Vía de la Plata from Puebla de Sanabria: 16 days on foot, shorter stages

Your Camino day by day

1. Day 1 Puebla de Sanabria → Requejo 13.5 km · +206 m / -146 m

   This stage from Puebla de Sanabria to Requejo covers 13.5 km with a gentle climb of 206 m. The route offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and passes through small, charming villages. A practical tip is to start early to enjoy the morning light and cooler temperatures.

   Did you know that Puebla de Sanabria is home to a well-preserved medieval castle, known as the Castle of the Counts of Benavente, which dates back to the 15th century? This impressive structure is a testament to the region's rich history and strategic importance.

   

   Map of Requejo: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Requejo →

2. Day 2 Requejo → Lubián 16.0 km · +218 m / -128 m

   This stage takes you through the serene landscapes of the Zamora province, with gentle climbs and descents. You will pass by small villages, offering a glimpse of local life. Carry enough water, as there are limited services along the way.

   Did you know that Lubián is known for its unique traditional architecture, including the picturesque stone houses that reflect the region's history? The village is also famous for its local cheese, which has been crafted for generations.

   

   Map of Lubián: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Lubián →

3. Day 3 Lubián → A Gudiña 23.8 km · +350 m / -460 m

   Today's stage from Lubián to A Gudiña covers 23.8 km with a climb of 350 m and a descent of 460 m. The route features rolling hills and picturesque villages, providing a serene walking experience. A practical tip is to carry enough water, as facilities may be sparse along the way.

   Did you know that A Gudiña is famous for its traditional Galician cuisine, particularly the dish called 'pulpo a la gallega', which consists of octopus seasoned with paprika and served with potatoes? This dish reflects the region's rich culinary heritage.

   

   Map of A Gudiña: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in A Gudiña →

4. Day 4 A Gudiña → Campobecerros 16.5 km · +175 m / -315 m

   Today's stage from A Gudiña to Campobecerros offers a gentle descent through picturesque landscapes and small villages. The route covers 16.5 km with a slight climb and a more significant descent, making it manageable for most pilgrims. A practical tip is to fill your water bottles at the fountains in the villages along the way.

   Did you know that A Gudiña is known for its traditional Galician cuisine, particularly its delicious octopus dish called 'pulpo a la gallega'? This dish showcases the region's rich culinary heritage and is a must-try for visitors.

   

   Map of Campobecerros: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Campobecerros →

5. Day 5 Campobecerros → Laza 16.5 km · +132 m / -282 m

   Today's stage from Campobecerros to Laza spans 16.5 km and features a gentle climb of 132 m followed by a descent of 282 m. The route takes you through scenic landscapes and charming villages, providing a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. A practical tip is to fill up your water bottles before leaving Campobecerros as services may be limited along the way.

   Did you know that Laza is famous for its unique celebration of the 'Entroido', a traditional Carnival festival featuring elaborate costumes and lively parades? This event has deep roots in the region, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the area.

   

   Map of Laza: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Laza →

6. Day 6 Laza → Vilar de Barrio 22.0 km · +180 m / -260 m

   Today's walk from Laza to Vilar de Barrio covers 22 km through rolling hills and charming villages. The terrain is relatively gentle with a modest climb of 180 m and a descent of 260 m. Keep an eye out for local wildlife along the way.

   Did you know that Laza is famous for its traditional 'Festa da Malla', a celebration that showcases local agricultural practices and attracts visitors from across the region?

   

   Map of Vilar de Barrio: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Vilar de Barrio →

7. Day 7 Vilar de Barrio → Xunqueira de Ambía 11.0 km · +80 m / -150 m

   This stage takes you through the serene landscapes of Galicia, with gentle hills and lush greenery. The route is relatively easy, covering 11 km with a modest climb. Be sure to fill your water bottle before setting off, as facilities are limited.

   Did you know that Xunqueira de Ambía is home to the historic Monastery of Santa María, which dates back to the 12th century? This impressive structure is known for its beautiful Romanesque architecture and its role in the region's monastic history.

