English Way

Already in the 11th century, pilgrims from Northern Europe traveled to the estuaries of the A Coruña coast, such as those of Muros-Noia and Arousa, to pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. Likewise, Nobles and Knights Templar traveled to visit the Apostle’s remains before their journey to the Holy Land.

In the 13th century, A Coruña became the destination for almost all pilgrims who began to arrive regularly and in large numbers, to start their Way.

It is the shortest of the Caminos in the Iberian Peninsula.

Thanks to its strategic location, Ferrol and A Coruña are the two main starting points of the English Way, especially from Ferrol (118 km), as it is from this town where you can obtain the ” Compostela” by covering at least the last 100 km of the Camino, a journey that takes approximately one week.

However, due to the historical fact and the great significance of pilgrims arriving at the port of A Coruña over centuries, it has been possible since 2016 to obtain the “Compostela” from this city (72 km), provided that certain requirements are met:

• For non-residents of A Coruña, having previously completed and proven in their place of origin the remaining kilometers to reach the required 100 km.
• For residents of A Coruña, walking through Jacobeo spaces in Santiago de Compostela and proving it.

The organized journey to the Camino de Santiago from the port city of Ferrol is of great beauty, especially in the early stages, until Betanzos as they run parallel or very close to the estuaries of Ferrol, Ares, and Betanzos, bathed by the Atlantic Ocean and in the heart of the Rias Altas.

It traverses a typical “Galician” terrain, with constant ups and downs, not very harsh, except for the steep climbs at the exit of Puentedeume and from Betanzos to As Travesas, as well as a terrain that combines asphalt and compact dirt roads, along small dispersed agricultural and livestock villages.

It is a route that is gradually attracting more interest from pilgrims and more and more people are walking it as part of their pilgrimage journey, mainly for three reasons:

• You can obtain ” the Compostela” from Ferrol, in about a week. We would be accrediting the minimum of 100 kilometers required to obtain this Certificate; just like if we were to walk the well-known Camino de Santiago from Sarria.
• It is much less crowded compared to other routes, such as the French Way or the Portuguese Way.
• Although it does not have the same accommodation and services infrastructure as other routes, it is increasingly being enriched with more and better services, making it more attractive.

We are going to explore an area of great cultural, historical, and gastronomic richness, where the following locations stand out:

La Coruña: A millenary city where we highlight the Tower of Hercules (Ancient Roman Lighthouse from the 1st century), declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the fortified Plaza de María Pita.

Ferrol: Arsenal, Castle of San Felipe, and Barrio de la Magdalena.

Puentedeume: Stone bridge, which gives the city its name.

Andrade Tower, Town Walls, Old Town, Fragas de Eume Natural Park (in the vicinity)

Betanzos: Historic Center, declared a historic-artistic ensemble, Church of Santa Maria de Azougue (14th century) and Church of San Francisco both declared National Monuments.

Special mention, even though it’s not a “monument”, is the famous “Tortilla de Betanzos”; you can’t pass by without trying it (just remember not to cook it too much; its liquid egg is its main characteristic).

The English Way is ideal if you’re looking for a short route, less crowded, with a combination of coastal and rural landscapes. It offers a more intimate experience that allows you to enjoy the authenticity of Galicia.

The Pilgrim’s Credential can be obtained at the tourist offices in Ferrol and A Coruña, in some parishes and hostels. It is advisable to get it before starting the journey to stamp it from the first stage.

The route is well marked with the traditional yellow arrows, milestones with the pilgrim’s shell, and other signs. However, it is advisable to carry an up-to-date guide or map.

The English Way is of moderate difficulty. The stages are not too long, and the terrain does not have major elevation changes, although there are some ups and downs. It is suitable for people with basic physical fitness.

Yes, as long as you walk at least the last 100 kilometers on foot or 200 kilometers by bike. From Ferrol to Santiago, there are approximately 120 kilometers, so you would meet the requirement. From A Coruña, you won’t reach 100 kilometers, so you would need to complete the distance with other sections.

Gastronomy is one of the highlights of the English Way. You can enjoy fresh seafood, fish, Galician empanadas, cheeses, local wines, and other typical dishes of Galician cuisine.

Along the route, there are health centers and pharmacies in the main towns. It is advisable to carry a basic first-aid kit and be aware of the location of medical services in case they are needed.

Yes, it is a suitable route for families. The stages can be adjusted, and as it is a shorter and less difficult path, it is accessible for children with some physical ability. Plan the stages well and consider the interests and needs of the little ones.

Below are five points of interest you shouldn’t miss on the English Way:

1. San Felipe Castle in Ferrol: a 16th-century fortress that protected the Ferrol estuary. It offers impressive views and is a historic start to your journey.
2. Pontedeume and its medieval bridge: a picturesque town with a 14th-century bridge over the Eume River and the Andrade Tower.
3. Betanzos, the city of Knights: with a well-preserved historic center, Gothic churches, and famous gastronomic festivals like the giant tortilla festival.
4. The Caaveiro Monastery: located in the Fragas do Eume (a recommended detour), it is an ancient monastery in a spectacular natural setting.
5. Sigüeiro Bridge over the Tambre River: a charming spot where you can enjoy nature before the final stage towards Santiago.