{"id":111271,"date":"2024-10-28T09:55:09","date_gmt":"2024-10-28T09:55:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/?p=111271"},"modified":"2024-10-28T18:40:18","modified_gmt":"2024-10-28T18:40:18","slug":"the-forgotten-way-everything-you-need-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/way-forgotten-everything-you-must-know\/","title":{"rendered":"The forgotten Way: everything you need to know"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-111246 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Bilbao-Mundiplus.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Bilbao-Mundiplus.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Bilbao-Mundiplus-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Bilbao-Mundiplus-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Bilbao-Mundiplus-600x450.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re seeking a unique experience on the Camino de Santiago, the <\/span><b>Camino Olvidado<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is an option you shouldn\u2019t overlook. This route, steeped in history and charm, leads you through less-travelled landscapes, providing a peaceful alternative for those looking to avoid busier paths.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Throughout its stages, you\u2019ll discover villages brimming with character, ancient churches, and landscapes that seem to belong to another era. Additionally, its cultural and natural diversity make it a comprehensive experience, perfect for those who enjoy peace and the thrill of discovery.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this guide, we\u2019ll cover everything you need to know to prepare and make the most of this route, with details on its main stages, landscapes, and practical aspects to consider.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Key Stages of the Camino Olvidado You Won\u2019t Want to Miss<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Camino Olvidado is a fascinating route through lesser-known locations, ideal<\/span><b> for those seeking an authentic experience<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. If you decide to embark on this adventure, you should familiarise yourself with some of its most iconic stages.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The starting point is often <\/span><b>Bilbao<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a city that beautifully blends modernity and tradition. From there, you\u2019ll make your way into the <\/span><b>Castilla-Le\u00f3n mountains<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, passing through towns like Espinosa de los Monteros, where you can admire medieval architecture.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another noteworthy stage is the stretch through <\/span><b>Aguilar de Campoo<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, famed for its Romanesque churches and mountainous landscapes. Here, many choose to explore <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/\"><b>tailor-made Camino de Santiago journeys<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, customising each stage to suit their preferences.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you head westward, you\u2019ll arrive at <\/span><b>Ponferrada<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, one of the most significant points before merging with the Camino Franc\u00e9s. This connection lets you explore further with a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/caminos\/a-pie\/camino-primitivo\/\"><b>Camino Primitivo guide for pilgrims<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, ideal if you wish to continue along quieter routes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Comparison of Alternative Routes to the Camino Olvidado<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to the Camino Olvidado, there are other alternative routes that offer different experiences depending on what you&#8217;re looking for as a pilgrim. Each has unique characteristics that make it special, and getting to know them will help you make an informed choice.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/caminos\/a-pie\/camino-finisterre\/camino-de-santiago-a-finisterre\/\"><b>Route to Mux\u00eda from Santiago de Compostela<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is perfect if you wish to extend your journey after reaching Santiago. This path takes you towards the Costa da Morte, allowing you to explore stunning coastal landscapes and develop a unique connection with the sea.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another interesting option is the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/caminos\/a-pie\/camino-ingles\/camino-de-santiago-desde-ferrol\/\"><b>English Way from Ferrol<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a route starting from this city. It\u2019s a shorter experience than the French Way, ideal for those with limited time who still want to enjoy Galicia&#8217;s natural beauty. The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/caminos\/a-pie\/camino-ingles\/\"><b>experience on the English Way from Ferrol<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is known for its peacefulness and proximity to the sea, making it a refreshing alternative.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">On the other hand, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/caminos\/a-pie\/camino-frances\/camino-de-santiago-desde-o-cebreiro\/\"><b>Camino Franc\u00e9s: Stages from O Cebreiro<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will take you along one of the most famous and historically rich routes. Starting from O Cebreiro, you\u2019ll enter Galicia through a series of stages that blend tradition, culture, and natural beauty.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Description of the Stages of the Camino Olvidado<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-111258 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Aguilar-del-Campoo-Mundiplus.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Aguilar-del-Campoo-Mundiplus.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Aguilar-del-Campoo-Mundiplus-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Aguilar-del-Campoo-Mundiplus-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Aguilar-del-Campoo-Mundiplus-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 1 &#8211; Bilbao \u2013 G\u00fce\u00f1es <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(25 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Starting in Bilbao, exploring its urban surroundings before entering more rural areas towards G\u00fce\u00f1es.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 2 &#8211; G\u00fce\u00f1es \u2013 Nava de Ordunte <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(26 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Path through agricultural landscapes and small villages, offering a calm transition.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 3 &#8211; Nava de Ordunte \u2013 Espinosa de los Monteros <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(35 km): a segment through mountainous areas and forests.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 4 &#8211; Espinosa de los Monteros \u2013 Pedrosa de Valdeporres <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(31 km): rural path, passing charming villages and picturesque landscapes.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 5 &#8211; Pedrosa de Valdeporres \u2013 Arija <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(28 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">walk with panoramic views of the Castilian countryside.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 6 &#8211; Arija \u2013 Olea <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(33 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">terrain includes wooded areas and gentle hills.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 7 &#8211; Olea \u2013 Aguilar de Campoo <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(22.7 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">a shorter segment, comfortably reaching Aguilar de Campoo, known for its rich history.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 8 &#8211; Aguilar de Campoo \u2013 Cervera de Pisuerga <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(29 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">crossing rural and natural landscapes.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 9 &#8211; Cervera de Pisuerga \u2013 Guardo <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(38 km): an extensive stage through mountainous areas and valleys.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 10 &#8211; Guardo \u2013 Puente Almuhey <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(15.3 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">a short stretch for a well-deserved break.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 11 &#8211; Puente Almuhey \u2013 Cistierna <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(18.5 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">path along secondary roads, offering tranquility and natural views.