Today is one of the longer days on your trip, but well worth it! You walk from O Cebreiro to Triacastela. After leaving O Cebreiro you will walk up to the Alto do Poio, which is situated at an altitude of approximately 1,330 meters (4,363 feet), making it one of the highest points along the Camino Francés. Its elevated location offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The one-of-a-kind view point and symbolic importance of Alto do Poio make it a memorable place for pilgrims, and offers the perfect spot to get a stamp in your Pilgrim Passport. Plus, who doesn’t love a coffee with a stunning view?
The Camino continues down the other side of the mountain to Triacastela, a small town nestled in a verdant valley surrounded by rolling hills and mountains. The village itself is characterized by charming stone houses, narrow streets, and a welcoming atmosphere. The name Triacastela translates to “three castles,” referencing the three Norman castles said to have existed in the town, although nothing remains of them today. Instead, Celtic castros (bronze-age stone settlements) dot the landscape very close to the town, the best explanation for the town’s name. Nevertheless, the name Triacastela has endured.
The village features a handful of restaurants, cafes, and shops where you can refuel, enjoy local Galician cuisine, and purchase supplies for our onward journey. Be sure to consult your Fresco Tours maps for our favorite spots!
