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RUTAS MEIGAS, your provider of organised trips to the Camino de Santiago
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The Camino de Santiago travel agency you’ve been looking for
We’ve been organizing unique Camino de Santiago experiences for over 25 years. We’re pilgrims just like you, we know every corner of the way and take care of every detail so that you can focus on what truly matters: living your own Camino.
Our goal is very simple: that our pilgrims only have to worry about enjoying the Camino. We’ll take care of everything else.
Want more info?Why Rutas Meigas as your Camino de Santiago travel agency
Looking for an organized Camino de Santiago provider?
Our team takes care of everything: accommodation, luggage transfers, Pilgrim Credential, 24/7 emergency phone assistance. Everything is ready so you can just walk, relax, and enjoy the journey. We are the organized Camino de Santiago agency you were looking for.
Prefer to walk the Camino de Santiago in a group?
We also organize group departures, so you can share the experience with fellow pilgrims. Get in touch with us and let’s plan your Camino together.
Perhaps you’d prefer to do the Camino de Santiago with support?
Forget the hassle. Rutas Meigas offers the Camino de Santiago with support — your personalized and secure path to experiencing this iconic journey. We handle all the logistics so you can focus entirely on the experience.
Thousands of happy pilgrims
Thousands of people from all over the world have trusted us to make their dream of reaching Santiago come true, standing at the feet of the Apostle, and even continuing to the end of the world: Finisterre and Muxía.
Personalized and close attention
We listen, we guide you, and we tailor each experience to your needs. Because every Camino is unique.
Save time and avoid complications
We take care of accommodations, luggage transfers, and all those little details that make a big difference, so your Camino is exactly what you want it to be.
Tailor-made routes
Want shorter or longer stages? Prefer rural accommodations? Traveling with a group? We customize everything for you.
Some questions?
We’re here to help you plan your Camino de Santiago.
Send us a message or check the answers to the most frequently asked questions from other pilgrims.
Why walk the Camino de Santiago with Rutas Meigas
We want you to enjoy your Camino de Santiago the way you deserve, just as you’ve imagined it, and in line with your expectations. That’s why the Rutas Meigas team takes care of every detail of your pilgrimage to Compostela. So you can focus entirely on living the experience to the fullest, step by step.
If you’re looking for a Camino de Santiago that is unique, safe, tailored to your pace and needs, Rutas Meigas is your travel agency.
We’ll book all your accommodations, handle luggage transfers between stages, include travel insurance for the duration of the Camino, and provide 24/7 emergency phone support should anything unexpected come up along the way.
We stay close to our pilgrims, from the very first step, all the way to Compostela.
Want more info?Our services as a Camino de Santiago agency
Discover everything we can do for you as a Camino de Santiago agency: tailor-made organization, personalized routes, luggage transport, charming accommodations, and much more.
What do they say about us?
Why do the Camino de Santiago?
Thousands of people from all over the world walk the Camino de Santiago each year for reasons as varied as faith, a desire for adventure, or a need to stop and reconnect. Whatever the reason, they all agree on one thing: the Camino leaves its mark.
Visit the tomb of the Apostle
The Camino began as a pilgrimage route to the Cathedral of Santiago, where the Apostle’s remains rest. For many, this remains one of the main reasons for starting the Camino: to pray, give thanks, seek forgiveness, or simply keep a promise.
Discover unique landscapes
The Camino de Santiago passes through mountains, forests, valleys, villages, historic cities, and coastal areas. With every step, the landscape changes. You walk surrounded by history and nature, enjoying environments difficult to find on other routes.
Meet other pilgrims
Even if you start alone, the Camino unites you with others. You share journeys, conversations, laughter, meals… and often, lifelong friendships are formed. Pilgrims of different ages and countries meet and understand each other without needing to speak the same language.
Overcome yourself
The Camino can be tough. There are long stages, hills, fatigue, and blisters. But there’s also overcoming. Each day is a small achievement that fills you with confidence and strength. And when you reach Santiago, the pride you feel is incomparable.
Truly disconnect
No schedules, no rush, no notifications. Just you, the path, and your surroundings. The Camino de Santiago is one of the few places where you can completely disconnect and connect with what’s essential: your thoughts, your body, and your breath.
Enjoy the simple things
A hot coffee at dawn before starting the stage, a yellow arrow, a milestone indicating that there are fewer kilometers left. On the Camino, you learn to enjoy the little things that, in everyday life, go unnoticed. It’s a lesson in simplicity and presence (yes, what is now called mindfulness).
An experience for everyone
You don’t need to be an athlete or an expert. There are long and short routes, challenging and easy. You can do it alone, as a couple, with friends, or with family. The important thing isn’t how many kilometers you walk, but what you experience in each one.
I walk with everything organized
If you want to forget about logistics, you can count on an agency like Rutas Meigas. We take care of everything: luggage transport, reservations, insurance, assistance… So you can just focus on enjoying your Camino.
The Camino does not end in Compostela
The true end isn’t the Cathedral, or even Finisterre. The Camino continues when you return home. The lessons you learn while walking—patience, silence, strength, gratitude—stay with you. And that’s the most valuable part of this experience.
Back to what's important
In a life filled with noise, the Camino is a space to listen to yourself. To reflect on your purpose, what you want to leave behind, and where you’d like to go. Sometimes it’s a starting point. Sometimes, it’s the push you needed.
And you, why don't you do the Camino de Santiago?
