The Camino Primitivo from Oviedo is the very first route to Compostela. From there, left King Alfonso II El Casto in the 9th century to Santiago. He is considered the first Jacobean pilgrim. He was also the one who confirmed that the rests found in San Fiz de Solivio corresponded to “Apostle Santiago el Mayor” and he also promoted the creation of the “Locus Sancti Iacobi”, which today is Santiago de Compostela.
The Primitive Way from Oviedo to Santiago is a complicated route. Considered one of the hardest, its hardness is accompanied by a great landscape beauty. If we do this route in winter, especially with a lot of rain, it is even harder. This is something to keep in mind. The influx of pilgrims can be considered moderate, so it is chosen, in addition to its visual appeal, for its tranquility.
It is a road with little asphalt layout and that runs through barely inhabited natural areas.
The route starts in Oviedo, entering Galicia through the province of Lugo. In Melide, it joins the French Way. The historic center of Oviedo is a marvel of medieval reminiscences, where the Cathedral of San Salvador stands out. We cannot leave Asturias without having a few “culines” of cider, its star product that stands out, not only for its flavor, but for its characteristic “pouring” ritual. Asturian cheeses are also highly appreciated for their excellent quality. In Grado, the town where we will finish the first stage, we can recover by trying the well-known “Afuega’l Pitu”.
Of course, the good gastronomy continues in Galicia, where we will pass through lands of magnificent “chorizos”, such as A Fonsagrada, or the tasty Arzua-Ulloa cheese.
Halfway through, we will arrive at the city of Lugo, known by the phrase: “Y para comer, Lugo” (Lugo is THE PLACE to eat). In addition to the magnificent delicacies that we can taste on its famous wine route through the historic center, its Roman wall, declared a World Heritage Site, is an essential visit. The two-kilometer walk with great views of the entire city is worth it. It is also possible to do the Camino Primitivo starting from the city of Lugo.