Camino de Invierno
Overview
Do you want to walk the Camino de Santiago without the crowds? Are you looking for something to do during the winter months? Then check out the Winter Way (Camino de Invierno).
The Winter Way (Camino de Invierno) is the route to Santiago that pilgrims traditionally chose in colder months, to avoid the snowy paths of O Ceberiro. You will follow in their footsteps, travelling through vineyards, canyons and historic goldmines on this wonderful Spanish walking holiday. The Camino de Invierno can be taken all year round, offering a spectacular alternative to the conventional walking route.
Starting at Ponferrada, you will explore over 250 km of the Winter Way, discovering gorgeous natural landscapes and vibrant Spanish cities alike. You will meet fellow pilgrims, savor authentic Spanish cuisine and soak up wonderful historic architecture. Your luggage will be transferred between each of your comfortable hotels, so you can focus on enjoying this self-guided walking adventure.
Camino de Invierno Overview
Do you want to walk the Camino de Santiago without the crowds? Are you looking for something to do during the winter months? Then check out the Winter Way (Camino de Invierno).
The Winter Way (Camino de Invierno) is the route to Santiago that pilgrims traditionally chose in colder months, to avoid the snowy paths of O Ceberiro. You will follow in their footsteps, travelling through vineyards, canyons and historic goldmines on this wonderful Spanish walking holiday. The Camino de Invierno can be taken all year round, offering a spectacular alternative to the conventional walking route.
Starting at Ponferrada, you will explore over 250 km of the Winter Way, discovering gorgeous natural landscapes and vibrant Spanish cities alike. You will meet fellow pilgrims, savor authentic Spanish cuisine and soak up wonderful historic architecture. Your luggage will be transferred between each of your comfortable hotels, so you can focus on enjoying this self-guided walking adventure.
Savor delicious cuisine as you stop in sleepy villages to sample traditional tapas, Galician stews and world-famous local wine.
Uncover the beauty of the Spanish countryside as you pause to admire the gorgeous mountains, vineyards, rivers, canyons and gold mines.
Unearth the history of the Winter Way as you follow roman roads, cross Romanesque bridges and explore beautiful ancient chapels.
Collect your pilgrims certificate in Santiago, where you can attend the time-honored pilgrims mass and visit ancient relics.
Trip map for Camino de Invierno
Barbara C.
Amalfi Coast Bicycle Tour
We went through 10Adventures not familiar with them at all, and it was the best decision we ever made!
Allyson K.
Everest Base Camp
Just an amazing experience. Absolutely lifechanging!
Amy D.
XC Skiing in the Dolomites
It was a fantastic trip and Nadine was extremely responsive to all of our questions.
Itinerary for Camino de Invierno
Check in day
Make your own way to Ponferrada, where you will check in to your hotel ahead of your walking adventure. Straddling the river Sil and surrounded by mountains, Ponferrada is a beautiful town that overflows with history. After exploring the local area, you should get a good night’s rest to help you on the trail tomorrow.
Setting off on the Camino de Invierno
After a filling breakfast at your hotel, you will set off for the ancient Roman gold mines of Las Médulas (a UNESCO world heritage site). You will pass through spectacular landscapes, with views over the Bierzo valley and glimpses of an ancient castle. After crossing the Isorga stream, you will soon find yourself in the historic site of Las Médulas where you will enjoy a hearty dinner and spend the night.
An ancient road to O Barco de Valdeorras
Today you will follow an ancient Roman route on the Camino Invierno to O Barco de Valdeorras, famous for its world class wine. Passing into the region of Galicia, you follow the course of the river Sil before you cross a gorgeous Romanesque bridge to reach your destination. In O Barco de Valdeorras you can check out the 14th century fortress of O Castro or take a boat ride across the river.
A gentle day to Rua de Valdeorras
The walk to Rua de Valdeorras is considerably shorter than your previous days on the trail. Take your time to savor its landscape and visit some of the beautiful little chapels that are scattered along the way. Passing through lovely vineyards, you have plenty of time to stop and enjoy a local glass of wine before you have your dinner at Rua de Valdeorras, your destination for the evening.
Through the gold country to Quiroga
You will continue to chase the river Sil and admire its spacious canyons. Traveling through the heart of gold country, you will enjoy the lovely mountain views and a gorgeous baroque church just waiting to be explored. After passing a local olive mill you will descend to Quiroga for a good meal and rest.
A historic trail to Monforte de Lemos
Be sure to eat a hearty breakfast as you set off for your longest day of walking yet. Passing a thousand-year-old chapel and crossing an ancient Roman bridge, your route today is pulsing with history. You will cross over gurgling streams and enjoy the shade of leafy forests, before taking a well-earned rest at your hotel in Monforte de Lemos.
