Embark on a transformative experience along the Primitive Way, an authentic route that invites you to rediscover the essence of pilgrimage. Far from being just a walk, this journey—chosen by King Alfonso II the Chaste in the 9th century after the discovery of the tomb of the Apostle James—stands as a journey towards introspection and the encounter with a millennial legacy.
During your journey, you will witness imposing landscapes: majestic mountains rising alongside valleys filled with green meadows and crystal-clear streams. Every bend in the Way leads you to traditional villages and historical enclaves, where time seems to stand still and the local culture manifests in every stone and corner.
Our exclusive guide will accompany you every step of the way, offering detailed itineraries, interactive maps, and practical tips that will ease your planning. Whether you’re looking for a physical challenge, moments of spiritual contemplation, or simply to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Way, each stage will bring you closer to Compostela and a unique experience.
Let yourself be seduced by the charm of a less traveled Way, where each path holds secrets of the past and the possibility to transform your present. At Mundiplus, we invite you to explore, reflect, and connect with history and nature, opening yourself to a journey that goes far beyond the conventional.
This Way covers approximately 314 km from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela, passing through historic villages, mountainous landscapes, and the heart of Galicia. Each stage is full of challenges and rewards, with panoramic views, steep ascents, and charming rural villages.
This way is considered the most beautiful and challenging, standing out for its mountainous landscapes, rivers and medieval villages, which attracts pilgrims in search of a deep connection with nature and history. Being one of the least traveled ways, it offers tranquility and is ideal for those avoiding crowds. In addition, it is the original way of the first pilgrims and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, along with the Camino del Norte, for its cultural and natural value.
As we have already mentioned, this is an official Way to Santiago de Compostela. It was used by King Alfonso II the Chaste in the 9th century, when he made the first pilgrimage from Oviedo to confirm the discovery of the Apostle's tomb. Over time, pilgrims from all over Europe began to use this route to reach Santiago, following ancient Roman and medieval roads.
Throughout the centuries, it has maintained its original essence, with villages and landscapes that seem untouched by time. Although less known than others, it has experienced a resurgence in recent years thanks to pilgrims seeking a more authentic and less traveled experience.
In addition to being the oldest route of all, it has a special attraction that sets it apart from other Jacobean routes.
Often described as the most beautiful and challenging of all ways. Its mountainous landscapes, rivers and medieval villages captivate pilgrims seeking a more intimate connection with nature and history.
The ideal time to visit it
With the renewal of nature, this period offers you pleasant temperatures and a flourishing environment. It is ideal for those who wish to make the journey with fewer crowds.
Long, bright days allow you to take advantage of every sunrise and sunset in the mountains, although some stretches may require breaks from the intense sun. Careful planning will help you balance effort and rest.
The route transforms into a setting of warm tones and serene atmospheres. This is the perfect time for those looking for a more leisurely and contemplative journey, in tune with the melancholy of the season.
For the more daring pilgrims, winter offers a special challenge. Despite the lower temperatures and the possibility of snow, the austerity of the landscape and the stillness of the surroundings create an intimate and deeply reflective experience.
From the Asturian mountains to the green valleys of Galicia, this route stands out for its natural beauty. It crosses medieval villages and dense forests and offers panoramic views that delight pilgrims. It is ideal for those seeking a more intimate and quiet connection, away from the crowds that traverse other more traveled routes.
Every step taken is an invitation to personal reflection and to enjoy the natural environment in its purest state. Although the route presents physical challenges, with mountainous sections and continuous ups and downs, the reward is undoubtedly direct contact with the essence of nature and history.
In addition to the beauty of its course, it is equipped with sufficient services to make your journey comfortable, without losing the authenticity of a more rural and less commercialized experience.
You can start the Way in Oviedo, the traditional starting point, or at other places along the route, tailoring your journey to your preferences and capabilities. Whether you decide to travel the entire route or just a part, ending your journey at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela will be the crowning glory of this unforgettable experience.
