After a long time, you have decided to do the Camino de Santiago. The emotion overwhelms you, and the truth is, it is not for less, since it is one of the most beautiful tourist routes in Spain, apart from an unforgettable experience. And of course, being your first time, you still have an important question: What is the shortest Camino de Santiago?
On this occasion, we will talk about several alternatives with just over 100 kilometers, from end to end . So prepare your backpack and get ready to discover a fantastic route. Let us begin!
Table of Contents
- From Sarria to Santiago, Last 100km
- Why take the shortest route?
- Are there other short but beautiful paths to Santiago?
Shortest Camino de Santiago
- Sarria – Portomarín stage (21.60 km)
- Portomarín – Palas stage (25 km)
- Palas – Arzúa Stage (28.80 km)
- Arzúa – Pedrouzo stage (18 km)
- Pedrouzo stage – Santiago (20 km)
From Sarria to Santiago, just over 100 kilometers
One of the most outstanding is the section that separates the municipality of Sarría from Santiago de Compostela. It is part of the Iter francorum or French Way and is one of the busiest and most popular.
This route has five different stages and the duration of the journey is approximately one day for each stage. It is a good alternative if it is your first time and you do not want to travel alone, or you have little time to make the trip.
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Sarria to Portomarín (21.60 km)
The first stage has 22 kilometers, of which the first 13 run through undulating terrain of low intensity. Here you will find the towns of Lavandeira and Ferreira. You can complete it in four hours and at the end you will pass through the Belesar reservoir, in Portomarín. You can also cross the Miño river.
If you want to extend the walk a little more, we suggest you visit the Church of San Nicolás. It was rebuilt stone by stone and is a true spectacle.
Portomarín to Palas de Rei (25 km)
It has just two more kilometers, and can be covered in six hours with a total distance of 25 kilometers. Here you must go up to the Sierra de Ligonde. In general, it is an easy trail, with a short climb. The final point of arrival is Palas de Rei.
In this part of the route you can find the Castillo del Pambre, an emblem of the city of Lugo. Also remember to stock up, as you will be running a long way on your next journey.
Palas de Rei to Arzúa (28.80 km)
The third day also coincides with the longest mileage of the entire journey. It will be a really tough stage, as it will possibly cost you to keep up. In Arzúa, the Camino del Norte and the Camino Primitivo also cross, so there is a good chance that you will meet other pilgrims who have been there longer than you.
At kilometer 15 it is possible to divert to the city of Melide, where you can eat and sleep. You can also enjoy the pine forests that you will find on your way. In total, you will have traveled 29 kilometers.
Arzúa to O Pedrouzo (18 km)
It is very likely that at this point you will begin to feel the fatigue accumulated by the days of travel. However, it is also the shortest section, since it only has nine kilometers. The land is easy to walk and runs smoothly. You will find all the services you need.
O Pedrouzo – Santiago de Compostela (19 Km)
It is the final part of the journey, with a total of almost 20 kilometers. Here you can cross the Porta do Camino and finally find the Cathedral of Santiago Apóstol. To obtain the Compostela, you must go to Rúa das Carretas, number 33. Of course: take your time to get to know the historic center of Compostela in depth and feel all its energy. You will enjoy it very much.
Why take the shortest route?
There are many reasons to choose a short and beautiful Camino de Santiago. First of all, it is a route to travel with the least amount of luggage possible, without luxuries and with a lot of encouragement to start a process of self-discovery. So if this is your first adventure, it is best to choose a simple route that you can complete in a short time without major complications.
Second, there is the lack of preparation. To qualify for the Compostela you must have completed the 100-kilometre route on foot or, alternatively, 200 kilometers by bicycle or on horseback. Taking the shorter Camino de Santiago is a good idea if, for example, you are not in your best physical shape and cannot do longer routes such as the 300-kilometre Camino Primitivo.
Finally, covering the last few kilometers is an excellent option if you have little time. In addition, you will be able to enjoy the same enchanting landscapes and you will see places full of history, so it is worth a try.
Are there other short but beautiful paths to Santiago?
Just like you, many people are excited by the idea of doing this excursion, but at the same time they cannot choose the longest route. The good news is that there are many alternatives that can be covered in less time. That is why we decided to mention more paths that do not exceed 150-200 km and that, by the way, are cool.
Camino Primitivo from Lugo to Santiago Last 100km
It consists of approximately seven stages, is of medium difficulty and goes into the routes of San Román de Retorta and the city of Melide. It has a total length of 101 kilometers, so it is perfect if you want to walk just enough to get the certificate or if you are looking for smooth paths to go with the family.
The Portuguese Way – Tui to Santiago
It includes a mandatory step that crosses O Porriño, Arcade and the beautiful municipality of Pontevedra. It does not have too many slopes and each section can be completed in an average of four to six hours. The views are beautiful and the entrance to Caldas de Reis deserves that you stop and enjoy its hot springs.
The Silver Way or Sanabrés Route from Ourense to Santiago
Here you can go to Galician lands and you will pass through Pontevedra and A Coruña. The last part goes through Outeiro, with 17 kilometers remaining to reach the final point of your destination, climb the Castrón Douro hill and finally enter the cathedral, in front of the Obradoiro square.
We hope that this little guide has served as your orientation and, of course, that you are now much more motivated to live this wonderful experience. Not all roads lead to Rome, some lead to Santiago and completely change the way you see the world.