GPBS - The Way of Wonder (2027 ) Sacred Paths Through Italy and Spain Camino

ARRIVAL TRANSFER MEETING YOUR FLIGHT           

Today you will be met on arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Welcome to Rome and the beginning of The Way of Wonder  pilgrimage. Depending on your arrival time today, you are invited to settle in, take a breath, and begin soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world’s most extraordinary cities. Around almost every corner, Rome offers something remarkable, from ancient  ruins and magnificent churches to lively piazzas, hidden laneways, and the unmistakable rhythm of Italian life.

Whether you choose to enjoy a relaxed Italian coffee in a local café, wander through nearby streets, visit a church, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, or simply take in the beauty and energy of the city, today is about arriving not only physically, but spiritually and emotionally into the pilgrimage experience. There is no pressure to rush. Rome invites you to slow down, look up, and allow wonder to begin unfolding from the very first day.

Remainder of the day is free to relax, explore and get to know your fellow pilgrims.

HOTEL - Antico Palazzo Rospigliosi

FREE DAY TO EXPLORE THE SIGHTS OF ROME

Here are a few suggestions for your FREE day in Rome.

Your hotel is centrally located near Termini / Santa Maria Maggiore, making it easy to walk, taxi or use Metro.

9:00am – Colosseum Time suggested: 1 hour

How to get there:

• Taxi: 10 mins approx. €10–15

• Metro: Line B from Cavour or Termini to Colosseo (€1.50)

• Walk: 20–25 mins downhill

Admission:  Outside views: Free or Interior standard ticket (includes Forum / Palatine): approx. €18 + booking fee

10:15am – Roman Forum & Palatine Hill. Time suggested: 1 hour

How to get there:  Walk from Colosseum: 5 mins (Directly beside the Colosseum)

Admission: Usually included with Colosseum combined ticket.  Outside views from roads/lookouts are free.

11:30am – Piazza Venezia / Vittoriano Monument,  Time suggested: 30 mins

How to get there:

• Walk down Via dei Fori Imperiali 15 mins

• Taxi if needed: €8 approx.

Admission:  Square is free.  Panoramic lift to terrace approx. €17.

12:15pm – Lunch - Nearby Monti or central Rome.

Suggestions:

• La Carbonara – pasta / Roman dishes (€20–35 pp)

• Ai Tre Scalini – lighter lunch (€15–25 pp)

• Taverna Romana – traditional meals (€20–30 pp)

2:00pm – Trevi Fountain  Time suggested: 30 mins

How to get there from lunch area:  Walk: 15–20 mins or  Taxi: €8–10

2:45pm – Spanish Steps Time suggested: 45 mins

How to get there: Walk from Trevi Fountain: 15 mins or Taxi short ride if preferred.

Admission: Free

4:00pm – Piazza Navona  Time suggested: 45 mins

How to get there: Walk from Spanish Steps: 20 mins scenic route or Taxi €10 approx.

Great place for coffee or gelato.

5:15pm – Return to Hotel

How to get there:  Taxi recommended: 15 mins approx. €12–18. Bus available but less convenient or Walk: 35 mins

Evening – Welcome Dinner with Group

COACH TRANSPORT TO MEET GROUP AT HOTEL FOR TRIP AND  STAY IN ASSISI

Depart from Rome in early morning and head for the gentle Umbrian hills. Upon arrival, take a walking tour around the lanes of the quiet UNESCO World Heritage-listed town. As you walk, your private guide will explain the significance of the town's churches and attractions, and their connections to the treasured Italian patron saint, St Francis of Assisi. Discover why the saint is held in such high esteem, and find out where he is believed to have been born and where he spent his early childhood. Stop to explore the Church of Santa Chiara, which is dedicated to another Catholic saint from Assisi who was a contemporary and protégé of St Francis. Visit the nearby Roman Temple of Minerva and Assisi's Basilica di San Francesco. The interior here is embellished with remarkable medieval frescoes, many of which depict scenes from the life of St Francis. In the middle of the day, grab a bite to eat at your leisure (own expense).

Afterward, continue to the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, another popular pilgrimage site near Assisi.

VISIT TO SANTA MARIA DEGLI ANGELI CHURCH,  INCLUDING THE THORNLESS ROSE BUSH AND THE  PORZIUNCOLA CHAPEL WHICH  ARE INSIDE THE CHURCH.

