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Walk the Camino – The Pilgrim Way of St James 2026 – 8 days

Prices from £2,190 pp

Single Supplement £420

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Join us on a meaningful pilgrimage along the final stretch of the Camino Francés, the most celebrated route of the Camino de Santiago. Over the course of several days, we’ll journey on foot through the peaceful landscapes of rural Galicia - from oak forests and rolling farmland to centuries-old villages and Roman bridges - retracing the footsteps of countless pilgrims who have walked this sacred path for over a thousand years. Along the way, there will be time for quiet reflection, shared stories and simple joy in the rhythm of walking. Each step brings us closer to the spiritual heart of the Camino: Santiago de Compostela, where we’ll visit the magnificent cathedral that holds the tomb of St. James. Whether you’re walking for faith, reflection or adventure, this journey offers a powerful mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage and personal discovery. The group will be accompanied by The Revd Philip Johnson throughout. He will lead moments of reflection and worship along the way and help us connect our physical path with our inner spiritual journey.

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Itinerary

  1. Arrive in Santiago de Compostela

    We meet at the airport and board our plane. On Arrival in Spain, we transfer to Sarrià for check-in and a welcome dinner over which we will get to know our fellow pilgrims.

  2. Sarrià to Portomarin - 22km

    After a hearty breakfast, we begin our pilgrimage from Sarrià, one of the most popular starting points on the Camino Francés. Our walk today takes us through peaceful oak woods, quiet country lanes and gentle farmland, capturing the serene beauty of Galicia. Along the way, we pass through charming hamlets and cross medieval bridges that echo centuries of pilgrim footsteps. The final stretch leads us to the River Miño, where we cross into the historic town of Portomarín, once submerged and later rebuilt stone by stone on higher ground. We check into our hotel for the night and enjoy a well earned rest.

  3. Portomarin to Palas de Rei - 25km

    Today’s route is one of steady progress, beginning with a gentle climb out of Portomarín. Although we spend more time on paved roads, the open countryside, rolling hills and distant mountain views offer a picturesque backdrop. Midway through the day, we reach the Ligonde Sierra, a quiet stretch steeped in history, once visited by Emperor Charles V. The second half of the journey is a gradual descent into Palas de Rei, our overnight stop, where we unwind and prepare for the more rural paths to come.

  4. Palas de Rei to Melide - 15km

    Our walk today is shorter and more relaxed, allowing us to enjoy a gentle pace. The 15km route winds through woodlands, farmland and small villages. Along the way, we’ll cross ancient Roman bridges and pass the occasional wayside cross or traditional stone granary (hórreo). We arrive in Melide, a lively town known for its gastronomy and local culture. The afternoon is at leisure - a perfect opportunity to explore or sample the town’s famed pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus).

  5. Melide to Arzua - 15km

    The scenery becomes increasingly lush and green today as we cover another 15km stretch. The route includes some challenging uphill and downhill sections, but the effort is well rewarded with some of the most beautiful landscapes of the pilgrimage. The trail takes us through forests, across rivers and past centuries-old chapels. We end the day in Arzúa, a town with strong agricultural roots. Be sure to try the locally made Arzúa-Ulloa cheese, a regional delicacy with Protected Designation of Origin status.

  6. Arzua to Rúa - 18km

    This stage leads us through quiet forest paths and sleepy hamlets, with eucalyptus groves lining much of the way. The rhythm of the walk, paired with the calming sounds of nature, offers a meditative experience. As we approach Rúa, we stop at the Chapel of St. Irene, home to a beautiful statue of the saint and a fountain believed to have healing properties. On arrival in Rúa we’ll rest up for our final day’s walk into Santiago.

  7. Rua to Santiago de Compostela - 21 km

    We set off early for our final stage. Today’s 21km walk includes a few steeper inclines, but the path is alive with fellow pilgrims and a sense of shared purpose. Just before entering Santiago, we pause at Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy), where pilgrims traditionally caught their first glimpse of the spires of the great cathedral. Upon arrival in Santiago de Compostela, we make our way to the Cathedral where, time permitting, we’ll attend the Pilgrims’ Mass and may witness the swinging of the famous Botafumeiro, one of the most iconic symbols of the Camino. This giant thurible - a metal censer used for buring incense - is suspended from the cathedral ceiling and swung in wide arcs by a team of attendants. This ritual is intended to purify the air in the days before modern hygiene! This moment marks the culmination of our pilgrimage, a time for both celebration and reflection.

