The Camino de Santiago from Ourense is a fascinating route through the enviable natural surroundings it travels, full of contrasts and bucolic landscapes. With mild temperatures in spring and autumn, it is a solitary Camino, far from the crowds and the incessant clatter of pilgrims on other Jacobean routes. It could be said that this Camino still preserves the Jacobean essence that many experienced pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago are seeking.
What Camino de Santiago routes pass through Ourense?
Ourense is an ideal starting point for the Camino de Santiago. With 110 km to Santiago, and as it is an official route, it allows you to get the Compostela in less than a week. Several historic routes converge here, leading pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela.
The Camino from Ourense offers beautiful natural landscapes
Vía de la Plata
The Vía de la Plata is one of the oldest routes of the Camino de Santiago. In a way, it is the main axis connecting the south of the peninsula with the northwest: Andalusia, Extremadura, Castilla y León, and Galicia. It starts in Seville and passes through Ourense before reaching Santiago de Compostela, with a total length of about 1000 km. However, it shares the final stretch to Santiago, either with the Camino Francés or with the Camino Sanabrés. This route is famous for its varied landscapes, from plains and mountains to forests and rivers. It is perfect for nature and history lovers, as it follows Roman roads and cities, crossing Spanish landscapes from south to north.
Similarly, we could say that the Camino Mozárabe also passes through Ourense, being the route used by ancient Christian pilgrims to Santiago who lived in territories dominated by the Arabs. It is one of the Andalusian Jacobean routes that converge in Seville and continue along the Vía de la Plata.
The Vía de la Plata collects all the Andalusian routes to reach Santiago
Camino Sanabrés
As we said, the Camino Sanabrés is one of the variants of the Vía de la Plata to reach Santiago de Compostela. From Granja de Moreruela, in Zamora, it heads towards Santiago through the Sanabria region, crossing the provinces of Ourense, Pontevedra, and A Coruña.
This route is known for its natural beauty and historical heritage, and it is not excessively crowded. It has services and accommodations, and it is well signposted as an official route. Along its stages, you will pass through rural landscapes, mountains, and charming small villages. If done in winter, it is a route that allows you to enjoy the Galician Carnival or Entroido, which is very characteristic in the province of Ourense.
The Galician Carnival or Entroido is very typical in the province of Ourense
The Camino from Ourense: Stages and Kilometers
The Camino de Santiago from Ourense can be divided into five main stages.
Stage 1: Ourense – San Cristovo de Cea (22 km)
This first stage is approximately 22 kilometers, where you will enter deep into the province of Ourense. Leaving the Miño River valley, you will reach a tiny town that has earned its place on the map and recognition. San Cristovo de Cea, where the best bread in Galicia is made.
Stage 2: San Cristovo de Cea – Lalín (33 km)
From San Cristovo de Cea, the next stop is Lalín, about 33 kilometers away. This second stage is the longest and most demanding of this route, but its effort will be rewarded with its great landscape and monumental interest. There is an unofficial alternative that is slightly longer and leads to the Monastery of Oseira: after that, one of the toughest climbs in the Jacobean routes. From there, the natural paths will guide you through parishes and small villages until you reach Lalín.
Signs on the Camino Sanabrés
Stage 3: Lalín – Bandeira (17 km)
The third stage, about 18 kilometers, will take you to Bandeira. After leaving Lalín, the Camino passes through medieval bridges, Romanesque churches, pazos, and bucolic landscapes. After crossing the bridge over the Toxa River, the stage ends in Bandeira.
Stage 4: Bandeira – Santa Cruz de Rivadulla (15 km)
From Bandeira to Santa Cruz de Rivadulla, it’s about 15 kilometers. In this stage, you will pass through small villages and enjoy the local hospitality. Chapels, bridges, and rivers accompany the pilgrim until you reach the Pazo de Santa Cruz de Rivadulla, whose garden is part of the Camellia Route.
Pilgrims visiting the Pazo de Santa Cruz de Rivadulla
Stage 5: Santa Cruz de Rivadulla – Santiago de Compostela (22 km)
The last stage, about 22 kilometers, takes you directly to Santiago de Compostela. The stage begins through lush forests until you reach Lestedo. There is a detour to Pico Sacro to enjoy stunning panoramas of the area and its legend. The Camino enters Santiago by crossing the Roman bridge over the Sar River, to climb and access the historic center through the Mazarelos arch.
What to See in Ourense?
Before beginning your pilgrimage, take some time to explore Ourense. This city, somewhat unknown to some, has a lot to offer visitors.
Roman Bridge
The Roman Bridge is one of the symbols of Ourense, and one of the many that cross the Miño River in the city. With spectacular views, it’s a perfect place to start your journey and take some photos.
The Vía de la Plata passes through Ourense via the Camino Sanabrés variant
Cathedral of Ourense
The Cathedral of San Martiño de Ourense is an architectural gem in Romanesque and Gothic style located in the historic center. A must-see is its Pórtico del Paraíso, a masterpiece of medieval sculpture heavily influenced by Maestro Mateo and the Pórtico de la Gloria.
Enjoy the Historic Center
The Historic Center of Ourense is charming, with narrow streets and lively squares that invite you to get lost and discover hidden corners. Did you know you can find thermal waters in As Burgas? The best place in Ourense to enjoy the gastronomy, with numerous bars and restaurants in the wine zone.
The Plaza Mayor is the heart of Ourense, dominated by the town hall building. Here you can enjoy local life and admire the beauty of its historic buildings. It’s a perfect place to rest in its porticoed terraces and enjoy a coffee before continuing your journey.
Historic center of Ourense, with its Plaza Mayor and the town hall building
Claustro de San Francisco
The Claustro de San Francisco is a haven of peace in the middle of the city. This remnant of the existence of an old convent is a perfect example of Gothic architecture. Declared a Historical-Artistic Monument, it’s worth strolling through its cloister and admiring the columns and capitals.
Visit the Thermal Baths of Ourense
Ourense is famous for its thermal waters. The Chavasqueira and Outariz thermal baths are the ideal place to relax. Immerse yourself in its hot waters and forget the stress. It’s an experience you can’t miss, and they offer both public and paid options.
The thermal waters of Ourense are a surprise for visitors
Why Choose the Camino de Santiago from Ourense?
Choosing the Camino de Santiago from Ourense has many advantages. Here are some reasons why this route is so special:
- Less crowded: compared to other routes, the Camino from Ourense is less crowded. This means fewer crowds and a more intimate experience.
- Varied landscapes: from mountains and rivers to forests, fields, and camellias, the landscape constantly changes, making the journey more interesting.
- Cultural richness: along the Camino, you’ll find numerous historical, cultural, and legendary sites that enrich your experience. Would you dare to learn about its Carnival characters?
- Hospitality: the locals are friendly and welcoming, and you will be received warmly at every stop.
- Gastronomy: food in Galicia is famous, especially in the authentic rural areas.
Venture to discover the Camino de Santiago from Ourense
The Camino de Santiago from Ourense is an adventure worth living. Each stage, each route, and each landscape offers something unique. Ready to start your journey? Buen Camino!
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