Built on a grandiose scale, the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli is the seventh largest Christian church. Its magnificence may be at odds with the simplicity preached by St Francis himself but the flocks of pilgrims coming to visit the primitive.  The Porziuncola chapel was given to St Francis by the Benedictines, and is important because it was the initial nucleus from which the Franciscan order was born. The Cappella del Transito is the place where the saint died on October 4th 1226.

DINNER - UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENT

Morning Free In Assisi.

Afternoon

One of the special moments of our time in Assisi will be an afternoon retreat designed to create space to pause, reflect, and reconnect amid the beauty and spirit of this remarkable place. Through music and song, storytelling, guided reflection, and shared moments of stillness, we will enter more deeply into the themes of wonder, simplicity, hope, and purpose that lie at the heart of pilgrimage. Inspired by the stories of Francis, Clare and Carlo Acutis, this retreat is not about having all the answers – it is about creating room to listen, to breathe, and to encounter something meaningful together. Whether you come seeking renewal, inspiration, or simply a moment to slow down, this experience promises to be one of the most memorable and moving parts of the pilgrimage.

Morning

Enjoy a relaxed final morning in Assisi with free time to wander, explore, and soak in the atmosphere       of this unforgettable town before we return to Rome in the afternoon. Whether it’s finding a quiet café, revisiting a favourite church or piazza, shopping for local treasures, or simply taking in the stunning Umbrian views, this is a beautiful opportunity to slow down and savour the spirit of Assisi one last time.

Take time to pause in the little moments – the sound of church bells echoing through the streets, the warmth of Italian hospitality, and the beauty that seems to appear around every corner. These unhurried hours often become some of the most cherished memories of pilgrimage, offering space to reflect, recharge, and simply enjoy being present in such a remarkable place.

AFTERNOON - TRANSFER BACK TO ROME.

DINNER - UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENT

MORNING - LOCAL TRANSPORT TO MEET CLIENTS AT HOTEL FOR A  FULL DAY SIGHTSEEING TOUR WITH GUIDE.

INTRODUCTION TO THE LIFE STORY OF ST. PETER AND ST. PAUL.

PHOTO STOP AT MAMERTINE PRISON - TULLIANUM, VISIT AVENTINE HILL.  VISIT BASILICA S. SABINA AND BASILICA S. PRISCA

In the Basilica of St. Mary Major, wood that is said to be the remains of the Holy Crib of Christ are visible under the altar. During our visit to Saint Mary Major Basilica, we will have the special opportunity to pray at the resting place of Pope Francis, whose life and leadership touched millions across the world with a message of mercy, humility, and hope. In the quiet beauty of this sacred space, pilgrims are invited to pause, reflect, and give thanks for the witness of a shepherd who continually called people to compassion, simplicity,   and deeper faith. It promises to be a moving and memorable moment at the heart of our pilgrimage journey.

In the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem are two thorns said to be from the crown worn by Jesus at his execution.  In the ArchiBasilica of St. John and in the Sancta Sanctorum are pieces of wood said to be pieces of the table around which the Last Supper was held.  Also in the Sancta Sanctorum is a 28-step staircase said to have led up to the praetorium of Pontius Pilate in Jerusalem, which would therefore have been walked upon by Jesus. Santa Pudenziana is said to be the house in which Pudente hosted St. Peter, the Carcere Mamertino is the prison in which he was held, and the Basilica of St. John purports to have some remains from his skull above the main altar. Abbazia delle Tre Fontane is held to be where St. Paul was beheaded; the eponymous three fountains are said to have sprung miraculously from the ground at the places where his decapitated head bounced.

The Aventine Hill is one of the seven hills on which Rome was built; early Christian churches there are pre-Catholic but remarkably well preserved.

LUNCH - UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENT

 A VISIT TO SAN PAUL'S OUTSIDE THE WALLS CHURCH IS INCLUDED.  VISIT ST. JOHN'S LATERAN CHURCH. (SAN GIOVANNI IN LATERANO CHURCH).

 Along with the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, St. Paul’s Outside the Walls is one of the four highest ranking churches in the Catholic hierarchy. It was originally erected by Roman Emperor Constantine I, supposedly over the grave of Saint Paul himself. The basilica itself managed to retain its original primitive if ornate architectural design for centuries after its construction. Unfortunately a devastating fire swept through the ancient church nearly destroying the entire site.

However the site was quickly refurbished thanks to multinational donations of building supplies such as alabaster and lapis, which allowed for many of the original ornamentations, both architectural and otherwise to be recreated in a close approximation of the original.