You don’t need a grand reason to embark on the Camino de Santiago. Sometimes, all you need is a desire to experience something different, break away from your routine, or give yourself some time alone. The Camino de Santiago is there, waiting for you. And once you do, you’ll never come back the same.
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Which Camino de Santiago route is best for walking in the heat?
July and August are the months when many pilgrims, taking advantage of the summer holidays, follow the yellow arrows towards Compostela. They’re also the hottest months. And although all routes of the Camino de Santiago (Saint James Way) can be walked in summer, not all of them suffer the high temperatures in the same way.
If summer is the only time you have available, choosing the right route can make all the difference in enjoying the Saint James Way as it deserves.
That’s why today we’re telling you which Caminos are more bearable in high temperatures, which ones you should avoid, and a few tricks for coping with any of them.
Why the heat feels so different depending on the route
The different routes of the Saint James Way are very long and cross such wide geographic areas that climate variations are only natural. Walking along the Cantabrian Sea is not the same as crossing the Castilian plateau without any shade. Three factors make the difference: proximity to the coast, which softens temperatures thanks to the Atlantic breeze; altitude and terrain, since mountain and forest areas offer shade for much of the day; and the length of the route, because fewer stages mean fewer days of accumulated heat exposure.
The coolest routes: the power of the Atlantic breeze
One very effective way to beat the heat on the Camino de Santiago is to walk beside the sea. Galicia’s coastal routes are, year after year, the most recommended for summer.
- Portuguese Coastal Way: runs right along the coastline, with the Atlantic breeze cooling the walk and several beaches for a dip at the end of the stage. It’s probably the most rewarding option in summer.
- Northern Way (Camino del Norte): follows the entire Cantabrian coast before heading into Galicia, keeping milder temperatures than inland routes for much of its length, with cliffs, riverside woodland and coastal villages.
- Spiritual Variant and Father Sarmiento Route: both move through the Rías Baixas, with stretches along the sea and the chance to stop at beaches such as Combarro, O Terrón or A Lanzada — ideal for cooling off mid-stage.
The English Way: the short option to escape the heat
If your goal is minimising days of heat exposure, the English Way (Camino Inglés) is one of your best bets: with just 5–6 stages from Ferrol or A Coruña, it lets you complete the pilgrimage in just over a week, greatly reducing the accumulated strain of the hottest days. Much of the route also runs through eucalyptus and oak woodland that offers shade.
Routes to avoid in midsummer: the Meseta and the Vía de la Plata
At the opposite extreme are the inland routes that cross vast plains with almost no shade. The stretch of the French Way (Camino Francés) that crosses the Meseta of Castilla y León, between Burgos and León, is among the toughest in summer: mile after mile of open fields where the sun beats down directly for much of the day.
It’s even harder if you walk the Vía de la Plata from its starting point in the south of the peninsula. This is the Jacobean route where extreme temperatures are most easily reached in July and August. If you have no choice but to walk it in those months, one alternative is to join the Vía de la Plata from Ourense, avoiding the toughest southern stretch.
Tips for coping with the heat on any Camino
Whichever route you choose, remember it’s summer, and heatwaves are becoming more common even in the north. So it’s always worth following a few tips:
- Start walking at dawn: getting ahead of the heat and reaching your destination by mid-morning is, by far, the most effective trick on any route.
- Lighten your backpack: with Rutas Meigas, luggage transfer for one bag is already included, and you can add more if you need to. But walk with a small daypack carrying only what’s essential for that stage.
- Choose stages with a river or beach: many stretches of the Camino, even inland ones, pass by swimming spots — check ahead of each stage and make the most of the stop.
- Stay hydrated constantly: don’t wait until you’re thirsty, and always carry sun protection and something to cover your head.
Frequently asked questions about walking the Camino de Santiago in the heat
Which is the best Camino de Santiago to walk in summer heat?
The Portuguese Coastal Way and the Northern Way are the most recommended in summer, since they run along the sea and benefit from the Atlantic breeze, which softens temperatures compared with inland routes.
Which Camino de Santiago should you avoid in midsummer because of the heat?
The Vía de la Plata between Seville and Galicia, and the stretch of the Camino Francés that crosses the Meseta of Castilla y León between Burgos and León, are the toughest in summer due to their long, shadeless plains and the extreme temperatures they can reach.
Is it better to walk the Camino de Santiago along the coast or inland in summer?
In summer, the coast is preferable. The Atlantic breeze softens temperatures and lets you cool off at beaches near the route, which isn’t always possible on inland Caminos.
What time is best to walk in summer to avoid the heat?
It’s best to start the stage at dawn and reach your destination by mid-morning, before temperatures peak between 1pm and 5pm.
Which Portuguese Way is better in summer, the Coastal or the Central route?
The Portuguese Coastal Way is more recommended in summer than the Central route, since it runs right along the coastline with sea breeze and beaches to swim at, while the Central route runs inland with fewer ways to cool off.
Is it advisable to walk the Northern Way in summer?
Yes. The Northern Way follows the Cantabrian coast and keeps milder temperatures than inland routes, with stretches of cliffs, forest and coastal villages to cool off in.
What short Camino can you walk in summer without suffering too much heat?
The English Way, with only 5–6 stages from Ferrol or A Coruña, is one of the best options for reducing days of heat exposure, and much of the route runs through shaded woodland.
The best Way to beat the heat
In the end, the best Camino in the heat is the one you prepare for best. Check whether there’s shade along the route, places to cool off or swim, and follow the tips above — which are really just a bit of “sentidiño” (Galician good sense) applied to the trail.
