A journey through history, art and countryside in Umbria, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Italy.
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Call us on 01707 817260
Or, email us at customersupport@rambleworldwide.co.uk
Follow the path of countless pilgrims on a journey along Europe's oldest and most renowned pilgrimage route to reach the captivating destination of Santiago de Compostela. Traverse picturesque landscapes and explore historic towns as you set out from Sarria, making your way to Santiago de Compostela, covering the final 100 kilometres of this iconic route.
Spain
Pilgrimage Routes
Long Distance Paths
Sep
Average group size: 10-12
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
What does this mean?
The Camino de Santiago crosses northern Spain to Santiago in the north west province of Galicia. Being a Grade 6 moderate holiday there are full day walks with moderate amounts of ascent and descent. Our longest day is on Day 4 at 30km (18 miles) taking us from Palas de Rei to Aruza but by then our legs should be nicely warmed up. The paths are mostly good, but there may be some steeper and rougher ground. Some days will be less demanding but equally rewarding. Don't be put off by the ascents and descents as these are spread across the whole day. Starting at Sarria allows us to cover the 100km we need to be considered proper pilgrims.
Thoughtfully designed, meticulously planned, carefully graded, and expertly guided walking tours and hiking holidays along well-loved and off-the-beaten-track footpaths.
Overview
The Camino de Santiago, also known as The Way of St. James, stands as one of Europe's most ancient and renowned pilgrimage routes, attracting tens of thousands of pilgrims from around the globe each year. This extraordinary journey takes travellers through a rich tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Among the numerous Camino routes, the French Way reigns supreme as the most celebrated and has even been prominently featured in documentaries, films, and literary works. Spanning from the French town of Saint Jean Pied de Port, the route culminates in the enchanting city of Santiago de Compostela, as do all Camino routes. To obtain the coveted final stamp on your Pilgrimage Passport, you need only walk the last 100 kilometres, and this transformative journey begins in the charming town of Sarria, the starting point of our tour.
Setting forth from Sarria, the Camino de Santiago unfolds through a series of notable market towns, including Portomarin, Aruza, and Melide, gradually leading you into the captivating Galicia region of Spain. This region is renowned for its exquisite wines and delectable seafood, offering pilgrims a true taste of Spanish culture and cuisine.
As the culmination of our journey, we reach the awe-inspiring city of Santiago de Compostela, where pilgrims partake in the solemnity of the pilgrims' mass, marking the end of a transformative adventure filled with history, spirituality, and personal discovery.
Please note - Due to our luggage being transferred regularly on this tour only one piece of luggage per person is allowed
Click the button below for a detailed Holiday Information Sheet containing all the particulars about this trip.
NOTE: Itineraries and Holiday Information Sheets can vary by a specific date chosen
14400
The coast, villages and countryside of the Eastern Algarve and the treasures of the most westerly corner of Europe.
Away from the coastline, the quiet villages of Competa and Capileira take us to a hidden world of deepest Andalucia. The network of paths, passing olive groves and orchards, cross the region and offer panoramic views as we go.
Itinerary & Travel
Whilst every effort will be made to adhere to the outlined itinerary and advertised programme, local conditions can change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This may mean that routes and timings need to be amended or the order of days may change, sometimes at short notice.
Meals
Accommodation
You depart from the UK and travel to Santiago de Compostela airport. From there your coach will meet you to take you to your first hotel of the tour in Sarria (approx. 1 hour 45 minutes). Once settled into the hotel, dinner is taken in a local restaurant.
