If you’re seeking a memorable trek along Spain’s famous Camino de Santiago, the routes offered by Orbis Ways are fantastic options for both seasoned hikers and newcomers.
Known for its rich cultural history and stunning landscapes, the Camino de Santiago trail is a spiritual and physical journey that many find life changing
With this in mind, let’s take a deep dive into two excellent Orbis Ways tours: the 7-day and the 11-day Camino de Santiago from Sarria. Each offers unique highlights, so depending on your time and goals, one of these might just be your perfect adventure.
7-Day Camino de Santiago from Sarria
The 7-day Camino from Sarria tour is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a condensed but enriching experience. This trek spans the final 100 kilometers (approximately 62 miles) of the Camino Frances, the most popular section of the Camino de Santiago. Beginning in the historic town of Sarria, the journey provides a fantastic balance of cultural exploration and manageable hiking distances, making it accessible to a range of fitness levels.
On this tour, hikers enjoy a series of daily walks through charming Galician villages, with each day covering around 10-14 miles (16-22 km). You’ll pass through lush landscapes, scenic rural countryside, and eucalyptus forests, all while collecting stamps in your pilgrim’s passport at key spots along the way. This passport, or “credencial,” is essential for those aiming to receive the “Compostela” certificate upon arrival in Santiago de Compostela, which recognizes their completion of the Camino.
For more details, visit Orbis Ways 7-Day Camino from Sarria.
11-Day Camino de Santiago from Sarria
For those who have a bit more time and seek a deeper dive into the Camino, Orbis Ways offers an 11-day Camino from Sarria tour. This route extends the 7-day experience by adding rest days and shorter walking distances, allowing more time to appreciate the region’s landscapes, history, and local culture. The 11-day itinerary covers the same 100 kilometers starting in Sarria, but it’s designed for a slower pace, making it ideal for hikers who want a more relaxed, meditative journey.
On this tour, you’ll enjoy two rest days strategically placed to give your body a break and to provide ample time to explore the highlights of Galician towns such as Portomarín and Palas de Rei. Each day’s walking distance averages around 6-10 miles (10-16 km), which leaves plenty of time to visit local churches, ancient monasteries, and traditional artisan shops along the route. Highlights include the Romanesque church of San Nicolás in Portomarín and the bustling medieval market in Melide, where you can sample some of Spain’s best cheeses and pastries.
Accommodations are similar to the 7-day tour, featuring charming guesthouses and small hotels.
However, the additional days allow for a slower, richer engagement with each village, providing a chance to connect with locals, learn about the history of each stop, and appreciate the nuances of daily life in rural Galicia.
Whether you choose the 7-day or 11-day journey, walking the Camino with Orbis Ways is a chance to witness the beauty of northern Spain, connect with fellow pilgrims, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Each step along the Camino is steeped in centuries of history, making it a memorable and meaningful adventure tailored to the modern traveler.
