The Way of the Lighthouses
Do you know that feeling of wanting to scream with excitement with all your might?
When was the last time you experienced a true feeling of freedom? If you love hiking, if it makes you feel free and stirs your senses like butterflies do to lovers, you have to discover the Camino de los Faros.
This route is a complete sensory experience: the explosion of colors from pristine nature, the aroma and taste of the crashing sea, the delicate softness of the sand, and the soothing melody of the sea breeze. This, and much more, is the Camino de los Faros.
Our Tours to the Camino de los Faros
Services we offer on the Lighthouse Way to Santiago
Included in all our routes
- Accommodation booking selecting the best lodgings according to your budget.
- Luggage transport between stages.
- Practical information about the Camino in a detailed guide.
- Phone assistance en route we’re by your side for any questions or incidents.
- Travel insurance with broad coverage.
On group tours
- Accompanying guides professional support throughout the Camino.
- Support vehicle available during the stages.
Optional services
- Meals and diets: option to add breakfasts or half board.
- Private transfers to/from the point you need.
- Bicycle rental (mountain or electric bikes).
Map of the Camino de los Faros
The map shows the complete route of the Camino de los Faros, from Malpica to Cape Finisterre, along the spectacular Galician coast. This hiking route, approximately 200 km long, follows the coastline of the Costa da Morte, passing through iconic places like Ponteceso, Laxe, Camariñas, Muxía, and Cee.
At the bottom, the elevation profile of the path is represented, highlighting the slopes and areas of greater challenge, such as the climb to Mount Nariga, the ups and downs at Cape Roncudo, or the tough Cachelmo Mountain, among many others. Each stage is very special, with seascapes, pristine beaches, forests, and historic lighthouses, making it an unforgettable journey for hiking and nature lovers.
Information about the Camino de los Faros
Why choose the Camino de los Faros?
Get ready to travel to the wild on the Camino de los Faros.
The Camino de los Faros, known in Galician as “O Camiño dos Faros,” is a wild hiking route that connects the towns of Malpica de Bergantiños and Finisterre, from North to South, along the Costa da Morte (Coast of Death) in the province of A Coruña. It has two main premises: the trail should run as close as possible to the sea, in this case, the Atlantic Ocean, and it should pass by all the lighthouses along the route. A third premise, related to its proximity to the sea, is that the route should be safe for walkers, as some coastal stretches are inaccessible or very dangerous, which are obviously avoided in the path.
Thus, this Camino results in a 200 km route of wild trails, with the Ocean (almost) always to our right, to the West, accompanying the hiker with the constant but relaxing sound of waves. But the Camino de los Faros is much more than that: the sea, forests, mountains, capes, streams, beaches, dunes, lagoons, heritage, stories, legends, shipwrecks, sunsets, gastronomy, and, of course, its towns and people. Let’s learn more about this unique path, which, inexplicably, is still awaiting official recognition as a GR (Great Route Trail).
What to see and do on the Camino de los Faros?
Nature in its wild state, fishing villages, shipwreck remnants, and, of course, lighthouses.
Where to start the Camino de los Faros?
From Malpica de Bergantiños
The Camino de los Faros begins in the fishing village of Malpica, and whether you do the entire route, about 200 km over eight stages, or just the first four stages, about 92 km, your adventure will start here.
This route is unparalleled, offering the constant sound and freshness of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as the wildest landscapes in the most legendary area of Galicia, the Costa da Morte.
From Arou
Starting in Arou, a charming little fishing village, you will venture into the heart of the Costa da Morte and enjoy walking along its rugged coastline, where you will find ancient sacred places such as Punta da Barca in Muxía and, of course, the grand finale at the Faro de Finisterre.
Stages of the Camino de los Faros.
The Camino de los Faros is one of the most spectacular hiking routes in Galicia, combining nature, history, and the unmistakable landscape of the Costa da Morte. Along its approximately 200 kilometers, from Malpica to Cape Finisterre, the route crosses stunning cliffs, wild beaches, forests, and picturesque fishing villages. Each stage offers a unique experience, from winding coastal trails to the imposing lighthouses that guide the way. Through these links, you will discover the main stages, their distances, points of interest, and useful tips to fully enjoy this unforgettable adventure.
The villages of the Camino de los Faros
History of the Camino de los Faros
The history of the Camino de los Faros is very recent, although the route follows ancient local trails.
An initiative by some “trasnos”
On Friday, December 7, 2012, 6 hikers and 2 dogs went crazy, as they had the idea to connect Malpica de Bergantiños with Finisterre by walking along the edge of the sea. And they succeeded, indeed. Their goal was to link both towns, in the heart of the “Costa da Morte”, parallel to the ocean, with the lighthouses as a connection. They knew it was possible, though they were aware that it would be difficult, but they also knew it would be worth it. And so, on Saturday, January 26, 2013, they reached Cape Finisterre, the ancient Finis Terrae or End of the World, known in Roman times, and its legendary lighthouse.
These friends, self-styled “trasnos” (referring to the small mischievous elves in Galician mythology, with equivalents in other parts of Spain and the world), achieved their goal and set another: that this Camino exists and persists, and that many people walk it, always respecting Nature to the fullest. In an act of generosity and love for their land, they decided to make it known, but in order to do so, the “trasnos” needed to improve the route, which they did on a second trip.
Subsequent development
Thus, the project gathered a collaborative spirit, and through social networks, they managed to bring together 23 new “trasnos” to carry out the first stage. After this experience, they understood the concern of the first “trasnos” and fell in love with the route. In later group editions, they completed the rest of the stages, always supported by a warm response from new “trasnos.” We want to contribute our small part and are eager to present you with this Camino de los Faros.
Frequently asked questions about the Way of the Lighthouses
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.
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.
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.
The route or the Lighthouse Way has a total length of 200 km, divided in a standard way into 8 stages.
Posts related to the Way of Lighthouses
Other routes of the Camino de Santiago
English Way
From Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela. Delve into the culture of villages of great military, naval and historical importance. 5 Etapas | 125 km
Father Sarmiento Way
The Father Sarmiento Way links Pontevedra to Santiago de Compostela, offering a scenic journey through beautiful landscapes. 6 stages | 142 km
Finisterre and Muxía Way
From Santiago de Compostela to Muxía. A mystical and spiritual journey to the ends of the Earth 5 stages | 120 km
French Way
From Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Santiago, trace Charlemagne’s path through the Pyrenees and trek 800 km on the French Way. 33 stages | 768 km
Northern Way
From Santiago de Compostela to Muxía. An unforgettable experience with breathtaking scenery 34 Stages | 820 km
Portuguese Way
Starts in Lisbon and leads to Santiago de Compostela, offering a scenic journey through charming towns, coastal views, and culture. 27 stages | 620 km
Portuguese Way along the coast
From Oporto to Santiago de Compostela. Total 194 km - 8 stages 8 Stages | 194 km
Portuguese Way: spiritual variant
From Pontevedra to Padrón. Total 81 km - 3 stages 3 stages | 81 km
Sanabrian Way
From Granja de Moreruela to Santiago de Compostela. Total 365 km - 13 stages 13 stages | 365 km
Way of the Lighthouses
From Malpica to Finisterre. A 200-kilometer journey along the coast and through the wildest of nature 8 stages | 195 km
