My Plan to Walk the Final Stage of the Camino Francés: A Journey of Exploration. Part 1.

My decision to undertake this journey began with a conversation on a river cruise in May 2024. I met Cala, an incredible woman in her 70s who has walked the Camino de Santiago multiple times, overcoming every challenge in her way. Like me, she has some health issues and osteoporosis, yet nothing stops her. Hearing her stories lit a fire in me to go an experience this incredible journey. Inspired by her strength and determination, I decided that in October 2025, I would walk the final stage of the Camino Francés, from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela.

This won’t be about speed or endurance; it will be a journey of exploration. I’ll take 10 days to walk 110 kilometers, moving at a slow, steady pace to take in the landscape, history, and spirit of the Camino. Everyone has a different journey on the Camino and and expectation, this will be my story.

Mental Preparation for the Journey

Preparing for the Camino de Santiago isn’t just about physical training—it’s also a mental journey that begins long before you take your first step. One of the best ways to mentally prepare is by immersing yourself in as much information as possible, which is what I have done and am still doing. I joined several Camino-focused Facebook groups to connect with past and future pilgrims, ask questions, and gain insight into what to expect. They have been great so far, very nice and very helpful. I am watching movies, and YouTube videos about the Camino to get a firsthand look at different routes, daily routines, as well as the emotional highs and lows of the experience. Additionally, I am reading everything I can find online—from blogs and forums to official Camino website. This can help me build a strong foundation of knowledge about packing, accommodations, weather, and cultural etiquette. The more research, the more confidence, and the preparation can help make the journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Physical Preparation for the Journey

Though I have a background as a runner and triathlete—having completed multiple half marathons—my knees have made it clear, that they don't like me now. I will hear their warning to "take it slowly and easy". So, I walk. To prepare for this trek, I’ve already begun training, steadily increasing my mileage each week. I am using the Camino Ways suggested training plan linked here. Fortunately I have access to a large urban park with varied trails to use as well as a large conservancy nearby that offers hikes. But this isn’t just about fitness; it’s about conditioning my body to handle long, steady days on my feet while honoring my limits. I know that I might be able to handle more, but slow and steady completes the race!

The Company I Chose for Support - Camino Ways

After a lot of research and discussions with various companies, I chose Camino Ways, a team of knowledgeable and enthusiastic travel professionals from different countries and continents. Their philosophy is that a holiday is not just about seeing a new destination and ticking it off your list. It’s about experiencing a region’s unique culture and the aromas, traditional food, and the culture. Although I am very good at planning, for this trip they took the stress out of researching, planning, and booking, which for this first time was of value to me.

They also offered the “slow walking” option which was very attractive to me. I just didn’t think covering 15-20 miles a day was prudent. They will transport my luggage each day and reserve the nightly accommodations with breakfast each morning. I am planning on carrying a waist pack with essentials rather than a full backpack. They have 24/7 support in case of any unforeseen issues.

In full transparency: I am collaborating with Camino Ways. Be sure to follow me on social media if you are interested. (I will be filming show segment with Camino Ways as well, and am receiving a discount on this trip.) I am planning to host a small women's only group trip in 2026 with their help (more to come). This will be a beginner level trip but well planned and supported.

The Route: Step by Step

Each day will bring new landscapes, new people, and new reflections. My journey will unfold like this:

• Sarria → Morgade (12 km) – Easing into the Camino with a short but meaningful start.

• Morgade → Portomarín (10 km) – Crossing the beautiful Miño River into this historic town. This should be a calm walk, as I will see pretty villages and peaceful hamlets under the shade of oak trees along quiet country roads. During this stage there should be many Galician traditional ‘hórreos’ (granaries), and I will stop to visit the beautiful Romanesque church in the village of Barbadelo

• Portomarín → Ventas de Narón (10 km) – A peaceful stretch through rolling Galician hills.

• Ventas de Narón → Palas de Rei (11 km) – A walk through farmland and small villages.

• Palas de Rei → Melide (14 km) – Entering the region famous for Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician-style octopus).

• Melide → Arzúa (14 km) – Passing through lush forests and stopping in a town known for its cheese. The lively market town of Melide is also famous for Galicia’s most classic dish Octopus. I will be a hard pass on that dish, but I love cheese, so I won’t go hungry.

• Arzúa → Pedroso Rua (19 km) – One of my longest days, but filled with scenic countryside. Here I will visit the churches of Santa María and A Magdalena.

• Pedroso Rua → Lavacolla (10 km) – Almost there, walking past the Monte do Gozo, where pilgrims first glimpse Santiago.

• Lavacolla → Santiago de Compostela (10 km) – The final stretch to the grand cathedral.

Capturing the Camino

This experience isn’t just for me—I’ll be journaling daily and creating travel content for my travel show and social media. The Camino is full of stories, and I want to capture them: the people I meet, the landscapes I walk through, and the lessons I learn along the way.

The Moment of Arrival

Before setting off, I’ll arrive early in Santiago, taking time to prepare and soak in the city. After walking for 10 days, I will stand before the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, feeling the weight of the journey—physical, emotional, and personal. The joy and gratitude in that moment will be something I carry with me long after the walk is over. I will hold my certificate close to my heart along with my passport. Someday I hope to fill the entire passport.

And before heading on my way, I’ll spend one final day in Santiago, wandering its historic streets, savoring the feeling of completion, and reflecting on a journey that began with a simple conversation. I am hoping to have time to take a day tour over to Muxia.

Walking the Camino de Santiago is more than just a journey across Spain—it’s a pilgrimage rich in tradition, history, and symbolism. Two of the most recognizable symbols of the Camino are the scallop shell and the pilgrim passport (Credencial del Peregrino), both of which carry deep meaning for those embarking on this incredible adventure.

The Holy Grail is The Pilgrim Passport: Your Credential for the Journey

The Credencial del Peregrino, or pilgrim passport, is an essential document for anyone walking the Camino. It serves both practical and symbolic roles:

• Proof of Your Journey: Pilgrims must collect stamps (sellos) at churches, albergues, cafés, and other designated stops along the route. These stamps verify that you have walked at least 100 km to qualify for the official Compostela certificate in Santiago.

• A Personal Chronicle: Each stamp tells a story, marking the places you've been to and the experiences you've had. Many pilgrims cherish their passports as treasured keepsakes of their journey.

• Access to Pilgrim Accommodations: Many albergues (pilgrim hostels) require a valid passport to stay overnight, ensuring that accommodations remain available for genuine pilgrims.

When I finally arrive at the Pilgrim’s Office in Santiago, I am looking forward to presenting my fully stamped passport which will be a powerful moment—proof of my effort, perseverance, and the memories made along the way.

More Than Just Symbols

Both the scallop shell and the pilgrim passport serve as reminders that the Camino is about more than just walking—it’s a spiritual and personal journey. These symbols connect you to centuries of pilgrims who have traveled before you. I will buy my shell when I arrive.

When I finish my journey, I will embrace the tradition of the shell and the passport. They are not just tokens; they are part of the pilgrimage itself, guiding me on a path of discovery, connection, and transformation.

Buen Camino!

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via email. debbie@seniortraveladventures.net