Maria

Written by Maria

Maria is from Viveiro, in the misty and beautiful northern coast of Galicia, and now calls Ireland her adopted home. She adores Santiago, where she studied Journalism at Santiago de Compostela University. She also loves travel, food, books, and arty and crafty. She has walked and cycled many trails including many Camino routes, Japan's Kumano Kodo, the Kerry Camino in Ireland and many others.

Walk the Via Francigena: Best Times to Walk

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What is the Best Time to Walk the Via Francigena? The Via Francigena, also known as the Camino to Rome, is a historic pilgrimage route stretching for 1,900 kilometres. It begins in the UK and finishes in Italy, crossing much of Europe along the way. Because the path is so long, the weather varies greatly […]

Walk the Via Francigena: Best Times to Walk Read More »

What is the Best Time to Walk the Via Francigena? The Via Francigena, also known as the Camino to Rome, is a historic pilgrimage route stretching for 1,900 kilometres. It begins in the UK and finishes in Italy, crossing much of Europe along the way. Because the path is so long, the weather varies greatly

Amazing coastal route

6 Amazing Coastal Trails on the Camino de Santiago

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“Have you seen my beloved by the waves of the sea of Vigo?” asked Martín Códax, a famous Galician troubadour of the 13th century. If the sea also inspires you, just as it inspired poets of the past, here are 6 amazing Camino coastal trails to spark your next walking adventure. 1 – Portuguese Coastal

6 Amazing Coastal Trails on the Camino de Santiago Read More »

“Have you seen my beloved by the waves of the sea of Vigo?” asked Martín Códax, a famous Galician troubadour of the 13th century. If the sea also inspires you, just as it inspired poets of the past, here are 6 amazing Camino coastal trails to spark your next walking adventure. 1 – Portuguese Coastal

Vineyards on Camino de Invierno

Secret Camino: Camino de Invierno

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Every year, thousands walk the Camino de Santiago, but some seek a quieter path. The Camino de Invierno, or Winter Way, is the newest official route. This trail offers stunning landscapes and hidden paths. It is ideal for those wanting a less-travelled Camino experience. This route takes you through peaceful villages, lush vineyards, and dramatic

Secret Camino: Camino de Invierno Read More »

Every year, thousands walk the Camino de Santiago, but some seek a quieter path. The Camino de Invierno, or Winter Way, is the newest official route. This trail offers stunning landscapes and hidden paths. It is ideal for those wanting a less-travelled Camino experience. This route takes you through peaceful villages, lush vineyards, and dramatic

Ponferrada and the Iron Bridge: The Origin of its Name

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The city of Ponferrada, located on the Camino Francés, has a history deeply tied to the Camino de Santiago. From its very beginnings, the town grew and developed as a settlement that welcomed pilgrims travelling westward towards Santiago de Compostela. The story of Ponferrada is inseparable from the famous bridge that gave the city its

Ponferrada and the Iron Bridge: The Origin of its Name Read More »

The city of Ponferrada, located on the Camino Francés, has a history deeply tied to the Camino de Santiago. From its very beginnings, the town grew and developed as a settlement that welcomed pilgrims travelling westward towards Santiago de Compostela. The story of Ponferrada is inseparable from the famous bridge that gave the city its

How to access money on the Camino-256314.jpg

How to Access Money on the Camino

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How to Access Money on the Camino Running out of money on the Camino is something no traveller wants to experience. It can be stressful on any holiday. In very remote places, accessing money can be difficult. Thankfully, this is not the case on the Camino de Santiago. Payment Methods on the Camino Spain, like

How to Access Money on the Camino Read More »

How to Access Money on the Camino Running out of money on the Camino is something no traveller wants to experience. It can be stressful on any holiday. In very remote places, accessing money can be difficult. Thankfully, this is not the case on the Camino de Santiago. Payment Methods on the Camino Spain, like

Camino Guided Tour

How Many People to Expect on a Camino Journey?

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How Many People Will Be on My Trip? The number of people on your trip depends on the type of Camino experience you choose. If you’re doing a self-guided Camino, there is no set group size. You are free to walk solo or with friends and family. Self-guided tours offer complete flexibility. You can start

How Many People to Expect on a Camino Journey? Read More »

How Many People Will Be on My Trip? The number of people on your trip depends on the type of Camino experience you choose. If you’re doing a self-guided Camino, there is no set group size. You are free to walk solo or with friends and family. Self-guided tours offer complete flexibility. You can start

Traditional Scallop Shell on the Camino

The Scallop Shell: A Symbol of the Camino

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The scallop shell is one of the most recognisable symbols found along the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes. Along with the yellow arrow, it helps guide pilgrims towards Santiago de Compostela from various starting points across Europe. Shells appear painted or carved on trees, tiles, pavements, posts, and walls throughout the journey. Known as vieira

The Scallop Shell: A Symbol of the Camino Read More »

