landscapes — from river canyons to Roman roads and terraced vineyards.
Walking the last 100 km of the Camino de Invierno qualifies you for the Compostela certificate, making it a great alternative to the busier Sarria to Santiago route.
👉 Discover the history of the Camino.
👉 Plan your own journey with our Camino Planner.
Why Walk the Camino de Invierno?
- A secret Camino with fewer crowds.
- Cross the Ribeira Sacra, Galicia’s wine-making heart.
- Explore Europe’s largest collection of Romanesque churches.
- Walk along ancient Roman roads through villages like Belesar.
- Earn your Compostela while enjoying a route rich in legends and nature.
Suggested Routes
Highlights of the Camino de Invierno
- Monforte de Lemos, the heart of Ribeira Sacra wine country.
- The Roman village of Belesar, overlooking the River Miño.
- Peaceful terraced vineyards and chestnut forests.
- Romanesque chapels and monasteries along the way.
- The final arrival into Santiago de Compostela.
Suggested Routes
- Camino de Invierno – Monforte to Santiago (138 km, 7 nights).
- Custom sections available to match your timeframe and fitness level.
👉 Not sure if this route is for you? See our Camino Fitness Plan.
When to Go
Traditionally used in winter, the Camino de Invierno is now best enjoyed in spring or autumn, when the landscapes are at their most beautiful.
- Spring → vineyards in bloom, mild weather.
- Autumn → grape harvest, golden colours in Ribeira Sacra.
- Winter → quiet, but weather can be harsh.
- Summer → warm and dry, though less shaded than other routes.
👉 Compare with our Best Time to Walk the Camino.
Terrain & Difficulty
The Camino de Invierno is a moderately challenging route, with hills, river valleys, and sections on old Roman roads. It is well-marked but best suited for walkers with some experience.
👉 Prepare with our Camino Fitness Guide.
What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking shoes for mixed terrain.
- Clothing layers for changing mountain weather.
- A reusable water bottle and sun protection.
👉 Download our free Camino Packing List.
Camino Ways Route Planner
For over 1000 years, pilgrims from all over the world have walked the Camino Ways across Europe in their quest for spirituality. Making the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, they encountered a variety of people, cultures and beliefs, leading to friendship and new experiences. This continues today with the Camino de Santiago being the most well known and well-loved walk in the world. More than just a walk, the Camino de Santiago is an unforgettable and unique journey for the body, mind and soul.
History of the Camino de Invierno
The Winter Way is steeped in history. Pilgrims once used it to bypass the snow-bound mountains of O Cebreiro. The Ribeira Sacra region itself is rich in heritage, with centuries-old monasteries and over 100 Romanesque buildings still standing.
The Romans introduced viticulture here, creating the terraced vineyards still used today. Belesar preserves stretches of the original Roman road, reminding pilgrims of the Camino’s deep past.
👉 Read about the History of the Camino.
FAQs – Camino de Invierno
Q: What is the Camino de Invierno?
A: A historic Camino route from Monforte de Lemos to Santiago, once used to avoid the snowy O Cebreiro pass.
Q: How long is the Camino de Invierno?
A: The last 100 km from Monforte to Santiago takes about 7 days to walk.
Q: Do I get a Compostela?
A: Yes. Completing the last 100 km on foot qualifies you for the Compostela certificate.
Q: When is the best time to walk it?
A: Spring and autumn for the best landscapes. Winter is possible but more challenging.
Q: Is it suitable for beginners?
A: It’s moderately challenging. Check our Camino Fitness Plan before deciding.
Closing Thought
The Camino de Invierno is one of the Camino’s best-kept secrets: peaceful, steeped in history, and full of natural beauty. For pilgrims seeking a quieter but equally rewarding way to Santiago, this is a journey of discovery through Galicia’s hidden heart.
👉 Ready to try the Winter Way? Plan your trip with our Camino Planner.