Transfer Time = 1.5 hours
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
After breakfast in the hotel you set off on the start of your journey. Walking from Sarria through the small villages of Abadelo, Rente, Brea and Ferreiros before you stop off for lunch. After lunch you continue your journey reaching your final destination of the day Portomarin, which is a town which was moved to the top of a hill that dominates the artificial lake.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Your coach will take you where you left off yesterday, Portomarin. Today you walk through the towns of Gonzar, Castromaior, Hospital de la Cruz, Ventas de Naron before your lunch break. After lunch you continue on to Ligonde, Airexe, Avenostre and your final destination Palas de Rei, a historical city which was described in the Codex Calixtinus, the description of the Camino written by a French Priest in the 12th century. Your bus will meet you here to take you onto your next hotel in Melide.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
From your hotel in Melide you are transported back to Palas de Rei, today you walk through Canova, Leboreiro, Furelos and Melide where you stop off for lunch and have some free time where you may opt to visit the ethnologic museum (time depending). You then set off again to Boente, Castaneda, Ribadis da Baixo and finally Arzua. Arzua is a modern city and is where the French path crosses with the Northern Path which beings in the Basque country.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
Starting in Arzua you walk to Salceda before stopping off for lunch. You then proceed to the villages of Santa Irene, Rue and finally Pedrouzo, which is one of the most visited cities for pilgrims as it is the last station before reaching Santiago de Compostela.
Meals
Accommodation
Time
Distance
Ascent/Descent
From Pedrouzo you walk to Lavacolla, where the pilgrims washed themselves before reaching Santiago de Compostela. You then pass through San Marcos and Monte de Gozo where you will have your first view of Santiago from the pilgrim path. You stop off for lunch before setting off again on your last walk to Santiago de Compostela city square.
Meals
Accommodation
Santiago de Compostela is the capital of Galicia, a world heritage city and goal for thousands of pilgrims coming from all over the world. Here you will have time to visit the medieval city and participate in the Pilgrim's mass at 12:00 which is known to be very impressive. You have free time in the afternoon to explore the city and have some well deserved rest from your long journey.
Meals
Today you depart the hotel after breakfast and head back to the airport for your flight back to the UK.
From (GBP)£1,939
Departure dates for your selected tour
14th Sep 2024 - 21st Sep 2024 (7 Nights)
Accommodation
Below is the accommodation featured on this holiday across all departure dates. Please refer to the Itinerary for more detail about each night's accommodation for each departure date.
Alfonso IX is located in the town of Sarria. The starting point for many to walk the last 100km of The French Way. The four star hotel is surrounded by gardens and close to the river. Rooms come equipped with air conditioning, TV, safe, desk, en suite facilities, wi-fi and hair dryer. The hotel also has its own outdoor swimming pool.
The newly renovated LuxMelide Hotel is located in the city centre of Melide. All rooms are ensuite and are equipped with air conditioning, TV, kettle, hairdryer and a desk.
Gran Hotel Santiago is located just 20 minutes from the airport and a short walk away from the cathedral. The hotel rooms all equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuite, hairdryer, Tv, Air conditioning , mini bar and safe.
Trip Information
The Camino de Santiago crosses northern Spain to Santiago in the north west province of Galicia. Being a Grade 6 moderate holiday there are full day walks with moderate amounts of ascent and descent. Our longest day is on Day 4 at 30km (18 miles) taking us from Palas de Rei to Aruza but by then our legs should be nicely warmed up. The paths are mostly good, but there may be some steeper and rougher ground. Some days will be less demanding but equally rewarding. Don't be put off by the ascents and descents as these are spread across the whole day. Starting at Sarria allows us to cover the 100km we need to be considered proper pilgrims.
Local Transport Costs
In the holiday cost, we've included all local transport expenses related to the advertised activity programme for your convenience. If there are additional visits or excursions to enrich your experience, you can choose to participate and cover the costs locally. Depending on the itinerary, local transport may involve a mix of private hire coaches, taxis, local buses, and ferries.
Optional Excursions
At your destination, you may have the option to book various local excursions and activities through a local operator. It's important to note that we are not involved in these activities or excursions, and we do not operate, supervise, or control them in any way. Your contract will be directly with the local activity supplier, and we bear no responsibility for their actions or omissions.
Holiday Budgeting
As you plan your holiday budget, it's essential to account for expenses such as drinks, meals not covered in the holiday price, entrance fees not included, optional local excursions, and any souvenirs or additional services like laundry. For a rough estimate, budgeting around £10-£20 per person per day for lunches and drinks is a helpful guideline.
Currency in Spain
The currency in Spain is the euro. You may wish to take some euro cash with you until you reach an ATM. Credit cards may not be accepted in smaller towns and rural areas.
