Home > Camino Ingles Guide > Stages From Ferrol To Santiago De Compostela

Camino Ingles : 2025 Guide To The Walking Stages from Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela

Some of my links may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no cost to you. See our Privacy Policy for details. And this post was crafted with care and occasional typos by Colleen (and not AI)

I’d wanted to walk the Camino Inglés for years, but somehow, the timing was never right. I booked and planned my journey from Ferrol to Santiago three times before I finally set foot on the trail in 2024.

What held me back? I’d heard it wasn’t as Camino-ey as other routes. That it lacked scenery. That there was too much tarmac. It always felt like a route I should walk, but one that was easy to postpone.

Well, what do I know? Because nestled along the glorious northern coast of Spain is the Camino Inglés.  And this very much underrated little Camino offers history, incredible food, the company of fellow pilgrims, and some truly breathtaking landscapes. It’s also a complete Camino that ends at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

So, if you’re thinking about walking the Camino Ingles, keep reading and I’ll show you exactly why this might just be the perfect Camino for you.

Camino Ingles : The Shortest Camino De santiago

One of the reasons why pilgrims love the Camino Ingles is that it is a complete route.  If you’re short on time, you’re not joining a longer trail but you’re starting at the beginning.  The Ingles is the shortest complete route to Santiago de Compostela.

The English Way And Its Medieval Roots

As a Devon girl, I loved reading that in 1147, a group of pilgrims set sail from Dartmouth, England, making one of the earliest documented journeys to Santiago de Compostela.

The Camino Inglés is one of the oldest routes to the tomb of Saint James, shaped by medieval pilgrims who avoided the dangerous overland journey along routes like the Camino Frances, and instead travelled by sea to Spain.

For centuries, ships carried thousands of pilgrims from England, Ireland, Scandinavia, and beyond, landing in La Coruña and Ferrol. As the English, sailing from over 30 ports, were the most prominent, the route became known as the Camino Inglés; the English Way.

How Long Is The Camino Ingles And Where Does It Start?

There are two starting points for the Camino Inglés: Ferrol and A Coruña. While the modern route typically begins in Ferrol, you can also start from the traditional port of A Coruña in northern Spain.

Starting in Ferrol

I opted to begin my Camino in Ferrol, as do most pilgrims. The Tourist Office also serves as a Pilgrim Office, where a sign marks 113 km to Santiago; I feel the official distance is closer to 118 km. Either way, starting in Ferrol ensures you qualify for your Compostela.

Stages from Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela

Some recommended stages from Ferrol are quite long, but it’s possible to break them into more manageable daily distances. My stage guides give details of where and how you can do this :

Starting in A Coruna

A Coruña is the historical starting point, but at only 75 km to Santiago, it does not meet the 100 km requirement for a Compostela. However, in December 2016, the Cathedral of Santiago approved a special exception:

Pilgrims starting in A Coruña can earn a Compostela, if they have previously walked at least 25 km of a certified pilgrimage in their own country.

If you’re in the UK, the Confraternity of St. James has details on approved UK pilgrimage routes. For pilgrims in Ireland, the Celtic Camino provides certification options.

Stages from A Coruna to Santiago de Compostela

I walked from Ferrol, but a pilgrim friend shared that the A Coruña route is less well-marked, and Stage 1 can be more challenging. The two routes merge just before Hospital de Bruma, making Stage 2 shorter and still allowing you to pass the ever-popular Bar Avelina.

How long Does It Take To Walk The Camino Ingles?

One of the great things about the Camino Inglés is that it’s short. You can walk from Ferrol to Santiago in just 5 days, making it perfect for those with limited time. But having walked, I’d highly recommend allowing longer.

We split Stage One, and I loved meandering along the coastal variants, soaking in the estuary views, and enjoying a leisurely lunch in Neda. Looking back, I wish we’d also split Stage Two; Pontedeume, Miño, and Betanzos all deserved more time.

Just because you can walk it in 5 days doesn’t mean that you should! There are opportunities to break the stages and I do feel this will allow you to enjoy the journey more. And bring your swimming things, because shorter days mean more time on the glorious beaches!

