Although less popular, the Camino del Salvador is one of the most iconic routes within the network of Camino de Santiago paths. It connects two key points in the history of Christianity in Spain, León and Oviedo, making this journey both historically and religiously significant.

Since the Middle Ages, thousands of pilgrims have travelled this route in search of a deeper spiritual connection, passing through incredibly beautiful mountainous landscapes.

This route is not only known for its devotion, but also as the perfect precursor to the Camino Primitivo, one of the first routes leading to Santiago de Compostela. Want to know more? Let’s get started!

 

What is the Camino del Salvador?

The Camino del Salvador is a route that connects the cities of León and Oviedo. It is a journey full of history, where pilgrims face mountainous landscapes and ancient religious traditions. For centuries, this path has been a chosen route for many devout pilgrims, acting as a link between more extensive paths.

Today, those looking to better organise this pilgrimage can rely on Santiago de Compostela agencies, which offer guide services and assistance at various stages of the journey.

 

What is its connection with the Camino Primitivo?

This route has the particularity that it ends where the Camino Primitivo begins. It takes between 5-9 stages, depending on the pilgrim’s physical condition and preferences, serving as a training ground for what lies ahead.

 

What makes the Camino del Salvador different from other Camino de Santiago routes?

Unlike other more popular routes, such as the Camino de Santiago Ourense, which crosses Galicia with a gentler profile and less challenging terrain, it runs through the Cantabrian Mountains. In this case, you will encounter demanding ascents and high mountain landscapes that make it a unique experience.

Another aspect that distinguishes it is its symbolic and religious significance. While routes like the Camino de Santiago from Lugo follow historical paths with a strong medieval legacy, the Camino del Salvador originated due to devotion to the Cathedral of San Salvador in Oviedo.

Additionally, in terms of landscape, it is completely different from alternatives like the Camino del Norte Irun Bilbao. Here, the route runs alongside the Cantabrian Sea, with coastal views and a milder climate. In contrast, the Camino del Salvador offers a pure mountain environment, with beech and oak forests, mountain trails, and the imposing climb to the Puerto de Pajares.

 

Itinerary of the Camino del Salvador in 5 stages

The actual itinerary of the Camino del Salvador is divided into five stages, though the experience can be extended to more days depending on personal pace and preparation,

 

Stage 1: From León to La Robla

This first stage covers an approximate distance of 27 km and traverses terrain with moderate elevation changes, making it a manageable day for most pilgrims.

The route starts at the Cathedral of León, one of the most impressive Gothic temples in Spain. From here, it heads into the León province, passing through locations like Puente Castro, where you can see remains of medieval settlements.

Along the way, pilgrims pass through Cabanillas and La Seca, areas with a strong agricultural tradition. The route runs parallel to the Bernesga River, providing tree-lined areas that offer some shade on hot days. The journey ends in La Robla, marking the end of the first day.

 

Stage 2: From La Robla to Poladura de la Tercia

The second stage is a shorter stretch, about 23 km, but with a considerable ascent, making it a physically demanding day.

From La Robla, the path enters a more rural environment, passing through small villages like Nocedo de Gordón and Buiza, where pilgrims can admire ancient churches and mountain landscapes.

The ascent begins as you reach Buiza, where the path enters the Forcadas de San Antón, a challenging stretch that crosses meadows and narrow trails. During this part of the journey, it’s common to see horses and cows grazing, along with stunning views of the Cantabrian Mountains.

The day finishes at Poladura de la Tercia, a small village with limited services.

 

Stage 3: From Poladura de la Tercia to Pajares

This is the highlight stage of the Camino del Salvador, with a distance of approximately 15 km, but with a high mountain route that requires considerable effort. From Poladura, pilgrims ascend towards El Alto de la Gobia, crossing rocky paths and alpine meadows. As the altitude increases, panoramic views of the León and Asturias mountains unfold.

The route continues through Canto de la Tusa and descends to Arbas del Puerto, where the Colegiata de Santa María de Arbas, a beautiful Romanesque temple from the 12th century, stands.

After one final push, pilgrims reach the Puerto de Pajares, a landmark mountain pass marking the entry to Asturias. From here, the descent to Pajares is steep and requires caution, especially on rainy or snowy days.

 

Stage 4: From Pajares to Pola de Lena

With a distance of 25 km, this stage is less demanding than the previous one, but still has some ascents and descents that can be challenging.

From Pajares, the path continues through rural paths and beech and oak forests, gently descending towards San Miguel del Río and Campomanes. Here, you’ll begin to see traditional Asturian constructions, like hórreos and stone houses.

One of the highlights of this stage is the passage through La Cobertoria, where you get breathtaking views of the Valle de Lena. Finally, the route reaches Pola de Lena, a town with a wider range of services, including supermarkets, pharmacies, and comfortable accommodations.

The final stage is 32 km long, although many pilgrims choose to split it into two days to make it more manageable.

The route passes through towns such as Mieres del Camino, one of the largest on the route, with a rich mining history. Here, pilgrims can visit the Church of San Juan or sample the local cuisine, with dishes such as Asturian pote and natural cider.

As the journey progresses, pilgrims pass through Olloniego, a village with a medieval bridge that once was a key point on trade routes.

Finally, after a final ascent, the path descends into Oviedo, where arriving at the Cathedral of San Salvador marks the end of the Camino del Salvador. This cathedral houses the famous Holy Shroud, a relic venerated by pilgrims since the Middle Ages.

With this final stage, you can choose to continue your pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela via the Camino Primitivo or explore the city of Oviedo in more depth before continuing your journey.

 

Landmarks on the Camino del Salvador

Some of the highlights along the route include:

  • León Cathedral: the starting point, with its stunning Gothic architecture and majestic stained glass windows.

 

  • Puerto de Pajares: a challenge for the pilgrim, but also a source of unforgettable landscapes.

 

  • Cathedral of San Salvador of Oviedo: the final destination of this route, it houses a highly venerated relic in the Jacobean world.

 

  • Mieres del Camino and Pola de Lena: towns known for their history, cuisine, and cultural offerings.

 

Nature and landscapes: beauty among the mountains

During the journey, pilgrims cross the Cantabrian Mountains, with mountains, beech and oak forests, as well as stunning valleys. The ascent to Puerto de Pajares is one of the most striking moments of the route, where physical effort is rewarded with panoramic views.

 

Practical tips for pilgrims

Here are some tips to make the most of the Camino del Salvador:

  • Physical preparation: the route is of medium-high difficulty, so prior training is recommended.

 

  • Proper equipment: good hiking boots, waterproof clothing, and a light backpack are essential.

 

  • Accommodation and services: there are pilgrim hostels and basic services along the route in the main towns.

 

It is important to plan each stage, keeping in mind the more demanding sections, especially in mountainous areas like Puerto de Pajares. Many pilgrims who have completed the Camino del Salvador describe how this experience allowed them to disconnect from the daily grind and reflect on their personal goals.

Difficult stages, such as crossing Puerto de Pajares, are often described as moments of transformation and overcoming challenges.

 

Spiritual connection, cultural and gastronomic aspects of the route

The Camino del Salvador is considered a spiritual and physical preparation for those who continue on the Camino Primitivo. 

The local cuisine is another attraction. Visitors can taste traditional dishes such as cachopo, fabes with clams, and the famous Asturian cider. Additionally, local festivals in Mieres and Oviedo enhance the cultural experience of the pilgrim.

Connecting León and Oviedo historically, this route becomes an ideal option for those seeking an authentic path, full of history and faith. Ready to begin your adventure?