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Camino de Santiago from Sarria: A Step by Step Guide to Walking the Last 100 km

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Congratulations! You’re going to walk the Camino de Santiago!

The last 100 km from Sarria to Santiago is the most popular start on the Camino Frances, and yes that means it can be busy.  But with good planning you’ll still find plenty of peaceful trails. I’ve walked this route many times, and I’ll offer suggestions for how to break your stages beyond the traditional five days; leaving you more time for exploring.

The final stages are steeped in history, glorious landscapes and lots of services, but make no mistake, they’re no walk in the park.  Expect more than a few Galician hills, but also ancient Celtic sites, medieval bridges and you’ll walk in the footsteps of centuries of pilgrims, ending in the iconic UNESCO city of Santiago de Compostela.

Sarria to Santiago Route Overview

In 2024, over 150,000 pilgrims started their Camino from Sarria; nearly 30% of all who claimed their Compostela. The Camino Frances is the most iconic of all Camino routes, and Sarria is the gateway to the final 100 km, the minimum distance required to earn your Compostela.

However, Sarria isn’t exactly 100 km from Santiago.  My GPS tracker clocks it at 115.9 km, and those kilometres are far from easy.  Expect hills, a varied terrain and of course, the green Galician landscapes.

The route is traditionally divided into five stages, although you can adapt these to suit your pace:

If you’re looking for quieter trails, opt to stay between the busier end stages. For this guide I’m using the traditional Brierley Stages, but you can end your day where ever suits your best. And you can walk over as many days as you choose.

Trail stats for the entire route from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela are :

Top Tip : You must collect at least two sello every day in your credential.  In order to claim your Compostela, you must show continuous walking towards the Tomb of the Apostle; you do this by collecting at least two stamps every day.

Day 1 : Sarria to Portomarin

Sarria is a large town and a major pilgrim hub, offering plenty of accommodation, restaurants and services.

If you need a pilgrim credential or last-minute gear, head to Peregrinoteca for equipment or Albergue Monasterio de la Magdalena for your pilgrim credential. Likewise many of the albergue will also sell Credentials.

Click here to view my Sarria to Portomarin : Step By Step Stage Guide

Sarria

Leaving town, find your way to Rua Maior in the old town; you’ll probably find breakfast here too.  As you climb up out of town, you’ll pass the large white S A R R I A letters before heading off to country lanes.

Cross the Ponte Aspera, a medieval bridge built on Roman foundations, before the trail leads you into paths which in spring are lined with froths of wildflowers. From here, the yellow arrows will lead you all the way to Santiago.

Top Tip: Be aware of scammers posing as charity workers here. They may carry ID and clipboards but are not part of any official organisation. It’s best to politely decline and continue on.

If you’re looking for accommodation in Sarria my favourites are :

Vilei (3.6 km)

The trail to Vilei meanders along stone-walled country tracks, past plenty of Galicia’s dairy farms and equally many tiny chapels. Often home to just a handful of residents, villages like Vilei offer a great stop for refreshments. 

If you’re looking to break the busy stages, you might opt to walk on from Sarria and stay here rather than in town, putting you ahead of the morning rush.

Mosteiro / Barbadelo (0.6 km)

As you approach this village remember to turn around and look back, the views are wonderful.  And if you fancy a little detour, step off the trail and visit the Romanesque Church of Santiago, dating back to 874.

You can spend the night here too.  There is a Xunta Albergue which offers a simple stay, but be prepared to bring your own supplies.

Mercado A Serra (1.8 km)

You’ll be walking along the road, but shaded in places by beautiful oak and chestnut trees.

Remarkably there was once a bustling medieval market here, hence the name.  Today though it’s a quiet hamlet offering little more than a bar; but it’s the last stop for refreshments for a while so if you’re thirsty it’s worth a pause.

Peruscallo (3.1 km)

You’ll stay on the road and follow the arrows passing more farms and rural houses. 

Along the way you’ll pass a small roadside bakery.  It’s now more of a café then a shop but it’s a lovely place to stop for a pause.  And if you’re lucky the local shepherd will herd sheep down the road whilst you eat!

Brea (2.6 km)

Onwards walking between more shaded dry stone-walled trails through the hamlets of Cortinas and Lavandeira.  Sometimes along the trail you’ll find honesty stands where the local farmer is selling fresh produce or homemade cakes and treats.

