The last 100 km: where to start
One week of walking, the Compostela at the end of it. The Pilgrim Office asks for at least 100 km on foot into Santiago, and three starts clear that line with a proper walk behind them: Sarria on the Francés, Ferrol at the head of the Inglés, and Tui on the Portugués. Each has its own page with the day by day plan, the elevation profile for just that stretch, and how to get there.
From Sarria
The classic start, and the busiest
115 km · 5 walking days · +1780 m climb
On the Camino Francés
From Ferrol
A complete Camino in under a week, by the sea
111 km · 6 walking days · +1694 m climb
On the Camino Inglés
From Tui
The gentlest finish, out of a cathedral border town
117 km · 6 walking days · +1135 m climb
On the Camino Portugués
Side by side
| Start | Route | Km | Days | Climb | Character |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sarria | Camino Francés | 115 | 5 | +1780 m | The classic start, and the busiest |
| Ferrol | Camino Inglés | 111 | 6 | +1694 m | A complete Camino in under a week, by the sea |
| Tui | Camino Portugués | 117 | 6 | +1135 m | The gentlest finish, out of a cathedral border town |
Which one fits you
Pick Sarria for the classic finish and the fullest services, and accept the crowds. Pick Ferrol for a complete route in under a week and a quieter path. Pick Tui for the gentlest climbing and the best string of towns. All three end the same way: down the hill from Monte do Gozo, into the old town, and across the Praza do Obradoiro to the cathedral.
One start that does not make this page: A Coruña, the Inglés second start, is about 75 km from Santiago, short of the 100 km minimum on its own. It is a lovely three or four days, but it does not earn the Compostela by itself.
Still deciding on a whole route? Start with the route guides, or turn any of these plans into dated days and a budget in the stage planner.
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