The Basilica of Saint John appearde in the 4th century AD in an area that was known at the time as Horti Laterani, old estate of the Laterani Family. The property was confiscated under the empire of Neron.

Restored to the Laterani by Settimio Severo, the property and the palace that stood there finally reached emperor Constantine when he married in 307 Fausta, daughter of the former emperor Maximian.
                      
VISIT TO DOMINE QUO VADIS (SANTA MARIA DELLE  PIANTE CHURCH).  ENTRANCE TO THE SANTA  DOMITILLA   CATACOMBS  IS INCLUDED.     

 Santa Maria in Palmis (Italian: Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Piante, Latin: Sanctae Mariae in Palmis), also known as Chiesa del Domine Quo Vadis, is a small church southeast of Rome, central Italy. It is located about some 800 m from Porta San Sebastiano, where the Via Ardeatina branches off the Appian Way, on the site where, according to the apocryphal Acts of Peter, Saint Peter met Jesus while the former was fleeing persecution in Rome.  According to the legend, Peter asked Jesus, "Lord, where are you going?"  Jesus answered, "I am going to Rome to be crucified again".

Domitilla Catacomb is one of the largest and the most ancient underground cemeteries in Rome, part of a property then belonged to Flavia Domitilla going back to the year 120 A.D. The frescos preserved underground in this Catacomb demonstrate the Faith of the first century Christians in Rome. This is the only Catacomb in Rome which has an underground Basilica dedicated to the Holy Martyrs Nereo and Achilleo, along with Saint Petronilla, daughter of St. Peter. The Divine Word Missionaries (Societas Verbi Divini - SVD), are the custodians of  Domitilla Catacomb.

DINNER - UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENT

This evening we will visit the Community of Sant’Egidio for evening prayer. An international lay Catholic community founded in Rome in 1968 and now active in more than 70 countries around the world. Known for its commitment to prayer, peace, friendship with the poor, and building community across cultures and generations, Sant’Egidio offers a beautiful witness to faith lived out in everyday life. Together we will join the community for evening prayer – an experience marked by simplicity, reflection, music, and welcome. Before enjoying time together afterwards for pizza and conversation (own expense). It promises to be a meaningful and memorable evening immersed in the warmth and spirit of Roman community life.

MORNING 

TICKETS TO ATTEND THE PAPAL AUDIENCE INCLUDED.

Papal Audiences are traditionally held on Wednesdays when the Pope is in Rome, offering pilgrims and visitors from around the world the unique opportunity to gather in the presence of the Holy Father and receive the Papal (Apostolic) Blessing during their pilgrimage journey. More than simply “seeing the Pope,” the Audience is a vibrant and uplifting experience of the universal Church, filled with prayer, music, reflection, and a deep sense of connection among people from every corner of the globe.

During the Audience, the Pope shares a short teaching and readings presented in a variety of languages including Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Polish, and Portuguese, with greetings offered to the many international groups in attendance. Choirs, pilgrims, and visiting communities are often acknowledged throughout the gathering, creating a joyful and celebratory atmosphere. The Audience concludes with everyone joining together in praying the Our Father in Latin – a powerful and memorable moment of unity at the heart of the Church.

LUNCH - UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENT

ENTRANCE TO THE VATICAN MUSEUMS INCLUDING SISTINE CHAPEL

Founded by Pope Julius II in the early 16th century and expanded by successive popes over the centuries, the Vatican Museums house one of the most extraordinary art collections in the world. As we journey through kilometres of magnificent halls and galleries, we will encounter everything from ancient Egyptian artefacts and Etruscan treasures to breathtaking classical sculptures, Renaissance masterpieces, and remarkable modern works of art.

Among the many highlights are the stunning classical statues of the Museo Pio Clementino, the beautifully frescoed Raphael Rooms, and of course the awe inspiring Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s famous ceiling continues to inspire millions of visitors each year. More than simply a masterpiece of art and architecture, the Sistine Chapel also remains a deeply significant spiritual place as the sacred setting where the conclave gathers to elect a new pope.

Our visit will also include time in the magnificent Saint Peter’s Basilica, the heart of the Catholic Church and one of the most iconic churches in the world. Here, surrounded by extraordinary beauty, history, and faith, pilgrims are invited to pause, reflect, and take in the incredible atmosphere of this sacred place at the centre of Christian pilgrimage.

