Offers

Camino Dos Faros

The way of the lighthouse

Overview

Pilgrimage along the galician coast

Malpica to Finisterre


Camino PR18-610:  
Malpica - Niñóns - Ponteceso - Laxe - Arou - Camariñas - Muxía - Nemiña - Fisterra

Type of travel: Individual - 10 days
Distance/difficulty: ca. 196 km, easy
Fare: from 860 EUR per person


The Camiño dos Faros, also known as the lighthouse trail, is a pilgrimage route that connects Malpica with Finisterre.

On this route, the sea plays a central role as we explore the lighthouses and sights of the Costa da Morte.

The route is divided into eight stages, and the times given for each stage are only approximate estimates, without taking into account stops. In practice, it often takes longer, as it is difficult not to pause at every step to admire the impressive surroundings. This hike should not be undertaken in a hurry, but with a focus on experiencing nature.

The lighthouse trail runs directly along the coast, and although we pass numerous beaches, we must not forget that the route runs along a steep, rugged coastline with many differences in altitude and challenging ascents and descents.

The combination of breathtaking beaches and rugged coastal landscape makes the Lighthouse Trail an unforgettable experience. Along the way, we cross areas where the best "percebes" (barnacles) in the world grow, shaped by the constant, powerful waves that crash against the rocks. In places like O Roncudo, we see where the "percebeiros" (fishermen who collect these barnacles) risk their lives to harvest this Galician delicacy.

During the eight days of this route, we will come across places of great historical importance, such as the cemetery of the English in Camariñas or the Santuario da Virxe da Barca with its mysterious "Stone of Abalar".

We experience the impressive nature of this region, from beaches, dunes, cliffs and forests to estuaries where numerous native bird species can be observed.

Our destination, Cape Fisterra, which has been considered the end of the world for centuries, offers a magical end to the hike. Here the Celts honored the sun, and we enjoy a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Galician coastline.

Although we now know that it is not the real end of the world, Cape Fisterra remains an incomparable destination for our nine-day hike through the natural paradise of the Costa da Morte.

Itinerary

Pilgrimage along the galician coast

Malpica to Finisterre


Day 1: Arrival in Malpica
Individual arrival in Malpica. Accommodation in Malpica.

Day 2: Malpica - Niñóns (21.9 km, approx. 5 hours)
Our first stage begins at the lighthouse in the port of Malpica and takes us through the picturesque fishing village. We enjoy wonderful views along unspoiled beaches before continuing towards Seiruga. After a few steep ascents and descents, we reach the Punta Nariga lighthouse. At the end of the stage, we transfer back to Malpica. Accommodation in Malpica.

Day 3: Niñóns - Ponteceso (26.1 km, approx. 6 hours)
After the transfer from Malpica to Niñóns, we start the second stage, which takes us through a varied landscape to Ponteceso. After crossing secluded bays, we reach the cliffs of Cabo Roncudo and Corme, where prehistoric cave paintings can be discovered. After a climb, we relax on the beach at Valarés before continuing on our way to Ponteceso.
Accommodation in Ponteceso.

Day 4: Ponteceso - Laxe
(25.2 km, approx. 5 hours)

The stage begins at the mouth of the Anllóns river. Along the way, we discover fascinating historical sites such as the Castro of Borneiro and the dolmen of Dombate, before climbing Monte Castelo. From Punta Cabalo we reach Laxe, where we cross the beach and end the stage.
Accommodation in Laxe.

Day 5: Laxe - Arou
(17.7 km, approx. 4 hours)

This is the shortest and easiest stage of our trip. After a visit to Monte da Insua and the Laxe lighthouse, we walk on to Soesto to enjoy the beautiful beach. We then head to Praia de Traba, where a beautiful lagoon awaits us. The last section takes us over a spectacular rocky landscape to Camelle and finally to Arou. Transfer to Camariñas.
Accommodation in Camariñas.

Day 6: Arou - Camariñas
(22.7 km, approx. 5 hours)

After the transfer from Camariñas to Arou, we begin our hike through the heart of the Camiño dos Faros along the Costa da Morte. The spectacular coastal landscape invites us to take breaks to enjoy the surroundings. We pass the cemetery of the English and the lighthouse of Cape Vilán before reaching the port of Camariñas.
Accommodation in Camariñas.

Day 7: Camariñas - Muxía
(32 km, approx. 8 hours)

This stage is the longest of the Camiño dos Faros, but relatively flat. We cross the Camariñas estuary and enjoy the impressive landscapes and villages along the way. After crossing the Río Grande and visiting the Praia do Lago, we reach Muxía.
Accommodation in Muxía.

Day 8: Muxía - Nemiña
(24.3 km, approx. 6 hours)

Today we hike from Muxía to Cape Touriñán, with a challenging stretch leading us to Moreira beach. From there, the path becomes easier until we reach the beach of Cabo Touriñán and finally Nemiña. Transfer to Lires.
Accommodation in Lires.