  8. Depart for the UK

    After a morning at leisure to rest or to further explore Santiago de Compostela, we transfer to the airport this afternoon for our flight back to the UK.

Essential Information

The cost for this eight day tour is £2,300 per person. The cost is based on sharing a double or twin-bedded room and includes all excursions and most expenses. A number of single rooms are available for a supplement from £350.

This tour includes:
• Return flights from a London airport to Santiago de Compostela
• 7 nights accommodation along the route with breakfast and dinner included
• Private deluxe motor coach for transfers and touring as per itinerary
• English-speaking local guide
• Entrance fees as per itinerary
• Gratuities are included and will be disbursed locally

Flights from regional airports can be arranged at a supplement subject to availability, you can also book this tour without flights. For more information please ask for details.

A £500 per person non-refundable deposit is payable on confirmation. After which, an instalment payment amounting to 50% of the total cost of your trip is due 26 weeks prior to departure with the final balance due twelve weeks prior to departure.

Special requests
Any special requirements, such as dietary needs, mobility requests, and any other requests should be noted at the time of booking.

Late bookings
Please note that for bookings made within 12 weeks of departure, the price may increase due to the fluctuating cost of flights. If this arises, we will always discuss this with you before processing your booking.

Final travel documents
These will be emailed to you two weeks before departure.

Travel insurance
Travel insurance is essential. We require all travellers to have adequate cancellation and medical coverage for their journey. We are partnered with Holiday Extras who offer a comprehensive policy as well as yearly policies that also cover short UK overnight stays.

Mobility
Many of our tours and excursions are designed for those who are able to travel independently, or with the support of a companion who can assist during the trip. We recommend that participants feel comfortable with physical activity and are able to manage longer travel days, which may include early starts and extended periods on the road. Please note that the quality of vehicles and roads may vary from what you’re accustomed to in the UK. We encourage you to consider your personal health and comfort when planning your adventure, and we’re happy to help if you have any specific concerns or questions about the suitability of a tour for your needs.

Practical information

About McCabe Pilgrimages
McCabe has been arranging journeys of faith, culture and spirituality for over 40 years with an unwavering focus on attention to detail and service. With a deep understanding of the unique needs and aspirations of Christian travellers, McCabe strive to make every trip a memorable and meaningful experience.

McCabe Travel Ltd. trades as McCabe Pilgrimages. McCabe Travel Ltd. is registered in England and Wales. Registered No. 2125334. VAT No: 318527355. Registered office address: McCabe Travel, The Square, Basing View, Basingstoke, RG21 4EB.

The McCabe Educational Trust
The McCabe Educational Trust is an independent registered charity which was set up in 1991 to support Christian communities. To date the Trust has distributed more than £4 million in grants. The Trust raises money by inviting all our travellers to make an optional £20 donation at the time of booking. All money given in this way is given in full to the projects the Trust supports. This scheme is voluntary and confidential with nobody put under any pressure to participate.

Passports, visas and health
• Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the end of this pilgrimage. If you need a new passport apply early as there can be considerable backlogs at the passport offices.
• British passport holders travelling to Spain do not require a visa.
• Non British passport holders will need to contact us for further details.
• There are no mandatory inoculations required for Spain, however we advise that you consult your doctor regarding your own personal requirements.
• Please carry an adequate supply of essential medication in your hand luggage in case your checked luggage is lost.

Mobility
This is a walking pilgrimage with no coach back-up, so a good level of fitness is required and it is essential to start preparatory walks well before departure. If for any reason you are  unable to complete a day’s walk or need some rest time, the guide can help you arrange a taxi to take you to the next hotel. Walking days will vary in length and will be mostly off-road along pilgrim paths.

Financial security
All monies paid are fully protected through McCabe’s membership of the ABTOT bonding scheme. In addition, McCabe are also members of the Association of Independent Tour Operators and abide by the Association’s code of conduct. This pilgrimage is ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. The McCabe ATOL number is 2920.

Holiday insurance
Ensuring that your holidays are appropriately protected is one of our main priorities. That’s why we have partnered with Holiday Extras so you can get a travel insurance quote to protect you before and whilst you are travelling. Holiday Extras Cover Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and has been independently rated 5-stars by Defaqto. For more information or to obtain a quote, please go to their website at www.holidayextras.com/travel-insurance or call them on 0800 083 3551 to speak to a friendly advisor. Please quote AG628 when you call for a 10%
discount.

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