DINNER - UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENT

DEPARTURE TRANSFER FOR ROME AIRPORT

Morning at leisure for breakfast and to check-out of room.

LUNCH - own arrangements

Leave the hotel in time for your international  flight at approximately 2.00 pm and arrives in Barcelona at 3.50 pm.

 ARRIVAL TRANSFER FROM AIRPORT  TO YOUR BARCELONA HOTEL.

Remainder of the day free.

EVENING - Walking Tapas Tour

BARCELONA NEIGHBORHOODS AND TAPAS WALKING TOUR  WALKING AROUND THE GOTHIC QUARTER AND BARCELONA   RAMBLAS  INCLUDING 3 TAPAS BAR STOPS.  EACH BAR  OFFERS ASSORTED TAPAS OR PINTXOS AND ONE DRINK  (WINE, SOFT DRNK OR BEER), WITH A SMALL SWEET  TREAT TO FINISH.

Join a walking gourmet and historical guided tour through the El Born and Gothic neighborhoods. Discover the history, enjoy several delicious tapas and exquisite wines in different bars and restaurants.  Spanish tapas are presented on a plate, and they are normally a small version of some of the most typical Spanish dishes. For instance, paella or patatas bravas. Whereas, pintxos are most commonly served on a small bread base with a toothpick spearing some delight on top, like jamón, cheese, mushrooms or chorizo.

HOTEL - BARCELO SANTS

 08:00      LOCAL TRANSPORT FOR  LUNCH TRANSFER AND A HALF DAY SIGHTSEEING

MONTSERRAT  -  ENTRANCE TO MONTSERRAT MONASTERY IS INCLUDED.

Montserrat is a spectacular Benedictine mountain monastery located about an hour northwest of Barcelona, nestled high among the dramatic peaks of the Catalonian landscape. Reached by a scenic train journey through the Spanish countryside, Montserrat has welcomed pilgrims for centuries and remains one of the most treasured spiritual destinations in Spain. Home to the famous Black Madonna, lovingly known as   “La Moreneta,” the monastery continues to be a place of prayer, pilgrimage, music, and quiet reflection.

Beyond its religious significance, Montserrat is simply breathtaking. The unique jagged mountain formations, sweeping views, fresh mountain air, and peaceful atmosphere create an experience that is both uplifting and unforgettable. Whether wandering through the monastery grounds, lighting a candle in prayer, listening to the renowned boys’ choir, or simply standing still and taking in the beauty of the mountains, Montserrat offers a rare sense of peace and wonder that stays with pilgrims long after they leave.

LUNCH :  LOCAL RESTAURANT    BARCELONA 

ENTRANCE TO SAGRADA FAMILIA.

Rising high above the streets of Barcelona, the extraordinary Sagrada Familia is unlike any church in the world. This breathtaking basilica, originally begun in the 19th century and later transformed by the visionary genius of Antoni Gaudí, is one of the most inspiring and recognisable landmarks in Europe. For Gaudí, the Sagrada Familia was far more than a building project. It was an act of faith, a masterpiece designed to draw people toward beauty, wonder, and the presence of God through light, nature, symbolism, and architecture.

Although construction was interrupted by Gaudi's untimely death in 1926 and the devastation of the Spanish Civil War, work has continued for generations, with the basilica now approaching completion more than a century later. Every façade, tower, and detail tells a story, from the life of Christ to the beauty of creation itself. Inside, towering columns stretch like a forest canopy while coloured light pours through stained glass windows, creating an atmosphere that is both peaceful and awe inspiring.

Today, this UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece continues to captivate millions of visitors from around the world and stands as one of the great symbols of Barcelona. Visiting the Sagrada Familia is not simply about seeing a famous building. It is an experience of creativity, imagination, faith, and wonder that leaves a lasting impression on all who enter.

DINNER - UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENT

HOTEL : BARCELO SANTS

EARLY BREAKFAST AT HOTEL                             

MORNING -  TRANSFER FROM  HOTEL FOR AIRPORT.

FLIGHT FROM BARCELONA TO SANTIAGO COMPOSTELA - (COST INCLUDED). 

Today we travel from the vibrant city of Barcelona to the heart of Galicia, flying to Santiago de Compostela before continuing by private coach to the charming town of Sarria, the traditional starting point for many pilgrims walking the Camino. As the landscapes shift from coastal energy to rolling green countryside,   there is a growing sense of anticipation for what lies ahead.