What Not To Miss Along The Camino Ingles

I had read that the Camino Inglés was a bit dull compared to other routes but after walking it, I seriously wonder if they followed the same path?! This glorious little trail is packed with hidden gems, from medieval towns and stunning beaches to incredible food and fascinating history.

And even with Santiago de Compostela as its grand finale, there are plenty of unforgettable stops along the way.

1. A Coruña : Tower of Hercules

If you visit A Coruña before starting your walk, don’t miss the UNESCO-listed Tower of Hercules. Built in the 1st century, it’s the oldest operating Roman lighthouse in the world. Climb to the top for breathtaking Atlantic views and test your fitness at the same time!  

2. Ferrol : A Naval City with A Heart

The modern Camino Inglés begins in Ferrol, a historic Spanish Armada naval base. Today, its fortifications and old town remind us of its rich maritime past.

3. Pontedeume : A Glorious Surprise

I had no expectations for Pontedeume, so it completely surprised me. Founded in 1270, it reminded me so much of a Cornish fishing village, with its little harbour and medieval streets, and fantastic food. I could easily spend a week here!

4. Miño: Don’t Miss the Beaches!

The Camino takes you into Miño, but the arrows don’t lead you to the beaches and unless you know about them, you’ll walk on and miss them.

Break this stage into two and spend the night in Mino; that way you have an easier walk and more time to linger over breakfast in Pontedeume, explore the beaches in Mino and have an easier walk into Betanzos!

5. Betanzos : A Medieval Surprise

Nobody really mentions Betanzos when they talk about the Camino Inglés. And that’s a shame.  We arrived after a hard day of walking and were too tired to fully explore, but when I walk again I’ll break this stage into two to enjoy more time here and Miño too.

Betanzos is said to be one of Galicia’s best-preserved medieval towns, and I totally see why.

Top Tip: Just in case you missed this; break the Pontedeume to Betanzos stage. It’s a tough day with a few hills and breaking the day gives you time in Mino too!  

6. Rural Galicia: The Last Few Days

Walking beyond Betanzos, you leave the coast behind and enter rural Galicia but there are still a few wonderful stops to explore before reaching Santiago!

FAQ : Walking from Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela

Before I walked the Camino Inglés, I read so much conflicting advice; some said it was too easy, others said it was too tough, others said it was not camino-ey enough. After walking it, I can say it’s a beautiful and rewarding route but it does come with its own challenges.

I’ve had a lot of questions from fellow pilgrims, so here are some of the most common ones:

1. How difficult is the Camino Ingles compared to other Camino?

The Camino Inglés is short, but it’s not necessarily easy. While the total distance is manageable, the elevation and descents, especially on paved roads, can be hard underfoot.

I’m comfortable walking 25 km per day, but my sister found this route tiring in places, mainly down to the hard surfaces and elevation changes.

We split Stage One into two days. We stayed two nights in Ferrol and took the bus back from Neda; it was a great way to ease into the walk. Next time, I’ll break up other stages too, not just to make walking easier, but to have more time to explore.

That said, there are no technically difficult sections, and you can easily shorten each day if you prefer a slower pace.

2. How Many Days Should I allow to walk the Camino Ingles?

The Camino Ingles is the shortest complete route and most guides suggest walking it in 5 days, but I feel your stages should depend on your pace, fitness level, and how much you want to explore.

Typically, it takes between 4 and 6 days to walk, but I’d recommend allowing at least 6 days, or even 8 to 9 if you want a more relaxed experience.

Some stages are long and hilly, and rushing through means missing out on some incredible places like Pontedeume, Miño, and Betanzos. Taking your time allows you to enjoy Galicia’s beaches, food, and history too.

If you’re unsure and you have the time, plan for a slower pace; you won’t regret giving yourself extra time to soak it all in!

3. When Is the best Time to walk the Camino Ingles?

The best time to walk the Camino Inglés is spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October) when the weather is milder, the landscapes are at their best, and there are fewer crowds.

Summer is perfect but you’re competing with tourists for accommodation and services and prices can also be higher.

