LOTUS EATERS TRAVEL

Are you wondering about walking to Finisterre, also known as the end of the world? Well, you should do it! If you’ve got time at the end of walking one of the other Camino routes, you’re guaranteed to enjoy the walk from Santiago to Finisterre. Here’s our guide to walking from Santiago to Finisterre on the Camino de Santiago Finisterre.

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What is the Camino de Santiago Finisterre?

The Camino de Santiago Finisterre is the only Camino route in Spain that does not end in Santiago. It has it’s own route map, way markers and Albergues. But most people walk to Finisterre after completing another route to Santiago.

Why is Finisterre called the end of the world?

Finisterre is often referred to as “the edge of the world” (the Latin etymology is Finis Terrea meaning end of the world.) Legend has it that the Romans really did think it was the end of the earth. It is also described as the most Westerly point of Spain, so lands end. Finisterre is also kind of a big deal in Maritime history and in popular culture (having featured in three movies.)

You’ll hear Finisterre also referred to as Fisterre (The Galician translation.) The Cape of Finisterre (literal edge) is around 3km from Fisterre town, which is important to note when booking Albergues and making your walking plans.

How long is the walk from Santiago to Finisterre?

The Camino Finisterre is the shortest Camino at 90km. It can be walked in 3 days at an average of 30 km per day, or over a long period if you want to walk less than 30km per day.

Who walks the Camino de Santiago Finisterre?

Walking to Finisterre has some interesting connotations. I’d heard various stories. Including “it’s only the hardcore hippies who walk there”, “everyone goes there to burn their bras/passports/shoes” etc. I also expected that it would be quiet, just a few solitary pilgrims walking on past Santiago and refusing to believe that their Camino was over.

Let me tell you, it is not that! Its mainstream and popular and actually busier than the Norte and Portuguese route combined. I walked it in October, in the pouring rain. But even as I battled against the elements and carried on West, there were other Pilgrims as far as the eye can see. I did spot a few hardcore hippy types, they all looked equally baffled and imagine were thinking “Dude, this has changed” as they saw coach loads of tourists arrive to the Cape.

Why walk the from Santiago to Finisterre? Is it worth going to Finisterre?

It absolutely is worth walking from Santiago to Finisterre. Here’s why:

1. It extends your Camino experience

2. It’s fun and Finisterre itself is a good place to party and celebrate your achievement

3. There are some incredible walking trails and scenic views – better than many days we walked on the Camino Portuguese

4. You will metaphorically reach the end! For many people, arriving in Finisterre feels more emotional than the arrival into Santiago.

Itinerary for walking the Camino de Santiago Finisterre

As the Camino de Santiago Finisterre is 90km long, you could walk it in 3 or 4 days comfortably. Or longer if you prefer. We had 3 days available so chose to walk roughly 30km each day, which worked really well around Albergues and also lunch stops. We also chose to stay an extra day in Finisterre so that we could recoup and walk to Faro Finisterre to enjoy the sunset properly.

Camino Finisterre Daily Stages

Map for reference only, please note this does not show the Camino walking path and distances are not accurate.

Day One: Santiago to A Pena 29km

Highlights: Crossing the bridge in Ponte Maciera. Woody trails on the run up to A Pena are stunning.

Route: It’s quite an up and down day with a large hill just on the run up to A Pena. There are around 13km on trails today, which we love. Some small towns on route to replenish for food and drinks before going on the way.

Food and accommodation: We stayed in a private room in A Pena at Albergue Alto Da Pena. It is a cafe/albergue serving yummy food and drinks and a nice clean and restful place to stay just a few steps up from the Camino trail.

Day Two: A Pena to Logoso 28km

Highlights: Stunning day of trails. Highlight definitely the couple of kms into Logoso with views of the river, even in the rain. We also had a stray dog escorting us for around 25km.

Route: A few small hills but mostly you are already at high elevation for the entire route. 7kms of trails and the rest “road” but many are quiet. Theres a cafe around 6km into the morning for breakfast if you’ve skipped it at the Albergue. Then a few small cafes along the way.

Food and accommodation: We stayed at Albergue O Logoso and it was great. Bunk beds with curtains for around 13 Euros and enjoyed a 3 course dinner with wine for 14 Euros. Home cooked and delicious.

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Day Three: Logoso to Finisterre 30km

Highlights: Stunning 13km long trail and finding “Finn” the stray dog in the forest 10km from where we last saw him.

Route: 13 to 14km after Logoso is on a trail, it’s absolutely stunning but there is nowhere to get food and water. After that, you drop into the coastal path and the route is mostly flat into Finisterre. Plenty of nice cafes and bars on route for lunch.

Food and Accomodation: Finisterre has a Municpal Albergue that is central to town. We stayed at Albergue La Paz, which is cheap and comfortable. For food, we liked the Menu Del Dia at Rombos restaurant. There are a few late night bars for partying.

Walking to Faro de Finisterre

The end of the land, or the tip of Finisisterre is actually 3km from the centre of town. The Albergues and most hotels are in the town (although one solitary hotel is built at the end of Cape.)

The walk up has a sturdy path, with incredible views of the coast as you meander up. There’s a lovely bar at the top and a few souvenir shops (yes, seriously!)

Our tip – pack a picnic and head up to watch sunset! Don’t be in a rush, take your time up there and enjoy!

What to pack for the Camino de Santiago Finisterre?

Packing for this Camino is much like packing for the the Camino routes. However, do be aware that the weather near to the coast can turn pretty quickly. It’s a good idea to have an extra layer and a rain coat to walk the Camino de Santiago Finisterre.

You can find our packing lists here:

• Camino de Santiago Women’s Packing List
• The Definitive Men’s Camino Packing List – Summer 2023

We’ve also answered some key questions about packing for the Camino here:

• Best hats for the Camino de Santiago in 2023
• How much should your backpack weigh for the Camino de Santiago?
• Can you walk the Camino de Santiago in trainers
• What to wear on the Camino at night?
• Best hiking outfits for women on the Camino de Santiago in 2023

How to get from Finisterre to Santiago by public transport

You could walk of course! The arrows mostly point you all the way back to Santiago.

Alternatively, book a bus through Monbus.es. They run around 4 to 5 times per day, take 3 hours and cost 7 Euros.

If you have more time in Santiago to enjoy, check our guide to visiting Santiago de Compostela here.

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John and Emma’s hiking gear. These are items we love to use when we go hiking, find them here on Amazon.

Osprey 40L, Multi, O/S

HOKA ONE ONE Mens Speedgoat 4 Textile Synthetic Trainers

HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Clifton 8

CWVLC Unisex Cushioned Compression Athletic Ankle Socks Multipack

Dr. Scholl’s Blister Cushions, Seal & Heal Bandage, 8 Cushions

Montem Ultra Strong Trekking, Walking, and Hiking Poles – One Pair (2 Poles)

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Most of our planning is done using other blogs, but you can’t beat a guide book at the bottom of your case.

Find them here on Amazon.

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