Spain

Camino de Santiago Guide: The Last 100km

Walking the last 100km of the Camino de Santiago from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela is one of the most popular pilgrimage routes in Spain. It is long enough to feel like a real challenge, short enough to fit into a one-week holiday, and it qualifies you to receive the Compostela certificate. This practical guide explains how to plan your Sarria to Santiago walk, how many days you need, what each stage looks like, where to stay, and what to pack so you can enjoy the Camino at a comfortable, meaningful pace.

What Is the “Last 100km” of the Camino and Why Start in Sarria?

The Caminos de Santiago are a network of pilgrimage routes ending at the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, where the remains of Saint James are traditionally believed to rest. To earn the official Compostela certificate as a walker, you must walk at least the final 100km into Santiago.

Sarria is the most popular starting point because it is just over 100km from Santiago on the Camino Francés.
The route from Sarria takes you through small Galician villages, green forests, rolling farmland, and historic towns.
It is suitable for most reasonably fit walkers, including first-time long-distance pilgrims.

Because this section is so popular, you will find plenty of accommodation, food options, and services along the way.

How Many Days Do You Need from Sarria to Santiago?

The classic Sarria to Santiago itinerary takes 5 stages, with an optional extra day if you want shorter walks.

Standard 5-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Sarria – Portomarín
- Day 2: Portomarín – Palas de Rei
- Day 3: Palas de Rei – Arzúa
- Day 4: Arzúa – O Pedrouzo
- Day 5: O Pedrouzo – Santiago de Compostela
Softer 6-day itinerary: Some walkers split the longer days in two (for example, staying in Ferreiros, Melide, or Ribadiso da Baixo) to reduce daily distances.

Plan at least one extra night in Santiago at the end to explore the city and attend the pilgrim mass if available.

How to Get to Sarria

Via Santiago de Compostela: Fly or take a train to Santiago, then continue to Sarria by bus, train, or private transfer.
Via Madrid or other Spanish cities: Trains and long-distance buses connect to Lugo or Ourense, with onward local connections to Sarria.
Private transfers and taxis: Ideal if you are in a group or want a direct, time-saving option from Santiago or Lugo.

Many pilgrims arrive in Sarria the day before they start walking to buy last-minute supplies, get their first stamp, and rest.

Credentials, Stamps, and the Compostela Certificate

To earn the Compostela, you need the official pilgrim credential and proof that you have walked the last 100km.

Pilgrim credential: A “pilgrim passport” that you carry with you. You can get it from pilgrim offices, some parishes, associations, or in Sarria at churches, albergues, and pilgrim offices.
Stamps (sellos): You collect stamps along the way at churches, albergues, bars, and restaurants. In the last 100km, walkers are usually required to get two stamps per day to show they completed each stage on foot.
Compostela: When you reach Santiago, you present your credential at the Pilgrim Office, which checks your stamps and issues your certificate if you meet the requirements.

Always keep your credential safe and dry; it becomes one of the best souvenirs of your Camino.

Stage-by-Stage Overview: Sarria to Santiago (Approximate Distances)

Day 1: Sarria – Portomarín (about 22 km)

Walk through small hamlets, country lanes, and oak forests.
Pass traditional stone walls, granaries, and small chapels.
Descend to the Miño River and cross the bridge into Portomarín, a village partly rebuilt after a dam project.

Day 2: Portomarín – Palas de Rei (about 24–25 km)

Climb gradually out of Portomarín into open countryside.
Walk on a mix of paths and quiet roads through farmland and small villages.
Reach Palas de Rei, a common overnight stop with several albergues and guesthouses.

Day 3: Palas de Rei – Arzúa (about 28–29 km)

One of the longer days, so start early.
Pass through Melide, famous for its pulperías (octopus restaurants) and a popular lunch stop.
Continue on forest tracks and country lanes to Arzúa, known for its cheese and pilgrim services.

Day 4: Arzúa – O Pedrouzo (about 19–20 km)

Gentle ups and downs through eucalyptus forests, farmland, and small villages.
Shorter stage makes for a more relaxed day; plenty of cafes along the route for breaks.
Arrive in O Pedrouzo (also called Arca), your final stop before Santiago.