At Rutas Meigas we can help you plan your Camino de Santiago with the heat in mind, so summer becomes an ally rather than an obstacle on your pilgrimage.
Buen Camino!
Best beaches along the Camino de Santiago in Galicia
Some people picture the Saint James Way (Camino de Santiago) as a route through forests, villages and inland hamlets. And most of the time, it is. But in Galicia, the Way also smells of sea salt.
If you walk the Saint James Way in summer, you’ll find long stretches along the Galician coast — the longest in Spain — where you can take a dip and cool off after many kilometres on foot.
Where to take a dip without leaving your route on the Way
Several variants of the Saint James Way skirt estuaries, sandy shores and small coves where the pilgrim can pull off their boots, dip their feet in the water for a while, and continue their route with their batteries recharged. Or take a proper swim, of course.
Portuguese Coastal Way: the beaches of the Rías Baixas
This variant, which follows the Atlantic coastline from Portugal to Compostela, passes close to some of the most iconic summer beaches in Galicia. The Portuguese Coastal Way offers several excellent stretches of sand without straying far from the yellow arrows.
- Area Grande (A Guarda): right in the town centre of A Guarda, this pleasant beach is surrounded by restaurants — perfect for relaxing at the end of a stage, or before starting the next one if you’re an early-morning swimmer.
- Playa América, Panxón and Patos (Nigrán): after the medieval bridge at A Ramallosa, the route passes the magnificent sands of Panxón and Playa América. A little further on lies Praia de Patos. All three are highly sought-after beaches during the Galician summer.
- Praia de Samil (Vigo): shortly after, the route reaches the Samil inlet, Vigo’s beach of choice, preceded by other smaller but equally beautiful stretches of sand — especially since this area offers superb views of the Cíes Islands.
- Praia de Cesantes (Redondela): a beautiful beach over 2,400 metres long, with the added bonus of the incredible scenery of San Simón Bay, the Rande Bridge in the background, and the mysterious Isla de San Simón in between.
English Way: between city waves and quiet coves
The English Way sets off from A Coruña or Ferrol and, although it’s a shorter route, it doesn’t lack for sea moments.
- Orzán and Riazor beaches (A Coruña): pilgrims who choose the variant starting in A Coruña begin their stage with waves breaking alongside them, over a thousand metres of urban sand, plenty of facilities, and the Tower of Hercules in the background.
- Playa de la Magdalena (Pontedeume): you’ll pass this beach on the English Way if you set off from Ferrol, on the second stage, between Neda and Pontedeume.
Spiritual Variant: granaries and coves leading to the Traslatio
The Spiritual Variant of the Portuguese Way branches off in Pontevedra to recreate, several stages later, the sea voyage that carried the remains of the Apostle Saint James. Before boarding, pilgrims pass several beaches of the Rías Baixas.
- O Terrón and As Sinas in Vilanova de Arousa: Praia de O Terrón is one of the beaches pilgrims reach as they approach Vilanova, on the outskirts of town — ideal for a calm, family atmosphere, with gentle waters and golden sand. Surrounded by lush vegetation, it offers panoramic views over the estuary, calm and clear waters perfect for swimming, and activities such as kayaking and paddle surfing, plus a seafront promenade. Past the town centre lies Praia de As Sinas, with beach bars nearby and areas for a stroll.
- Illa de Arousa: if you feel like crossing the bridge (2 km from Vilanova), Illa de Arousa boasts some of the most spectacular beaches on the whole estuary: playa das Margaritas, playa dos Petóns and playa dos Espiños, as well as playa de Lameira, Lontreira and Punta Carreirón, with turquoise waters and white sand. And if you still have energy to walk a little further, you can reach Punta Cabalo, home to the lighthouse. Beside it sits a small beach, and a larger one that is among the prettiest on the island: Playa Area da Secada.
Father Sarmiento Route: the beachiest of them all
Although it isn’t an official Camino de Santiago, if you don’t want to lose sight of the sea for a moment, the Father Sarmiento Route is the Galician variant with the most consecutive beaches. It recreates the coastal itinerary the Benedictine friar walked in 1745 between Pontevedra and Santiago, staying close to the Pontevedra and Arousa estuaries the whole way.
It runs through places like Sanxenxo, Portonovo and O Grove, with countless beaches (Silgar, Montalvo, Paxariñas…), many of them Blue Flag beaches. But the queen of them all is A Lanzada, one of the best Atlantic beaches in Europe, nearly 3 kilometres long and much loved by surfers. Precisely because of this, watch out for the waves here — this isn’t the sheltered estuary, it’s the open sea, and the Ocean has a character of its own.
Again, if you’re walking this route — just as on the Spiritual Way — you can make a side trip to Illa de Arousa.
Way to Fisterra and Muxía: the Costa da Morte has beaches too
The Jacobean extension towards Fisterra and Muxía, starting from Cee, reveals more stretches of sand.
- Estorde, Sardiñeiro and Langosteira: between Corcubión and Fisterra, the Way runs almost right along the sea, linking these three beaches. Langosteira, the best known, was once where pilgrims bathed before reaching the cape to purify themselves ahead of the Lighthouse. It remains a classic stop today.
- Mar de Fóra and O Rostro (Fisterra): already in Fisterra itself, these two beaches open onto the Atlantic and have a wilder character, with regular swell and less shelter from the wind. They’re also two regular surfing spots on the Costa da Morte.
- Praia de Lires: on the stage between Fisterra and Muxía, the Way descends to this beach on Galicia’s smallest estuary — one of the quietest, least-crowded corners of the entire Jacobean extension.
