The Camino del Mar

The Camino del Mar is a little-explored gem within the Camino de Santiago. This ancient pilgrim route travels through the stunning coastal landscapes of Lugo and A Coruña, and then heads towards Santiago de Compostela. Rich in history, this route is also perfect for those seeking peace and a connection with nature. With a unique cultural and environmental heritage, the Camino del Mar promises an authentic and different experience, ideal for those who want to discover a fascinating and less-traveled path. Shall we navigate this route together?

The Cantabrian Sea is the protagonist of the Camino del Mar

What is the Camino del Mar?

The Camino del Mar is a route that serves as the Galician coastal alternative to the Northern Way to reach Santiago de Compostela. Starting in Ribadeo, in the province of Lugo, it stretches over about 180 kilometers along the coast of the Mariña Lucense and the Costa Ártabra, from Ribadeo to Neda, where it connects with the English Way.

Unlike the official Northern Way route, which diverts inland at Ribadeo, the Camino del Mar stays closer to the coast, although not along the entire route, and passes through towns such as Foz, Burela, Viveiro, San Andrés de Teixido, and Cedeira, among others. Once in Neda, pilgrims will add another 100 kilometers to reach Santiago de Compostela by following the English Way from Ferrol.

In Neda, the Camino del Mar merges with the English Way

Historical Justification of This Route

The Camino del Mar has a strong historical justification based on numerous documents and remnants that show its use as a pilgrimage route. In the 15th and 16th centuries, pilgrimage accounts and other travel books reflect more interest in discovering new lands, cultures, and customs than in strictly religious motivations. An example is Bartolomeu Fontana, a learned teacher who began his journey in 1538. In his account, he mentions choosing the coastal route (“per la marina“) from Ribadeo to Viveiro, showing his fascination with exploring the surroundings and sharing his experiences.

This route not only connected by land but also through ports that received maritime pilgrims from northern Europe. Furthermore, it served as a return path to Oviedo for pilgrims who had already visited Santiago. In the Mariña Lucense and nearby regions, records of pilgrims have been found in cemeteries, churches, and ancient hospitals, such as those in Ribadeo, San Martiño, Cervo, and Viveiro. Documents from the Cathedral of Mondoñedo and other episcopal archives in Lourenzá and Reinante confirm its importance from the 16th to the 18th centuries when it was known as “Camino Francés” and later as “Camino Real”. Today, the Cabildo of the Cathedral of Santiago already recognizes this route, and its official status as a Jacobean route is being studied.

San Andrés de Teixido, a historical landmark on the Camino del Mar

Why Choose the Camino del Mar?

The Camino del Mar is a unique option among the routes to Santiago de Compostela, standing out for its combination of spectacular landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Starting from Ribadeo, it offers impressive panoramas of the Cantabrian coast as pilgrims make their way to Neda, always accompanied by the serenity of the sea and vibrant nature. Furthermore, it is a little-known and less-traveled route, perfect for enjoying nature, solitude, and silent walking.

What to See on the Camino del Mar?

The Camino del Mar allows you to discover some of the most emblematic sites in Galicia, such as:

• Playa de Las Catedrales: Famous for its spectacular rock arches sculpted by the sea.
• Cabo do Mundo Cliffs: The tallest in Europe, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic.
• “Abuelo de Chavín”: The largest tree in Europe, located in Viveiro, a true natural monument.
• San Martiño de Mondoñedo Basilica: Considered the oldest cathedral in Spain, located in Foz.
• San Andrés de Teixido Sanctuary: A mystical place with deep Galician tradition, full of spirituality, legends, and its own pilgrimage path.

This route not only connects with nature but also with places rich in history and tradition, making it an exciting, challenging, and deeply enriching journey for those seeking more than just a walk.

Free-roaming cattle in San Andrés de Teixido

Stages of the Camino del Mar

As we always say, the division of stages will depend on the available days you have, your physical abilities, and, very importantly, the availability of accommodation where you can spend the night. Here’s a proposed schedule:

• Stage 1: Ribadeo – Barreiros (25 km)
• Stage 2: Barreiros – Fazouro (17 km)
• Stage 3: Fazouro – San Ciprián (23 km)
• Stage 4: San Ciprián – Celeiro (26 km)
• Stage 5: Celeiro – Capilla de San Pedro de Mañón (20 km)
• Stage 6: Capilla de San Pedro de Mañón – Cariño (25 km)
• Stage 7: Cariño – Porto do Cabo (23 km)
• Stage 8: Porto do Cabo – Neda (20 km)

Pilgrim’s Hostel in Neda, already on the English Way

Don’t confuse the Camino del Mar with the Camino Natural del Cantábrico, as they are two different routes with different focuses. The first stands out for its heritage and historical aspects, based on historical documentation, following the old French and Royal paths, while the second focuses on its scenic and coastal values. Although some sections of both paths coincide, such as those passing through San Andrés de Teixido and Porto do Cabo, the Camino del Mar does not follow the coast throughout its entire route.

Things to Keep in Mind

Here are a few things to consider when planning your trip if you’re going to walk the Camino del Mar:

• Weather: In northern Galicia, it’s common to face rain and strong wind gusts in cold seasons, especially near the sea. It’s recommended to walk the Camino in warmer seasons.
• Signage: The Camino del Mar is marked with yellow arrows and, recently, with acrylic signs. However, it’s always a good idea to carry GPS tracks or any apps for the Camino or hiking in general.
• Accommodation: There are no public hostels on the Camino del Mar, though there are some private ones. You will always find options like hotels, rural houses, or guesthouses.
• Services: Sometimes, accommodations may be off-route, so you may need to hire taxi services to transport you to your accommodation or even for luggage transport between stages.

Over the past few years, the Caminos del Mar Association has repainted the arrows several times and continues to work on its own signage project. Currently, the association continues its efforts to improve signage and consolidate the route.

Dare to walk with the sea breeze

In conclusion, the Camino del Mar is a fascinating route that offers a unique experience for those seeking a less-traveled path rich in history, nature, and heritage. With its breathtaking coastal landscape, historical landmarks, and connection to the Jacobean tradition, this coastal alternative to the Northern Way allows you to discover Galicia in a deep and authentic way. If you’re looking for a route that combines spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty, the Camino del Mar is a perfect choice. Plus, with ongoing improvements in signage and support services, this route is ready to offer you an unforgettable pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela that integrates several Jacobean routes. Dare to walk this path full of history, myths, and spectacular landscapes!