   

   Map of Xunqueira de Ambía: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Xunqueira de Ambía →

8. Day 8 Xunqueira de Ambía → Ourense 22.0 km · +120 m / -540 m

   Today’s stage takes you through a mix of tranquil countryside and charming villages, with a total distance of 22 km. The route is mostly downhill, making it a relatively easy trek with a few gentle climbs. A practical tip is to fill your water bottles in the villages along the way, as services can be sparse.

   Did you know that Ourense is famous for its thermal springs? The city boasts numerous hot springs, some of which have been used since Roman times for their therapeutic properties.

   

   Map of Ourense: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Ourense →

9. Day 9 Ourense → Tamallancos 11.0 km · +260 m / -60 m

   Today’s stage from Ourense to Tamallancos is relatively short, covering 11 km with a gentle climb of 260 m. Pilgrims will enjoy scenic views of the Galician countryside and pass through charming villages along the way. A practical tip is to take advantage of the local cafés for refreshments before continuing your journey.

   Did you know that Ourense is famous for its hot springs, with thermal baths that have been used since Roman times? The city's name is derived from the Latin word 'Aurelia', meaning 'golden', reflecting its rich history.

   

   Map of Tamallancos: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Tamallancos →

10. Day 10 Tamallancos → Cea 11.0 km · +200 m / -200 m

    Today's walk from Tamallancos to Cea covers 11 km through gentle hills and picturesque landscapes. You'll pass small villages that offer a glimpse into rural life in Spain. Remember to bring enough water, as there are limited places to refill along the way.

    Did you know that Cea is famous for its traditional bread, known as 'pan de Cea'? This bread has a unique texture and flavour, making it a staple in local cuisine.

    

    Map of Cea: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Cea →

11. Day 11 Cea → Dozón 14.0 km · +138 m / -201 m

    Today's walk from Cea to Dozón is a pleasant 14 km journey through rolling hills and small hamlets. The terrain is manageable with a gentle climb and descent, making it a comfortable stage for pilgrims. Don't forget to carry enough water, as services can be sparse along the way.

    Did you know that the village of Cea is famous for its traditional bread, known as 'pan de Cea'? This bread has been recognised with a Protected Geographical Indication, reflecting its unique quality and heritage.

    

    Map of Dozón: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Dozón →

12. Day 12 Dozón → A Laxe 14.5 km · +116 m / -196 m

    

    Map of A Laxe: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in A Laxe →

13. Day 13 A Laxe → Bandeira 11.5 km · +125 m / -80 m

    

    Map of Bandeira: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Bandeira →

14. Day 14 Bandeira → Silleda 11.5 km · +142 m / -92 m

    

    Map of Silleda: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Silleda →

15. Day 15 Silleda → Ponte Ulla 21.0 km · +100 m / -265 m

    Today's stage from Silleda to Ponte Ulla covers 21 km, featuring a gentle climb of 200 meters and a descent of 530 meters. Pilgrims will pass through lush green landscapes and quaint villages, making it a pleasant walk. Remember to stay hydrated, especially on warmer days.

    Did you know that Ponte Ulla is home to a historic Roman bridge that dates back to the 1st century AD? This impressive structure showcases the engineering skills of the Romans and is a key landmark along the Vía de la Plata.

    

    Map of Ponte Ulla: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Ponte Ulla →

16. Day 16 Ponte Ulla → Santiago de Compostela 16.5 km · +220 m / -120 m

    This stage takes you through gentle hills and picturesque landscapes as you approach Santiago de Compostela. You'll pass through small villages, where the charm of rural Galicia shines. The trek of 16.5 km is manageable, but be prepared for some elevation changes; remember to stay hydrated.

    Did you know that Santiago de Compostela is home to the famous Cathedral of Santiago, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which is believed to be the burial place of Saint James, one of Jesus' apostles?

    

    Map of Santiago de Compostela: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Santiago de Compostela →

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