This afternoon in Sarria is yours to enjoy at a gentle pace. Take time to explore its welcoming streets, settle into the rhythm of the town, or simply relax and soak in the atmosphere alongside fellow pilgrims. There is a special sense of calm here, as if the journey is quietly inviting you to slow down and prepare your heart for the days ahead.

Tomorrow, we take our first steps together on the Camino de Santiago. It is the beginning of something simple yet profound, a shared pilgrimage of conversation, reflection, laughter, and discovery as we walk toward Santiago. The road is waiting, and the journey begins not just with footsteps, but with intention, hope, and a spirit of adventure.                               

EVENING -  DINNER AT LOCAL RESTAURANT - SARRIA

HOTEL - Hotel Alfonso IX                             

09:00      CAMINO WALK FROM SARRIA TO FERREIROS (15_KM)        

The Camino enters the town by the Puente Ribeira, which crosses the Rio Sarria (also known as the Rio Oribio). By the bridge is a 1996 statue of a pilgrim, while the riverbank, which is lined with restaurants, has a modern iron fence with scallop shells. The Camino then crosses a main road and climbs the Escalinata Maior (by the Peregrinoteca pilgrim shop) to the 111.5km waymark at the top of the steps.    

The Camino then follows the Rua Maior, past the church of Santa Marina (1885, replacing a medieval church), with faded (modern) murals showing pilgrims on its churchyard wall.   Just beyond the church is the remaining tower of the medieval castle of Sarria, which probably occupies the site of the Roman settlement of Flavia Lambris. Just before the castle, the Camino turns right and climbs uphill to a modern cross, with a view over the town.

Beyond is the Monastery of La Magdalena, Sarria’s most important monument, founded c.1200 and retaining much early work, including a blocked south doorway showing St Mary Magdalene. The interior has several late Romanesque carved capitals, showing beasts and scallop shells, and elaborate late medieval tombs. Adjoining the church are monastic buildings of the 16th to 18th centuries, including a fine cloister. Originally Augustinian, and always an important pilgrim halt, it has been occupied by the Mercedarian Fathers since 1895.

The Camino leaves Sarria by the medieval Ponte Aspera, over the Rio Celeiro, and later makes its way across the railway line at a place called Sancti Michaelis, possibly the site of a medieval settlement mentioned in the Codex.

4.5km  Barbadelo – The site of a monastery from the 9th century, later a dependency of the Benedictine monastery of Samos, on the Camino between Triacastela and Sarria; it was a so-called ‘double monastery' for monks and nuns. The present building dates from c.1150-1200 and has Romanesque doorways, with carved capitals, on the north and west sides.

5.5km  Mercado de Serra – The bar on the main road has a large map of the Camino on an inside wall.

7km    Marzan O Real – Modern pilgrim fountain, incorporating the ‘peregrino’ logo designed for the 1993 Holy Year.

LUNCH :  LOCAL RESTAURANT  OWN ARRANGEMENTS

12km   Morgade – Just beyond the village is a small chapel where pilgrims leave messages and other items.

13.5km Ferreiros

16:00      TOURING COACH TO TRANSFER CLIENTS  -   FERREIROS_- PORTOMARIN___13KMS___00:20_HRS

DINNER - AT HOTEL

HOTEL - POUSADA DE PORTOMARIN

08:30      TOURING COACH TO TRANSFER CLIENTS -   PORTOMARIN -_FERREIROS_____13KMS___00:20_HRS
                                 
FERREIROS       -   CAMINO WALK FROM FERREIROS TO GONZAR (16_KM)

14km  Mirallos – Church of Santa Maria; the west doorway has carved capitals  and a tympanum of c.1200 with lions’ heads on the consols.

17km Cruce Moimentos – At 660 metres, the highest point on the day’s walk, with fine views towards Portomarin.

21km Vilacha – Small church set in wooded country.

LUNCH :  OWN ARRANGEMENTS

23km  Portomarin – Entered by a bridge across the Belesar Reservoir, created in 1962 when the old town, on the Rio Mino, was flooded to create the reservoir. Part of the medieval bridge has been reconstructed on the west bank of the river, and forms part of a staircase to the chapel of Santa Maria de las Nieves.

In the reconstructed town, with arcaded streets, are several rebuilt monuments from old Portomarin, including two churches and a number of houses with coats of arms. In the square is the fortress-like church of San Nicolas (also known as San Juan), once owned by the Knights of St John; many of its stones still bear the numbers with which they were marked when the church was dismantled.