The scallop shell is one of the most recognisable symbols found along the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes. Along with the yellow arrow, it helps guide pilgrims towards Santiago de Compostela from various starting points across Europe. Shells appear painted or carved on trees, tiles, pavements, posts, and walls throughout the journey. Known as vieira

24 Hours in Santiago de Compostela: A Local Guide

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24 Hours in Santiago de Compostela You’ve walked for days and finally reached the promised land: Santiago de Compostela! You are sitting at the Praza do Obradoiro, your aching feet finally getting a rest, staring in awe at the mighty Cathedral de Santiago, and you are wondering… were to do next? Well, if you are

24 Hours in Santiago de Compostela: A Local Guide Read More »

24 Hours in Santiago de Compostela You’ve walked for days and finally reached the promised land: Santiago de Compostela! You are sitting at the Praza do Obradoiro, your aching feet finally getting a rest, staring in awe at the mighty Cathedral de Santiago, and you are wondering… were to do next? Well, if you are

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Useful Spanish Phrases for Your Camino Journey

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Walking the Camino de Santiago (particularly along the French Way route and as you get closer to Santiago de Compostela), you will meet people of all nationalities. Most people will come back from the Camino having made at least a few friends. You will find some Useful Spanish for the Camino below. Alternatively, for a more

Useful Spanish Phrases for Your Camino Journey Read More »

Walking the Camino de Santiago (particularly along the French Way route and as you get closer to Santiago de Compostela), you will meet people of all nationalities. Most people will come back from the Camino having made at least a few friends. You will find some Useful Spanish for the Camino below. Alternatively, for a more

Explore Fisterra: Camino’s End, Ocean Views & Local Legends

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Fisterra: Pilgrims, Legends and Beauty Fisterra is a small coastal town in western Galicia, known for its spiritual significance and breathtaking Atlantic views. It sits about 100 kilometres beyond Santiago de Compostela and offers pilgrims a final, symbolic destination after reaching the city’s famous cathedral. Many walkers extend their journey along the Camino Finisterre to

Explore Fisterra: Camino’s End, Ocean Views & Local Legends Read More »

Fisterra: Pilgrims, Legends and Beauty Fisterra is a small coastal town in western Galicia, known for its spiritual significance and breathtaking Atlantic views. It sits about 100 kilometres beyond Santiago de Compostela and offers pilgrims a final, symbolic destination after reaching the city’s famous cathedral. Many walkers extend their journey along the Camino Finisterre to

Lugo: A Historical Gem on the Camino Primitivo

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Lugo is a remarkable city on the Camino Primitivo, offering history, culture, and a deep connection to its Roman past. Founded by the Romans in 15BC, the settlement was originally called Lucus Augusti and became a central city in the province of Gallaecia. This area stretched across what is now Galicia and northern Portugal and

Lugo: A Historical Gem on the Camino Primitivo Read More »

Lugo is a remarkable city on the Camino Primitivo, offering history, culture, and a deep connection to its Roman past. Founded by the Romans in 15BC, the settlement was originally called Lucus Augusti and became a central city in the province of Gallaecia. This area stretched across what is now Galicia and northern Portugal and

Statue of pilgrims on the Camino

Insider’s Guide to Santiago de Compostela

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Planning a journey on the Camino de Santiago and Santiago de Compostela this year? Wonderful! Let our Insider’s Guide to Santiago de Compostela spark your imagination and enhance your adventure. It’s easy to fall under the spell of this small but vibrant city, with its arched granite lanes and secret corners full of charm. For

Insider’s Guide to Santiago de Compostela Read More »

Planning a journey on the Camino de Santiago and Santiago de Compostela this year? Wonderful! Let our Insider’s Guide to Santiago de Compostela spark your imagination and enhance your adventure. It’s easy to fall under the spell of this small but vibrant city, with its arched granite lanes and secret corners full of charm. For

Celtic hercules tower a coruna

Things to Do in A Coruña: Landmarks and Culture

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For centuries, pilgrims from northern shores arrived in the harbour of A Coruña on their way to Santiago de Compostela. Their Camino de Santiago had taken them across the sea, but 75km still remained before reaching the city of St James. This final walk marked the end of their pilgrimage journey. Today, A Coruña is

Things to Do in A Coruña: Landmarks and Culture Read More »

For centuries, pilgrims from northern shores arrived in the harbour of A Coruña on their way to Santiago de Compostela. Their Camino de Santiago had taken them across the sea, but 75km still remained before reaching the city of St James. This final walk marked the end of their pilgrimage journey. Today, A Coruña is

Baiona

Seaside Villages to Discover on Your Camino

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Discover Seaside Camino Villages Along the Camino de Santiago The Camino de Santiago has many scenic trails. The French Way is the most well-known, stretching 800km from the French Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela. However, other routes pass through beautiful Camino villages by the coast. These seaside stops offer sea views and delicious local seafood.

