Way from Ferrol to Santiago

The popularity of the Camino Inglés has been growing in recent years, thanks to its landscapes and varied gastronomy. The typical cuisine along this way is undoubtedly exquisite, diverse, and we could say it has options for all tastes.

In this guide, we will talk about some of the most popular dishes you can find from El Ferrol to Santiago. As you know, Galician cuisine is so extensive that it is not exactly the same here as it is in the Portuguese section, for example.

Typical Dishes from El Ferrol to Santiago

Although the restaurant offerings are quite varied, opting for typical dishes will always be the best choice. Besides being more readily available, they are also cheaper compared to others, making it a win-win—you stretch your budget and enjoy local flavors.

Among the typical dishes of the English way that you must not miss under any circumstances, the following are worth mentioning:

Pan de Neda

First of all, you should know that this is one of the oldest breads in all of Galicia, with a week-long celebration each year.

Neda is a small town with fewer than 5,000 inhabitants but has gained recognition thanks to its wonderful bread. Records of its consumption date back to 1589, and since then, the recipe has remained practically unchanged.

Handmade, with “extremely pure” water, it is a true delicacy for pilgrims and anyone who visits. Its shape is round, with a rustic crust but quite spongy inside.

Grelos de Ordes

Grelos are one of the most traditional vegetables in all of Galicia. They are so common that you can find them practically anywhere in the region, especially during the winter season. They are shoots, quite similar to turnips, but with an intense green color.

They have a strong, very strong flavor. In fact, before preparing them, they are washed in warm water to slightly tone down their intensity. They are usually cooked directly in a broth made with salted pork and served with potatoes. It is delicious, simple, but extremely nutritious.

Costrada de Pontedeume

If we had to define it simply, we could say that it is a Galician pie, originating from Pontedeume. It is believed that this recipe arrived in Galicia through Italian monks who came around the 12th century.

It is made from wheat flour and consists of several layers of meat. It is usually pork loin, ham, and chicken or fish and seafood, although it can vary depending on the area. Each layer is separated by a special layer of dough.

When thinking of pies, we could say it is a cheap product, although in this case, it is not quite so. Its preparation takes quite some time, in addition to the quantity of ingredients.

Tarta de Pontedeume

It is quite similar to the famous Tarta de Santiago. Its origin dates back to an old recipe book from the late 19th century.

Its preparation involves almonds, sugar, and egg yolks, with the latter being the main ingredient. Hence, in some areas, it is known as tarta de yema.

The main difference from the Tarta de Santiago is that in this case, almonds are more abundant in the preparation. Similarly, no flour is used in the preparation process.

Best Places to Eat from Ferrol to Santiago

Along the stretch from Ferrol to Santiago, there are a number of establishments well worth enjoying, both for their excellent service and exquisite cuisine, where traditional flavors are always the stars.

Among the best places to eat from Ferrol to Santiago are:

Mesón o Galo (El Ferrol)

Located on Rúa María 104 Bajo, it is one of the most famous places in all of Ferrol if you are looking for traditional cuisine. It is popular with both locals and pilgrims.

Its service is top-notch, although without a doubt, the star is its varied and exquisite menu, where we are sure you will be amazed. The house specialties are octopus and zamburiñas, the latter being quite popular.

The quality-price ratio is more than adequate, always with fresh ingredients and preparations made to order.

Mesón o Pote (Betanzos)

On Calle del Mercurio number 10, Mesón O Pote is a family and traditional establishment in Betanzos. It is an option especially recommended for tortilla lovers. With many years of tradition, its star preparation has earned countless awards within and outside of Spain.

In addition to the wonderful tortilla, its menu offers other delicacies such as razor clams, zamburiñas, Padrón peppers, octopus, croquettes, or the always delicious roast meat.

Antón Veirás (Ordes)

Aside from being a wonderful option for dining, this rural house also offers quality accommodation for pilgrims.

With more than three centuries of history, this old farmhouse was meticulously restored. The restaurant is located in what was the cellar. Its specialty, of course, is traditional cuisine, where fish and seafood always take center stage.

As a curious fact, they had to add pasta, as, although not very common, pilgrims requested it for energy recovery.

Restaurante A Maceta (Santiago de Compostela)

On Rúa de San Pedro, A Maceta is a perfect establishment for eating, drinking, and enjoying once the pilgrimage is completed.

In the historic center of Santiago de Compostela, its proposal is a kind of fusion of many cultures. It reflects the pilgrims who come from all corners, with fresh products from local producers.

The space could not be more welcoming, making you feel at home from the first moment you arrive. It has an exquisite and very well-curated wine list, all from local wineries.

Here are the different options for getting to the organized Camino de Santiago starting in Ferrol. This is the place from which you can obtain the “La Compostela” certificate by covering the minimum required distance of 100 kilometers.

Option 1: Private Car: You can park in the parking lot of the hotel where you are staying or nearby. Another option is to request private parking.

Option 2: Train (Renfe). Direct trains every day from Madrid and Barcelona.

Option 3: Plane

The nearest airport to Ferrol is A Coruña (45 km) and another alternative is the Santiago de Compostela Airport (90 km). From there:

– By bus/taxi to A Coruña or Santiago de Compostela, and from there, also by bus or taxi to Ferrol.

– Private transfer with us: pickup at A Coruña or Santiago Airport and direct transfer to Ferrol. Contact us for the service fee.

Stage from Ferrol to Pontedeume

Ferrol stands out for its maritime past. We can enjoy its monuments by strolling through its narrow and irregular medieval streets.

