Way to Finisterre - 84 km

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is it called Finisterre?

  Finisterre, which in Galician is called Fisterra, is so called because in Roman times it was considered the known “end of the world” or the “end of the earth”. The word would derive from finis and terrae, that is, “end of the earth.”

• What do pilgrims do when they arrive in Finisterre?

  Upon arriving in Finisterre, pilgrims usually visit the Lighthouse, watch the ocean and the sunset, and participate in symbolic rituals such as throwing a stone into the sea. Although clothing was burned in the past, this is currently prohibited. They also visit the Church of Our Lady of the Sands and can obtain the "Fisterrana" as a certificate of their arrival.

• Which Camino passes through Finisterre?

  The Camino de Finisterre and Muxía reaches Finisterre from Santiago de Compostela. Outside the routes of the Camino de Santiago, it is also the end of the Camino de los Faros.

• What is included in my reservation at private shelters?

  Your reservation includes a bed in a shared room (usually mixed bunk beds), with shared bathrooms —generally separated by gender— and access to common areas such as kitchen, lounge, or laundry.

  Bottom sheet and pillowcase are provided, but towels, blankets, and toiletries are not included (sometimes available for an additional fee). Therefore, we recommend bringing a sleeping bag suitable for the season.

• How many kilometres is the Camino to Finisterre via Olveiroa?

  It is 84 km in four stages: Santiago–Negreira (21 km), Negreira–Olveiroa (30 km), Olveiroa–Cee (17 km) and Cee–Fisterra (16 km). The trip lasts 6 days and 5 nights, including the day you arrive in Santiago. If you want to carry on to Muxía, there is the Camino to Finisterre and Muxía, which adds one more stage.

• Will I definitely sleep in Olveiroa on the Camino to Finisterre?

  It depends on availability. Olveiroa is a small village, known for its centuries-old hórreos, and has little accommodation. If there are no beds, the stage from Negreira ends a little earlier, in A Picota, and the next day you walk through Olveiroa on your way to Cee. Your trip documents show where you sleep each night.

• How should I prepare for the 30 km Negreira–Olveiroa stage?

  It is the longest stage of the Camino to Finisterre, but it has no big climbs: it is mostly meadows, native woodland and villages. What tires you is the distance, not the gradient, so set off early and pace yourself. Before you arrive, the descent from Monte Aro gives you views over the A Fervenza reservoir, a good spot for a break. If you want to walk lighter, add the luggage transfer, which is optional on this trip.

• Where should I stop between Olveiroa and Cee?

  In Hospital, about 5 km from Olveiroa. It is a good idea to stop there, because afterwards the Camino follows lonely rural paths as far as the fork between Fisterra and Muxía; at that junction, take the left to head down towards Cee. Before that you reach the top of the Cruceiro da Armada, where you see the ocean for the first time, with Cape Fisterra in the distance.

• How far is it from the town of Finisterre to the lighthouse?

  About 3 km uphill. The stage ends in the town of Fisterra, but the real finish is the cape and its lighthouse, with one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. Beforehand, it is worth strolling around the harbour and the market and visiting the Castillo de San Carlos, an 18th-century fortress. Then walk up to the lighthouse at an easy pace to arrive at sunset.

• Do you get the Compostela on the Camino to Finisterre?

  No, because this route starts in Santiago: it is the only Camino where Compostela is the starting point rather than the finish line. The Compostela is given to those who arrive in Santiago after walking at least the last 100 km; if you have just finished another Camino, collect it at the Pilgrim’s Office before setting off. When you reach Fisterra you can ask for the Fisterrana by showing your pilgrim passport (included in the trip) stamped since Santiago.

• Can I do the Camino to Finisterre staying in hostels?

  Yes. In this version you can choose between a hostel and a private room. The hostel is the most authentic and affordable option, and the best way to meet other pilgrims. If you prefer privacy, choose a private room; and if you travel alone, there is the single room supplement.