Today’s walk is a true pilgrimage milestone, as you leave behind the valley and begin your ascent into the mystical mountains of Galicia. From Trabadelo, the Camino follows the gentle curves of the Valcarce River, winding through shaded paths and quiet hamlets nestled in the valley. The early part of the day is calm and serene, offering a peaceful rhythm before the climb begins.
As the trail narrows and the elevation rises, the landscape transforms. Forests of chestnut and oak trees surround you, and the air grows cooler and fresher. The ascent is steady, and with each step, the views become more expansive—rolling hills, distant peaks, and the winding path below.
Eventually, you reach O Cebreiro, a mountaintop village steeped in legend and spiritual significance. With its stone pallozas, misty atmosphere, and 360° panoramic views, O Cebreiro feels like a place suspended in time. The Church of Santa María la Real, one of the oldest on the Camino, holds the story and relics of a 14th-century Eucharistic miracle.
This is a place where many pilgrims pause—not just to catch their breath, but to take in the profound beauty and meaning of the journey. The climb may be challenging, but the reward is unforgettable.
After exploring the village and soaking in the views, we will chuttle you to Santiago de Compostela. With this stage, Chapter 3 of your Camino comes to a close, marked by effort, wonder, and the quiet triumph of reaching the gateway to Galicia.
