If you’re seeking a unique experience on the Camino de Santiago, the Camino Olvidado is an option you shouldn’t overlook. This route, steeped in history and charm, leads you through less-travelled landscapes, providing a peaceful alternative for those looking to avoid busier paths.

Throughout its stages, you’ll discover villages brimming with character, ancient churches, and landscapes that seem to belong to another era. Additionally, its cultural and natural diversity make it a comprehensive experience, perfect for those who enjoy peace and the thrill of discovery.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to prepare and make the most of this route, with details on its main stages, landscapes, and practical aspects to consider.

 

Key Stages of the Camino Olvidado You Won’t Want to Miss

The Camino Olvidado is a fascinating route through lesser-known locations, ideal for those seeking an authentic experience. If you decide to embark on this adventure, you should familiarise yourself with some of its most iconic stages.

The starting point is often Bilbao, a city that beautifully blends modernity and tradition. From there, you’ll make your way into the Castilla-León mountains, passing through towns like Espinosa de los Monteros, where you can admire medieval architecture.

Another noteworthy stage is the stretch through Aguilar de Campoo, famed for its Romanesque churches and mountainous landscapes. Here, many choose to explore tailor-made Camino de Santiago journeys, customising each stage to suit their preferences.

As you head westward, you’ll arrive at Ponferrada, one of the most significant points before merging with the Camino Francés. This connection lets you explore further with a Camino Primitivo guide for pilgrims, ideal if you wish to continue along quieter routes.

Comparison of Alternative Routes to the Camino Olvidado

In addition to the Camino Olvidado, there are other alternative routes that offer different experiences depending on what you’re looking for as a pilgrim. Each has unique characteristics that make it special, and getting to know them will help you make an informed choice.

  • The Route to Muxía from Santiago de Compostela is perfect if you wish to extend your journey after reaching Santiago. This path takes you towards the Costa da Morte, allowing you to explore stunning coastal landscapes and develop a unique connection with the sea.
  • Another interesting option is the English Way from Ferrol, a route starting from this city. It’s a shorter experience than the French Way, ideal for those with limited time who still want to enjoy Galicia’s natural beauty. The experience on the English Way from Ferrol is known for its peacefulness and proximity to the sea, making it a refreshing alternative.
  • On the other hand, the Camino Francés: Stages from O Cebreiro will take you along one of the most famous and historically rich routes. Starting from O Cebreiro, you’ll enter Galicia through a series of stages that blend tradition, culture, and natural beauty.

 

Description of the Stages of the Camino Olvidado

  • Stage 1 – Bilbao – Güeñes (25 km): Starting in Bilbao, exploring its urban surroundings before entering more rural areas towards Güeñes.
  • Stage 2 – Güeñes – Nava de Ordunte (26 km): Path through agricultural landscapes and small villages, offering a calm transition.
  • Stage 3 – Nava de Ordunte – Espinosa de los Monteros (35 km): a segment through mountainous areas and forests.
  • Stage 4 – Espinosa de los Monteros – Pedrosa de Valdeporres (31 km): rural path, passing charming villages and picturesque landscapes.
  • Stage 5 – Pedrosa de Valdeporres – Arija (28 km): walk with panoramic views of the Castilian countryside.
  • Stage 6 – Arija – Olea (33 km): terrain includes wooded areas and gentle hills.
  • Stage 7 – Olea – Aguilar de Campoo (22.7 km): a shorter segment, comfortably reaching Aguilar de Campoo, known for its rich history.
  • Stage 8 – Aguilar de Campoo – Cervera de Pisuerga (29 km): crossing rural and natural landscapes.
  • Stage 9 – Cervera de Pisuerga – Guardo (38 km): an extensive stage through mountainous areas and valleys.
  • Stage 10 – Guardo – Puente Almuhey (15.3 km): a short stretch for a well-deserved break.
  • Stage 11 – Puente Almuhey – Cistierna (18.5 km): path along secondary roads, offering tranquility and natural views.
  • Stage 12 – Cistierna – Boñar (21.3 km): stage traversing varied terrains and agricultural zones.
  • Stage 13 – Boñar – La Robla (27 km): walk to La Robla, known for its cultural and architectural heritage.
  • Stage 14 – La Robla – Pandorado (32 km): route through rural areas, facilitating access to Pandorado.
  • Stage 15 – Pandorado – Fasgar (25 km): path connecting Pandorado to Fasgar, with panoramic views and tranquility.
  • Stage 16 – Fasgar – Igüeña (19 km): short stage to Igüeña, allowing comfortable arrival and time to rest.
  • Stage 17 – Igüeña – Congosto (37.4 km): long stretch through mountainous areas, ending in Congosto.
  • Stage 18 – Congosto – Villafranca del Bierzo (35.3 km): final stage connecting Congosto to Villafranca del Bierzo, linking to the Camino Francés.

 

Practical Tips for Preparing for the Camino Olvidado

Before starting the Camino Olvidado, proper preparation is essential. Though lesser-known, this path can be challenging, so good planning will make a real difference to your experience.

  • Make sure you have the right equipment. Comfortable hiking boots, breathable clothing, and a lightweight but functional backpack will be your best allies. Don’t forget a waterproof layer, as the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Your physical condition is also crucial. If you’re not used to walking long distances, it’s recommended to start training weeks in advance. Daily walking or hiking will help you get used to it and avoid discomfort along the way.
  • Nutrition is also important. Though the Camino Olvidado has less infrastructure than other routes, you’ll find places to recharge. Always carry some energy foods, like nuts or bars, and remember to stay hydrated.
  • Familiarize yourself with the stages and available services. Having a map or an updated app will help you stay on track and get the most out of the experience.

 

Natural and Cultural Wonders on the Camino Olvidado

The Camino Olvidado offers not only a physical journey but also an adventure through stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the natural and cultural marvels along this route:

  • Castle of Pedrosa de Valdeporres: This medieval castle offers insight into the region’s defensive architecture and panoramic views.
  • Church of San Pedro de Boñar: Located in the small town of Boñar, this Romanesque church is notable for its simple yet elegant architecture.
  • Puente Almuhey. This ancient stone bridge spans the river running through this village. Beyond its historical value, it’s a photogenic spot and a symbol of medieval engineering adapted to the natural environment.
  • Mirador de Congosto. This viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding area, providing a breathtaking view of the mountainous landscape and nearby valleys.
  • Ermita de la Virgen de la Peña. Situated in a secluded natural setting, this hermitage is a traditional place of worship, carefully restored to preserve its original architecture.
  • Monasterio de San Juan de Congosto. Dating back centuries, this monastery is a distinguished example of the region’s monastic architecture.
  • Puente de los Duendes in La Robla. This old stone bridge is steeped in local legends.

 

The History Behind the Camino Olvidado

The Camino Olvidado, or “Forgotten Way,” as its name suggests, has remained in the shadow of other, more popular routes. However, its history is as rich and captivating as any other pilgrimage path. This trail, walked by thousands of pilgrims for centuries, was used long before the Camino Francés became the main route.

This path, also known as the Camino de la Montaña, was one of the earliest routes to Santiago de Compostela. In particular, it was favoured during periods when other routes were dangerous due to conflicts or adverse weather. It winds through mountainous areas, offering not only stunning natural beauty but also significant historical landmarks.

Along the route, you’ll find remnants of ancient pilgrim hospitals, Romanesque churches, and small villages where traditions have been preserved for generations. This route is ideal for those seeking a more peaceful and less crowded experience, brimming with history and authenticity.

Exploring the Camino Olvidado is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a part of the cultural and spiritual heritage that has been somewhat forgotten, yet embodies the true spirit of pilgrimage.