Brea is tiny but there is a wonderful new café on the right as you walk through, a very welcome spot that often sells rather nice ice cream!

Morgade (0.5 km)

At 101.6 km from Santiago, Morgade is one of the last places for an overnight stop before you reach the magic 100 kilometre marker; needed to qualify for a Compostela.

It’s a tiny hamlet but there is a glorious little bar and hotel here; perfect for a pilgrim stop.

Ferreiros (1.4 km)

Ferreiros marks a significant milestone; from here, the Camino distance markers drop to double digits.  I’ve read that the marker you’ll find here to commemorate the distances is the most graffitied and damaged of all the markers on the Camino; which is quite a shocking statement!

There is a village café here and just beyond, the Chapel of Santa María, originally built in the 12th century and moved stone by stone in 1790.

Mercadoiro (3.4 km)

More quiet roads with patches of trail will lead us through the tiny hamlets of Pena, Rozas, and Moimentos.

I’ve stayed in Mercadoiro a few times, once taking shelter from an incredible storm where the power went and everyone huddled around a big open fire.  This is another great overnight stop if you want to avoid the busier end stages.

Parrocha (1.6 km)

Leaving Mercadoiro, if you’re in search of a colourful shell to take home, look out for the little shop A paso de Tortuga in Moutras. If it’s open, the painted shells will greet you as you pass!

Following the same pattern as earlier, you’ll walk along quiet tracks and small country roads.  After climbing a long, albiet gentle, hill, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views and your first glimpse of Portomarín.

And you’ll pass a great bar which serves really good coffee and excellent burgers if you’re looking for lunch.

Vilacha (1.6 km)

This is the last hamlet before you cross the bridge into Portomarín, it was home to Casa Banderas, a great little albergue, which serves excellent fruit smoothies but closed in 2024.  However, it is set to reopen again in 2025.

Before Portomarin you have a choice :

Both routes drop you out beside the bridge that leads you into Portomarin and the end of today’s stage.

Portomarin (2 km)

Portomarín is both one of the oldest and newest towns on the Camino. When the Miño River was dammed in the 1960s, the original medieval village, dating back to 993, was submerged.  However, key buildings, like the Church of San Nicolás, were carefully moved stone by stone to higher ground.

Before you reach town, you’ll cross the modern bridge over the Miño River. Depending on the season, it can feel like a typical river crossing (spring) or an exposed, high walk (autumn), when water levels drop and the remnants of the medieval bridge emerge below.

To reach the town you’ll climb the steps under the Iglesia de Santa María, where local legend says passing through the arches protects pilgrims from drowning; hopefully, you won’t need to test that on your way to Santiago!

Top Tip – If heights make you uneasy, keep your focus ahead. While it’s tempting to walk in the middle of the road, stick to the pavement, as traffic moves fast across the bridge.

Where to Stay in Portomarin

Portomarín is compact but well-serviced, offering a range of private rooms, albergues, and pensions. While the large Municipal Xunta Albergue has 86 beds, the reviews are mixed, so maybe consider these alternatives first :

Day 2 : Portomarin to Palas de Rei

This stage always feels more challenging for me than previous days. The longer distance, steady climb out of Portomarin and frequent road walking along the LU-633 make it a day that requires a bit more effort. But don’t worry; the trail has been softened over the years, the arrows take us onto greener, more scenic paths whenever possible. 

Today expect rolling Galician hills, charming little stone villages, and beautiful countryside views.  There are a few stops along the way but not for the first couple of hours.

Click here to view my Portomarin to Palas de Rei : Step By Step Stage Guide

Portomarin

You’ll have a hill as you walk away from Portomarin today. The trail rises gradually for 15 km, with a few short, steep sections that might get your heart pumping. But your efforts are rewarded with fabulous views, so remember to look back!

Top Tip : Stock up before you leave town as there are no services for the first couple of hours.  Make sure you have water and snacks before setting off.

Toxibo (5.4 km)

Historically, the Camino here had a wild reputation; a 12th-century sermon condemned highway robbers, ladies of ill-repute and corrupt innkeepers, but today thankfully it’s far more peaceful.  The path follows the road for 3 km, although you’re safe on a trail.  However, if you have to cross, watch for fast-moving traffic.