Its most important monument is the San Felipe Castle, built in the 18th century from granite. It is a great experience to explore it and appreciate the beautiful view of the estuary.

In the Magdalena neighborhood, we can visit the Church of San Julián, dedicated to the city’s patron saint, as well as the San Roque Fountain and the Jofre Theater.

In Narón, the San Martiño de Xubia O Couto Monastery stands out. It dates from the 8th century; the portico and the bell tower are from the 18th century. The church has three floors with three naves. On the outside, the profane sculpture of the corbels (heads of monsters, bovids…) stands out.

In Neda, the Church of Santa Maria from the 18th century, the 15th-century Santi Spiritus pilgrims’ hospital, whose remains are attached to the town hall, as well as the clock tower and the 14th-century Church of San Nicolás stand out.

In Cabanas, visit the Church of San Martiño do Porto, notable for its Baroque-style façade. You can also take a walk along Magdalena Beach.

In Pontedeume, the Santo Agostiño Convent, the Chapel of As Virtudes, the keep of the Andrade Castle (14th century), the Church of Santiago, and the Town Hall stand out.

Stage from Pontedeume to Betanzos

Near Baxoi, highlight the medieval bridge over the river of the same name. Leaving Miño, we find the Church of San Pantaleón das Viñas, notable for its Romanesque-style façade. Near Betanzos, the Romanesque Church of San Martiño de Tiobre stands out.

In Betanzos, the Bendaña Palace, the Town Hall Palace, and the 15th-century Church of Santiago stand out. Don’t forget to try the famous Betanzos tortilla.

Stage from Bruma to Sigueiro

In Sigüero, the San Paio de Buscás Church and the San Xiao de Poulo Church, both of Romanesque origin, stand out. The Ponte de Sigüero, over the Tambre River, possibly of medieval origin.

If we have the chance to taste the Ordes grelos, they are famous for their excellent quality.

Stage from Sigueiro to Santiago

In Santiago de Compostela, we find the most important monument of our entire way, the Santiago Cathedral, dedicated to the Apostle Santiago. It was consecrated in 1128 and is a fine example of a pilgrimage church. Romanesque in style, with later Renaissance and Baroque elements from the 18th century. Of Romanesque Latin cross plan, it has three naves divided by semicircular arches, a tribune, a transept, and an ambulatory. Highlights include the Pórtico de la Gloria, the best example of Spanish Romanesque art by Master Mateo.

As tradition, every pilgrim who wants to and can, attends the 12 o’clock Mass in the Cathedral. There, with a bit of luck, you can see the magnificent botafumeiro in action. Another tradition is to embrace the image of the Apostle Santiago and visit his crypt. A visit to the cathedral museum, as well as a visit to the cathedral’s roofs, is a must.

The San Martín Pinario Monastery, opposite the Azabachería Square.

The façade of the Parador de los Reyes Católicos, in the Obradoiro Square, founded as a pilgrim hospital.

The entire old town is spectacular, transporting us back to medieval times without realizing it. It is home to the Santiago Abastos Market.

The entire old town is spectacular, transporting us back to medieval times. In it is the Santiago Abastos Market. On the other hand, you can also explore the surroundings of Santiago and take organized excursions along the Costa da Morte and Rias Baixas.

The Camino Inglés way has been gaining popularity in recent years. Its landscapes, villages, cuisine, and less crowded nature compared to other ways, such as the Camino de Santiago from Sarria to Santiago, are contributing to this trend.

The English Way from Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela covers approximately 118 kilometers. This way can be completed in five stages.

However, it is possible to complete the English Way from Ferrol in 6 days. It all depends on the pilgrim’s pace and whether additional stops are desired to rest or explore points of interest more thoroughly. In addition to not enjoying the way as it deserves, we do not recommend combining stages.

The stage from Betanzos to Bruma is considered one of the most challenging due to its length of 24.5 kilometers and the steep climbs encountered along the way. This stretch crosses rural and mountainous areas that require greater physical effort.

In this case, prior hiking experience is not strictly necessary. However, it is advisable to have good physical fitness due to the length of the stages and the ascents and descents encountered in some parts of the way. It is also recommended to do some prior preparation with long walks to get accustomed.

The best time to undertake this stretch is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these periods, temperatures are milder and there are fewer pilgrims compared to the summer months. These seasons also offer very attractive landscapes and more comfortable walking conditions.

The weather on the English Way can vary, but it is generally mild. Spring and autumn are cool and damp seasons, while summer can be warmer. It is advisable to wear comfortable and breathable clothing, a waterproof or windproof jacket, and suitable footwear for long walks. It is also suggested to bring layers of clothing to adapt to temperature changes throughout the day.

To obtain the Compostela, it is necessary to have completed at least the last 100 kilometers of the Camino de Santiago on foot, or 200 kilometers by bicycle. The stretch from Ferrol to Santiago meets this minimum distance, so you don’t have to worry about it.

You should keep in mind that pilgrims must have their credential stamped at least twice a day at designated places to prove their passage through the different stages.

The English Way from Ferrol offers a variety of landscapes, from coastal views in the first stage to lush forests, rivers, hills, and agricultural fields in the later stages.

On the English Way from Ferrol, many accommodations and restaurants are aware of the dietary needs of pilgrims. Therefore, they offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special dietary options. It is advisable to inform in advance when making reservations to ensure that these needs can be met during the trip.

Along the English Way, pilgrims may encounter local festivities such as:

• The San Juan Festivities in Ferrol, in June, where bonfires are celebrated on the beach.
• In Betanzos, the San Roque festivities in August are famous for their traditions and parades.