Baamonde

Baamonde is a small village through which the Northern Way passes, surrounded by a peaceful agricultural and livestock environment. While this village might go unnoticed at first glance, it holds a series of charms that are well worth discovering.

This modest location provides the essential services for a pilgrim, including a hostel, a few bars, and a grocery store. Beyond that, it offers an expansive landscape to be explored and a warm environment where travelers can happily lose themselves in the tranquility.

A little history

Baamonde has been a crossroads since the very beginning of its history. It was a traditional stop for travelers on the so-called Camino Real, as well as the main road connecting Madrid with A Coruña. Today, it continues to be a formidable place of passage and rest for those journeying along the Xacobean route.

The Church of Santiago

This is one of the key landmarks that no visitor to Baamonde should miss. The origins of this church date back to the 9th century, while the nave was built in the 12th century and the main chapel in the 15th century. This temple was destroyed during the Irmandiño revolts and subsequently rebuilt.

In its atrium, you can contemplate the Calvary, a structure consisting of three granite stone crosses (cruceiros) dating from the 18th century. It is a site full of history and cultural significance for pilgrims and travelers alike.

Víctor Corral House Museum

Following the road up to the Church of Santiago, you will find the Víctor Corral House Museum, the home and studio of the artist behind the famous chapel carved into a chestnut tree. This space showcases a wide array of works by the sculptor, creating an artistic corner of great charm in the heart of Baamonde.

His magnificent pieces are crafted from materials such as wood, ivory, and granite, noble elements typical of this region of Galicia that are brought to life through the artist's vision.

The Chapel of the Virgin in the Chestnut Tree

In Baamonde, you can enjoy the most emblematic work of Víctor Corral: a chapel carved into the trunk of a 500-year-old chestnut tree. This artistic intervention began in the 1970s as a protest to save the ancient tree and the church atrium from the original plans for the N-VI highway.

Thanks to this remarkable action, the road was diverted, and the village gained a symbol of incalculable artistic and cultural value.

Traditional Food at O Labrego

Since 1978, the restaurant O Labrego has been offering the very best of local gastronomy. This family business is renowned for its carefully prepared traditional cuisine, which maintains the essence of authentic "grandmother's cooking".

The menu features hearty dishes like the "Cocido Labrego" (stew), as well as traditional Galician soups and broths. It is the perfect place to recharge and enjoy the most genuine flavors of the region.

Hiking

Baamonde is a historic crossroads and the perfect starting point for hiking enthusiasts. While the main route is the Northern Way, there are other very interesting local trails for those who want to explore the natural surroundings.

One of the most popular is the Ruta da Auga, a beautiful 20 km trail that follows the banks of the Parga and Ladra rivers. Another excellent option is the Ruta de las Bidueiras, a circular path of approximately 10.5 km through stunning landscapes.

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