Day 5: O Pedrouzo – Santiago de Compostela (about 20 km)

Walk through forests and suburban areas as you approach the city.
Reach Monte do Gozo (“Mount of Joy”), a viewpoint where pilgrims traditionally see the cathedral spires for the first time.
Continue into the historic center and arrive at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, where your Camino officially ends.

Where to Stay: Albergues, Guesthouses, and Hotels

Albergues (pilgrim hostels): Shared dorm-style accommodation specifically for pilgrims with a credential. Municipal and private albergues are available in most towns along the route.
Pensions and guesthouses: Small, simple private rooms, often with en-suite bathrooms. Great if you want more privacy but still stay close to the Camino.
Hotels and rural casas: A more comfortable option, especially at the end of your walk or if you prefer quieter nights.

Because the Sarria to Santiago section is busy in peak season, consider reserving accommodation a night or two ahead, especially if you prefer private rooms or are walking in a group.

Best Time of Year to Walk Sarria to Santiago

Spring (April–June): Mild temperatures, green landscapes, and wildflowers. Some rain is possible, but this is a favorite time for many pilgrims.
Summer (July–August): Warm to hot, with long daylight hours and a lively social atmosphere. Also the busiest and often most crowded time.
Autumn (September–October): Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds than peak summer, and beautiful colors in the countryside.
Winter: Much quieter with shorter days, colder temperatures, and some closed services. Possible but better for experienced hikers prepared for rain and mud.

What to Pack for the Last 100km of the Camino

Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes that dry quickly.
Good, broken-in walking shoes or trail runners with comfortable socks.
Light rain jacket or poncho; Galicia is known for changeable weather.
Small backpack (around 30L is usually enough) with hip belt and good support.
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for sunny days.
Basic first-aid kit, including blister care (tape, patches, or compeed).
Reusable water bottle and snacks like nuts, fruit, or energy bars.
Sleepwear for albergues, plus a lightweight sleeping bag or liner depending on the season.
Earplugs and eye mask if you are staying in shared dorms.

Keep your pack as light as possible; many pilgrims aim for a pack weight of around 10 percent of their body weight or less.

Luggage Transfer and Walking Light

If you prefer not to carry a full backpack, luggage transfer services can move your bag between accommodations each day for a small fee.
You walk with a daypack containing water, snacks, layers, and essentials.
This option is popular on the Sarria to Santiago stretch and can make the Camino more accessible for those with injuries or mobility concerns.

Daily Life on the Camino: Rhythm and Routine

Most pilgrims wake early, start walking soon after sunrise, and arrive at their next stop around midday or early afternoon.
Breakfast is often a simple coffee and pastry in a bar along the route.
Lunch can be a pilgrim menu, small meal, or picnic on the way.
Afternoons are for showering, washing clothes, resting, and exploring the town or village.
Dinners often feature affordable “menú del peregrino” options, with two or three courses and wine or water.

Finding your own comfortable rhythm is part of the Camino experience.

Safety, Etiquette, and Camino Culture

The Sarria to Santiago route is generally safe, with many other pilgrims on the path and frequent villages.
Always follow yellow arrows and scallop shell symbols to stay on the official route.
Respect private property, close gates behind you, and avoid littering.
Greet fellow pilgrims with “Buen Camino” and be open to conversation; part of the magic is meeting people from around the world.
In shared albergues, be considerate: keep noise down at night and early morning, and share space in common areas.

Finishing in Santiago de Compostela

When you reach the cathedral square, take time to sit and absorb the moment.
Visit the Pilgrim Office to present your credential and receive your Compostela; be prepared to wait during busy periods.
Attend a pilgrim mass if available and open to the public.
Explore Santiago’s old town, tapas bars, and narrow streets to celebrate the end of your walk.

Walking the last 100km of the Camino de Santiago from Sarria is a powerful mix of physical challenge, simple daily routine, and meaningful encounters. With this guide, you can plan your stages, pack smart, and walk towards the cathedral with confidence, one yellow arrow at a time.