The Lighthouse Way Camino

Arrive in Ponteceso today, which is the starting point for your self-guided hiking tour on the Lighthouse Way.

Begin your walk on the Camino dos Faros in Ponteceso today, passing the archaeological sites of Castra A Cibda, which dates back to the 1st Century, and Dolmen de Dombate, an ancient megalithic monument. These are wonderful places to learn more about Galicia’s historical heritage. The trail takes you through forests of pine and eucalyptus trees, where you can see many different species of birds. As you approach your destination in Laxe, you will be greeted with a breathtaking view of the large, white, sandy beach as it meets the brilliant blue sea. Spend the night here in Laxe.

Today is the shortest day of the tour, as you walk 17 km from Laxe to Arou. Don’t miss the spectacular panoramic views at the Estuary of Corme and Laxe. You’ll also enjoy a stop in the small town of Camelle, where you can visit the MAN Museum, also called the Museo do Alemán (Museum of the German). MAN stands for Mar, Arte, Natureza (sea, art, nature), and the museum was created by German artist Manfred Gnädinger who moved to Camelle in the 1960s. End your day in the lovely town of Arou.

Today’s route takes you over one of the most iconic stages of the Lighthouse Way trail. Many local hikers consider the walk to the Faro Vilán lighthouse to be a favorite stretch of the trail. You’ll also hear the story of the famous HMS Serpent, a British ship that ran aground here at Cape Vilan and sank in 1890. There is an English cemetery here, full of magical legends and stories, where the victims of the shipwreck were buried. Continue beyond Cape Vilan to Camariñas to spend the night.

This longest stage of the Camino dos Faros, from Camariñas to Muxia, is a rewarding 32 km that leads you to 11 different beaches, plus a variety of picturesque villages, watermills, and forests. The beautiful fishing village of Muxia has recovered well from the infamous Prestige oil spill in 2002 that severely damaged the local environment and economy. When you arrive in Muxia, head to the tourist office and ask them for the Muxiana, a certificate offered to pilgrims who arrive in Muxia along el Camino.

Walk today from Muxia to Cape Touriñán, the westernmost point on the Spanish mainland. Many people think that Finisterre is the westernmost point, and this topic is a great way to get locals talking, if you’re looking to engage them in conversation. Continue your walk to Nemiña, where you can take a refreshing swim at the beach to end your day.

Finish your walk on the Lighthouse Way today as you walk from Nemiña to Finisterre. Also called Fisterra in the local Gallego dialect, this popular fishing port got its name from the Roman belief that this point was the end of the world. This last stage of the trail can feel very long, almost as if you are approaching the end of the world, but you will be inspired and encouraged along the way by the breathtaking view from the peak of Monte Facho (238 m / 781 ft). Reward your efforts and celebrate the end of an incredible tour by watching the sun set over the ocean from the Cape Finisterre Lighthouse.

Sadly, your Lighthouse Way hiking tour has come to an end. After breakfast, check out of your hotel and begin your travels from Finisterre. Have a pleasant journey!