A rural path to Chantada
Deep in the heart of wine country, you will pass through lovely sleepy villages with their traditional local architecture. You will feel the shade of mighty oaks and the peaceful breeze on your skin as you savor the views of the river Miño and the far stretching vineyards of Galicia. You will spend the night in Chantada, famous for its medieval heritage and hearty stews.
A steep ascent to Rodeiro
After a peaceful night’s sleep at your hotel, you will have a challenging climb on the Camino Invierno to Mount Faro. Having reached the summit, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of all the major Galician mountains. After catching your breath and admiring the landscape, you will descend the other side of the mountain to reach Rodeiro.
Converging routes on the trail to Lalín
The Winter Way will converge with another route to Santiago today, known as Via de la Plata. You can therefore expect to come across more pilgrims and enjoy sharing stories of the trail so far. You have reached the center of the Galician community and shouldn’t leave the region without sampling some of its comforting stew!
A short walk to Silleda
After a good 8 days on the Camino Invierno, you will be relieved to enjoy a shorter day of walking. Taking narrow paths through peaceful woodland, you will have plenty of time to admire the landscape and enjoy the sound of birds and rivers. You will arrive in Silleda in no time at all, indulging in a delicious meal and unwinding at your lovely hotel.
A quiet path to Ponte Ulla
The Camino de Santiago will continue through small villages and quiet paths. Today will be mostly easy walking on good terrain but should be prepared for a very sharp descent at the end of the day. Ponte Ulla sits in the bottom of a steep valley and is famous for its dramatic, eye-catching bridges.
Arriving at Santiago
Starting with an ascent to the Pico Sacro, you will finally reach the cathedral of Santiago. After an epic journey on the Camino de Invierno you can go the Pilgrim Mass in the Cathedral, collect your certificate from the pilgrim’s office and visit the tombs and relics. Santiago is a major city, so you won’t be short for something to do this evening.
Check out
All good things must come to an end! Today, you will check out of your hotel in Santiago and set forth on your onward journey. If you would like some time to relax and unwind in the city, you can pre-book some extra days in the hotel.
Reviews
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
Dates and prices for Camino de Invierno
Single Room
Double Room
Triple Room
| Single Room | Double Room | Triple Room | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 1, 2024 to Mar 31, 2025 | $1,825USD | $1,075USD | $1,025USD |
| Optional Extras | |||
| Dinners for 12 Nights (per person)$425USD | |||
What’s included for Camino de Invierno
Meals
12 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 12 nights are included.
Transportation during the Tour
Transportation for your luggage is included throughout the tour (max. 20 kg per backpack - 1 piece of luggage per person). Airport transfers are not included, but private transfers can be arranged as an optional extra.
Also included
- 24-hour emergency line
- Maps for all stages
- Guided Tour in Santiago de Compostela (old town)
- Galician cheese tasting in Santiago
- Pilgrim pass
- Pilgrim scallop
Not Included
- Guide services
- Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Personal transfers not specifically listed as included
Optional Extras
- Half board supplement
- Picnic Supplement
- Private transfers
- Extra piece of luggage
- Extra nights
Accommodation for Camino de Invierno
During this trip you will mostly stay in quaint hotels, bed & breakfasts, and pensions along the Camino route. These accommodations cater to pilgrims, providing an authentic Camino experience and modern amenities for comfort. They are most often locally owned and operated.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel where possible. Solo travellers may be required to pay a supplement.
Frequently asked questions for Camino de Invierno
How hard is Camino Invierno de Santiago Tour?
We rate the difficulty this tour as a 4 / 5. With its mix of medium to high difficulty stages, pilgrims will encounter steep ascents, lengthy walks, and breathtaking views along the way. The biggest difficulty on this tour is walking multiple very long days in a row.
Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
I’ve never been on a self-guided trip! How does it work?
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel, since you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided with all the information you’ll need to follow the route each day and often have access to phone support or other kinds of assistance. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
Are meals included on Camino Invierno de Santiago Tour?
12 breakfasts are included.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover hiking. Get your travel insurance.
How do I get to Ponferrada to start this tour?
The nearest major airport to Ponferrada is Asturias Airport (OVD), which is approximately 200 kilometers away. From the airport, you can rent a car and drive to Ponferrada, or you can take a combination of buses and trains. Another option is to fly to Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) or Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ) and then take a train or bus to Ponferrada.
Where does Camino Invierno de Santiago Tour end?
The tour ends in Santiago de Compostella.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Spain?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Spain?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
Why book with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
Let's start talking about your next adventure!