The modern church of San Pedro incorporates the doorway of the medieval church, which once stood on the east bank of the Rio Mino. It has a tympanum carved with a Latin inscription recording its consecration in 1182, plus consols with bulls’ heads.

30.5km Gonzar – Rebuilt church of Santa Maria.

15:00      TOURING COACH TO TRANSFER CLIENTS -   GONZAR_-_PORTOMARIN_______8_KMS___00:15_HRS 

DINNER - AT LOCAL RESTAURANT

HOTEL - POUSADA DE PORTOMARIN

 09:00      TOURING COACH TO TRANSFER CLIENTS -   PORTOMARIN_-_GONZAR_______8_KMS___00:15_HRS

CAMINO WALK FROM GONZAR TO PALAS DE REI (16_KM)

LUNCH :  LOCAL RESTAURANT OWN ARRANGEMENTS

30.5km  Gonzar

31.5km Castromaior – Simple 12th-century church, with carved crosses on its   stonework; a prehistoric camp and a medieval castle once stood west of  the village.

34km   Hospital de la Cruz – Site of a pilgrim hospital dedicated to St Stephen.

35.5km Ventas de Naron - Called ‘Salve Regina’ in the 12th-century Codex, and the site of a battle between Christians and Arabs in AD820. To the west of the village is a small chapel and cross, beyond which the Sierra de Ligonde (720 metres) commands wide views.

38km   Lameiros – Small chapel of San Marcos and houses with coats of arms.

38.5km Ligonde – A cross on the approach to the village has the emblems of the Passion carved on its base. The village has some medieval houses, including a former pilgrim hospital. The site of a pilgrim cemetery is marked by a wall with a small cross, on the west side of the village.

40km    Eirexe – Much-altered 12th-century church has a carving, probably showing Daniel in the lions’ den, on its south side.

44km   Lestedo - Church of Santiago, with a cross in front of it.

46.5km Rosario – At the summit of the ‘Alto de Rosario’ pilgrims caught their first glimpse of the Pico Sacro, overlooking Santiago, and would recite the rosary.

47.5km Palas de Rei – In the early 8th century, this was the seat of the Visigothic King Witiza; later, in the 12th century Codex it was known as ‘Pallatium Regis’. On the east side of the town, the rebuilt church of San Tirso de Villareda retains a 13th-century door with capitals. The town has a modern statue of St James, and on the Camino just west of the town is a modern statue of two pilgrims.

TOURING COACH TRANSFER LUGGAGE FOR  CLIENTS  TO HOTEL -  PALAS DE REI

DINNER - AT HOTEL

HOTEL - LA CABANA

09:00      TOURING COACH TO TRANSFER CLIENTS  LUGGAGE TO  MELIDE_FROM_PALAS DE REI______15_KMS___00:15_HRS  

CAMINO WALK FROM - PALAS DE REI TO MELIDE (15_KM)  

50.5km San Xulian do Camino – Village with a cross and a 12th-century church with an apse and fine east window.

57km   Leboreiro – Called ‘Campus Leporarium ( = Hares’ Field) in the 12th-century Codex. The Camino has been repaved through the village, and passes a cross. The west doorway of the 12th-century church of Santa Maria has a tympanum showing the Virgin and Child, flanked by censing  angels; the smaller north doorway is carved with a cross. The apse has a series of corbels running below its roof, including a scallop and a phallus.  The interior has late medieval wall paintings showing Christ’s Passion. Opposite the church are the remains of the former pilgrim hospital, with the coat of arms of the Ulloa family. At the west end of the village is a reconstructed medieval bridge over the Rio Seco, beyond which, on the way to Furelos, are several modern monuments to the Knights of Santiago, including St James’ crosses.

61km   Furelos – The Rio Furelos is crossed by a fine medieval bridge, beyond which is the church of San Juan, with a statue of St Roch on its north wall. Nearby once stood a pilgrim hospital.

63km  Melide – A major town, possibly founded by the Romans, which once had several pilgrim hospitals. The rebuilt church of San Pedro, at the east end of the town, has an elaborate 13th-century west doorway. Next to the church is a 14th-century cross, believed to be the oldest in Galicia, with carvings of the Crucified Christ and Christ in Majesty.

In the centre of the town is the attractive Plaza del Convento, with the partly 14th-century church of Sancti Spiritus, a former monastery and pilgrim hospital, with several tombs. The square also has a number of 18th-century buildings, including the chapel of San Antonio and a local museum in the Casa Municipal.

