The Sanabrés Way of St James

Frequently asked questions about The Sanabrian Way

• Is it necessary to book in advance on the Sanabrian Way?

  On the Camino Sanabrés, although it is not as busy as other routes of the Camino de Santiago, it is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during the high season (spring and summer) or important festivities. The infrastructure of hostels and accommodation has improved in recent years, but in some rural sections accommodation is limited and the distances between them can be long.

• How long does it take to walk the Sanabrian Way?

  The Sanabrian Way is a route of the Camino de Santiago with about 365 km divided, generally, in 13 stages. Therefore, divided like this, it takes 13 days to complete the Camino de Santiago Sanabrés walking. Each stage would be the distance you walk 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 difficulties does the Sanabrian Way have?

  The Sanabrés Way presents a medium level of difficulty, with some challenges that pilgrims should be aware of. Throughout its 365 kilometres, from Granja de Moreruela to Santiago de Compostela, the main challenges include:

  • Steep gradients: Especially in the stages that cross Galicia, the Camino Sanabrés has several ups and downs, as in the stretch to A Gudiña and the climb after Oseira, which can be demanding for walkers.
  • Long stages: Some stages of the Camino Sanabrés are longer and have fewer intermediate accommodation options, which requires good planning and physical endurance. It is important to manage stops and rests well.
  • Infrastructure: Although the Camino Sanabrés is less travelled than other routes of the Camino de Santiago, its infrastructure has improved in recent years. However, in certain rural sections, services such as hostels and shops may be less frequent.
  • Weather: Depending on the time of year, pilgrims may face variable weather conditions, especially in Galicia, where rainfall is common, which can make the roads slippery and more difficult to walk.

• What is the route of the Sanabrian Way like?

  The Sanabrés Way is a route that crosses some of the most rural and authentic regions of Spain. Starting in the region of Sanabria (Zamora), it passes through the provinces of Ourense, Pontevedra and A Coruña on its way to Santiago de Compostela. The route of the Sanabrés Way offers a wide variety of landscapes, from the vast Castilian plains to the lush Galician forests. Highlights include the historic city of Ourense, famous for its hot springs. Along the way, pilgrims pass through small villages full of charm and heritage. In terms of difficulty, the Sanabrés Way is considered of medium difficulty, with some stages a little demanding in Galicia due to the mountainous climbs and descents. However, its natural beauty, tranquility and rich history make it an ideal choice for those pilgrims seeking a more intimate and spiritual experience on their pilgrimage.

• How many stages are there on the Sanabrian Way?

  The Sanabrés Way is divided into 13 stages. It begins in Granja de Moreruela (Zamora) and has about 365 kilometres to Santiago de Compostela. Keep in mind that this distance may vary depending on the possible variants or complementary and alternative paths that the pilgrim decides to take during the route. Each stage would be 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.