Camino Primitivo

The journey starts in Oviedo, the capital of Asturias. This medieval city impresses with its meticulously preserved historic center. Notable landmarks include the Gothic-style Cathedral of El Salvador and the Holy Chamber. You arrive independently.

Today starts your Camino Primitivo, with a walk that offers a glimpse into the challenges ahead. Covering 25 km, the route features frequent climbs. The ascent to Escampelo is the steepest, followed by a descent along the Nalón river to Peñaflor, culminating in your arrival at Grado.

The first part of the route from Grado to Salas follows narrow trails and country roads through hilly countryside directly to Cornellana Monastery. Founded in 1024, this centre was of great religious and political importance throughout the early history of the Christian kingdom in Asturias. For the second part of today’s route, from Cornellana to Salas, you’ll take a few detours, as the motorway is still under construction here. Your hotel in Salas is located in the historical town centre, right next to the castle and museum, featuring Pre-Romanesque architecture.

After a short ascent through beautiful terrain in the fields outside Salas, you again follow the main road for about 5km before leaving it behind in La Espina. The next section on the way to Tineo takes you through quiet woodlands and fields, with very little tarmac, just quiet country tracks! In Tineo’s historical centre you will find your next accommodations.

This is not an easy stage, especially because it is one of the longest of the entire route, but the effort is worth it. The ups and downs are still your most faithful companions, but they are joined by beautiful forests, valleys and spectacular mountain landscapes bathed by rivers that make all the effort cost a little less. The first kilometers from Tineo are uphill that later give way to an incipient descent to Campiello. Continue our way to Pola de Allande.

Having trekked for days, you've acclimatized to this rugged terrain, understanding why the Camino Primitivo is renowned for its difficulty. Today presents the toughest stretch, however the scenic beauty makes it all worthwhile. You will ascend to Puerto del Palo, rewarded with awe-inspiring vistas of the Nison Valley. Press on to Berducedo, knowing you've come too far to falter now.

Today has a descent to the Dam of the Salime Reservoir. Fear not, as it's not overly challenging. Once past this descent and the Navia river crossing, the final kilometers lead you to Grandas de Salime.

You enjoy the final stretch in Asturias before entering Galicia today. Through Alto del Acebo, a lengthy ascent awaits, yet is not overly challenging. It's worth noting the change in trail markings from scallop shells in Asturias to yellow arrows in Galicia. Besides the climb, it's a pleasant journey through small towns and rural landscapes, leading you to today's destination, the first in Galicia, A Fonsagrada.

Today is your first full stage in Galicia, and it won't disappoint. While much of the route is on dirt tracks, the scenic beauty is impressive. Initially, there are few slopes until Montouto, followed by a significant descent. However, the highlight of the stage is yet another climb, this time leading to A Lastra. The journey continues until you reach O Cádavo.

Today is the longest stage of the Camino Primitivo. The main challenge is the sheer number of kilometers ahead. Apart from the descent to Castroverde, it's a relatively flat stage. Don't miss the 14th-century fortress along the way. Passing through villages like Souto de Torres, Vilar de Cas, and Gondar, you'll be surrounded by the lush green landscapes typical of Galicia. Finally, you'll reach Lugo, a city renowned for preserving significant remnants of its Roman past. Its UNESCO-listed wall, Thermal Baths, and Roman Bridge are highlights. Plus, Lugo offers a wide range of gastronomic delights, including tapas and wines.

From Lugo onward, several Caminos come together to join the main French Route (Camino Francés). Today you have a long walk to reach the next accommodation, situated in Ferreira. The first 20 kilometres until O Burgo are well paved but mainly uphill. But don't worry because it is quite easy to hire a taxi in Lugo to shorten this stage if you please.

Luckily, today's stage is not as long as yesterdays. However, the Camino starts and continues uphill until O Requián, and then there is another climb until Monte da Feira. Once there, the route will be a piece of cake until Melide.

Depart from the province of Lugo and journey into A Coruña today on a pleasant path. You'll relish the charm of towns like Boente and Castañeda en route to Arzua, renowned for its cheese production.

A short and quiet stage to reflect on everything that you have experienced during the Camino before arriving in Santiago tomorrow.

Start early to join the noon pilgrimage celebration in Santiago. Beginning with Lavacolla, ascend Monte do Gozo for a distant view of the awaited cathedral. Finally, arrive at Plaza del Obradoiro, basking in the personal satisfaction of achieving your goal.

Buen Camino & see you soon.