There are no services for the first couple hours, but a shaded picnic area offers a quiet break just before you reach Gonzar.

Gonzar (3.2 km)

After a long stretch without services, Gonzar is a welcome stop. Nearly every pilgrim from Portomarin pauses here for food and rest, so expect a busy café.

Castromaior (1.3 km)

This tiny hamlet is a quiet alternative for an overnight stop.  I’ve stayed here but you should be aware that there are little or no services; so carry what you need.  Maybe have a late lunch in Gonzar and carry your supper from Portomarin? There is a bar here but it’s not always open for dinner.

Just after the hamlet, you’ll also walk by one of the most significant archaeological sites on the Camino.  Sadly most folks walk on but pause a while and go and explore.

The Iron Age fort of Castromaior dates back to 400 BCE, with remnants of ancient walls, ditches, and enclosures. You’ll find it at the top of the hill as you walk away from the village.

Hospital da Cruz (2.4 km)

Named after a 12th-century pilgrim hospital, Hospital da Cruz continues its tradition of serving pilgrims, especially at Bar Taberna do Camino, a simple stop with one of the biggest slices of tortilla on the Camino!

Top Tip : The hamlet sits at a busy road junction, so stay alert and follow the arrows carefully.

Ventas de Narón (1.7 km)

This tiny village played a major role in an 820 battle, where Christian forces defeated Muslim troops, securing the land for the Kingdom of Asturias. The tiny 13th-century Chapel of Magdalena, linked to the Knights Templar, is now maintained by a blind caretaker who offers Camino stamps for pilgrims.

Ventas de Narón is a good option if you wish to break the stages and offers three choices for different budgets :

If you’re looking to break this stage, Ventas de Naron has a few accommodation options:

A Prebisa (2 km)

A tiny hamlet with a great little bar : Bar Trisquel serves hot food & cold drinks. It’s not open year-round, but when it is, it’s a good place for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Ligonde (1.3 km)

Just as with yesterday there’s a lot of road walking today but you’ll be taken onto quieter trails wherever possible. 

Just outside Ligonde, you’ll find the Cross of Lameiros (1670), featuring symbols of Christ’s Passion, possibly linked to a pilgrim hospital & cemetery that existed here in medieval times. Ligonde was also a royal stopover; Carlos V (1520) and Felipe II (1554) both stayed here. Today, a Christian albergue continues the village’s hospitality tradition.

Airexe (0.8 km)

Home to Iglesia de Santiago, a 12th-century church featuring unusual reliefs of animals, figures, and possibly Daniel between lions.  There are a couple of options for food so it could be a good off-stage destination; Casa Mariluz & Restaurant Ligonde both serve excellent food but do check opening hours.

Portos (2.1 km)

Just before Portos, you’ll spot one of the more unusual bars on the Camino. A Paso de Formiga, famous for its giant ant sculptures in the garden.

The fresh food here is often from their own garden and it’s a good place to pause or spend the night.

Lestedo (0.9 km)

This small chapel village was once linked to the Order of Santiago, a medieval group that protected pilgrims.  And there is also a really fabulous hotel here which books well in advance!

Palas de Rei (4 km)

Just before Palas de Rei you’ll walk through Brea which offers a bar if you’re looking for a pause before the end.

Palas de Rei was named after Visigothic King Witiza (702–710 AD), and has long been a key stop on the Camino. The 12th-century Codex Calixtinus described it as an important pilgrim hub, though its medieval glory has somewhat faded.

You will through find all services; cafés, restaurants, accommodation, ATMs, and pharmacies. And the Church of San Tirso (12th century) is worth a visit.

Where to Stay in Palas de Rei

There are a number of albergue, apartments and small casa rurals in town.  An apartment is great if you’re looking to have some more space, and cook for yourself; there are plenty of grocery options in town.

These days I tend to walk on from Palas de Rei, trying to avoid the busier end stages but if you are looking for accommodation, these are my choices :

Day 3 : Palas de Rei to Ribadiso

The trail is well marked today, more small villages, medieval bridges, plenty of traditional horreos (grain stores) and more eucalyptus forests.  And plenty of those hills; expect a lot of elevation today, although for the most part gradual and manageable.

Regardless of where you started your Camino, Santiago is close and I often find today is the day that you really find your stride but also I like to linger awhile in the quiet places.  The Primitivo Camino joins the Camino Frances today in Melide, so I’d recommend you book ahead and relax and enjoy the walk.

