Embark on the journey of a lifetime and walk the Camino de Santiago! The lush forests and rolling hills, the dramatic coastlines, the fabulous food, the historic buildings, and the sense of solidarity found in the company of other pilgrims. The Camino de Santiago is the world’s most famous pilgrimage for good reason. But planning your adventure can be daunting. After all, there’s a dizzying array of routes to choose from, and every former walker will have their own view on which sights, cities, and regions aren’t to be missed!
The following guide dives into some of the most visually striking Camino paths. We’ve thrown together this article to help you uncover the route that resonates most deeply with you. There is no best route when walking the Camino de Santiago, but the challenges and treasures of a particular choice may inspire you more than others.
We hope you find this article helpful. If you have any questions, please get in touch. Before you go, be sure to check out our selection of Camino Walking Trips.
The Classic French Way (Camino Francés)
The French Way, also known as Camino Francés, is well-known for its diverse landscapes. The route offers a variety of views, from the rolling vineyards of La Rioja to the misty Galician forests. Pilgrims will pass through charming medieval towns, lush valleys, and vibrant fields, creating a picturesque and varied experience. Our Full Camino Francés or French Way Last 115km Camino tours allow you to immerse yourself in these stunning, iconic landscapes.
The Portuguese Way (Camino Portugués)
The Portuguese Way is perfect for those who love coastal views and tranquil countryside. This route follows the Atlantic coastline and offers pilgrims stunning ocean views, quaint fishing villages, and peaceful riverside paths.
Our Portuguese Way Tour, including the Spiritual Variant Camino, provides a scenic journey through Portugal and Spain, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of both regions. It’s a great choice for nature lovers seeking scenic seaside walks.
Camino del Norte (The Northern Route)
The Camino del Norte, also known as the Northern Route, is perfect for those who seek dramatic coastal scenery and a more rugged walking experience. This route follows the northern coastline of Spain and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, steep cliffs, and golden beaches.
As you embark on this journey through the Basque Country, Cantabria, and Asturias, you will encounter charming seaside towns, lush green hills, and remote, untouched landscapes. Our Basque Coast and Cantabria/Asturias Tour showcases the best of this coastal beauty. This route is less crowded than others, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy the stunning scenery in peace.
Camino Primitivo (The Original Way)
The Camino Primitivo is renowned for its challenging yet rewarding landscapes. Located in the rugged mountains of northern Spain, this route offers sweeping views of valleys, forests, and rolling hills. It is one of the least-travelled paths, providing a tranquil and immersive experience in nature.
Our Last Section of the Primitivo Tour takes you through Galicia’s remote and untouched beauty, crossing ancient paths with incredible views of the countryside. This route is ideal for those who love hiking through wild, natural landscapes and want to enjoy a quieter, more scenic pilgrimage; this journey will offer plenty of space for reflection and spiritual contemplation.
Via de la Plata and the Camino Inglés
The Via de la Plata is a scenic journey through Spain’s southern and central regions. This route is known for its peaceful landscapes, from rolling meadows to Roman roads that wind through picturesque villages. The Last 100km of the Via de la Pata of this route offers stunning views and quiet paths. The Camino Inglés, on the other hand, is shorter but equally beautiful, with serene rivers, forests, and coastal scenery.
Which Route to Choose?
Each Camino route offers its own unique scenic experience. The French Way is perfect for varied landscapes and historic towns, while the Portuguese Way offers stunning coastal views. The Camino del Norte brings dramatic cliffs and ocean views, while the Camino Primitivo is ideal for mountain lovers. The Via de la Plata and Camino Inglés offer quiet, peaceful paths through diverse landscapes. No matter which route you choose, all of them offer the beauty and serenity of Spain’s landscapes. Explore our full selection of Camino Trips to learn more about what to expect on each journey.
If you have any questions, please contact us.