- Playa de Lourido (Muxía): on the final stretch towards the sanctuary of A Virxe da Barca, the Way skirts this roughly 300-metre stretch of fine sand, flanked by a dune system, just before entering the village.
- Playa de Nemiña: it lies outside the official route, but for anyone with an extra day in Muxía, it’s a highly recommended excursion — considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Galicia.
Frequently asked questions about the beaches on the Saint James Way
Which beaches are along the Saint James Way in Galicia?
The Camino de Santiago passes several beaches in Galicia, such as Playa América and Samil on the Portuguese Coastal Way, Riazor and Orzán on the English Way, Combarro and O Terrón on the Spiritual Variant, and A Lanzada, Silgar and Montalvo on the Father Sarmiento Route.
Which variant of the Saint James Way has the most beaches?
Without being an official Camino, the Father Sarmiento Route is the Galician variant with the most consecutive beaches. It hugs the coastline between Pontevedra and Santiago, passing A Lanzada, Silgar, Montalvo, Paxariñas and the beaches of Illa de Arousa and Vilanova de Arousa, most of them Blue Flag beaches.
Can you walk the Camino de Santiago and swim in the sea?
Yes. On the Portuguese Coastal Way, the English Way, the Spiritual Variant and the Father Sarmiento Route, there are stretches that run right alongside beaches, so it’s entirely possible to plan your stage around a swimming stop without straying far from the route.
Which beach is near Santiago de Compostela to cool off after the Camino?
If you have a car, the closest option to Santiago would be the beaches around Noia. The beaches of Vilagarcía de Arousa (Compostela and La Concha), located in the town centre, are reachable by train — which possibly makes them the most convenient option once you finish the Camino de Santiago.
Which beaches does the Portuguese Way pass?
The Portuguese Coastal Way passes Playa América and Panxón, in Nigrán, and Praia de Samil, in Vigo, where you can spot the Cíes Islands before the route heads into the city.
What beaches are on the English Way?
Those setting off from A Coruña begin the stage right next to Riazor and Orzán beaches, in the heart of the city. From Ferrol, the route passes Playa de la Magdalena, in Pontedeume — a much quieter alternative.
Which beaches do you see on the Spiritual Variant of the Camino de Santiago?
The Spiritual Variant passes the beach of Combarro and, once in Vilanova de Arousa, O Terrón and As Sinas, right before boarding for the Traslatio. Two kilometres away, Illa de Arousa offers turquoise-water beaches such as das Margaritas or dos Petóns.
Every pilgrim, their own beach
In the end, there’s no single way to experience the Saint James Way (Camino de Santiago), and no single beach to recommend either. You might prefer the urban buzz of Riazor, the calm, family feel of O Terrón, the impossible blue of Illa de Arousa, or the vastness of A Lanzada. Whichever variant you choose, in summer, the sea is never too far away in Galicia.
Buen Camino!
July 25, Feast of St. James, why it’s celebrated and how
July 25 is the Feast of St. James the Apostle, Galicia’s most important religious and civic holiday. It marks the day St. James began his eternal life after his martyrdom, and it’s celebrated in Santiago de Compostela with a solemn Mass, the swinging of the giant botafumeiro incense burner, fireworks, and two weeks of festivities. When July 25 falls on a Sunday, the Catholic Church declares a Holy Year, a rare honor shared only by Santiago de Compostela, Rome, and Jerusalem — the next one falls in 2027.
Every July 25 is etched into the memory and calendar of Galicians in general, and of picheleiros in particular. On this date, our city hosts one of the oldest and most solemn celebrations still observed today.
At Rutas Meigas, every year we walk alongside thousands of pilgrims arriving in Santiago de Compostela via the various Camino de Santiago routes. And we know that few experiences hit harder than reaching the end of the Camino during the Feast of the Apostle — or better yet, during one of the rare Holy Years that occur only a handful of times per century. The next one, as it happens, is 2027.
Why we Celebrate St. James the Apostle on July 25
St. James — called “the Greater” to distinguish him from another apostle of the same name — was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus of Nazareth and, alongside his brother John and Peter, one of his closest companions. Christian tradition places his martyrdom in Jerusalem around the year 44 AD, beheaded by order of Herod Agrippa I, making him the first apostle known to have been martyred according to written record. July 25 doesn’t actually commemorate his death, but rather the beginning of his eternal life — which is why it’s a feast day for Christians.
According to tradition, after his death his disciples Theodore and Athanasius recovered his body and carried it by sea to the shores of Gallaecia, present-day Galicia, where he had preached during his lifetime. He was buried there, and his tomb lay forgotten for centuries — until the 9th century, when a hermit named Pelagius (Paio), guided by strange lights over a forest, discovered the remains. The find was confirmed by Bishop Theodomir and by King Alfonso II “the Chaste” of Asturias, who traveled to the site and, according to tradition, became history’s first pilgrim.
Over that “field of stars”, the city we know today would eventually rise.
From forgotten tomb to holy city: the birth of the Camino de Santiago
The discovery of the tomb completely transformed that corner of northwestern Spain. Within a couple of centuries, Compostela went from a modest settlement to one of the three great pilgrimage destinations of medieval Christianity, alongside Rome and Jerusalem. Thousands of pilgrims from across Europe began walking what we now call the Camino de Santiago — a network of routes that drove the construction of bridges, hospitals, monasteries, and churches, and helped shape much of medieval Europe.
That universal appeal explains why, centuries later, UNESCO designated the Camino de Santiago a World Heritage Site, and why every July 25, thousands of people from around the world still converge on the same square to mark the same date that’s been celebrated for over a thousand years.