Below are the stages of the Primitive Way for those who wish to walk it. This division allows for a balanced experience, combining days of moderate walking with more challenging sections. Distances may vary slightly depending on the exact route and personal preferences, but generally, it is divided into 11 main stages:
You will pass through places of historical and scenic interest that immerse you in the essence of Galicia and Asturias. Here are some of the highlights:
This city marks the beginning of the adventure, and its impressive Gothic-style cathedral is the starting point for pilgrims beginning their journey. You can also visit the Holy Chamber, a treasure of Romanesque architecture that houses sacred relics.
This section, between Pola de Allande and Berducedo, is one of the most demanding but also the most rewarding. It offers spectacular views from the top of the port, reaching 1,100 meters of altitude.
Famous for its Roman wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is a city steeped in history. Here you can walk on the wall and visit the cathedral, in addition to enjoying its excellent cuisine, with tapas and Galician wines.
This small town is famous for its gastronomy, in particular butelo, a traditional sausage that offers an ideal break to regain energy before continuing the walk.
As you join the pilgrims of the French Way, Melide welcomes you with a delicious culinary stop: the famous Galician-style octopus.
The highlight of your trip, where you will receive the Compostela. The cathedral is a place of deep spirituality and a desired goal for all pilgrims, with its magnificent baroque façade and the famous botafumeiro ceremony at the altar.
If you still have any doubts, we will answer the most common questions regarding the Primitive Way.
The best time to walk it is in spring or autumn. During these periods, the temperatures are moderate, making the journey more comfortable. In spring, pilgrims can enjoy the blooming of flowers and longer days. In autumn, the fall colors create a unique atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a closer connection with nature. In summer, although the weather is more stable, the heat can be intense in some areas, especially during ascents. Moreover, July and August see the highest influx of pilgrims, which could detract from the tranquility this route offers. On the other hand, in winter, it becomes a greater challenge due to low temperatures, frequent rains, and even snow on the higher sections. This season is reserved for more experienced pilgrims.
It is considered to be of medium-high difficulty, which makes it a challenge for beginners, but it is not impossible. With good physical preparation and stage planning, it is entirely feasible, although you should be prepared for steep ascents and steep descents.
The average time to complete it is about 12-14 days, depending on your pace and the stages you choose. Some people prefer to take it slower, while others opt for longer days to reduce the total time.
It is important to travel light but be prepared for all types of weather. Bring layered clothing, a good waterproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and cold-weather gear if you plan to walk in autumn or winter. Don’t forget your pilgrim’s credential, which you will need to collect stamps along the way.
If you prefer to start closer to Santiago de Compostela, Lugo is the most popular alternative starting point. From here, you can still complete the last 100 km required to receive the Compostela, and moreover, it is a smoother stretch.
Summer on the Primitive Way can be unpredictable. While you may enjoy sunny days, temperatures in the Asturian mountains can drop significantly at night, and rain is frequent, even in July and August. Bring waterproof clothing and light layers that you can add or remove depending on the weather.
Unlike the French Way, this is a much less traveled route. However, if you desire even more tranquility, it is advisable to avoid the high season, which coincides with the months of July and August.
This way can be more challenging in terms of infrastructure and accessibility. It is recommended to start planning at least 2-3 months before the trip, especially if you have time constraints or need to book accommodation. Be sure to research the stages, expected weather conditions, and available services in each section.
If you have a flexible schedule, it’s easier to adjust, but if you need specific dates, planning ahead will ensure a smoother experience.
To obtain the Compostela, the certificate that proves your pilgrimage, you must have walked at least 100 km on foot or 200 km by bike. This means you can start from Lugo if you prefer a shorter walk.
During the journey, make sure to stamp your Pilgrim’s Credential at the official points along the stages. Remember that you will need these stamps as proof of your pilgrimage when you arrive at the pilgrim’s office in Santiago.
