The Winter Way is the alternative route to the French Way to avoid the harsh winter conditions of the Cebreiro. It is a solitary journey full of contrasts, crossing the landscapes of the Sil River and the Ribeira Sacra, one of the most spectacular wine-growing areas in Galicia.
From Ponferrada, the way follows the course of the Sil River and enters Galicia through the province of Ourense. Pilgrims will encounter historic monasteries, viewpoints over the Sil canyons, and terraced vineyards. The route passes through O Barco de Valdeorras and A Rúa before entering the province of Lugo, passing through Monforte de Lemos, the heart of the Ribeira Sacra. From there, the way continues to Chantada, Rodeiro, and Lalín before joining the Sanabrés Way in A Laxe.
👉 Unique experience: Sailing a catamaran through the Sil Canyons and tasting Ribeira Sacra wines.
STAGES:
1️⃣ Ponferrada → Sobradelo (30 km)
Departing from Ponferrada, you’ll pass through the mining landscapes and vineyards of El Bierzo. You’ll pass through small towns such as Toral de Merayo and Villadepalos before following the course of the Sil River. The route continues along dirt roads and wooded trails, with the option of taking a detour to Las Médulas, an ancient Roman mine declared a World Heritage Site. Finally, the route reaches Sobradelo, a small town with a historic bridge over the Sil River and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for resting before continuing the route.
2️⃣ Sobradelo → O Barco de Valdeorras (20 km)
This is a transitional stage between mountains and the fertile Sil Valley. From Sobradelo, the trail follows the course of the Sil River, passing through small villages and ancient bridges that reflect the historical importance of this route. It continues through landscapes of vineyards and riverside forests until reaching O Barco de Valdeorras, an important wine-producing town with a charming old town and lively local life.
3️⃣ O Barco de Valdeorras → A Rúa (14 km)
A short stage through vineyards and along the Sil River. Enjoy a peaceful walk with views of the surrounding mountains.
4️⃣ A Rúa → Quiroga (28 km)
A route through valleys and mountains, with monasteries and natural viewpoints. You cross the Serra da Enciña da Lastra before reaching Quiroga, a town with a strong winemaking tradition.
5️⃣ Quiroga → Monforte de Lemos (32 km)
A key section of the Ribeira Sacra region, with a visit to its castle and monasteries. You walk among terraced vineyards and the impressive Sil Canyon, with spectacular viewpoints.
6️⃣ Monforte de Lemos → Chantada (30 km)
A mountainous route with spectacular views and winemaking tradition. You pass through historic villages before ascending to Chantada, famous for its wines and traditional pilgrimages.
7️⃣ Chantada → Rodeiro (25 km)
Authentic Galician forests and a crossing of the Miño River. The day includes ancient cobblestone paths and rural landscapes until Rodeiro.
8️⃣ Rodeiro → Lalín (20 km)
A relaxing stage before connecting with the Sanabrés Way. The route progresses through grassland areas and small Galician villages.
9️⃣ Lalín → Silleda (16 km)
This is a short, gentle stage that runs through rural roads and small Galician villages. From Lalín, the route winds through green meadows and gentle hills, passing through villages such as Botos and Prado. The landscape is typically Galician, with paths surrounded by oak and chestnut forests. As the pilgrim approaches Silleda, the surroundings become more agricultural, with large areas of crops and farms.
1️⃣0️⃣ Silleda → Outeiro (22 km)
This is a stage of moderate difficulty that passes through fields, forests, and small villages. The terrain is accessible, with some climbs toward the end.
1️⃣1️⃣ Outeiro → Santiago de Compostela (17 km)
This stage takes pilgrims toward Santiago, combining rural stretches with more urban approaches. The route is moderate, and the excitement grows as the city approaches. The end at the Cathedral of Santiago is the culmination of the Camino.