Tipping
In your holiday price, we've included tipping for our local suppliers, covering hotel and restaurant staff, local guides, and drivers. Should you wish to make an extra contribution for a specific service, this should be given directly to the recipient at your discretion.
Tour Leaders
Your tour leader plays a crucial role in enhancing your holiday experience, and they share your passion for exploring the world on foot. In addition to being resourceful and organised they are also well-travelled and deeply enthusiastic about showing you new destinations. Your tour leader takes care of all the local administration, ensuring you can fully enjoy your holiday without worrying about the logistics. While leading group holidays, they always keep in mind that each group is composed of individuals. Each tour leader brings their unique style, talents, and professional background to the table. Rest assured, they are all trained, qualified, experienced, and dedicated to making your holiday as enjoyable, interesting, and inspiring as possible. Remember, your leader, while on holiday, is your first port of call for any issues, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience for you.
Leader's Evening Briefing
Each evening, your tour leader will meet with you to review the programme for the next day. This is your chance to discuss details and ensure that the planned activities align with your walking ability. If you have any concerns about clothing or equipment, feel free to bring them up during this discussion. If, for any reason, you prefer not to participate in the organised group programme, please inform your leader. Your preferences are important, and your leader is there to make sure your experience aligns with your expectations.
Booking Your Own Travel Arrangements
If you prefer to arrange your own flights from a non-UK or regional airport or travel to your holiday destination by rail or car, you may qualify for 'land only' reductions, and we can provide details upon request. Feel free to reach out to us for more information.
Before finalizing any independent travel arrangements, especially if you're doing so 12 weeks or more before your intended travel date, please check with us first to ensure your holiday has been cleared to operate. If you plan to join your holiday locally, kindly inform us at least 14 weeks in advance.
If you're joining and leaving your holiday overseas, we assume, unless you specify otherwise, that you will join and leave the holiday at your hotel.
Although airport/station transfers are not included for those making independent travel arrangements, you may have the option to join the group at the overseas airport/station, depending on your arrival time. If interested, contact us at least 5 weeks before departure for more details.
Please be aware that you must arrive within 30 minutes of the group flight/train arrival to be eligible for the group transfer. Additionally, we'll need your flight number, arrival time, and departure point or independent travel arrangements to ensure the group leader can meet up with you. If you have a mobile, please ensure we have the number, and it is turned on while you are traveling for effective communication.
Hotel Transfers
When you book a flight or rail inclusive holiday, transfers between the airport/station and hotel and back are included. On some holidays, where we offer various flight options, the transfer vehicle may wait for all flights to land before transferring to the hotel.
Luggage Allowance & Travel Documents
If you're booking a flight or rail inclusive holiday, rest assured that details of your travel arrangements and baggage allowance will be clearly outlined in your 'Final Travel Documents'. These will be sent to you approximately 10 days before your departure, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a smooth and well-prepared journey.
Personal Details Check
To ensure the accurate administration of your holiday arrangements, kindly verify that the personal details we have for you are current and correct. Confirm that you've given us all the necessary information for securing your travel and accommodation. Please review your passport details, date of birth, and any other pertinent information crucial for the management of your holiday.
Additionally, please make us aware of any dietary allergies or intolerances you may have. Your well-being is important to us, and this information will help us make appropriate arrangements for your meals during the trip.
You can access and update the provided information or add missing details through the "Manage My Booking" feature on our website at www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Alternatively, reach out to our Sales and Reservations team at +44 (0)1707 331133. Upon receiving your booking confirmation, promptly check the details. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable holiday experience.
European Passport Advice
If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must meet the Schengen area rules.
Your passport must meet 2 requirements. It must be:
For some Schengen countries your passport may need to be less than 10 years old during your whole visit, and the 3 months at the end of your visit may need to be within 10 years of your passport’s issue date.
Check both the issue date and the expiry date in your passport. If you renewed your passport early, extra months may have been added to its expiry date. This could affect the requirement for your passport to be less than 10 years old.
Non British Passport holders should consult the host country’s embassy for applicable passport and visa entry requirements.
Breakfasts are taken at the hotels. Dinners are taken in local restaurants. Lunches are not included in the holiday cost and will be at your own expense. They can be purchased at a local supermarket or at a local café/restaurant on the walking route.
