Camino 2023 - walk from Arzúa to Santiago de Compostela
Sunday 30-04-2023 - Arzúa to O Pedrouzo
Today a 19-kilometre walk from Arzúa to O Pedrouzo. A beautiful walk and gorgeous weather!!! Enjoying everything!!!! After seven hours of walking we arrived in O Pedrouzo. Along the way, Lara took care of her foot and changed her hiking boots for sandals. Lara is quite bothered by her blister but she doesn't give a hoot. What a go-getter she is!!!
Arzúa
Arzúa is a charming town located in the province of A Coruña, within the autonomous community of Galicia, Spain. It serves as a significant waypoint on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, specifically on the French Way (Camino Francés), and is situated approximately 36 kilometres from Santiago de Compostela.
Arzúa boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous chapels and churches that reflect the town's historical ties to Roman and Jacobean influences. Many of these religious sites preserve elements of Romanesque architecture, and their altarpieces date back to at least the 18th century.
The town is renowned for its traditional cheese, Arzúa-Ulloa, a soft and smooth cheese made from whole cow's milk. This delicacy holds a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, underscoring its cultural and culinary importance.
Monday 01-05-2023 – O Pedrouzo - San Paio - Santiago de Compostela
The last stage from Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostella. A journey of 20 kilometres. We had a lovely accommodation at Pensión LO. After a hearty breakfast, we set off at 8.30 am. In the beginning there is a short climb but otherwise a fairly flat route. There are some particularly beautiful stretches in between but unfortunately also many kilometres on the paved road. By now it has become very busy with all the pelgrims.
O Pedrouzo
O Pedrouzo, located in the parish of Arca and serving as the capital of the municipality of O Pino, is a quaint village in Galicia, Spain. It has developed significantly around the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, making it a notable stop for pilgrims en route to Santiago de Compostela.
San Paio (O Pino)
San Paio is also a village in the municipality of O Pino, A Coruña. It serves as a notable stop along the French Way of the Camino de Santiago, providing rest and amenities for pilgrims on their journey to Santiago de Compostela.
Santiago de Compostella
Around 2pm we arrive in Santiago de Compostella. Truly a great city with a beautiful cathedral. After walking around for some time and getting our certificate. How official!!! We are ready for a shower. Our hotel is a stone's throw from the cathedral in the heart of Santiago de Compostella. We check in but unfortunately our room is not ready. So no fresh shower but back out again in this great city.
Monday 01-05-2023 - Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostella is truly an amazing city!!! You could wander around this city for days!!!! Unfortunately, our time is limited. After a nice walk around, we go to the cathedral again, visit the museum and climb the cathedral tower. We have dinner in the main square and when we walk around the city in the evening, a live band plays!!! Very cool all round. Late at night we return. Great food, a beer and live music! What more could a person want! We spend the night in Pensión A Casa Do Peregrino.
Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela, located in the province of A Coruña in northwestern Spain, is the capital of the autonomous community of Galicia. Renowned as the culmination point of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, the city has been a significant spiritual destination since the 9th century. Its historic center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
The city's origins trace back to the discovery of the tomb of Saint James the Great, one of Jesus Christ's apostles, in the early 9th century. This discovery transformed Santiago de Compostela into a major pilgrimage site, attracting visitors from all over the world who journey along the Camino de Santiago.
Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela: This iconic cathedral, believed to house the remains of Saint James, showcases a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles. It stands as a testament to the city's rich religious heritage.
Old Town (Casco Antiguo): Characterized by its narrow winding streets, historic buildings, and charming plazas, the Old Town offers a glimpse into the city's medieval past.
University of Santiago de Compostela: Established in 1495, this prestigious institution is one of the oldest universities in Spain and has played a pivotal role in the city's cultural and educational development