You can choose to end in either Ribadiso or Arzua; I’ve done both and if I can, I opt to stay in the riverside hamlet of Ribadiso. But both are good choices.

Click here to view my Palas de Rei to Ribadiso : Step By Step Stage Guide

Palas de Rei

As you exit town, look for the arrows as the route meanders and you’ll cross the busy road a couple of times before leaving the road at Carballal and onto on quieter paths until San Xulian.

Top Tip : When I last walked this section, parts of the Camino around San Xulian had been rerouted due to roadworks but temporary signs were clear and there was no added distance.

San Xulián do Camiño (3.7 km)

According to legend, Saint Julian mistakenly killed his parents here, and spent his life in penance, helping pilgrims, earning him the title of patron saint of innkeepers. His 12th-century church, Iglesia de San Xulián, still stands.

This tiny village offers a few great coffee stops and if you’re lucky, the odd slow-moving cows meandering down the street.

Casanova (2.2 km)

The trail leads through a path lined with ancient oaks before arriving in Casanova, a lovely little stop with a Xunta albergue and two excellent cafés.  Terraza Casanova is famous for its bocadillos (sadly no good for a gluten-free pilgrim).  A Cantina is another choice offering a great pilgrim menu and lighter bites.

Top Tip : Xunta albergues often lack cooking utensils, and bars may close early, so check times and eat early if you plan on staying here.

Coto (2.9 km)

The Camino follows the main road into Coto, a small village with a few bars and accommodations, including one of my favourites. A decade ago I wrote this in my journal, and still every time I walk by I feel a little tingle of excitement :

Leboreiro (0.6m)

Once a major medieval stop, Leboreiro translates to “Place of Hares” and was mentioned in the 12th-century Codex Calixtinus. It’s home to the Iglesia de Santa María; known for a mystical spring and wooden Virgin statue which is said to glow at night.

You’ll also see the traditional cabazo grain store.  A unique woven, basket-like structure different from typical Galician hórreos.

Furelos (3.9 km)

Furelos dates back before Roman times, with burial mounds from 2,000 years ago. In the Middle Ages, it was an important pilgrim stop, once owned by the Knights of Saint John.

The Medieval Bridge is considered one of the most beautiful on the Camino Francés.  There is small bar just before the bridge but you can also keep going as there are many more options in Melide; just a hop and a skip away.

Melide (1.5 km)

Melide is where the Camino Primitivo meets the Camino Frances. It’s an ancient town with a history going back to prehistoric times. Whilst it is thought there was a Roman settlement here, the first documented mention of the area was in 747. 

If you arrive on market day, the local cheese, strawberries, and cherries are absolutely worth trying! As is the famous Pulpo a la Gallega. Despite being inland, Melide is the place to try Galician-style octopus. Pulpería A Garnacha is one of the best, It’s on the main street as you walk in but sadly not for me with a mollusc allergy!

Melide is a great option for breaking the stage with several albergue and hotels.  My choices for a bed are :

Boente (5.8 km)

About a kilometre outside Melide, you’ll find a route choice.  There’s little to choose between the two and I’ve always taken the right-hand path, which leads through a pretty forest. Where the routes merge again there’s a café but it it’s closed, it will be Boente before you find a coffee, so plan accordingly in Melide!

Boente is a long village, almost in two halves and thankfully the first bar as you enter the village is the maybe the best.    

Top Tip : As you leave town, the 12th-century Church of Santiago de Boente,  It’s worth a visit, it is usually open and you can collect a sello here.

Castaneda (2.8 km)

The Codex Calixtinus describes Castaneda as the place where medieval pilgrims dropped off limestone carried from Triacastela, which was then processed to build Santiago’s cathedral.  I can’t imagine walking that distance with a bag of lime!

There’s a small bar on the way out of town, but food options are limited so plan ahead! And expect a few steep climbs now and a pretty big descent before reaching Ribadiso.

Ribadiso (2.5 km)

Dating back to at least 572 AD, and has long been a key pilgrim stop. The current stone bridge was rebuilt in the 13th century, alongside the Hospital de San Antón, which now serves as a Xunta albergue.  I’ve stayed here and it’s one of my favourite Camino evenings but the albergue is a little rustic!

