The English Way is one of the less-traveled pilgrim routes, but with a special charm that transports pilgrims through the history and natural beauty of Galicia. This route, which was used in the Middle Ages by British and Nordic pilgrims arriving by sea to the Galician coast, offers a unique experience at every stage.
The English Way begins in Ferrol, a port city with a rich naval heritage. From here, the route follows the coast, passing through fishing villages and natural landscapes, before entering the interior of the province of A Coruña. Along the route, pilgrims enjoy the tranquility of Galician forests, serene estuaries, and vestiges of Jacobean history in each town they pass through.
On the other hand, the alternative route from A Coruña offers a different start, with the impressive Tower of Hercules and a charming historic center. Although shorter, this route preserves the spirit of the Camino and joins the Ferrol bypass in Hospital de Bruma, continuing from there to Santiago de Compostela.
The final stage takes walkers to the imposing Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, where the Plaza del Obradoiro welcomes them with its mystical atmosphere.
🔍 Unique experience: Enjoy Galician cuisine in Betanzos, famous for its tortilla, and contemplate the impressive views of the Ferrol estuary.
STAGES:
1️⃣ Ferrol → Neda (15 km)
The English Way begins at the port of Curuxeiras, in Ferrol. After walking along the seafront and admiring the estuary, the path enters small rural towns until reaching Neda, known for its traditional bread.
2️⃣ Neda → Pontedeume (16 km)
A stage with beautiful landscapes of the Ferrol estuary and Mount Marraxón. The destination, Pontedeume, is a medieval town with its iconic bridge over the Eume River and its historic old town.
3️⃣ Pontedeume → Betanzos (20 km)
The route passes through forests and rural villages until reaching Betanzos, one of the most beautiful towns on the English Way. Its historic center, with Gothic churches and cobbled squares, is perfect for a culinary break.
4️⃣ Betanzos → Hospital de Bruma (28 km)
The most challenging stage, with a continuous climb to Bruma. The landscape becomes more rural and isolated, offering an experience of complete disconnection in the heart of nature.
5️⃣ Hospital de Bruma → Sigüeiro (24 km)
A serene journey through oak and eucalyptus forests. Sigüeiro, the last town before Santiago de Compostela, is a good place to recharge your batteries before the final day.
6️⃣ Sigüeiro → Santiago de Compostela (16 km)
The final stage takes pilgrims to the Cathedral of Santiago. After days of effort and reflection, the arrival at the Plaza del Obradoiro is a moment of indescribable emotion.
STAGES FROM A CORUÑA:
1️⃣ A Coruña → Sergude (25 km)
The Camino begins in the Plaza de María Pita, passing by the Tower of Hercules and following the coast before heading inland. The final stretch to Sergude is rural and peaceful.
2️⃣ Sergude → Hospital de Bruma (13 km)
A short route with some uneven terrain. Here, pilgrims join those coming from Ferrol, continuing together toward Santiago.