Looking for something different? five Caminos in Spain, Portugal, France and Italy
- Adventure Coordinators
- 6 days ago
- 6 min read
A few years ago my wife took a few months off from being a wife and mother and hiked the Camino de Santiago through northern Spain. She loved the experience - the daily walks, the people she met, the time to reflect.
The Camino de Santiago, one of the most famous pilgrimage routes in the world, invites you to step away from the distractions of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature, history, and culture. As you walk, you traverse diverse landscapes, from scenic coastlines to rolling hills, and encounter picturesque towns steeped in centuries of tradition.
The Camino also fosters a sense of camaraderie among fellow pilgrims. Walking alongside people from all walks of life creates a unique shared experience, where stories, encouragement, and friendships unfold along the way. It’s a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with your inner self.
Physically, it’s a rewarding journey that strengthens both body and mind. The regular walking, combined with the sense of accomplishment as you reach Santiago, creates a fulfilling experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure, spiritual growth, or simply a sense of peace, walking the Camino offers a deeply transformative experience that stays with you long after the journey ends.
As I said, my wife loved the experience. There was however one aspect she didn't love staying in hostels and dormitories along the way. If you have seen the movie The Way you know what I am talking about. If you have not seen it, picture several or sometimes dozens of people in bunk beds in one dormitory, some getting up very early, some snoring, some... You get the idea.
And that's where we come in. We can organize your Camino and have you stay in B&B's, farm homes and hotels, in comfort. We include meals and luggage transfers, along with route notes. We provide you with a 24-hour emergency service. All the things you need to make the walk a pleasure - we take the edge off so you can concentrate on the experience.
And while the Camino de Santiago is the most famous route, there are other lesser-known but equally interesting routes. For all those looking for an experience to mark a milestone, for those going through a change in their lives, or for those simply looking for a challenge or an extended holiday. Here are five Caminos in Spain, Portugal, France and Italy.
Note: you can choose to hike an entire Camino in one go, or break it up in section that fit a regular holiday. Ask us for details
36 days, 800 kms
From CA$6,990
Embark on a memorable journey along the historic Camino de Santiago, a medieval pilgrimage trail that spans Northern Spain. This experience offers the opportunity to walk from St. Jean Pied de Port in France, crossing the Pyrenees and continuing through scenic mountain villages to Santiago de Compostela. As you traverse the route, you’ll be immersed in centuries of history, marked by crosses, statues, and grain silos that have witnessed countless pilgrims. The path winds through beautiful landscapes, including the Sierras of Navarre and Aragon, offering a unique connection to the past. Along the way, you’ll encounter churches and monasteries that serve as open-air museums showcasing Romanesque art. This pilgrimage is not just a physical journey but also a spiritual one, where the camaraderie of fellow hikers adds to the sense of shared experience. Whether you choose to walk the entire route or break it into sections, from the Pyrenees to Logroño, Burgos, Leon, and finally Santiago, the Camino de Santiago promises a fulfilling and enriching adventure. Reaching Santiago marks the end of this profound journey, offering a deep sense of accomplishment and connection to the long history of those who have walked this path before.
32 days, 620 kms
From CA$5,590
The Portuguese Road, or Caminho Portugués, is often regarded as the most spiritually connected pilgrimage route. Tracing the journey of St James' body to its resting place in Santiago de Compostela, this quieter path is rich in history and scenic beauty. Beginning in Lisbon, nestled along the Tagus River, the route leads through fertile floodplains and gentle hills, with each evening spent in small, locally run hotels.
Along the way, walkers encounter historical landmarks such as the Templar town of Tomar, the Roman ruins of Conimbriga, and the World Heritage-listed city of Coimbra. The journey continues through Porto, known for its vibrant atmosphere, before crossing the Spanish border into Galicia. A highlight of the trail is the climb to Alto da Portela Grande (405m), which offers sweeping views over the Lima Valley. The final steps lead to Santiago de Compostela, where the iconic cathedral awaits, marking the end of this rewarding month-long pilgrimage. With a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, the Caminho Portugués provides a quieter yet deeply meaningful alternative to the more travelled routes.
38 days, 800 kms
From CA$6,190
Walking the Camino del Norte from San Sebastian to Santiago is a journey through history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Beginning in San Sebastian, a city renowned for its seaside charm and world-class cuisine, the trail follows the northern coast of Spain, weaving through picturesque fishing villages and lush valleys. In Bilbao, the striking architecture of the Guggenheim Museum contrasts with the city's historic streets, offering a mix of tradition and modernity.
As the path continues, the rugged beauty of Asturias unfolds, with dramatic coastal cliffs and green hills providing a breathtaking backdrop. Walking along these quieter trails fosters a sense of camaraderie with fellow pilgrims, sharing the road and stories along the way. The northern route, first used in the 9th century, was once a refuge for Christian pilgrims seeking a safe passage to Santiago, sheltered by the Picos de Europa and Cordillera Cantábrica.
This journey blends natural beauty, cultural richness, and personal reflection. From mountain paths to ocean views, from medieval churches to lively town squares, every step brings new discoveries. The experience is both challenging and rewarding, offering a unique and peaceful alternative to the more travelled French Way.
40 days, 745 kms
From CA$8,340
The Camino de Santiago, known as "The Way of St James," offers a remarkable opportunity to walk the entire length of the Via Podiensis, or Le Puy Camino, from Le Puy en Velay in France to St Jean Pied de Port at the foot of the Pyrenees. This historic route has been a path for pilgrims since the 9th century, following the discovery of St James' tomb in Santiago de Compostela. As you walk, you’ll experience the hospitality of local accommodation hosts and indulge in the region's culinary delights. The contrasting landscapes and architecture between the regions will offer a fascinating view of the area's rich history. Along the way, you will encounter numerous churches and monasteries, creating a travelling museum of Romanesque art. The camaraderie of fellow hikers and pilgrims will also be a significant part of the journey, as you share this transformative experience. For those who cannot commit to the entire route, there are self-guided stages available, allowing you to experience sections of this iconic trail. Whether completing the full journey or part of it, walking the Way of St James offers a profound connection to the past and a deep sense of achievement.
50 days, 1000 kms
From CA$10,490
The Via Francigena is a historic pilgrimage route spanning 1,900 km from Canterbury to Rome. This Italian 50-day section offers a profound journey through Italy’s diverse landscapes and rich history. Beginning at the Saint Bernard Pass, the path winds through the Swiss Alps into Italy, crossing vineyards, orchards, and castles. The trail leads through charming villages, peaceful countryside, and alongside riverbanks, with each step steeped in centuries of tradition.
Along the way, travellers pass through iconic towns such as Lucca, Siena, Monteriggioni, San Gimignano, Orvieto, and Viterbo, each offering its own slice of Italian culture and history. The journey takes you through Tuscany's rolling hills and into the heart of its culinary regions, such as Piedmont and Emilia-Romagna. The experience offers much more than just picturesque views; it’s about the camaraderie of fellow pilgrims and the warmth of staying in family-run hotels, where hospitality reigns.
As the pilgrimage concludes in Rome, the final steps towards St. Peter’s Basilica mark a sense of achievement, with the route offering unique glimpses into parts of Italy often missed by regular travellers. Walking the Via Francigena is not just a journey through Italy, but a deep dive into its heart and history.
Are you ready for a change? For a challenge? Contact us today!
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