Day 9: Nemiña - Fisterra
(26.2 km, approx. 6 hours)

After the transfer from Lires to Nemiña, an impressive stage from Nemiña to Fisterra awaits us. The route is challenging, but the breathtaking cliffs and beaches as well as the majestic Cape Fisterra more than make up for the effort.
Accommodation in Fisterra.

Day 10: Fisterra
Check-out and end of our services. Slowly enjoy your way back home.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

about the Camino in France, Spain & Portugal



Services included:

  • Accomodation with breakfast (in either single resp. double room with shower/wc in simple to medium category)
  • Pilgrim´s Starter Kit (Pilgrim's Guide, Pilgrim's Pass, Pilgrim's Shell, description of stages)
  • Luggage transportation service (exclusion of luggage transport upon request)
  • Typical galician cheese tasting in the old town of Santiago de Compostela
  • 24h emergency number
  • Transfers
     

Dates:
From the beginning of April until the end of October.

Add-on:
Camino Finisterre afterwards within about 3-4 additional days.
 


The classic "Camino Francés" in its entire length starts in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France and ends in Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Pilgrims need around 34 days to walk the approx. 780 km.

We are also happy to divide your individual Camino into smaller sections, depending on your wishes.

The Spanish coastal path "Camino del Norte" leads from San Sebastián along the Atlantic coast to Santiago de Compostela. We plan 39 days for the approx. 800 km.

On the original "Camino primitivo", you will walk for 15 days for approx. 300 km from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela.

You can walk the last 114 km from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela in 8 days in a guided group.

The Portuguese Camino from Porto to Santiago de Compostela takes 15 days and is approx. 260 km long.
 


Unfortunately, dogs of any size are only welcome in very few accommodations in Spain. However, you can walk the last 114 km of the Camino de Santiago from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela with your dog upon request, we will be happy to create an an offer for you.
 


The Portuguese Way of St James along the coast, the "Camino portugues de la costa", 15 days from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, or the last 114 kilometres from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela, which pilgrims can walk in 8 days, are both suitable for beginners.
 

  • For pilgrims who want to walk long distances along the rugged North Atlantic coast, the Camino del Norte.
  • For pilgrims who want to walk short distances and love the sea and beaches, the Portuguese coastal route.
  • For pilgrims who are particularly interested in culture and historic old towns, the Portuguese inland route.
  • For pilgrims who want a challenging Camino, definitely the Camino Primitivo.
  • To experience the true Way of St James feeling, the Camino frances in its classic version. Apart from the coast, the Camino frances has everything to offer: challenges, spirituality, diverse landscapes, mountains, great encounters with other people. In its entirety, the Camino frances represents the real, authentic Way of St James experience.
     


All routes on the Way of St James are well identified with signposts showing the typical shell, so it is very unlikely to get lost.
 


Thanks to the many different sections you can walk, there is something for every fitness level. While some of the mountainous sections - like the route from St. Jean Pied de Port across the Pyrenees to Burgos - can certainly be a challenge for your muscles, there are also plenty of more relaxed routes, like the portuguese Camino along the coast.


The Compostela is a document issued to pilgrims who have completed the Camino de Santiago, the famous Way of St James that leads to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. This certificate is traditionally awarded to those who have covered at least 100 kilometres on foot or 200 kilometres by bicycle to the shrine Santiago and serves as "proof" of the pilgrimage. The issue of the Compostela is controlled by the Pilgrims' Office in Santiago de Compostela and has become a symbol of the rich cultural and religious heritage associated with the Camino de Santiago.


Apparel    

  • backpack (incl. rain protection): 35-50 l - max. 2 Kg/ 4.4 lbs
  • 2 pair of trekking pants: 1 convertable with zipper & 1 shorts
  • 2 shirts (functional material such as merino wool)
  • 1 long sleeve (best merino wool)
  • 2 pairs of hiking socks (compression socks are also recommended)
  • (possibly also nylon stockings - under the hiking socks against blisters)
  • 2 functional underpants
  • hiking boots (no sneakers)
  • 1 sweater
  • flipflops or crocs and/ or sandals
  • rain jacket & pants (or poncho) - max. 0,5 Kg/ 1.1 lbs
  • wind stopper
  • small travel towel
  • sun hat
  • poss. swimming gear (for the camino to Fisterra, for the portugese and spanish camino along the coast)

    
Sanitary Articles    

  • washbag (or big Zip-Lock-Bag)
  • shower gel (small travel version)
  • toothpaste (small travel version) & dental floss
  • toothbrush
  • disinfectant, needle & thread (best to treat blisters) or blister pads
  • deer cream (to prevent blisters) - 50-100 ml
  • magnesium
  • sun cream - 50-100 ml
  • deodorant
  • headache pills (preferably Ibuprofen 400)
  • razor
  • tissues
  • tiger balm

    
Technical Equipment    

  • headlamp
  • ebook-reader
  • phone
  • camera
  • pocket knife

    
Documents & Money    

  • purse
  • cash
  • credit card
  • passport (for non-europeans) or ID
  • train tickets
  • health insurance ID (or travel health insurance for non-europeans)
  • emergency phone numbers of your insurance and bank