Footwear
Lightweight waterproof walking boots with a good moulded sole (such as Vibram or similar) and a deep tread and which provide ankle support are strongly recommended and may be essential for some walks.
General Kit List
Outdoor activities are always safer and more enjoyable if you are prepared.
If you have not travelled with us before the following list might be of use:
This list is not exhaustive and every walker is different and may have their own preference.
Travel Documents Checklist
Documents and Information to take with you:
Electricity in Spain
Electricity is supplied at 220 Volts. If you wish to use electrical equipment you will need a European two pin adaptor with round pins. More information can be found at https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/
Water To Go
Opting for filtered water from a reusable bottle with its built-in water filter, like the Water-to-go bottle available at www.watertogo.eu, is a sustainable alternative to single-use sealed water bottles. Simply refill it from any water source and contribute to saving the environment from disposable plastic bottles.
Exciting news: Water-to-go has introduced two new bottles to their collection. The Active bottle is designed to fit bike water bottle holders, and the Sugarcane bottle is an even more planet-friendly option. Crafted from fibrous cane, a by-product of liquid extraction, it undergoes a process to create plant-based plastic. Explore the details on the Water-to-Go website for this innovative new range.
As a token of appreciation for your commitment to the environment, we've secured an exclusive 15% discount with Water-to-Go for you. Visit www.watertogo.eu and use the code RWH17 during your order.
Note: If you're booked on a long-haul holiday you'll receive a complimentary Water to Go bottle, sent to your home address 2 or 3 weeks before your holiday. Thank you for being a part of our sustainable journey!
The Map Shop
If you cannot find the maps or books locally we recommend:
The Map Shop
5 High Street
Upton upon Severn, Worcs
WR8 0HJ
England
Tel: 01684 593 146
Website: www.themapshop.co.uk
E-mail: themapshop@btinternet.com
If you key many of the local places mentioned in this holiday fact sheet into YouTube, you will find a vast array of spectacular footage of the area.
Weather
Visit the following websites for an idea of the climate in your destination:
Health requirements in destination can change, and it's crucial for you to take responsibility in staying informed. Ensure that you consult a professionally qualified source and comply with any health requirements at least 6 to 8 weeks before your departure. Your GP can provide advice on vaccinations. Stay proactive about your health preparations to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience.
Health Advice for Spain
No compulsory immunisations are required for visits to Spain. You should be up to date with the usual immunisations recommended in the UK. Tetanus immunisation is recommended.
Further Travel Advice
For further advice please visit:
You might wish to take a small bottle of antibacterial hand gel with you for times when you're unable to wash your hands.
It’s a condition of booking that you obtain adequate travel insurance, from a reputable provider, to undertake the holiday, including UK trips chiefly due to the cancellation element of cover.
The policy must cover the period from the date of booking to the last day of your trip and should include, as a minimum, cover for: medical expenses (including the consequences of a Covid positive test result), mountain rescue including helicopter rescue, death, repatriation, cancellation and curtailment and shall not have exclusion clauses limiting cover for the activities you will partake in on your trip, including altitudes reached in the holiday arrangement. It is your responsibility to check that your policy is adequate for the nature and destination of the holiday booked.
Once you have obtained your travel insurance, please provide us with the name of your travel insurer, the policy number and the insurer’s 24 hour emergency assistance number.
In the event that you fail to obtain suitable Travel Insurance we shall not be liable for any costs incurred or claims made against us due to your failure to comply with this term.
If travelling outside the UK you must carry proof of insurance with you and produce it if reasonably requested to do so by RWH Travel staff, tour leaders or suppliers. No refunds will be made should you be excluded from the walking programme through being uninsured or you being unable to demonstrate that you are insured.
Our house broker MPI should be considered for whom we are an affiliate and contact information is on our website and will be referred to in your booking confirmation.
If you are travelling to an EU country or Switzerland please also ensure that you have either an existing valid EU EHIC card (European Health Insurance Card) or a valid UK GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card). You can apply for a UK GHIC free of charge on the NHS website at https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/cra/start.
