Camino Francés - part 4

Sarria is the starting point of the last 100 km, although to be precise, it is 114 km. As incredible as it may seem, the stone marking the 100 km has been moved several times, and is currently in the Pena area after Ferreiros. There is also a huge 100 stamp in the courtyard of a house there.

At the end of the section, after beautiful forests, we arrive in Portomarin, a special small town where 2,500 accommodation units are available and only 450 inhabitants live here. This shows the touristical importance of the last sections. If you have not been here yet, it is worth going into the town and visiting the San Nicolas church, then walking out of the town across the huge bridge.

From here, the road takes you through smaller towns and eucalyptus forests. The Camino Primitivo route also joins in Melide. Here, in addition to local specialty cheeses, you can also taste the famous octopus dishes, and on a rainy day, it is worth trying the Galician soup or the fried padrón peppers.

Finally, on the last section, we walk near the Santiago airport, and on the way to the city we pass through the Monte do Gozo park, from where we can already see the towers of the cathedral. Let's enjoy the last kilometers and soak up the feeling of the camino. Arriving in the city, we are greeted by an ornate Santiago sign, and then through the crowded streets, accompanied by many pilgrims, we arrive in the old town. Finally, all roads lead to the huge cathedral. It is worth stopping here, sitting down, resting, and realizing that we have finally done it, walked the nearly 800 kilometer journey, which is almost unbelievable. Meanwhile, you are also sad, because you have come to the end of a fantastic adventure, and you don't know what to do with yourself when the daily routine of getting up-eating-walking-arriving is over.

Santiago has many attractions, so if you have time, it is worth spending a few days here. Be sure to visit the cathedral, where the lucky ones can see the Botafumeiro in operation, the museum belonging to the cathedral, the beautiful Parque Alameda, and of course the pilgrim office, where you can get the compostela, which certifies the distance you have traveled and the completion of the journey. If you would like another compostela, visit the Igrexia de San Francisco church near the pilgrim office, where you can get it in the small office on the left back of the church.

Hope these facts get you in the mood for your next adventure, and you found some useful information.  If you still need more details or build up confidence and courage for the planning and start of your journey, don't hesitate to contact me or email me, I'm happy to help.

You can also find me on social media with more useful advice and travel pictures at @wander.with.dora name. Contact me for a free call on wanderwithdora@gmail.com 

Safe travels everyone.