There is also a really nice bar café here which is a good place to pause awhile before moving on.

Where to Stay in Ribadiso de Baixo

Most pilgrims will choose to pause at the bar in Ribadiso before walking on to Arzua; where there is a much greater choice for accommodation. Both are good options but as I always prefer to stay off the stages, if I can find a bed, I opt to stay by the river.

Accommodation is limited; and for me there are just two choices :

Day 4 : Ribadiso to O Pedrouzo

The esteemed Mr. Brierley chooses to end yesterday in Ribadiso, and as he’s the expert, I’ve done the same but regardless of where you end, today marks your last full day on the Camino Frances. I know you’re saying but I have tomorrow but tomorrow is different.  So I always call today the eve of the end.

From Ribadiso to O Pedrouzo, the path is relatively gentle, although busier. The Camino del Norte joins in Arzua, adding to the clatter of hiking poles and queues at cafés. Today expect a mix of woodland trails, rolling fields, paved roads, and as always, a few hills.

My advice today is embrace the queues and chatter, and enjoy every moment of the lovely Galician countryside; because your journey is nearly complete.

Click here to view my Ribadiso to O Pedrouzo : Step By Step Stage Guide

Arzua (3.1 km)

There is a hill out of Ribadiso, it might get you puffing a little but remember to stop and look back, as you may catch the sun rising above the mist and the trees.

Arzua is a bit of a road town and has grown into a major pilgrim destination.  I kind of feel it’s a functional rather than picturesque town but nonetheless I’ve enjoyed my stays here and bumped into many friends that I’ve walked with along the way.

The town is known for its cheese production and of course its pilgrim history. Once a Roman crossroads, it became a notable stop on the Camino in the 12th century. There are lots of accommodation options but if you’re looking to stay the night I can recommend :

Leaving town, you’ll follow the plentiful yellow arrows onto quieter country roads and trails. 

Preguntono (2.3 km)

A tiny village with no permanent services, although sometimes there is a kind of pop-up café  which is good for a quick break. There is also a nearby breakfast stop at A Granxa de Tato, which offers great food & coffee.

Top Tip – Some guides suggest Albergue Camino Das Ocas as a stay, it’s highly rated but note it’s a 10-minute walk from the arrows.

As Quintas (3.7 km)

A quiet hamlet, with little here but it is home to a very special albergue. Albergue Taberna Vella (Heidi’s Place) is a much loved pilgrim stay run by former pilgrims Heidi & Rolf.

Calzada (0.9 km)

One of many villages named Calzada, meaning paved road or causeway, often linked to Roman roads.  There is a very busy Café Stop here; expect long queues, a lively atmosphere, and if you’re lucky, a local farmer herding cows down the lane. 

Top Tip – Embrace the chaos. This is a great little café so enjoy the buzz!

Outeiro (1.9 km)

A shady forest trail leads to Outeiro, sometimes called A Calle or A Calle de Ferreiros. If you’re looking for a break Bar Lino is a simple café with good food but if you’d like to stay the night choose from :

Boavista (1.4 km)

A small hamlet known for Bar A Cova da Meiga, a café decorated with Galician witches (meigas); figures from local Celtic folklore. Boavista means beautiful view and it’s not bad from the terrace of the bar!

Salceda (2 km)

You’ll be crossing the N-547 road today a few times and it’s a fast, busy road so you do require to keep a good road sense about you!  This is a major road in and out of Santiago so the speed limit is often 90km per hour! Caution is required.

There are services and accommodations on both sides of the road, but if you continue for a short distance, you’ll find Bar La Esquipa. It’s on the Camino, on your side of the road with good food and a pleasant garden.

Top Tip : The road crossings today can be tricky, so follow arrows and use designated crossing points. 

A Brea (O Pino) (2.1 km)

A small village just off the main road, but home to Cantina Marela, a wonderful lunch stop with excellent food; you can also stay the night too!

O Empalme (1.7 km)

A popular pilgrim crossroads, centered around Bar O Ceadoiro, a lively meeting spot at the top of the hill.  But be aware that you will need to cross the road again after the bar so look out for the arrows; I’ve missed them a couple times!

Cross the road twice at this crossroads, one time simply crosses a small road but keeps you on the same side as the bar and then, across the main road.  Look for the marker on the opposite side to stay on the correct Camino path.

