Camino de Invierno Camino de Invierno from Monforte to Santiago Last 100km

Pilgrims leave Monforte de Lemos by its medieval bridge towards Campo de San Antonio and passing the Clarisas convent, where you will spot a ‘cruceiro’, the classic Galician stone way cross; and the town hall. You will be passing small hamlets, little villages and pretty chapels, as well as following forest tracks across oak woods, on your way to Chantada. In the picturesque village of Belesar you will have lovely views of the River Miño with its canyons and terraced vineyards. The old Roman road crossing the village is known as ‘Codos de Belesar’.

Make sure you explore the historic centre in Chantada before you leave today. The town has a rich medieval heritage, as it can be appreciated by the number of Romanesque religious buildings. The town has a pretty river walk and river beach, great for a swim on hot Summer days. From Chantada, the Camino de Invierno climbs up to Monte Faro and its chapel, so the first stretch will be one of the most challenging of the route. From the Faro, it is said you can see the four provinces of Galicia. Today you will encounter many ‘cruceiros’ and ‘petos de animas’, traditionally built on crossroads to keep people safe and to remember the ‘souls’ of those who have passed.

Today is your last day on the Camino de Invierno, as the route joins the Via de la Plata in the town of Lalín. It is a pretty flat and easy stage today, across peaceful forests and farmland on low hills. There are no services on the way, so make sure you take enough snacks and water.

From Lalin, the Camino del Invierno joins the Via de la Plata route. Today’s stage is pleasant and short, taking you across undulating hills, peaceful woods, farmland and small hamlets on your way to Silleda, famous for its cattle and country fairs, including the international Green Week (Semana Verde).

Starting with an easy stroll towards Bandeira, a town famous for its empanadas (Galician pastry pies), your Camino journey continues through farmlands and hamlets. Just before descending to Ponte Ulla, the old castle is worth a visit for its 360-degree panoramic views. In Ponte Ulla, take a closer at the Igrexa de Santa Maria da Magdalena and its impressive Romanesque facade.

Today is a very special day as you will make your way into Santiago! Leaving Ponte Ulla you will first climb up towards Pico Sacro with its Ermita de San Sebastian, where you can enjoy breathtaking views. The last couple of kilometres to Santiago are still quite rural and it is difficult to believe you are so close to the city. Finally, you reach Santiago a UNESCO World Heritage site with its world-famous cathedral.

Take time to explore this wonderful city. Always vibrant and lively Santiago de Compostela and its UNESCO listed old town will enchant you. Here you will find not only pilgrims but also locals and students, enjoying a chat over a few bites and a glass of wine in the many bars, restaurants and cosy cafes.