Today you walk Sarria – Portomarín. Sarria is a large market town filled with small shops that cater to both locals and faraway pilgrims. Strolling through the countryside on a combination of tiny backroads and country footpaths, you will pass the 100 km marker, a milestone (or kmstone!) for the millions of pilgrims who have traversed this same spot during the last millennium. Onward, we continue to Portomarín, where we see the 12th-century Church of San Juan, a fortified church, standing guard over the River Miño.
The route Sarria – Portomarín on the Camino de Santiago is one of the most popular and scenic segments, especially for those aiming to complete the last 100 kilometers required for the Compostela certificate. This 22-kilometer stretch begins in Sarria, a charming town known for its historical significance and vibrant pilgrim community. The path winds through lush Galician countryside, dense forests, and quaint villages, offering a serene and picturesque journey.
As you approach Portomarín, you’ll cross the River Miño via a modern bridge, with views of the submerged remains of the old village below. Portomarín itself is notable for its medieval church, Igrexa de San Nicolás, which was meticulously relocated stone by stone from its original site before the old town was flooded. This route is not only a physical journey but also a deeply spiritual and historical experience.