The Holy Year of Compostela
If July 25 is already a special date every year, there’s one circumstance that elevates it to an entirely different level: when it falls on a Sunday. When that happens, the Church declares a Holy Year of Compostela (Año Santo Compostelano), a unique privilege granted only to Santiago de Compostela, Rome, and Jerusalem.
This privilege dates back to 1122, when Pope Calixtus II granted Compostela the honor of celebrating a Jubilee Year whenever the Feast of the Apostle fell on a Sunday. Decades later, in 1178, Pope Alexander III confirmed and made this privilege permanent through the papal bull Regis Aeterni, formally placing Compostela on equal footing with Rome and Jerusalem as a destination for plenary indulgence.
Because of how the calendar and leap years work, this coincidence follows a repeating pattern of 6, 5, 6, and 11 years, producing fourteen Holy Years per century. In recent decades, Compostela Holy Years were celebrated in 1993, 1999, 2004, 2010, and 2021 — the latter extended into 2022 by Pope Francis due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Following that same pattern, the next Holy Year will be 2027, followed by 2032.
During Holy Years, Santiago Cathedral opens its Holy Door (Puerta Santa), located in Quintana Square, in a ceremony held on New Year’s Eve of the preceding year, when the archbishop symbolically strikes with a silver hammer what, for centuries, was a bricked-up wall. Passing through the Holy Door, together with confession, communion, and prayer for the Pope’s intentions, allows pilgrims to obtain the plenary indulgence — a full remission of the temporal punishment for already-confessed sins, which for many believers is the ultimate purpose of their pilgrimage.
How Santiago de Compostela celebrates the Feast of the Apostle
The Feast of the Apostle isn’t limited to a single day. For nearly two weeks, Compostela fills with concerts, exhibitions, street parades, and outdoor performances that build in intensity toward the two biggest days: July 24 and 25.
Novena of St. James the Apostle
From July 15 to 23, at 7:30 PM each evening, the Novena of St. James the Apostle is held at the Cathedral. On July 24, ahead of the grand solemn Mass the following day, the Archbishop of Santiago de Compostela, His Excellency and Most Reverend Francisco José Prieto Fernández, will preside over Solemn Vespers. On that day, the Pilgrim’s Mass is celebrated at 8:30 PM, an hour later than usual.
During this period, Pilgrim’s Masses are also held daily at 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 7:30 PM.
Fogos do Apóstolo: the night that lights up the city
The night of July 24 is, for many picheleiros (locals from Santiago) and visitors, the true heart of the festival. This is the Fogos do Apóstolo (“Fires of the Apostle”) — a light, sound, and fireworks show that draws tens of thousands of people to Obradoiro Square and other iconic spots across the city. Its documented origins date back to the 16th century, when the square was lit with colored candles to mark the start of the celebration. In the 17th and 18th centuries, that lighting evolved into the burning of a large pyrotechnic “castle” designed to mimic the Cathedral’s façade.
For heritage-preservation reasons, since 2020 the fireworks display is no longer staged on the Cathedral façade itself. Today the fireworks are launched from several points around central Santiago — typically the Alameda park, the Fontiñas Steps (Carlomagno Park), and the Cidade da Cultura de Galicia.
The Apostle’s Mass, the National Offering, and the Botafumeiro
On July 25, religious solemnity takes center stage. The Apostle’s Mass is celebrated in the Cathedral, usually presided over by the Archbishop of Santiago, during which the traditional National Offering to the Apostle takes place — a ceremony dating back to 1643, when King Philip IV instituted an offering of a thousand gold escudos to the patron saint of Spain.
Today, the King of Spain, a representative of the Royal Household, or a royal delegate travels to Compostela each year to present this offering on behalf of the nation. During the Mass, it’s also customary for the famous botafumeiro to swing — the giant incense burner that sweeps across the Cathedral’s transept, filling the church with a cloud of incense in what is, for pilgrims and visitors alike, one of the most unforgettable images of the entire Camino de Santiago.
Galicia Day
July 25 is also Galicia’s National Day, the region’s official civic holiday, which takes advantage of the Apostle’s feast day to hold official ceremonies, cultural events, and public demonstrations tied to Galician identity.
On this single day, Compostela brings together religious solemnity, Galician cultural pride, and popular celebration — a combination that explains why this date is so unforgettable.
Feast of the Apostle 2026: Festival Program
After several years without it, the Feast of the Apostle 2026 brings back the light-and-sound show projected onto the façade of the Pazo de Raxoi, in Obradoiro Square. The projection will run about 9 minutes, blending imagery and music in a narrative sequence that brings the building’s façade to life.
It can be enjoyed over three nights: July 24 (the festival’s biggest day), with showings every 15 minutes between midnight and 2:00 AM; and July 25 and 26, with showings between 11:00 PM and 1:00 AM. The show joins the rest of the confirmed 2026 program (July 18–31), which includes concerts by Lila Downs and Belém Tajes on July 24, and closes with The Rapants on July 31.
A July 25 already looking ahead to the 2027 Holy Year
There are only a few days left until this year’s July 25 — the starting gun for two straight weeks of festivities in our city. But throughout 2026, it’s impossible not to already look ahead to next year.
Our last Holy Year — also the first double Holy Year in our history, 2021–2022 — was an unusual Jubilee, precisely because it coincided with the tail end of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many pilgrims were still seen wearing masks and keeping their distance; the traditional embrace of the Apostle’s statue above the high altar wasn’t even possible at the time.
