The Highest Points of the Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago is a unique experience that combines physical effort, natural beauty, and a deep connection with history and spirituality. Along the different routes, pilgrims face numerous challenges, with the climbs being some of the most demanding. Although altitude can be an obstacle, the views enjoyed from the highest points of the Camino make the effort worthwhile. Below, we show you some of the highest points of the Jacobean routes, places that will take your breath away, both for their beauty and the demanding ascent, as well as some tips for tackling the climbs.

The climbs of the Camino de Santiago will reward you with beautiful panoramas

The Highest Points of the Camino de Santiago

The highest points of the Camino are an essential part of the experience. Each ascent takes you to points where the view stretches beyond the horizon, and the physical effort is rewarded with a landscape that seems out of this world. From the Galician mountains to the Navarrese valleys, these high points allow you to connect with the majesty of nature, while at the same time offering a challenge that will test your endurance. However, remember that after every climb, there is always a descent waiting for you, and it’s crucial to be prepared for both.

Alto de Foncebadón (1,500 m) – León, Camino Francés

The Alto de Foncebadón, located in the province of León, marks one of the most iconic and highest stretches of the Camino Francés. From this point, the panoramic view over the El Bierzo valley is simply spectacular. The climb includes sections of steady gradient and rocky terrain, so it’s essential to maintain a measured, steady pace. Use trekking poles to relieve the load on your legs and improve stability on the steepest sections. You’ll pass through the charming village of Foncebadón and shortly after reach the emblematic Cruz de Ferro; from here, the path gradually descends toward Molinaseca, offering a well-deserved rest after the demanding ascent.

The Cruz de Ferro is one of the most emblematic sites on the Camino

Alto do Poio (1.335 m) – Galicia, Camino Francés

The Alto do Poio, located in the province of Lugo, is one of the highest points of the Camino Francés. From here, the panoramic view of the Galician region is stunning. The climb is demanding, but the effort is greatly rewarded. As it is one of the first major climbs on the Camino, it’s important to keep a steady pace and not rush. Use trekking poles to balance your effort and propel yourself during the ascent. When you reach the top, you’ll find a bar, and the Camino will continue, temporarily flat.

If you walk the Camino in winter, you may encounter snow at the highest points

O Cebreiro (1.300 m) – Galicia, Camino Francés

O Cebreiro, located in the Lugo mountains, is another of the most iconic and highest points of the Camino Francés. This picturesque village, famous for its traditional pallozas, marks the entrance to Galicia and offers a demanding climb, but it is rewarded with panoramic views of the Galician valley. The route to the top is a mountainous experience that requires a steady pace, and while the descent is smoother, it still requires caution. Nevertheless, reaching O Cebreiro is well worth it, as it is a place rich in history and the eternal home of Elías Valiña, the great promoter of the Camino de Santiago.

O Cebreiro is a mythical point of the Camino, about 150 km from Santiago de Compostela, already in Galicia

Alto de San Roque (1.270 m) – Galicia, Camino Francés

The Alto de San Roque is another elevated point of the Camino Francés in Galicia, which allows you to enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding valleys. Although the climb can be exhausting, the panoramic view when you reach the top will give you the strength to continue. Here, you can rest while admiring its pilgrim statue, one of the sculptures of the Camino de Santiago.

At the Alto de San Roque, the wind sometimes blows

Puerto de Palo (1.146 m) – Asturias, Camino Primitivo

This mountain pass, located on the Camino Primitivo, is one of the most challenging climbs, but also one of the most beautiful. The effort required to reach the summit of Puerto de Palo is considerable, but once you do, you can enjoy a wild and pristine environment. During steep climbs, don’t forget to take frequent breaks and ensure you stay well-hydrated.

The Camino Primitivo is a very demanding route

Alto del Acebo (1.035 m) – Frontera Asturias-Galicia, Camino Primitivo

The Alto del Acebo, located at the border between Asturias and Galicia, is another high point on the Camino Primitivo that offers spectacular views of the surrounding nature. The climb is steep, but the landscape is so beautiful that it will make you forget the effort. Once you reach the top, it’s important to prepare your legs for the descent. Don’t rush and opt for a steady pace, using poles if necessary to maintain balance.

The vastness of the high mountains sublimates the spirit of any pilgrim

Alto del Perdón (770 m) – Navarra, Camino Francés

The Alto del Perdón, near Pamplona, is famous not only for its altitude but also for the sculptures of pilgrims located at the top. The climb to this point is arduous, but once you get there, the views of the Navarrese fields and the sculptures at the summit will fill you with emotion. As with other climbs, remember that after significant effort, there is always a descent. For a more comfortable descent, distribute your weight properly and make sure to use non-slip footwear to avoid falls.

Pilgrims resting and taking photos after climbing the Alto del Perdón

Serra da Labruja (400 m) – Northern Portugal, Camino Portugués

The Serra da Labruja, on the Camino Portugués, is not one of the highest climbs of all the routes, but its beauty makes it a key point of the journey. Although the ascent is not as steep as others, the views are equally impressive. During the ascent, take your time and don’t go too fast, as the gentle slopes can be deceptive. Also, keep in mind that the weather can change quickly in the mountains, so always bring appropriate and lightweight clothing for the climbs.

The Camino Portugués doesn’t have many tough climbs, but there are a few

Monte do Gozo (380 m) – Only 5 km from the goal, Santiago de Compostela

The Monte do Gozo is one of the most awaited points for pilgrims, as it is only 5 km from the goal in Santiago de Compostela. Although it is not one of the highest points, its symbolic value is undeniable. From the top, you will see the Cathedral of Santiago for the first time, which will fill you with emotion as you approach your destination. This point is ideal to enjoy the view before the final effort, the last descent into the city.

It’s not a very hard climb, but Monte do Gozo’s is perhaps the most rewarding

Tips for Tackling the Climbs on the Camino

The climbs on the Camino de Santiago can be challenging, but with the right preparations and the correct mindset, you can face them effectively. Keep in mind that many of them are some of the steepest climbs on the Camino stages, and to tackle them, here are some tips:

• Distribute your effort well: Don’t rush when climbing; it’s better to keep a steady pace that allows you to enjoy the scenery and not exhaust yourself too quickly.
• Hydration and nutrition: Make sure to carry water and some healthy snacks to keep your energy levels up during the climbs.
• Use trekking poles: They are very helpful for balancing your weight and reducing the impact on your knees during descents.
• Descent technique: When going down, reduce your speed and take short, firm steps to avoid injury. It’s easy to get carried away and descend too quickly, which can put stress on the joints; you may want to consider wearing knee and ankle guards. You can even adopt a zigzag technique to make the slope less harsh.
• Listen to your body: If you feel pain or extreme fatigue, it’s better to take a break and let your muscles relax before continuing; taking care of your health on the Camino is very important.

Remember, what goes up, must come down, and often these climbs are followed by the steepest descents on the Camino de Santiago.

Use trekking poles to tackle these climbs

Remember that the Camino is not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual experience. With patience, perseverance, and good preparation, each ascent becomes an opportunity to connect more deeply with the path and with yourself. Buen Camino!