Crossing into the final 100 km to Santiago, the Camino transformed — quiet trails gave way to lively crowds and new pilgrims. From Samos to A Pena, the day brought laughter, sunshine, and the joy of reaching a major milestone.

A misty descent from O Cebreiro led to Samos, where forested trails and monastery bells replaced the mountain winds. After days of rain and climbs, a quiet albergue with a warm kitchen offered a welcome evening of rest and companionship.

Through rain, wind, and endless puddles, I climbed from Villafranca del Bierzo to O Cebreiro — a misty mountain village steeped in legend. Despite soaked shoes and strong winds, the day ended warmly among friends and the quiet magic of Galicia’s highlands.

A rainy day’s walk through the Bierzo valley led from Molinaseca to Villafranca del Bierzo, passing the Templar Castle of Ponferrada and small vineyard towns. After hours on wet pavement, the warmth of a fireplace at day’s end was the perfect reward.

From the steep climb to Foncebadón to the rocky descent into Molinaseca, this day on the Camino Francés was both demanding and deeply moving. After leaving my stone at Cruz de Ferro and struggling to find a bed, an unexpected act of kindness turned the day into one of the most memorable yet.

Rolling hills and historic villages guided my steps from Hospital de Órbigo to El Ganso. I watched the sunrise over farmland, met a fellow Canadian pilgrim, and ended the day sleeping in a teepee — a nostalgic close to a long, sun-soaked walk through Maragatería.

From León to Hospital de Órbigo, the Camino passes through industrial outskirts and small towns before crossing the medieval Puente de Órbigo, blending history, effort, and quiet reflection along the way.

A rest day in León offered a chance to explore the cathedral, wander historic streets, enjoy hearty local food, and recharge before resuming the Camino.

A wet and grey stage from Mansilla de las Mulas to León, with flat terrain and industrial outskirts. Reaching León brought relief, dry shoes, and the chance to rest before the next stage.

A long, wet stage across the Meseta, with flat but monotonous terrain. Despite the drizzle and repetitive landscape, reaching Mansilla de las Mulas brought relief and a sense of accomplishment.

A milestone stage across the Meseta, from Terradillos de los Templarios to Bercianos del Real Camino, passing Sahagún’s halfway point. Flat terrain, light drizzle, and small acts of kindness made it a memorable day.

A sun-exposed Meseta stage from Carrión de los Condes to Terradillos de los Templarios, with open farmland, small friendly encounters, and the satisfaction of reaching a welcoming albergue.

A long, sun-exposed Meseta stage from Boadilla del Camino to Carrión de los Condes. Flat but hot, with welcoming locals and a shared kitchen at the albergue making the journey memorable.

A classic Meseta stage from Hontanas to Boadilla del Camino, filled with muddy trails, quiet open landscapes, and the kindness of locals who make the Camino unforgettable.

A long, open-stage walk from Burgos to Hontanas across the Meseta plateau, punctuated by a blessing at a small church and a final descent into a peaceful village. After a day under the sun, even a simple meal felt like a feast.

A rest day in Burgos, filled with Gothic beauty, ice cream breaks, and quiet moments of reflection. Between cathedral visits, museum discoveries, and long city walks, this pause on the Camino offered the perfect mix of recovery and renewal.

A relaxed and rewarding stage from Atapuerca to Burgos, blending rural paths with a lively city arrival. Between scenic river trails, a playful McDonald’s detour, and a cozy Airbnb stay, this day marked the perfect balance of humour, history, and much-needed rest.

A steady 26 km walk from Tosantos to Atapuerca, ending with a fascinating visit to one of Europe’s oldest archaeological sites. Between forest trails, good company, and a cozy albergue, it was a perfect mix of history and Camino camaraderie.

A light-hearted stage filled with laughter, coffee breaks, and friendship, ending in the quiet village of Tosantos. The visit to the cliffside chapel and shared donativo dinner made this day one of the most meaningful yet—simple, spiritual, and unforgettable.

A meaningful stage from Nájera to Grañón, blending early-morning starlight, open countryside, and the heartwarming experience of a donativo stay. The day ended not with luxury, but with shared food, laughter, and the true spirit of Camino hospitality.