So yes, there’s real appetite for a Holy Year without restrictions — and one that’s approaching amid rumors that Pope Leo XIV could visit. The invitation has already been extended, and surely the Apostle will do his part to make it happen.
It might not hurt, either, to ask the meigas (Galicia’s legendary witches) for a little help…
Buen Camino!
Rutas Meigas | Camino de Santiago and hiking specialists in Galicia | rutasmeigas.com
Frequently asked questions about our Camino de Santiago agency
Why go on a pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago?
Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come to Santiago de Compostela every year. The majority of them on foot, many by bike, some on horseback or even by sailboat, by sea.
What is it that moves people from almost every country in the world to devote a considerable amount of their time to the physical and personal exertion that the Camino de Santiago entails?
There are various reasons for this.
• Religious and / or spiritual
There are many reasons why pilgrims choose to walk the Camino de Santiago. Some do it for religious reasons, to honor the tomb of the Apostle Santiago, whose relics rest in the cathedral. But many begin this journey for spiritual reasons in a less religious sense; to find oneself and or to reflect, to gain distance from everyday routine and noise, or simply for personal liberation.
• Adventure and nature
Others just want to experience adventure and discover incredible landscapes, as well as companions of various origins (which is not important on the Camino). These acquaintances from which sometimes even friendships arise enrich us immensely.
• History and culture
There are also pilgrims who try to trace the history and culture that made the Jacobean tradition flourish in the various ways. Many of the cities with their corresponding historical-artistic representations were created under the influence of the Camino de Santiago to welcome and care for the pilgrims who have been coming to Compostela since the 9th century.
Whatever the reason that motivates you to set off, do not doubt that when you arrived in Santiago you found what you were looking for and much more. Experiences that will accompany and shape you for the rest of your life. because the Camino almost never ends in Compostela. A pilgrim always takes something home.
Which route should I choose?
Having constant logistical support allows you to focus on what truly matters: enjoying the landscape, reflecting, and living the Camino without stress or distractions.
Is there an ideal route to take on the St. James Way for the first time?
A large number of pilgrims begin on the French St. James Way, and the most frequented section here leads from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela. The French way is the most popular and also the most frequented way, so we will always meet many other pilgrims here with whom we can share these first experiences and discuss eternal doubts.
It is also a route with a very well developed service, very good signaling and relatively easy to walk in terms of the degree of difficulty. From our experience, everyone should choose the first route individually, taking into account their own interests, strengths and preferences.
We will of course help to resolve any doubts that may arise before the first pilgrimage and possibly recommend a route.
Is the Camino well signposted or can I get lost?
At Rutas Meigas, we recommend this service for groups of up to 16 people. This allows for personalized attention and smoother logistics. However, we can also organize it for larger groups if needed.
Can I do the St. James Way alone?
We know that before starting the Camino de Santiago, many questions come up — especially if it’s your first time or if you’re considering doing it with professional support.
At Rutas Meigas, as a specialized Camino de Santiago travel agency, our goal is to help you live this journey with total confidence and peace of mind.
Here, we answer the most common questions about how the Camino with Support works — what it includes, who it’s designed for, how it’s organized, and what advantages it offers compared to walking independently.What type of bike do I need to do the St. James Way on bike?
Although there are currently many sections of the St. James Way that can be traveled on paved roads, it is always more interesting to drive them along the original routes. Therefore, it is ideal to adapt to any terrain and use a mountain bike.
However, if you already have a bike other than a mountain bike and want to ride the St. James Way with it, this is of course possible, although you have to be particularly careful on some sections. This decisión, of course, is up to you.
To complete the St. James Way by bike with Rutas Meigas, all you need is the desire, because our reservations for the St. James way on bike include:
– MTB bike with 27.5 “// 29” wheels and e-bikes
– Saddlebags
– Helmet
– Gel saddle cover
– Water bottle
– Tool bag (1 camera, patch, multifunctional Allen key, removable padlock)
– Air pump
Where do I pick up the bike provided by Rutas Meigas for the Way and where do I return it?
When you arrive at the starting point of your St. James Way on the first day, your bike is ready at your accommodation. The bike then simply left in the last accommodation when you arrive at your destination in Santiago. We take care of everything else.
Can I walk the St. James Way with my dog?
When you arrive at the starting point of your St. James Way on the first day, your bike is ready at your accommodation. The bike then simply left in the last accommodation when you arrive at your destination in Santiago. We take care of everything else.
What is the “Compostela” and how do you get her?
“La Compostela” is the official document of the Church, which testifies that you have completed one of the routes on the St. James Way. In order to receive it, you have to stamp your pilgrim’s pass on each completed stage.
Remember that you have to stamp at least twice on each stage, once in the town where you are staying and once during the stage.
As soon as you have arrived in Santiago, you can pick up your Compostela at the pilgrims ‘office, which is located in Rúa Carretas, 33, very close to the cathedral, about three minutes’ walk from the Plaza del Obradoiro.
If, under certain circumstances, you should prefer, it is also possible to document the Camino de Santiago with a digital pilgrim pass.
What is the pilgrim's pass and how do you get it?
The pilgrim’s passport, the “Credencial”, is the remnant of the document that has always accredited pilgrims on their pilgrimage. It is currently an official document issued by the Pilgrims’ Office of the Diocese of Santiago de Compostela. It consists of 16 pages with space for the appropriate stamps.
Routes Meigas provides the pilgrim’s pass at the start of the route. You will find this in your welcome package in the first accommodation we reserved.
