|
The Camino de Santiago - or the Way of St James - is one of the world's oldest pilgrimage routes and the trail is still followed by thousands of people every year. The full track runs from France across northern Spain, covering some 800 km. Tackling the entire length of the Camino is not an easy - or quick - task, so many people choose to join the route in its latter stages, where they can enjoy the stunning rural scenery, peaceful villages and historical sites in Galicia before reaching the ultimate destination - Santiago de Compostela. A bit of history The Way of St James - which ends in Santiago de Compostela because this is where the apostle's remains are interred - has existed for more than 1,000 years, with countless pilgrims following the route from France to visit this holy location. Although St James was martyred in the 7th century, it was not until some 200 years later that his final resting place was identified. Word quickly spread and by the 10th century, pilgrims from all over Europe were making the journey to the tomb. The trail became so popular that a guide to the pilgrimage was even produced in 1139, detailing the route and accommodation travellers could find along the way. It is considered to be so important that it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the organisation pointing out there are around 1,800 buildings along the trail that are of "great historic interest". Walking the Camino de Santiago today Of course, much has changed since the first pilgrims made their journeys across northern Spain to reach the famous shrine, which is now a spectacular cathedral. There are plenty of places to stay along the trail, as well as numerous cafes, restaurants, taverns and bars selling refreshments to those who follow this well known route. As the trail can get busy, it is advisable to book your hotels in advance, and using a specialist provider of walking holidays in Spain can make the organisational process that little bit easier. This kind of company will also be in a position to advise you about where best to begin your trip, depending on how long you have to spend on your active break. Highlights of the route You will start in Leon, from where you will head west via numerous towns, villages and cities to your ultimate destination Santiago de Compostela, covering more than 150 km in two weeks. There are wonderful sights to see everywhere you stop, not to mention breathtaking and varied scenery along every leg of the route. Rolling farmland, vast vineyards and fragrant pine forests are just some of the things you can expect to find as you stroll. In O'Cebreiro you will discover the oldest intact church on the pilgrimage route, which is said to contain a holy grail. The village itself is a fascinating place to explore, as all the dwellings are round and made of stone with straw roofs, giving you a glimpse of a classic rural Spanish scene. Sarria, which is home to numerous churches and a castle, is a lovely place to spend a relaxing afternoon after walking, thanks to the open area next to the riverbank that is the perfect spot for lounging in the sun and giving your legs a break. In Portomarin you will find possibly the most unusual sight on your walk, as the original village was submerged by the reservoir of Belesar and you can still see some of the buildings just beneath the water's surface. Two of the most historic monuments were rescued from the floodwaters stone-by-stone and you can visit the reconstructed Romanesque Church of San Pedro and the Church Fortress of San Nicolas in the settlement. Of course, the cathedral in the historic centre of Santiago de Compostela will be one of the high points of your journey, while the views from the roof of the place of worship are amazing if your legs can carry you a little further. If you are looking for unforgettable walking holidays in Spain, consider following the Camino de Santiago in its final stages, travelling in the footsteps of countless pilgrims. At Headwater, we can arrange every aspect of your journey, allowing you to simply enjoy the experience of walking along this ancient trail.
Related Articles -
walking, holidays, in, Spain,
| 
