Way of the Lighthouses Arou – Finisterre

Frequently Asked Questions

• How many stages does the Way of the Lighthouses have?

  The Way of the Lighthouses, in Galician, Camiño dos Faros, has a total of 8 stages in which you walk along the Costa da Morte through 200 km parallel to the sea (almost always). Each stage is the distance you cover in one day, from the starting point to the end of the walk, where you will spend the night. The stages can vary in distance and difficulty, and it is important to note that they can be adjusted according to your pace and physical condition. Some pilgrims choose to divide certain long or hard stages, or lengthen those that are shorter or easier to walk. It all depends on having a place to sleep.

• What to see on the Costa da Morte?

  The Costa de la Muerte, or Costa da Morte in Galician, is one of Galicia's most striking destinations, steeped in history, nature and legends. This stretch of the Galician coastline, known for its rugged landscape and its connection with ancient shipwrecks, offers a unique natural and cultural richness, ideal for those looking to explore beyond the Camino de Santiago or the Way of the Lighthouses.

  • Cape Finisterre: One of the most emblematic points of the Costa de la Muerte, and the final kilometre of the Camino de Santiago for many pilgrims. Here, the cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic, and its lighthouse is a symbol of pilgrimage and overcoming.
  • Cabo Vilán: Famous for its impressive lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in Spain with electric light, surrounded by steep cliffs and unrivalled panoramic views. A perfect place to enjoy the power of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Cabo Touriñán: a simple lighthouse, but located at the westernmost point of Spain in the Iberian Peninsula...
  • Carnota Beach: With its more than 7 km of fine sand and crystal clear waters, it is one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in Galicia. It is surrounded by mountains and marshes, which makes it a unique natural environment.
  • Muxía and the Virgen de la Barca: This coastal village is known for the sanctuary of the Virgen de la Barca, who according to legend helped the Apostle Santiago on his mission. The views from the cliffs are breathtaking and the place has a mystical air.
  • Ézaro Waterfall: One of the few waterfalls in Europe that flows directly into the sea. This natural spectacle is located in the river Xallas and is a must for its unique beauty.
  • Dolmen de Dombate: For history lovers, this megalithic monument is one of the most important in Galicia. It dates back more than 4,000 years and is a testimony to the region's prehistoric past.

• How long is the Finisterre Lighthouse?

  The Finisterre Lighthouse consists of a construction with an octagonal tower made of hewn stone that has a height of 17 meters. Its lantern, located 138 meters above sea level, projects its light more than 30 nautical miles away.

• How many km is the Lighthouse Route?

  The route or the Lighthouse Way has a total length of 200 km, divided in a standard way into 8 stages.

• Why is it called Finisterre?

  Finisterre, which in Galician is called Fisterra, is so called because in Roman times it was considered the known “end of the world” or the “end of the earth”. The word would derive from finis and terrae, that is, “end of the earth.”

• What do pilgrims do when they arrive in Finisterre?

  Upon arriving in Finisterre, pilgrims usually visit the Lighthouse, watch the ocean and the sunset, and participate in symbolic rituals such as throwing a stone into the sea. Although clothing was burned in the past, this is currently prohibited. They also visit the Church of Our Lady of the Sands and can obtain the "Fisterrana" as a certificate of their arrival.

• Which Camino passes through Finisterre?

  The Camino de Finisterre and Muxía reaches Finisterre from Santiago de Compostela. Outside the routes of the Camino de Santiago, it is also the end of the Camino de los Faros.

• How long does the Camino de Santiago to Finisterre take?

  The Camino de Santiago to Finisterre lasts approximately 4 days, with 90 km divided into 4 stages. It can be extended to Muxía in 1 or 2 more days, adding 30 km. The stages may vary according to the pace and physical condition of each pilgrim.

• How many stages are there from Santiago to Finisterre?

  The Camino de Santiago to Finisterre has 4 stages and covers about 90 km. It can be extended to Muxía in 1 or 2 more stages, adding 30 km. The stages vary according to the pace and physical condition of the pilgrim.