You have a week off and are looking for a different kind of vacation, but you don’t know where to go or what to do. Have you tried doing the last 100 km of the Camino de Santiago? It’s a unique getaway that combines nature, culture, cuisine, and self-discovery.
If you haven’t yet met someone who has done it and told you the myriad reasons to embark on this magical experience, we will show you up to seven reasons why it’s the best.
Get ready for an incredible adventure that rejuvenates the soul and the body!
1. More than a path, an unforgettable spiritual journey
The Camino de Santiago is not a hiking route. If it were, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims wouldn’t do it every year It has a spiritual component, marked by its origin. That’s why we put it first on this list of reasons to do the last 100 km of the Camino de Santiago in 2024. Walking towards the tomb of Apostle Santiago to pay their respects was the origin of this adventure. Although religious reasons are increasingly less significant in the decision to make the route to Compostela.
On average, it involves 4-6 hours of walking (depending on the kilometers of the stage or the pace of each person). It is more than enough time for personal reflection and self-discovery, regardless of whether it is done in company. Therefore, the Camino is a great opportunity for reinvention.
2. Connection with nature
That it rains a lot in Galicia is not news. However, there must be something good about it. And it’s the lush green landscapes that the community offers from spring. Imagine walking through landscapes with cows grazing in extensive meadows, crossing rivers through centuries-old stone bridges, or traversing lush oak forests.
On the other hand, it is said that if one does not arrive in Santiago de Compostela and witness the rain leaving scenes with wet stone, one has not truly done the Camino. The truth is that from Camino Compostela we do not certify this saying, but it is true that the Obradoiro square after a drizzle is worth admiring.
3. Taste Galicia: a gastronomic feast
Galicia is a region that more and more people visit, among other reasons, to taste typical dishes such as empanada, octopus, seafood… Savor the delicious Galician cuisine and discover the wines of the region. Depending on the route you choose, you can access wineries and delight in the wines of the Ribeira Sacra and the Rías Baixas, which are increasingly recognized. Each stage of the Camino is a celebration for the palate.
How much does it cost to eat during the Camino de Santiago? The best answer, as good Galicians that we are, is: it depends. There are options for every budget. From going to the supermarket at the end of each stage, to choosing pilgrim menus (with an average range of 10 to 14 euros) or opting for more elaborate dishes at local restaurants at Michelin guide (there will be more or less, depending on the towns you pass through).
Depending on the time of year you do it, there will be specialties to taste, such as Galician stew during Carnival. “Eating in Galicia is always a cause for celebration. In fact, there are more local celebrations, such as those for barnacles, Albariño wine, and cheese, than there are days in the year. If you want to do the Camino during any of these festivities, we will be happy to advise you.
How much does it cost to eat during the Camino de Santiago? There are options for every budget. From going to the supermarket, through pilgrim menus (with an average range of 10 to 14 euros), or opting for more elaborate dishes.
4. The magic of the Camino
If you are new to the Camino de Santiago, you will be surprised by the warmth and kindness of the people you encounter. Along the way, you will discover unique establishments. Many of them were born from previous pilgrims, captivated by the spirit of the Camino. Along the French route from Sarria, for example, it is common to come across establishments during the stages where they allow you to have breakfast or replenish your energy in exchange for a ‘donation’. It is the clearest evidence that the essence and magic of the Camino have been preserved over the centuries.
Another effect of that magic is the volunteer hospitaleros of the Camino de Santiago. In summary, they are former pilgrims from all nationalities who dedicate part of their vacations to attend to pilgrims and collaborate in the revitalization of the Camino. If you want more information about them, you can find it on the website of the Spanish Federation of Associations of Friends of the Camino de Santiago.
5. Galicia: immersion in a cultural realm
Explore spectacular places like Tui, Lugo, Ourense, A Coruña, Ferrol, Portomarín… In addition to the stunning old town area of Santiago. It will all depend on which route you choose. An example of this is the 30 years since the French route was commemorated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you enjoy admiring architectural ensembles, you will be delighted by the countless ones you will come across along the different Caminos. Ecclesiastical structures like churches, convents, or cathedrals; bridges, walls, or Roman roads; or Celtic settlements from the pre-Roman era are some of them. In short, a treat for the eyes of anyone who appreciates the value of art throughout history.
6. A personal challenge: push your limits
Trade routine for an extraordinary experience. The Camino de Santiago is not a walk, it’s an opportunity to surpass yourself. If you are the kind of person who prefers lounging in a hammock, as we mentioned in the introduction of this article, we recommend not doing the Camino de Santiago. The good part is that with each kilometer, you will transform yourself, strengthening your body, and you will complete it because anyone can do it. Regardless of age.
We advise you not to take it as a sports challenge. It’s not a race or anything like that. You don’t get a prize for arriving earlier or waking up earlier. When we talk about challenge, it’s more mental than physical. It’s best to take your time and focus on enjoying the experience.
7. Lasting friendships
On the Camino, every encounter can turn into a lifelong friendship. Share experiences and connect with people from all over the world. Think of it as if it were a ‘mega summer camp,’ where you will share more or less moments with many people who are in similar conditions to yours. And that brings people together. Just like in many TV programs and reality shows, feelings are magnified on the Camino de Santiago.
If you seek to overcome personal challenges, the Camino is a space for healing and support. Experience solidarity and understanding among pilgrims.
The vast majority of those who do the Camino de Santiago, repeat
We warn you that the Camino de Santiago has a great flaw, and that is that you will want to repeat because there are always new places to explore. Maybe the next year or in five years, because each route of the Camino is different. They all have their peculiarities that make them unique. It depends on whether you prefer beach or mountain landscapes, if Galician cuisine is important to you, or if you want to explore churches with incredible stories…
What we strongly recommend is to plan your trip in advance so that everything goes as expected or even better. Depending on the time of year, you may run out of accommodation. At Camino Compostela, we help you select the route that best suits your needs, without any commitment, so that your experience is unforgettable. What do you think of our 7 reasons to do the last 100 km of the Camino de Santiago in 2024?
Don’t think about it anymore and embark on this amazing adventure!