The Winter Way of St. James
The Winter Way of St. James begins in Ponferrada, crossing the Sil River valley and the Ribeira Sacra.
The Camino de Santiago offers multiple routes to reach the tomb of the Apostle, and one of the most unique is the one that follows the course of the Sil River through landscapes of great beauty and tradition. This historical itinerary was used by pilgrims seeking a less demanding alternative in winter, avoiding the high mountain areas and the harsh climatic conditions of the Camino Francés.
The Winter Way is characterized by its tranquility and its close connection with nature, passing through valleys, vineyards, and gorges, offering pilgrims a unique experience. Its lower traffic allows for a more introspective and leisurely journey, ideal for those seeking a less crowded Camino but equally enriching.
Our Trips to the Winter Way of St. James
Map of the Winter Way of St. James
The map shows the complete route of the Winter Way of St. James, a variant of the Camino de Santiago that runs from Ponferrada to Santiago de Compostela, in Galicia, Spain. This historical route, approximately 260 km long, passes through towns like Las Médulas, O Barco de Valdeorras, Monforte de Lemos, and Chantada, following the course of the Sil River and offering a more accessible alternative for pilgrims during the colder months.
At the bottom, the elevation profile of the route is shown, highlighting the changes in terrain and the more demanding sections, such as valleys, terraced vineyards, and gorges that characterize this path. Each stage provides a unique experience, combining nature, tranquility, and a valuable cultural heritage, making it an ideal journey for those seeking a more serene and less crowded pilgrimage.

Information about the Winter Way of St. James
Why choose the Winter Way of St. James?
The alternative entry into Galicia.
This entry route into Galicia, unknown to many pilgrims, is the only one that traverses all four Galician provinces (Ourense, Lugo, Pontevedra, and A Coruña). And now you might be asking yourself… “What can the Winter Way offer me?” Well, the Winter Way offers pilgrims the ultimate escape, while providing the opportunity to discover stunning natural landscapes that have remained untouched over the years.
If you want to disconnect to reconnect with yourself, discover exceptional places, and enjoy incredible gastronomy, this is your route.
What to see and do on the Winter Way of St. James?
Mountains, gorges, rivers, and terraced vineyards.
Where to start the Winter Way of St. James?
From Ponferrada
The capital of Bierzo, Ponferrada, is the starting point of the Winter Way. From Ponferrada, you can easily reach Santiago de Compostela in just 11 days, covering a total of 260 kilometers. Without a doubt, this route has established itself as a perfect alternative to escape the growing overcrowding of the Galician section of the French Way.
Stages of the Winter Way of St. James
The Winter Way of St. James is one of the most unique and less traveled Jacobean routes, offering an alternative journey full of history, nature, and tranquility. Over its approximately 260 kilometers, from Ponferrada to Santiago de Compostela, it crosses spectacular landscapes, fertile valleys, and ancient vineyards, connecting charming villages and remnants of a rich cultural heritage. Each stretch offers a unique experience, from the landscapes of Las Médulas to the Sil gorges and the gentle Galician hills. Through these links, you will discover the main stages, their distances, points of interest, and useful tips to make the most of this serene and captivating alternative to the Camino de Santiago.
Note that the Winter Way connects in stage 8 with another Jacobean route in Lalín-Dozón, before reaching Santiago de Compostela: the Sanabrés Way, a variant that crosses Galicia through Ourense before reaching the city of the Apostle, and whose last 2 stages will complete your journey.
The Villages of the Winter Camino de Santiago
History of the Winter Way of St. James
Despite the lack of general consensus among historians about the origin of this route, the most accepted theory is that it is a variant of the French Way upon its arrival in Ponferrada.
Historical Justification
If we reflect and put ourselves in the shoes of medieval pilgrims, it seems reasonable to think that they sought an alternative to crossing O Cebreiro to enter Galicia due to the heavy snowfalls that blocked the path. Hence the name “Camino de Invierno” (Winter Way).
Recent Official Recognition
This detour allowed pilgrims to enter Galicia through the Sil River valley, a natural entryway with much more favorable terrain than the mountain passes. It was officially recognized by the Xunta de Galicia as a pilgrimage route in 2016.
Frequently asked questions about the Winter Way
The Winter Way offers a route full of breathtaking scenery and moderate challenges. This alternative route crosses a variety of territories, from the reddish formations of Las Médulas in El Bierzo to the terraced vineyards of the Ribeira Sacra, where it skirts the spectacular canyons of the river Sil.
Along its 260 km, the route crosses the Sierra de O Courel, with dense forests and mountains reaching an altitude of 1200 metres, providing some challenging gradients but incredible views. As you descend into the Galician valleys, the landscape softens with fields and traditional villages until you reach Santiago de Compostela.
The Winter Way, which crosses northwestern Spain, offers a varied climate throughout its stages, with significant differences depending on the season and altitude of the areas it crosses. In general, the climate that can be expected on this route is as follows:
- Winter: In mountainous areas, such as the sierras of O Courel and El Bierzo, it is common to find low temperatures, snowfall and frost. Rain is also frequent, especially in Galicia, so it is advisable to be well equipped for the cold and damp.
- Spring and autumn: These are the best times to walk the Winter Way, with moderate temperatures and milder weather. However, in spring, rain can be frequent, especially in Galicia. During autumn, mornings and evenings can be cool, but days are usually pleasant.
- Summer: Low-lying areas and valleys may experience high temperatures during the summer, especially in the regions of El Bierzo and the stretches near Ourense. However, mountainous areas can offer cooler weather, although it is important to be prepared for the heat in the sunnier and drier stretches.
Given the changing climate and diversity of landscapes, it is essential to be prepared for both cold and warm conditions along the Camino de Invierno.
The Winter Way, a less travelled alternative to the French Way, is known for its beautiful scenery, and arises as an alternative to the passage of O Cebreiro. However, it presents some difficulties that pilgrims should be aware of:
- Mountainous terrain: The Winter Way crosses mountainous areas, such as the mountain ranges of O Courel and El Bierzo, with steep slopes that can be demanding, especially for pilgrims with little experience in mountain routes. The constant ascents and descents require good physical preparation.
- Changeable weather: Despite its name, this route can be walked all year round, but in winter the weather conditions can be more severe, with cold, snow and ice in the higher areas. During the summer, the heat can be intense in certain areas, especially in the valleys.
- Limited infrastructure: Unlike more popular routes such as the French Way, the Winter Way has fewer hostels and services along its route. It is essential to plan the stages well and book accommodation in advance, especially at peak times.
- Less signage: Although it has improved in recent years, the signage on some sections of the Camino de Invierno may not be as clear as on other busier routes. Pilgrims should be attentive to the markings and use maps or support applications.
The Winter Way is a route of about 260 km divided, generally, into 11 stages. Therefore, divided in this way, its duration is 11 days to complete the entire Camino on foot.
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.
The total km of the Winter Way are about 260 km from Ponferrada, its beginning. 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.
Posts related to the Winter Way
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