Top Tip : Watch for Detours here as Forestry work sometimes alters the trail, just keep following the arrows.  It’s usually very well marked.

A Rua (2.6 km)

This is a tiny little hamlet but a good alternative overnight stop just before O Pedrouzo. 

O Pedrouzo (1.5 km)

One of the most popular overnight stops outside of Santiago de Compostela, despite not being directly on the Camino.  Cross the N-547 as you enter the town and follow the arrows, as signs here can be confusing.

Do check where your hotel is, if it’s at the entrance side of town then I’d recommend using google maps but again, look out for the traffic as this is a busy road.

There is a small church in town, Santa Eulalia de Arca. There is mass held every evening; the church is tucked away behind the main road and there is a restaurant nearby also.

Where to Stay in O Pedrouzo

There is a lot of choice here, because all roads now lead to Santiago, and the atmosphere is unlike any other stay on the Camino.  Tomorrow you reach the end!  There are albergue and apartments and small private Casa Rurals.  Often beds are more expensive than you’re used to but I can assure you that during the busy season, every bed will book. 

My recommendation is to book ahead and here are my favourites :

Register Your Arrival With The Pilgrim Office

In order to claim your Compostela you must register your arrival with the pilgrim office online before you arrive. 

Years ago you simply arrive and queued.  In recent years the office moved and the queues grew longer.  A few years ago an automated system arrived and it has hugely reduced the queues and works very well but to save you inconvenience at the Pilgrim Office door I recommend you register the night before.

You can do it at the door but it’s so much better to do it the night before in the calm of your accommodation. When you arrive just show your QR code and the rest will be a lot smoother. 

Day 5 : O Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostela

Today is the day you’ve been walking towards since you left Sarria; your final walk into Santiago de Compostela. No matter how many times I’ve arrived in the Praza do Obradoiro, the feeling of looking up at those ancient spires never loses its magic.

But before Santiago, there’s still a beautiful walk ahead with a mix of forests, rolling hills and your first sight of the city and the cathedral.

I know the tendency is to rush to reach Santiago but the city isn’t going anywhere.  I understand the urge to attend the noon pilgrim mass, visit the pilgrim office, and celebrate. But if you leave too early, it might still be dark, you’ll maybe miss arrows, and you’ll certainly miss the views.

If you have the time, spend an extra day (or three) in Santiago. Then, you can take your time today, enjoy breakfast, and wait for the sun to rise and let the crowds rush ahead.

Click here to view my O Pedrouzo to Santiago : Step By Step Stage Guide

O Pedrouzo

O Pedrouzo is not directly on the Camino, so you’ll need to retrace your steps back to the yellow arrows, but the route is very well-marked and you’ll see a trail of pilgrims doing the same.  Also, services are fewer today and busier too, so have breakfast before leaving town. Many cafés open early, but check with your accommodation to be sure.

The path is well-marked, weaving through San Antón and onto quiet country roads before reaching forested trails. But if you leave before first light they are harder to spot.

Top Tip : If you leave early, expect it to be dark in the forest. A head torch or phone light is useful, but do be mindful of your phone battery.

Amenal (3.8 km)

After the forest walk, you’ll quickly reach Amenal, home to two cafes with accommodation options, on either side of the road.  Whilst I’m usually a fan of breaking stages, I wonder if today, you might miss the lively pilgrim atmosphere in town.

It’s almost 4 kilometres before the next coffee stop from here, so I recommend pausing at one of these before moving on.

Top Tip: Use the pedestrian tunnel here to cross the road safely.

San Paio (4.1 km)

From Amenal, the Camino leads you uphill through eucalyptus forests before skirting Santiago Airport.  And from here it’s a gentle walk into San Paio. This small village was named after Saint Pelagius, a Galician martyr.

There’s a bar as you enter and the Last 12K Guest House. This is an ideal spot, if you’re looking for a night off the stages and being closer to Santiago. 

Top Tip : Look out for a little gift stall near the airport fence; they have a fabulous little sello if you make a purchase!

Lavacolla (2.1 km)

So much history surrounds Lavacolla, in particular its historic bathing tradition; it is said that Lavacolla was the place where medieval pilgrims washed before entering Santiago. And as you leave the town, the Camino markers drop into single digits!  Just 9 km to go!