Along the Way of St. James, on every chosen route, you will find numerous places where you can identify yourself as a pilgrim in order to receive the corresponding stamp: bars, restaurants, churches, chapels or hermitages, public institutions such as town halls etc. and even in the accommodation itself.
It is important that you have to stamp at least twice on each stage, once in the village where we are staying and once on the way.
How many kilometers do I have to cover at least to receive the Compostela?
The pilgrim’s passport, the “Credencial”, is the remnant of the document that has always accredited pilgrims on their pilgrimage. It is currently an official document issued by the Pilgrims’ Office of the Diocese of Santiago de Compostela. It consists of 16 pages with space for the appropriate stamps.
Routes Meigas provides the pilgrim’s pass at the start of the route. You will find this in your welcome package in the first accommodation we reserved.
Along the Way of St. James, on every chosen route, you will find numerous places where you can identify yourself as a pilgrim in order to receive the corresponding stamp: bars, restaurants, churches, chapels or hermitages, public institutions such as town halls etc. and even in the accommodation itself.
It is important that you have to stamp at least twice on each stage, once in the village where we are staying and once on the way.
Should I do the St. James Way in the shortest or longest possible time?
In no case the first variant, because there are absolutely no regulations in this regard as to how long it should take and also because the way is YOUR way and you can cover it in the time you want, as you want and can.
Typically an average of twenty kilometers per day is covered, and the stages are divided into places of particular interest to pilgrims or depending on the availability of accommodation and services, but each of the routes can be adapted to you and your wishes / preferences.
It is also possible to do the way in multiple periods of time, at different times or even years, as we often don’t have enough time to do it all at once.
Do I have to be in good physical condicion to complete the St. James Way?
Although the St. James Way is neither a sporting experience nor does it require special skills, it must be taken into account that the St. James Way requires certain physical demands. The difficulty is not necessarily to cover the kilometers on the first day. The challenge is to do this over several consecutive days. Most of us are not used to covering many kilometers for several days in a row. It is quite possible that our muscles are a bit sore at first, usually the feet are the most stressed and yet annoying blisters can often occur.
It is therefore advisable to complete a small and simple training session at least in the month before the start of the St. James Way. Simple walks or z. B. simply leaving the car and walking to work or running errands, climbing stairs, etc.
It is important that we try to incorporate different elevation changes and also different road surfaces into our routine as this is exactly what we will find on the Way and one of the things that will be the most strenuous for us.
It is also very important to do this little training with the shoes and socks that we want to use on the St.James Way. New footwear and new socks in the first stage are not a good idea, as they are an absolute guarantee for blisters on your feet. We should do the Way of St. James with breathable shoes and socks without seams, which have already been used and run in and to which our feet are already well used.
Do I have to bring walking sticks to the St. James Way?
Even if walking with sticks is not absolutely necessary or compulsory, we recommend it to all our pilgrims. They are a great support when faced with bumps to avoid falls and slips, and they can help set the pace of our steps.
Nowadays it is very easy to get collapsible sticks that can be easily stored in any pocket or small backpack so that they do not disturb when we are not using them and have them on hand when we need them.
Is the St. James Way suitable for people of all ages?
Even if walking with sticks is not absolutely necessary or compulsory, we recommend it to all our pilgrims. They are a great support when faced with bumps to avoid falls and slips, and they can help set the pace of our steps.
Nowadays it is very easy to get collapsible sticks that can be easily stored in any pocket or small backpack so that they do not disturb when we are not using them and have them on hand when we need them.
What is the weather like on the St. James Way?
The weather on the St. James Way depends on the route chosen and the time of the pilgrimage.
We are on Galician territory for the (last) hundred kilometers that are required to receive the Compostela. This means, in general, a mild climate with more or less frequent rainfall during most of the year. That means a very suitable climate for hiking, as there are no excessively high temperatures here in summer and the winters are also rather mild. In order to protect ourselves in the rain, it is usually sufficient if we have a thin raincoat / rain cape in our backpack just in case.
What should be taken into account are other areas with a somewhat more extreme climate, such as the Castilian plateau in the summer months, where temperatures can be very high and where we find few forest areas where you can protect yourself under shady trees. If you decide on one of these routes in summer, you should avoid the midday hours of the day to walk and always have enough water with you.
We also have to take into account the areas where we can find snow, fog and poor visibility in the middle of winter, such as O Cebreiro or Roncesvalles.
What is the best time of year to do the St. James Way?
Well, like the choice of routes, the choice of season for the St. James Way is also very personal. It depends on which climate we like best. For example, some people find it too hot to hike in the summer months and prefer cooler temperatures for this. There are even people who prefer to go out in winter to enjoy the snow-capped areas of these beautiful landscapes.
When choosing what time to hike, we also have to take into account the region we are going to visit, as, for example, the route of the Portuguese Way, which runs through the south, has a pleasant climate all year round and the one further north Routes naturally have a somewhat colder climate.
Another criterion that we have to consider when choosing the time is the ambience in which we want to be on the St. James Way. If we want to meet many pilgrims and people, the busiest time is the end of spring, summer and the beginning of autumn. If we prefer a very quiet St. James Way, which is more focused on our introspection, it is ideal to do it outside of these seasons.
Whatever you prefer, it is always recommended to have a raincoat with you, as it can “drizzle” in Galicia as early as mid-August.
What should I bring with me for the St. James Way?
Well, like the choice of routes, the choice of season for the St. James Way is also very personal. It depends on which climate we like best. For example, some people find it too hot to hike in the summer months and prefer cooler temperatures for this. There are even people who prefer to go out in winter to enjoy the snow-capped areas of these beautiful landscapes.