Seaside Villages to Discover on Your Camino Read More »

Discover Seaside Camino Villages Along the Camino de Santiago The Camino de Santiago has many scenic trails. The French Way is the most well-known, stretching 800km from the French Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela. However, other routes pass through beautiful Camino villages by the coast. These seaside stops offer sea views and delicious local seafood.

Botafumeiro: A Ritual of the Camino de Santiago

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What Is the Botafumeiro? The Botafumeiro is the famous giant thurible used in the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. It has swung since the Middle Ages to cleanse the air when pilgrims arrived after their long Camino de Santiago journey. Historical Reference The Codex Calixtinus, the first Camino guidebook, calls the Botafumeiro Turibulum Magnum. This shows

Botafumeiro: A Ritual of the Camino de Santiago Read More »

What Is the Botafumeiro? The Botafumeiro is the famous giant thurible used in the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. It has swung since the Middle Ages to cleanse the air when pilgrims arrived after their long Camino de Santiago journey. Historical Reference The Codex Calixtinus, the first Camino guidebook, calls the Botafumeiro Turibulum Magnum. This shows

Lisbon: Timeless Charm and Culture

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As the Portuguese saying goes, ‘Quem não viu Lisboa, não viu coisa boa’—those who haven’t seen Lisbon haven’t seen something truly special. And it couldn’t be more true. Lisbon is a must-visit, not just for the Portuguese, but for travellers from all over the world. With its warm atmosphere, modern charm, and rich culture, Lisbon

Lisbon: Timeless Charm and Culture Read More »

As the Portuguese saying goes, ‘Quem não viu Lisboa, não viu coisa boa’—those who haven’t seen Lisbon haven’t seen something truly special. And it couldn’t be more true. Lisbon is a must-visit, not just for the Portuguese, but for travellers from all over the world. With its warm atmosphere, modern charm, and rich culture, Lisbon

pilgrims walking

8 Tips for Walking the Camino de Santiago

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Are you planning to walk the Camino de Santiago this year? Our walking and cycling holiday experts have gathered top Camino tips to help make your journey truly unforgettable. Whether you’re unsure about what gear you will need, what training you should do or which route you should take, the following tips will leave you

8 Tips for Walking the Camino de Santiago Read More »

Are you planning to walk the Camino de Santiago this year? Our walking and cycling holiday experts have gathered top Camino tips to help make your journey truly unforgettable. Whether you’re unsure about what gear you will need, what training you should do or which route you should take, the following tips will leave you

Camino Pilgrim passport

Pilgrim Passports & Certificates Explained in Detail

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Camino Pilgrim Passports & Certificates Explained This guide breaks down the key differences between the various Camino Pilgrim Passports (Credencials) and the official certificates you can receive, including the well-known Compostela. 1. Traditional Camino Passport & Compostela Certificate Many walk the Camino de Santiago for spiritual, personal, or social reasons. Regardless of your motivation, you’ll

Pilgrim Passports & Certificates Explained in Detail Read More »

Camino Pilgrim Passports & Certificates Explained This guide breaks down the key differences between the various Camino Pilgrim Passports (Credencials) and the official certificates you can receive, including the well-known Compostela. 1. Traditional Camino Passport & Compostela Certificate Many walk the Camino de Santiago for spiritual, personal, or social reasons. Regardless of your motivation, you’ll

Yellow Arrows on the Camino: Following the Path

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Today, walkers from many different countries follow the Camino de Santiago for spiritual, personal, or cultural reasons. Yet few realise how much they owe to one man—Don Elías Valiña Sampedro. His work helped shape the Camino we know today. The famous yellow arrows that guide thousands of pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela were part of

Yellow Arrows on the Camino: Following the Path Read More »

Today, walkers from many different countries follow the Camino de Santiago for spiritual, personal, or cultural reasons. Yet few realise how much they owe to one man—Don Elías Valiña Sampedro. His work helped shape the Camino we know today. The famous yellow arrows that guide thousands of pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela were part of

Pintxos Bibao

A Guide to 10 Camino Dishes for Your Camino Francés Journey

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The Camino routes cross many regions—and sometimes countries—each with unique traditions, culture, and cuisine. Food is an important part of any journey, so we’ve picked 10 Camino dishes you must try. If you’re walking the Camino Francés, you’ll find many opportunities to enjoy these classic local dishes and specialties. 1. White Asparagus People recognise Navarra

A Guide to 10 Camino Dishes for Your Camino Francés Journey Read More »

The Camino routes cross many regions—and sometimes countries—each with unique traditions, culture, and cuisine. Food is an important part of any journey, so we’ve picked 10 Camino dishes you must try. If you’re walking the Camino Francés, you’ll find many opportunities to enjoy these classic local dishes and specialties. 1. White Asparagus People recognise Navarra

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