EHIC & GHIC Cards
Starting January 1st, 2021, you, as a UK traveller, can continue using your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) throughout its valid five-year period, granting you access to medical assistance during your holiday until its expiry date. Be aware, though, that this coverage will no longer extend to Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland. In case you don't have a valid EHIC, you can apply for a new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which will replace the EHIC as it gets phased out.
It's essential to emphasize that the EHIC/GHIC, while valuable, should not be regarded as a substitute for comprehensive medical or travel insurance. For your peace of mind and comprehensive coverage, considering additional insurance is highly recommended.
For more information, please visit www.nhs.uk/ehic
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is your go-to for the latest info on security, local laws, and the nitty-gritty of passports and visas at www.gov.uk/travelaware. Make sure to take a quick peek at the current advice for your upcoming destination—it'll only take a few minutes.
When you're out and about, stay aware of your surroundings. Take smart precautions with your credit cards and passport, and maybe tone down the flashy accessories. Less is more, especially when it comes to carrying cash—just enough for the day will do. Consider using a money belt for that extra layer of security. Stay alert, stay safe, and make the most of your travels!
Responsible Travel
We are dedicated to promoting responsible travel practices that prioritise the well-being of both the environment and local communities. We believe in the transformative power of travel and aim to minimize our ecological footprint by selecting eco-friendly accommodations, encouraging waste reduction, and supporting sustainable transportation options where possible. Our walking tours are designed to immerse participants in the local culture, fostering meaningful connections with the communities we visit. We strive to leave a positive impact by engaging in responsible tourism activities, respecting local customs, and contributing to the preservation of natural landscapes. Through our commitment to responsible travel, we aim to create enriching experiences for our guests while actively contributing to the conservation of the destinations we explore.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust
Unlike many other tour operators, we take pride in our unique approach. Ramble Worldwide channels its surplus profits back into various outdoor, walking-related, or environmental conservation projects in the UK through our own trust. When you choose us, you contribute to this impactful initiative.
The Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible for more people from all communities. We grant funds to many organisations and have recently partnered with Mind Over Mountains, Adaptive Grand Slam and other groups to create an enduring impact on people’s lives and to support them to enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the Trust makes many small grants to local organisations such as Ramblers Groups, Walkers are Welcome, My kind of Books and recently provided a small grant, via his scouting group, to enable a young man whose family had fallen on hard times to complete his DofE Gold award.
Patron of the Trust is the renowned explorer, Mark Wood. Over 20 years Mark has undertaken expeditions to some of the most remote parts of our planet. Our shared values make for an exciting partnership, and we believe that by standing shoulder to shoulder we can encourage people from all communities to enjoy being active outdoors in whatever way suits them best.
For more comprehensive details, please visit the 'About' section on our website and click on the Charitable Trust link. Your choice to travel with us goes beyond a memorable vacation; it contributes to meaningful projects that have a positive impact on our community and environment.
Heart and Sole
We appreciate that we are in a fortunate position to be able to use our profits to help make a difference to people's lives. Heart & Sole is a venture managed by our office staff, whose aim is to reach the heart of the communities in the countries we visit. Through Heart & Sole, we hope to make more of a long term, direct impact to these communities, particularly in less developed countries where even a small amount goes a long way. See our website for more information and details of some of the projects we support.
Mobile Phones
Kindly share a mobile phone contact number with us. We'll utilize this solely for crucial communication pertaining to your holiday arrangements.
Ensure your mobile phone remains switched on and easily accessible when en route to the airport or during transit delays. This way, we can promptly reach you with any last-minute updates concerning your travel plans.
In consideration of others, we request that you switch off your mobile phone during walks or make an effort to limit its usage. Additionally, during group meals, please minimize the use of mobile devices. Your cooperation ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone on the journey.
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Visas and Passports
January
Avg. Rain: 59mm
February
Avg. Rain: 51mm
March
Avg. Rain: 47mm
April
Avg. Rain: 49mm
May
Avg. Rain: 42mm
June
Avg. Rain: 27mm
July
Avg. Rain: 14mm
August
Avg. Rain: 18mm
September
Avg. Rain: 37mm
October
Avg. Rain: 61mm
November
Avg. Rain: 69mm
December
Avg. Rain: 69mm
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