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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.

Via Francigena

How long is the Via Francigena?

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The Via Francigena is one of Europe’s great pilgrimage routes — a 2,000km+ journey on foot from Canterbury, England to Rome, Italy. If you’re serious about this challenge, here is everything you need to know before you lace up your boots. This epic trail, following the pilgrimage route taken by Sigeric the Serious, Archbishop of […]

How long is the Via Francigena? Read More »

The Via Francigena is one of Europe’s great pilgrimage routes — a 2,000km+ journey on foot from Canterbury, England to Rome, Italy. If you’re serious about this challenge, here is everything you need to know before you lace up your boots. This epic trail, following the pilgrimage route taken by Sigeric the Serious, Archbishop of

camino cycling etiquette

Bike etiquette on the Camino

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September is one of the busiest months on the Camino, with walkers and cyclists sharing the trails. Understanding good bike etiquette on the Camino is essential to ensure a safe, respectful, and enjoyable experience for everyone. As cycling continues to grow in popularity, knowing how to ride considerately helps preserve the unique spirit of the

Bike etiquette on the Camino Read More »

September is one of the busiest months on the Camino, with walkers and cyclists sharing the trails. Understanding good bike etiquette on the Camino is essential to ensure a safe, respectful, and enjoyable experience for everyone. As cycling continues to grow in popularity, knowing how to ride considerately helps preserve the unique spirit of the

Inside pages of a Camino Pilgrim Passport showing collected stamps along the Camino de Santiago.

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

Via de la Plata Diary – Gus’s Camino Story

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A Journey on the Via de la Plata Every Camino tells a different story. For Gus from Canada, the Via de la Plata became more than just a trail across Galicia—it was six days of friendship, resilience, and discovery. Starting in Ourense, Gus joined friends old and new to walk the final 100 km of

Via de la Plata Diary – Gus’s Camino Story Read More »

A Journey on the Via de la Plata Every Camino tells a different story. For Gus from Canada, the Via de la Plata became more than just a trail across Galicia—it was six days of friendship, resilience, and discovery. Starting in Ourense, Gus joined friends old and new to walk the final 100 km of

Camino Pilgrims Office in Santiago de Compostela

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When you complete your Camino journey in Santiago de Compostela, you can visit the Pilgrims’ Office to receive your Compostela certificate along with a warm and friendly welcome. The Pilgrims’ Office, officially called the Oficina de Acogida al Peregrino, is located right in the heart of the city, only a short walk from the Santiago

Camino Pilgrims Office in Santiago de Compostela Read More »

When you complete your Camino journey in Santiago de Compostela, you can visit the Pilgrims’ Office to receive your Compostela certificate along with a warm and friendly welcome. The Pilgrims’ Office, officially called the Oficina de Acogida al Peregrino, is located right in the heart of the city, only a short walk from the Santiago

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

technology, flag, internet-2646431.jpg

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

Fisterra – Explore 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

Fisterra – Explore 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

A Coruña – Things to Do and See

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Landmarks and Culture of A Coruña 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

A Coruña – Things to Do and See Read More »

Landmarks and Culture of A Coruña 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

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

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