Day 1 -Ferrol to Pontedeume
Starting in the historic port of Ferrol in Northen Spain the Camino Ingles arrives in Pontedueme 20k later.
We began our journey on the Camino Inglés in Ferrol, setting out from the historic harbour area with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. The city’s naval heritage was immediately clear as we walked through the elegant streets of Barrio de la Magdalena, with its symmetrical layout, galleries, and traditional cafés. Leaving the city behind, the route gradually became quieter, following the edge of the estuary with peaceful views across the water and small boats drifting in the tide.
As the day continued, the scenery changed from urban streets to wooded paths and rural lanes shaded by eucalyptus and oak trees. The gentle rhythm of walking allowed us to notice details we would otherwise have missed: the sound of church bells in the distance, moss-covered stone walls, and the scent of damp earth after light rain. Although some stretches were demanding, the changing landscape made the miles pass quickly.
Approaching Pontedeume was especially memorable. Crossing the long medieval bridge over the River Eume felt like a true milestone on the pilgrimage. The town itself, with its narrow streets and relaxed atmosphere, was a rewarding place to rest after the first stage of the Camino.
The walk climbs slowly out of Fene on country lanes.
The route criss crosses the AP-9 motorway.
Finally reaching Pontedeume.
Day 2 – Pontedeume to Betanzos
Leaving Pontedeume on the Camino Inglés was one of the most physically demanding parts of the journey so far. Almost immediately after crossing the town, we faced the steep climb that pilgrims often speak about. The ascent rose sharply through twisting roads and although it tested our legs early in the day, the views back across the estuary and the rooftops of Pontedeume made the effort worthwhile. The cool morning air and birdsong among the eucalyptus trees created a peaceful atmosphere despite the challenge of the climb.
As the route continued, the landscape became deeply rural, with quiet country roads, stone cottages, and small hamlets scattered across the Galician countryside. One of the highlights along the way was walking through dense greenery and shaded paths offered welcome relief from the warmer parts of the afternoon.
Further along, we passed old churches, traditional granaries raised on stone stilts, and farms where locals greeted pilgrims with a friendly “Buen Camino.” The route felt quieter than many of the better-known Camino paths, giving the day a reflective and personal quality.
Arriving in Betanzos felt like stepping back in time. Entering through the historic Porta da Ponte Vella, the medieval gateway into the old town, was a memorable moment and a fitting end to the stage. After exploring the narrow streets and historic squares, we finished the day with one of Betanzos’ most famous dishes: a rich, slightly runny Tortilla Española, widely regarded as among the best in Spain. After the long walk, it tasted exceptional.
Day 3 Betanzos to Hospital Bruma
We set out from the historic town of Betanzos on one of the most rewarding stages of the Camino Inglés, walking through peaceful Galician countryside towards Hospital de Bruma. The day began wandering through Betanzos’ medieval streets, passing the beautiful Igrexa de Santa María do Azougue and the lively main square before crossing the old stone bridge out of town.
The route quickly became rural, with shaded woodland tracks, quiet lanes, and rolling green hills replacing the bustle of the town. One of the highlights early in the walk was the climb towards the small village of Presedo, where traditional Galician houses and farmsteads offered a glimpse into local life. Along the way we passed ancient stone crosses, small chapels, and eucalyptus forests filled with birdsong.
As the miles passed we shared stories, encouraged each other on the steeper inclines, and stopped regularly to admire the sweeping countryside views. A memorable stop was the tiny hamlet of Leiro, a peaceful resting point surrounded by farmland and woodland.
Leaving the peaceful hamlet of Hospital de Bruma, we continued along the Camino Inglés towards Sigüeiro through some of the most tranquil countryside in Galicia. The morning began with steady rain falling across the hills and woodland paths, so out came the ponchos as we embraced the true Camino experience together. Despite the wet start, spirits remained high, with plenty of laughter as we walked through the misty Galician landscape.
Arriving at Hospital de Bruma felt like reaching a hidden refuge for pilgrims. This historic stopping place, once home to a medieval pilgrims’ hospital, offered a warm and satisfying end to a challenging but unforgettable day on the Camino Inglés.
Day 4 Hospital Bruma to Siguerio
One of the first places we passed was the small village of As Travesas, where traditional stone houses and small farms reflected the rural charm of the region. Further along the route, we stopped in A Calle, a popular resting point for pilgrims, giving us the chance to warm up with coffee before continuing.
The rain gradually eased as we followed shaded forest tracks, crossed small streams, and passed ancient stone bridges and tiny countryside chapels. The peaceful route allowed our group to appreciate the beauty of Galicia even in the changing weather.
As we approached Sigüeiro, more pilgrims appeared on the trail ahead of the final stage to Santiago de Compostela. Arriving together felt like another memorable milestone on our Camino journey.
Day 5 Last Day – Siguerio to Santiago
Our final day walking the Camino Inglés from Sigüeiro to Santiago de Compostela was an unforgettable mixture of excitement, reflection, and determination. We woke to grey skies and persistent rain, quickly pulling on our ponchos once again as we set out along the wet Galician roads. Although the weather was challenging, it somehow made the final stage feel even more authentic and memorable.
The route led us through quiet woodland trails, small villages, and peaceful country lanes. Passing through Oroso, we enjoyed glimpses of rural Galicia before gradually approaching the outskirts of Santiago. Along the way we crossed streams, ancient stone walls, and narrow paths lined with eucalyptus trees dripping with rainwater
One of the highlights of the day was reaching Monte do Gozo, traditionally known as the “Mount of Joy,” where pilgrims catch their first distant view of the towers of Santiago Cathedral. Despite the rain and mist, the moment still felt emotional for the whole group.
As we entered the historic streets of Santiago, the atmosphere became electric with pilgrims from around the world celebrating the end of their journeys. Finally stepping into Praza do Obradoiro beside the magnificent Santiago de Compostela Cathedral was a proud and unforgettable moment for us all.
Useful Camino Notes
- We travelled to Porto and got the Flix bus to La Coruna , then the local bus to Ferrol
- Places we stayed
- Parador Ferrol
- Pontedeume Hotel Albtross
- Betanzos Portico Hostal
- Hospital Bruma San Lorenzo Hostal
- Siguerio Siaba Pensión Boutique
- Santiago Hotel Praza Quintana
- Best Betanzos Tortilla Casa Carmen
- Ponchos – essential order off Amazon
- Travel was in June 2025
If you need any advice please drop me a comment in here or on instagram @hardy_travel
Buen Camino
Hardy Travel 