When choosing what time to hike, we also have to take into account the region we are going to visit, as, for example, the route of the Portuguese Way, which runs through the south, has a pleasant climate all year round and the one further north Routes naturally have a somewhat colder climate.
Another criterion that we have to consider when choosing the time is the ambience in which we want to be on the St. James Way. If we want to meet many pilgrims and people, the busiest time is the end of spring, summer and the beginning of autumn. If we prefer a very quiet St. James Way, which is more focused on our introspection, it is ideal to do it outside of these seasons.
Whatever you prefer, it is always recommended to have a raincoat with you, as it can “drizzle” in Galicia as early as mid-August.
What should I carry with me in the small backpack?
Try to carry only the bare essentials for each stage in a small backpack so that you can walk more comfortably and easily. Leave all heavy objects in your luggage, which Rutas Meigas will transport to the next accommodation.
– Personal documents.
– Water. Although it is common to find sources of drinking water and places to shop, it is good to have enough water with you to have something to drink at all times.
– Sun and head protection.
– Raincoat / rain cape
– A small first aid kit with plasters (or special bandages for blisters), some bandages and tape.
Rutas Meigas provides you with maps of the individual stages that you can easily take with you. However, we also have the option of tracking them from our mobile phone.
What can you eat on the St. James Way?
Try to carry only the bare essentials for each stage in a small backpack so that you can walk more comfortably and easily. Leave all heavy objects in your luggage, which Rutas Meigas will transport to the next accommodation.
– Personal documents.
– Water. Although it is common to find sources of drinking water and places to shop, it is good to have enough water with you to have something to drink at all times.
– Sun and head protection.
– Raincoat / rain cape
– A small first aid kit with plasters (or special bandages for blisters), some bandages and tape.
Rutas Meigas provides you with maps of the individual stages that you can easily take with you. However, we also have the option of tracking them from our mobile phone.
What should I do when I arrive in Santiago de Compostela?
Traditionally, the St. James Way ended at the north gate, called the Puerta del Paraíso or Francígena (facade of the Azabachería) or at the south gate (facade of the Platerias), although nowadays all pilgrims choose to end their journey in the spectacular plaza la Plaza del Obradoiro. When you get there, pause for a while to rest and be amazed by the incredible surroundings that surround you. It will be a moment of great emotion, a moment of celebration, sharing with other pilgrims, but also of introspection, of remembering everything that you have experienced and achieved. Arriving at the Obradoiro is the culmination of all efforts, and when you get there you will feel that all the efforts are worth it. Then you can go to the pilgrims office to pick up your well-deserved Compostela. Don’t worry if there is a long line. With the shift system, you will be notified on your phone when it is your turn, so you can take a stroll through the old town or comfortably wait in one of the bars around the office.
When you arrive at your hotel, Rutas Meigas has already left your luggage there so that you can freshen up and then comfortably go back out to explore the city. You will certainly want to take part in the pilgrim mass, which is currently celebrated at 12:00 and 18:00 in the afternoon. With Rutas Meigas you also have a guided tour inclusive through the historical center with one of our official Galician tourism guides.
Of course, it is also essential to enjoy the wonderful gastronomy that Galicia offers and that you can find in the many bars and restaurants of the city. In Compostela it is a tradition to drink wine in the many streets of the old town. Not to forget that we are invited to a tapa here with almost every drink.
If you are staying longer in Santiago and want to learn more about Galicia, we at Rutas Meigas offer an extensive catalog of excursions from Santiago.
What is the pilgrimage mass?
It is a liturgical celebration that is celebrated in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. It begins by reading the list of pilgrims who have passed through the pilgrimage in the last twenty-four hours, including the starting points of their pilgrimage and the nationalities or provinces from which they come.
When is the pilgrimage mass celebrated?
Currently, the pilgrimage mass is celebrated twice a day at 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m
What is the botafumeiro and where can I see it?
The botafumeiro is a symbol of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and, ultimately, of the city itself. It is certainly the largest censer in the world. He weighs 53 kilos and measures 1.50 meters. Dipped in silver, it hangs on the twenty-meter-high central dome. Eight men, called “tiraboleiros”, move it (or dance it) through a system of pulleys, causing it to travel at a speed of almost seventy kilometers per hour.
We find references to the botafumeiro as early as the 14th century in the Calixtino Codex, where it is referred to as “Turibulum magnum”. Its original use was to perfume the cathedral and remove the bad smell of the pilgrims, who in many cases even slept in the temple.
The botafumeiro works on the main celebrations of the Cathedral of Santiago and pilgrimage events requested by the cathedral.
What do I do if I have further questions?
If you have any questions about the Camino de Santiago that you cannot solve yourself, you can always contact the Rutas Meigas emergency number.
Our advice.
Clear the way and with an open mind. It is a learning path about the world, about life and about yourself. You will meet many new people from many countries and many fields. You will surely find more than one friend for life. You will also find out new things about yourself. Accept what you find out on your route, because what you learn on the Camino de Santiago will be with you forever.
Be respectful with the rest of the people you meet and the environment as well. The Way of St. James crosses many natural areas. Leave everything as you found it.
Try to forget your cell phone. Although it is recommended to carry it with you and it can also be of help when we follow the routes, try to carry it in your backpack or in a bag and use it as little as possible. Concentrate on the nature around you, on the people you meet and of course on yourself.
Be a pilgrim, not a tourist.