For those who have already completed the classic Camino routes, the Camino San Salvador offers magnificent scenery with a profound purpose. The path that connects the great pilgrimage centres of León and Oviedo leads you through the dramatic landscapes of the Cantabrian Mountains.
Your destination is not the tomb of the Apostle St James at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, but rather Oviedo’s Cathedral of San Salvador. Here, the faithful come to venerate the sacred relics held within the Cathedral’s Holy Chamber. The “Sudarium of Oviedo” is the cloth believed to have wrapped the head of Christ after the crucifixion.
The route follows the ancient medieval tradition: “He who visits Santiago and not Oviedo, visits the servant and not the Master.”
This journey would suit those seeking a quieter path, physical challenge, and deep connections to early Spanish history and pre-Romanesque art.
The Camino San Salvador is a spectacular blend of physical challenge and profound solitude, making it the ideal choice for clients seeking an intense, peaceful escape from the crowds of the French Way.
The route transitions dramatically, starting on the dry, flat plains of León, you find yourself facing steep, rocky terrain and exposed high mountain passes on Days 3 & 4. Thereafter, you descend steeply through lush, wet forest and valley tracks in Asturias.
This Camino is a relatively short route but intensely challenging. The steep, sustained climb and descent across the Cantabrian Mountains require good fitness and preparation, especially given the high-altitude weather and tricky footing. It is not recommended for novice walkers.
Price
£760 pp, sharing double/twin rooms – single supplement is £155
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Cathedral of San Salvador (Oviedo): For many, this is the ultimate pilgrimage destination, holding relics including the Holy Shroud of Oviedo.
Pajares Pass: The emotional and physical high point, marking the crossing into the lush green mountains of Asturias.
Basilica of San Isidoro (León): A magnificent starting point, housing the Romanesque “Sistine Chapel.”
Solitude: The Camino San Salvador is one of the quietest routes, offering true peace and reflection away from the crowds of the Camino Francés.
The cuisine along the Camino San Salvador is characterised by the transition from the dry plains of Castilla y León into the lush, mountainous territory of Asturias.
In León, the gastronomy is defined by hearty, traditional fare based on high-quality meats. Highlights include cured meats, most famously the smoky, rich Cecina (cured beef), and substantial stews like Cocido Maragato. León is also celebrated for its unique social tradition of offering generous, often complimentary tapas with every drink order. Make sure to sample a variety as you prepare for the road ahead.
Once the route crosses into Asturias, the cuisine is dominated by the region’s famous produce. The essential dish is Fabada Asturiana, a rich, restorative pork-and-bean stew—perfect fare after a day in the mountains. Asturias produces some of Europe’s best cheeses, like the intensely flavoured blue Cabrales. Although there is a small wine-making region here, the traditional drink is Sidra (natural cider). The cider is poured from a height (escanciado) to aerate it, making the simple act of drinking a unique cultural experience that is woven into the fabric of Asturian life.
Arrive in León, the starting point of the Camino San Salvador. Spend the day exploring the city’s architectural gems, including the stunning Cathedral of León and the Basilica of San Isidoro. This is a vital day for rest and preparation before the route begins.
A gentle start, exiting the city and heading north. The route is characterized by flatter terrain as you follow ancient Roman roads, gradually leaving the plains of Castilla behind. You pass through agricultural land and small villages before reaching La Robla, an industrial town along the Bernesga River.
The journey takes a sharp scenic turn as you begin your ascent into the mountains. The day involves climbing towards the Cantabrian Mountains, offering increasingly dramatic landscapes. The trail features quiet sections of forest and small settlements, preparing you for the major ascent ahead.
This is the most challenging and shortest stage, dedicated almost entirely to climbing. You tackle the fearsome Pajares Pass and the Cimas (summits). The reward is the phenomenal view from the high mountains, where you cross into Asturias (from the historic Kingdom of León). Pajares is a small mountain village known for its altitude and stunning views.
This is the most challenging and shortest stage, dedicated almost entirely to climbing. You tackle the fearsome Pajares Pass and the Cimas (summits). The reward is the phenomenal view from the high mountains, where you cross into Asturias (from the historic Kingdom of León). Pajares is a small mountain village known for its altitude and stunning views.
A relatively short and easy stage following the River Lena downstream. The route is mainly flat or slightly downhill, passing through areas that historically centered on mining. Mieres is a larger town with plenty of amenities, marking your approach to the final destination.
The route continues through the Asturian countryside, passing through little suburbs and eventually leading into the historic heart of Oviedo. The final approach culminates at the Cathedral of San Salvador (The Holy Saviour). Your pilgrimage ends with veneration of the holy relics kept in the Cámara Santa (Holy Chamber).
Handpicked and well-known to us, these small, family-run establishments offer our guests comfortable accommodations on the Camino.
Your accommodation will include a variety of guest houses, apartments, and 1-3-star hotels & hostals (not pilgrim bunkhouses). All rooms have private en-suite facilities.
If your budget allows, we can suggest some accommodation upgrades, as we often work with the top-end establishments on the Camino. Some rural lodgings may require a short transfer off the Camino, but we think you’ll find them very charming and comfortable.
Our high level of personal service and customer care offers the best of local food, culture, and history.