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 12 &#8211; Cistierna \u2013 Bo\u00f1ar <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(21.3 km): stage traversing varied terrains and agricultural zones.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 13 &#8211; Bo\u00f1ar \u2013 La Robla <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(27 km): walk to La Robla, known for its cultural and architectural heritage.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 14 &#8211; La Robla \u2013 Pandorado <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(32 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">route through rural areas, facilitating access to Pandorado.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 15 &#8211; Pandorado \u2013 Fasgar <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(25 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">path connecting Pandorado to Fasgar, with panoramic views and tranquility.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 16 &#8211; Fasgar \u2013 Ig\u00fce\u00f1a <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(19 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">short stage to Ig\u00fce\u00f1a, allowing comfortable arrival and time to rest.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 17 &#8211; Ig\u00fce\u00f1a \u2013 Congosto <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(37.4 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">long stretch through mountainous areas, ending in Congosto.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stage 18 &#8211; Congosto \u2013 Villafranca del Bierzo <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(35.3 km):<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">final stage connecting Congosto to Villafranca del Bierzo, linking to the Camino Franc\u00e9s.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Practical Tips for Preparing for the Camino Olvidado<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before starting the Camino Olvidado, proper preparation is essential. Though lesser-known, this path can be challenging, so good planning will make a real difference to your experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Make sure you have the <\/span><b>right equipment<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Comfortable hiking boots, breathable clothing, and a lightweight but functional backpack will be your best allies. Don\u2019t forget a waterproof layer, as the weather can be unpredictable.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your <\/span><b>physical condition<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is also crucial. If you&#8217;re not used to walking long distances, it\u2019s recommended to<\/span><b> start training weeks in advance<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Daily walking or hiking will help you get used to it and avoid discomfort along the way.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nutrition is also important. Though the Camino Olvidado has less infrastructure than other routes, you\u2019ll find places to recharge. <\/span><b>Always carry some energy foods<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, like nuts or bars, and remember to stay hydrated.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Familiarize yourself with the stages and available services<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Having a map or an updated app will help you stay on track and get the most out of the experience.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>Natural and Cultural Wonders on the Camino Olvidado<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-111252 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Villafranca-del-Bierzo-Mundiplus.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1023\" height=\"681\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Villafranca-del-Bierzo-Mundiplus.jpg 1023w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Villafranca-del-Bierzo-Mundiplus-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Villafranca-del-Bierzo-Mundiplus-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Villafranca-del-Bierzo-Mundiplus-600x399.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1023px) 100vw, 1023px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Camino Olvidado<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> offers not only a physical journey but also an adventure through stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the natural and cultural marvels along this route:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Castle of Pedrosa de Valdeporres<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This medieval castle offers insight into the region\u2019s defensive architecture and panoramic views.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Church of San Pedro de Bo\u00f1ar<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located in the small town of Bo\u00f1ar, this Romanesque church is notable for its simple yet elegant architecture.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Puente Almuhey<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This ancient stone bridge spans the river running through this village. Beyond its historical value, it\u2019s a photogenic spot and a symbol of medieval engineering adapted to the natural environment.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Mirador de Congosto<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding area, providing a breathtaking view of the mountainous landscape and nearby valleys.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Ermita de la Virgen de la Pe\u00f1a<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Situated in a secluded natural setting, this hermitage is a traditional place of worship, carefully restored to preserve its original architecture.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Monasterio de San Juan de Congosto<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dating back centuries, this monastery is a distinguished example of the region\u2019s monastic architecture.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Puente de los Duendes in La Robla.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This old stone bridge is steeped in local legends.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><b>The History Behind the Camino Olvidado<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Camino Olvidado, or &#8220;Forgotten Way,&#8221; as its name suggests, has remained in the shadow of other, more popular routes. However, its history is as rich and captivating as any other pilgrimage path. This trail, walked by thousands of pilgrims for centuries, was used <\/span><b>long before the Camino Franc\u00e9s became the main route<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This path, also known as the <\/span><b>Camino de la Monta\u00f1a<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, was one of the earliest routes to Santiago de Compostela. In particular, it was favoured during periods when other routes were dangerous due to conflicts or adverse weather. It winds through mountainous areas, offering not only stunning natural beauty but also significant historical landmarks.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Along the route, you\u2019ll find remnants of ancient pilgrim hospitals, Romanesque churches, and small villages where traditions have been preserved for generations. This route is ideal for those seeking a more peaceful and less crowded experience, brimming with history and authenticity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exploring the Camino Olvidado is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a part of the cultural and spiritual heritage that has been somewhat forgotten, yet embodies the true spirit of pilgrimage.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019re seeking a unique experience on the Camino de Santiago, the Camino Olvidado is an option you shouldn\u2019t overlook. This route, steeped in history and charm, leads you through less-travelled landscapes, providing a peaceful alternative for those looking to avoid busier paths. Throughout its stages, you\u2019ll discover villages brimming with character, ancient churches, and [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":111247,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[538,536,534],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-111271","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-historia-en","category-camino-a-pie-en","category-blog"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/111271","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=111271"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/111271\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/111247"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=111271"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=111271"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.mundiplus.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=111271"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}