   
Miscellaneous    

  • Pilgrim Guide & Itinerary
  • Pilgrim’s Credencial
  • diary & pen
  • St. James's scallop
  • sunglasses
  • drinking system (e.g. camel bag) - max. 2 l
  • zip lock bags or 10 liter freezer bags (for the modular pack system)
  • first aid kit
  • trekking poles or hiking/ pilgrim stick
  • stone as symbol (especially for the Camino Francés)
     


Luggage must be left at reception by 08.00 in the morning to ensure a smooth collection process. Either simply leave it there before breakfast or leave it at reception the evening before (and keep everything you need, such as a toothbrush, in your small luggage).
The deliverers usually have to deliver the luggage to the next accommodation by 15:30 local time. The accommodations we book accept the luggage even if they do not open for pilgrims to check in until later.
 


You will find the pilgrim's starter kit in your first accommodation, it contains the scallop shell, the pilgrim's passport, the luggage tags and brief descriptions of each stage.

You can get stamps for the pilgrim's passport in every hotel, but also in the restaurants and cafés along the way. You can get an additional stamp at places that you particularly like. Otherwise, please make sure that you get 2 stamps on every stage of the last 100 kilometres, every day. You need them to receive the Compostela at the pilgrims' office at the end.
 


We recommend pilgrimage in April, May, June, September and October due to the more moderate temperatures, but you can choose your travel period individually.
 


Changes to your camino pilgrimage route according to individual wishes, such as certain stage combinations or shortenings, are possible. We will be happy to create an individual offer for you.
 


We are also happy to receive short notice requests and will do everything we can to make your trip possible spontaneously, although this depends on the availability of the accommodations. Otherwise, please try to book your Camino de Santiago with us 6 weeks before your desired departure date.
 


The arrival at the starting point of the Camino must be arranged by travellers individually. We´d be happy to help you find a suitable train connection.
Transfers to/from the train station are not included unless otherwise stated. Upon request, we would be happy to organize a transfer from/to the train station or airport (price for a maximum of 3 people with luggage). Otherwise, we recommend taking a taxi or public transport to your first (or from your last) accommodation.
 


If you have booked a transfer, the driver will be waiting at the airport with a sign with your name on it as soon as you come out of baggage collection.
 


Notes

Please remember to bring your ID or passport.
We recommend - depending on the level of difficulty - to ensure that you are in good physical condition. Sure-footed, broken-in mountaineering boots are a must. A head for heights is also advantageous.
Please note the current entry and health regulations and recommendations, as well as the health and entry regulations of your travel country.
There is no minimum number of participants.
The organizer of this trip is SLOWTRAVEL.

Packing list

Packing list

for the classic french Camino, the portuguese Caminos, the Camino del Norte & Primitivo


What should I pack for my Camino Frances?

Apparel    

  • backpack (incl. rain protection): 35-50 l - max. 2 Kg/ 4.4 lbs
  • 2 pair of trekking pants: 1 convertable with zipper & 1 shorts
  • 2 shirts (functional material such as merino wool)
  • 1 long sleeve (best merino wool)
  • 2 pairs of hiking socks (compression socks are also recommended)
  • (possibly also nylon stockings - under the hiking socks against blisters)
  • 2 functional underpants
  • hiking boots (no sneakers)
  • 1 sweater
  • flipflops or crocs and/ or sandals
  • rain jacket & pants (or poncho) - max. 0,5 Kg/ 1.1 lbs
  • wind stopper
  • small travel towel
  • sun hat
  • poss. swimming gear (for the camino to Fisterra, for the portugese and spanish camino along the coast)

    
Sanitary Articles    

  • washbag (or big Zip-Lock-Bag)
  • shower gel (small travel version)
  • toothpaste (small travel version) & dental floss
  • toothbrush
  • disinfectant, needle & thread (best to treat blisters) or blister pads
  • deer cream (to prevent blisters) - 50-100 ml
  • magnesium
  • sun cream - 50-100 ml
  • deodorant
  • headache pills (preferably Ibuprofen 400)
  • razor
  • tissues
  • tiger balm

    
Technical Equipment    

  • headlamp
  • ebook-reader
  • phone
  • camera
  • pocket knife

    
Documents & Money    

  • purse
  • cash
  • credit card
  • passport (for non-europeans) or ID
  • train tickets
  • health insurance ID (or travel health insurance for non-europeans)
  • emergency phone numbers of your insurance and bank

   
Miscellaneous    

  • Pilgrim Guide & Itinerary
  • Pilgrim’s Credencial
  • diary & pen
  • St. James's scallop
  • sunglasses
  • drinking system (e.g. camel bag) - max. 2 l
  • zip lock bags or 10 liter freezer bags (for the modular pack system)
  • first aid kit
  • trekking poles or hiking/ pilgrim stick
  • stone as symbol (especially for the Camino Francés)