I walked at the end of April, and while it was a beautiful time of year, it was also wet; April and May saw plenty of rainfall that year. And Galicia’s green landscapes do come at a price; and that’s rain.

Autumn tends to be drier, with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, making it an ideal season for walking. I’m opting for September next so I can compare! That said, spring is stunning, with wildflowers in bloom and the countryside at its most vibrant.

If you’re trying to decide when to go, check out the rainfall & temperature chart below for a better idea of what to expect!

4. Can you walk the Camino Ingles in winter?

Yes, you can walk the Camino Ingles in winter, but be prepared for colder, wetter conditions and reduced services along the route. While Xunta albergues tend to stay open year-round, many private accommodations, and some cafés, and restaurants may have limited hours or close for the season.

A friend of mine did walk this in December and she was cold and damp. But she did meet other pilgrims and always found a bed. If you plan to walk in winter, I do recommend checking accommodation availability in advance to avoid any surprises along the way.

I’ve walked other routes in winter and with good preparation, a winter Camino can be a quiet and reflective experience. But be ready for rain, shorter daylight hours, and cooler temperatures!

5. How do I get my Camino Ingles credential (pilgrim passport)?

You can order your Camino Credential in advance from your local Camino Association or online from Casa Ivar.

If you prefer to purchase this on arrival, you can purchase one at the Tourist Information Office in Ferrol, which also serves as a Pilgrim Office. When we arrived, the staff were very welcoming, offering guidance, maps, and a sello.

Other places in Ferrol where you can get a credential include:

Top Tip: Remember that to qualify for a Compostela, you’ll must collect at least two sellos (stamps) per day along the Camino Inglés.

6. Can You Use luggage transfer services On the Camino Ingles?

Yes, you can have your bags forwarded each day, and there are several reliable services available:

If you’re planning to use luggage transfer, you can either book daily (arranged the night before) or, if you already know your accommodations, pre-book the entire service online for peace of mind.

For full details, links, and contact info, check out my complete guide to Camino luggage transfer.

7. What albergue and accommodation options are there?

Accommodation along the Camino Inglés ranges from budget-friendly albergues to comfortable hotels and guesthouses. As we’re in Galicia you’ll find Xunta albergues, which are well-maintained public hostels specifically for pilgrims.

On some stages competition for beds is tight, where there are limited options. We stayed in a mix of albergue and hotels, and I’ve detailed all the options in my stage-by-stage guides:

Top Tip : Click the links above for detailed accommodation recommendations for each stage

8. How well-marked is the Camino Ingles?

I was pleasantly surprised by how well-marked the Camino Inglés is. The yellow arrows and scallop shells make it easy to follow the trail, and if you stick to the main route, navigation is easy.

There are a few route variations, some of which can be a little trickier to find, but I cover these in detail in my stage-by-stage guides. If you prefer to keep it simple, just follow the arrows, and you won’t have any difficulties!

Recommended Apps, Books And Websites for the Camino Ingles

If you’re walking from Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela then there are apps, guidebooks, and websites which will be invaluable. Be sure to download or purchase them before leaving home:

Top Tip : Don’t forget my step by step daily stage guides too!

Why Walk The Camino Ingles From Ferrol To Santiago De Compostela

I had thought about walking the Camino Inglés for years but never made it a priority. I’d heard mixed reviews but after finally walking it for myself, I really regret not doing it sooner.

Yes, there’s tarmac but it is manageable; even more so if you break up the longer stages.  That aside there’s so much to love about this trail:

The Camino Ingles, or English Way, may have been forgotten for a while, but I believe that’s changing.  It’s one of the oldest routes to Santiago and I’ve already earmarked my return.  If you’re on the fence about walking it, take my advice and go now, before too many others discover its charm!

Are You Planning to Walk the Camino Inglés? Here’s Your Stage-by-Stage Guide

This post is part of my comprehensive Camino Inglés series, covering everything you need from the starting point in Ferrol to your arrival at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

Every post includes detailed tips, route options, practical advice and accommodation options.  And if you’d like more then join my private Walking The Camino Facebook group.