Camino de Santiago on horseback
Galicia, Northen Spain
6 to 21 days
Spain | Galicia
Camino de Santiago on horseback
6 day, the French way
Available: Apr to Oct
Pilgrimage of Santiago & Horse Riding in Spain
Embarking on the Pilgrimage of Santiago on horseback is a journey deeply steeped in history and spirituality, standing as one of the major routes of pilgrimage alongside Rome and Jerusalem. Originating in the 9th century, this revered trail converges on the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain, where the relics of Saint James the Apostle are said to rest.
Highlights
* A spiritual journey of the Pilgrimage to Santiago, a soul-stirring experience
* Engage in 6-7 hours of daily horseback riding
* Immerse in the scenic routes and charming towns of Galicia
* Experience seamless logistics, ensuring an effortless and hassle-free pilgrimage
* Delight in the diverse local gastronomy along the route, savoring authentic flavors
* Culminate the pilgrimage by arriving on horseback in Santiago de Compostela
* Admire the distant towers of the Santiago Cathedral and step into Plaza do Obradoiro
* 5 nights accommodation with full board meals
About the Pilgrimage of Santiago
As riders traverse the diverse landscapes, from rugged terrains to quaint villages, the symbiosis between horse and pilgrim amplifies the significance of the expedition. This meditative traverse unfolds as a transformative experience, offering moments for inner contemplation while embracing the spiritual heritage and camaraderie that have characterized this extraordinary pilgrimage for centuries.
From your host Jesús' personal experience, it is one of the best experiences in his life, without a doubt. Jesús completed the Camino de Santiago twice, and he always wants to do it again. He walked both times, and for this third time, he would love to do it on horseback, and of course, share it with people who are passionate about nature. Jesús highly recommend this experience, as reaching the Cathedral after several days of pilgrimage is very rewarding. He has high expectations for this trip because you try it once, and you always want to repeat it, and of course, each experience is unique. It cannot be fully described; it's something unique and magical that one has to live for themselves.
About The French Way or Camino Francés
The French Way, or Camino Francés, stands as the most traversed route of the Camino de Santiago, spanning approximately 800 kilometers from St. Jean Pied de Port in France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. This revered path captivates pilgrims with its diverse landscapes, historical significance, and cultural richness.
We have prepared a condensed experience, the 7-day route on horseback from Sarria serves as a popular starting point, covering around 100 kilometers—a distance that fulfills the minimum requirement to obtain the revered Compostela certificate. The journey from Sarria encompasses picturesque hamlets, undulating hillsides, and emblematic landmarks such as Portomarín and the renowned Santiago de Barbadelos monastery, offering pilgrims a condensed yet spiritually enriching portion of the Camino Francés.
You'll be riding between 25-35 km for 6-7 hours a day, so you need to be at an intermediate or advanced level and aged 16 to 70 years old to handle that.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrivals in Santiago de Compostela
Transfer to the starting point of Camino de Santiago on horseback
Check in to the accommodation
Welcome dinner
Day 2: Sarria to Portomarín
Cross the A Áspera bridge towards Barbadelo, passing through stunning oak forests and historic landscapes.
Traverse Paradela and descend to the banks of the Miño River, entering Portomarín.
Explore the town's submerged ruins and stay overnight in Portomarín.
Day 3: Portomarín to Ligonde
Journey through Gonzar, Castromaior, Ventas de Narón, and Lameiros before reaching Ligonde, witnessing traditional architectural styles along the way.
Spend the night in Ligonde.
Day 4: Ligonde to Palas de Rei
Proceed through Palas de Rei via A Ulloa, known for dairy production, and the Pambre Castle, and explore this historically rich region.
Continue the path into A Coruña province, passing Leboeiro and Furelos, and spend the night in Palas de Rei.
Day 5: Palas de Rei to Santiago de Compostela
Enter Melide, the geographical center of Galicia. Savor the famed Galician-style octopus and explore the town's historical identity as it merges with the urban landscape.
Continue through Boente and Castañeda before nearing Arzúa, passing through Ribadiso. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
Conclude the journey with a view of the distant towers of the Santiago Cathedral, signaling the approaching destination.
Arrive at Santiago de Compostela and visit the Cathedral, marking the end of the pilgrimage.
Spend the day exploring the city and its historical treasures.
Last day
07:00 - 09:00 It will be possible to enter on horseback to the Plaza do Obradoiro (Santiago's Cathedral)
Return to hotel
Breakfast
12:00 Pilgrim’s Mass
Departure
Sample schedule
08:00 Breakfast
09:00 Begin horseback riding
11:00 Short break for refreshments (drink/snack/coffee, etc.)
11:30 Continue on horseback
14:00 Lunch
16:00 Resume horseback riding
18:00 - 18:30 Approximate arrival
Rest and free time
20:00 Dinner
Prices:
1 person - own room
From € 3,485
2 people - sharing a room together
From € 6,290
Please note:
Early bird discount 5% is offered when booking 90 days or earlier.
What's included
* Transfer from the Santiago airport / bus / train station (both ways)
* 5 nights accommodation (in a double shared room in comfortable and pleasant pilgrims accommodations)
* All meals during the route
* Guides and ground staff to take care of horses
* Luggage transfer between accommodations & support vehicle
* Horses, equipment, saddle bags
* Waterproof clothing (if necessary)
* Third-party liability insurance
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided in a double shared room in comfortable and pleasant pilgrim accommodations en route.
Skill level necessary:
Intermediate
Advanced
You'll be riding between 25-35 km for 6-7 hours a day, so you need to be at an intermediate or advanced level and aged 16 to 70 years old to handle that.
Bookings:
Thomas
Whatsapp: +34692714608
wisdomhealingretreats@gmail.com