There are cafes and several options for an overnight stay :

Vilamaior (1.3 km)

Expect a steady uphill walk leaving Lavacolla but you’ll drop out in the small village of Vilamaior.  There’s a wonderful little cafe albergue here, it’s the perfect place for a pause before your walk into Santiago.

Monte del Gozo (4.1 km)

Leaving Vilamaior, you really are walking into the suburbs of Santiago.  You’ll follow the arrows along a quiet roadside path and walk towards Monte del Gozo; the Mount of Joy. 

It is here where traditionally pilgrims caught their first site of the spires of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.  It was then, and continues to be a rather incredible moment after such a long journey. Santiago is very close!

You’ll first stop at a tiny ancient chapel where you can collect a sello.  Most pilgrims then walk on, missing the famous pilgrim statues, which point towards the cathedral.  Take a short detour down through the park to find them, you don’t have to walk back, you can walk through the pilgrim albergue and rejoin the arrows from there.

Walking into Santiago

From Monte del Gozo, the Camino arrows weave you through Santiago’s modern outskirts before entering the historic centre. The route is very well marked but Santiago is a big city so expect a few kilometres of urban walking before reaching the old town.

Once you hit the ancient streets you’ll follow pilgrims and arrows, past the Hospedería San Martín Pinario, through the Arco de Palacio, and down into the Praza do Obradoiro.  Savour this moment, try not to rush the last kilometres, take in your surroundings and the majesty that is Santiago.

And congratulate yourself for the end of your pilgrimage, in front of the iconic Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

Top Tip : Santiago is a destination for thousands of visitors, and pilgrims make up just a small number.  I know that my groups are often overwhelmed by the crowds.  Prepare yourself for this and embrace it!  It’s all part of the experience!

Where to Stay in Santiago de Compostela

There are a lot of beds in Santiago but no matter how many, in high season, there are never enough. Book ahead.

I hear all the time on forums that the Camino will provide.  And yes it’s true, there are options and the kindness of strangers never fails to surprise me BUT I also feel this advice is unhelpful.  I’m sure it’s meant with good intent but it doesn’t help when you arrive and spend an hour chasing around for a bed and needing a taxi to take you a few kilometres away from the centre.

Santiago, like St. Jean Pied de Port and Roncesvalles and Pamplona, and even Logrono and Leon, will run out of beds during peak times and during festivals.  So make life easy and book a bed.

The good news is that Santiago offers something for everyone. I’ve written a post about the best places to stay in Santiago but here are a few of my favourites:

Potential Challenges Between Sarria and Santiago de Compostela

The walk from Sarria is a well trodden path and the yellow arrows are good, the trails well maintained and there are plenty of options for services and accommodation.  That being said there are still a few challenges to consider :

Recommended Apps, Books And Websites

When walking any stage of the Camino Frances there are guidebooks and apps that I highly recommend you downloading or purchasing before leaving home; these include :

Final Thoughts on the Last 100 Kilometres From Sarria to Santiago de Compostela

Walking the last 100 kilometres between Sarria and Santiago is a glorious adventure.  The lands of Galicia are woven into the tradition of Pilgrimage but they are also rich in Celtic and Roman history.  St James is said to have preached in these lands, and for over a thousand years, pilgrims have followed in his footsteps to Santiago.

Yes, the path is busy, but the Camino is yours to walk your way. Stay off the main stages, book private rooms, or start later in the morning and let the early birds blaze ahead.  There is always space on the Camino Frances, the trick is pausing to find it.

There is no doubt that these days on the Camino Frances are wonderful and your arrival in Santiago de Compostela a moment to treasure.  Take your time, embrace the journey and allow a few extra days to explore the UNESCO world heritage city of Santiago. 

The path from Sarria to the tomb of St. James is unlike any other journey; and the memories will stay with you long after you’ve finished. You will also be part of a merry band of pilgrims who can proudly say “yes, I walked the Camino“.

Are You Walking From Sarria to Santiago?  You’ll Find These Useful

I’ve walked this glorious trail many times and I’m already planning my next visit. If you’re walking to Santiago de Compostela, I’ve written a detailed daily walking guides for each stage along with lots of information and Santiago, the Botafumeiro and The Compostela :

If you’re planning your Camino or already on the trail, I’d love to hear about your experiences. Join our Camino community on Facebook, share your stories, and find inspiration for the road ahead.