Camino de Santiago walking holidays may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but those who enjoy them get a lot of out of it in terms of spiritual and personal growth. After all, this ancient network of pilgrimage routes attracts thousands of people from all over the world. So, if you are interested in giving it a go, here are the oldest and most popular routes of the Way of St. James.
1. Camino Frances
The Camino Frances, known as the French Way, is by far the most travelled Camino route. This 780-kilometre trail begins in Saint-Jean-Pied-De-Port, near the French border, and, of course, leads to Santiago de Compostela. However, the French Way has numerous shorter route alternatives, including starting from León or from Sarria. The high popularity of Camino Frances means that it is also highly accessible to all types of travellers, offering a wealth of accommodation and services options as well as different levels of difficulty.
2. Camino del Norte
The Camino del Norte, or the Northern Way, runs along the northern coast of Spain, starting in Irún, also near the French border, and covering approximately 825 kilometres. This route is praised for its breathtaking coastal views and interchanging landscapes. It is a slightly quieter alternative to the much busier Camino Frances, but it is a very popular choice nonetheless. The main cities that can also act as alternative starting points include San Sebastián, Bilbao, and Santander.
3. Camino Primitivo
The Camino Primitivo, which translates to “the Original Way”, is crowned as the oldest of the Camino de Santiago routes, making it a popular one. The route is believed to have been walked by the first pilgrim known, King Alfonso II of Asturias. Although fairly short (around 320 kilometres long), the Camino Primitivo is also one of the most challenging routes physically. It has a mountainous terrain with demanding inclines at times, so it tends to attract more experienced hikers as opposed to casual walkers.
4. Camino Portugues
The Camino Portugues, or the Portuguese Way, is another favourite route among the pilgrim community. It begins in Lisbon and stretches about 610 kilometres before reaching Santiago de Compostela. This path takes you through both Portugal and Spain, introducing you to different cultures, beautiful coastal landscapes, inland historic towns, and significant attractions, making it a particularly versatile journey. For those wo would prefer to stay on the coast, there is also a Camino Portugues coastal route alternative available.
5. Camino Ingles
The Camino Ingles, or the English Way, starts in the northern ports of Ferrol or A Coruña, known as the areas where pilgrims from England used to arrive by sea and continue their explorations. The route covers up to 120 kilometres, depending on your starting point, and offers great historical context and scenic beauty, making it the ideal option for those seeking an authentic Camino de Santiago walking holiday, but with limited time.
6. Via de la Plata
The Via de la Plata, or the Silver Way, is one of the longest routes, covering over 1,000 kilometres. Starting in Seville, this trail is brimming with ancient Roman history. You get to explore diverse landscapes of multiple different areas, such as Andalusia, Extremadura, and Castilla y León. Although less popular than some of the others, the Via de la Plata provides a unique blend of history and natural beauty.
Final thoughts
Each Camino de Santiago route has something different to offer, but all of them will guarantee unforgettable experiences. Your choice will depend on your personal preferences and fitness levels.