At the west end of the town is the 12th-century church of Santa Maria de Melide, with good 12th-century doorways, and an apse with 15th-century wall paintings showing the Apostles, and Christ in Majesty flanked by angels and the emblems of the Evangelists.

Beyond the church the Camino crosses the Rio Lazaro, a reminder that another ‘lazar house’ once stood here.  Soon after Melide, the Camino enters the first of the many eucalyptus woods that lie between here and Santiago.

LUNCH :  LOCAL RESTAURANT  OWN ARRANGEMENTS                          

DINNER AT LOCAL RESTAURANT

HOTEL - CARLOS 96

CAMINO WALK FROM MELIDE TO ARZUA (14_KM)

10:00      TOURING COACH TO TRANSFER EMPTY - LUGGAGE TRANSFER  MELIDE_-_ARZUA______16_KMS___00:15_HRS

LUNCH :  LOCAL RESTAURANT OWN ARRANGEMENTS

68.5km Boente – Church of Santiago, the interior of which has statues of ‘Santiago Peregrino’, ‘Santiago Matamoros’ and St Roch.

70.5km Castaneda – The lime kilns that were used in the building of Santiago Cathedral in the 12th century were situated here. It was traditional for pilgrims to carry a stone here from Cebreiro or Triacastela, on the Camino in eastern Galicia.

74km    Ribadiso do Baixo- The pilgrim refuge by the river (crossed by an ancient bridge), is a former pilgrim hospital.

77km    Arzua – Small town, named in the 12th- century Codex as ‘Villanova de Arzua’. Chapel of La Magdalena and the adjoining pilgrim hospital (now the refuge) are part medieval; on a fountain by the chapel is part of a weathered relief showing St James.

TOURING COACH TRANSFER CLIENTS TO HOTEL VILLANTIME__8.5_KM__0:12_HRS

DINNER  AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OWN ARRANGEMENTS

HOTEL : VILA PEREGRINA (ARZUA/VILLANTIME)

CAMINO WALK FROM ARZUA TO SALCEDA (14_KM)

LUNCH :  LOCAL RESTAURANT OWN ARRANGEMENTS

77km    Arzua

84.5km Calle – The Camino passes under a ‘horreo’ (a grain store raised on staddle stones, many of which are seen along the Galician Camino) and hen crosses a small river by a boulder footbridge.

88km    Salceda - To the west of the village, built into a drystone wall, is a memorial to Guillermo Watt, a pilgrim who died here on 25 August 1993, aged 69, on his way to Santiago

TOURING COACH TRANSFER CLIENTS TO HOTEL IN VILLANTIME__8.5_KM__0:12_HRS

DINNER  AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OWN ARRANGEMENTS

HOTEL : VILA PEREGRINA (ARZUA/VILLANTIME)

09:00      TOURING COACH TRANSFER CLIENTS TO A SALCEDA FROM HOTEL IN VILLANTIME__8.5_KM__0:12_HRS 

09:00      TOURING COACH TO TRANSFER LUGGAGE TO A SALCEDA______38_KMS___00:35_HRS

CAMINO WALK FROM SALCEDA TO LAVACOLLA (18_KM)

88km    Salceda

98km    Santa Irene – Small 18th-century chapel overlooks a stone fountain just after an underpass.

99km   Arca do Pino/Pedrouzo – Small modern town.

100km  Amenal - Between here and Lavacolla, the Camino passes the perimeter fence of Santiago Airport. A large carved sign marks the city’s eastern boundary, close to which is a long fence in which pilgrims have placed small crosses made of twigs.

102.5km Lavacolla – Called ‘Lava-mentula’ in the 12th-century Codex, this is where the pilgrims would wash themselves in the Rio Sionlla and put on clean clothes before their final journey into Santiago. The village comprises little more than a square with a bandstand, a modern church and several hotels. On the edge of the village is the former chapel of St Roch.

TOURING COACH TRANSFER CLIENTS TO HOTEL IN HOTEL O PINO__11_KM__0:10_HRS

DINNER  AT LOCAL RESTAURANT OWN ARRANGEMENTS

HOTEL - HOTEL O PINO

CAMINO WALK FROM LAVACOLLA TO SANTIAGO  (10.3_KM)                            

08:30      TOURING COACH TO TRANSFER TO LAVACOLLA FROM HOTEL O PINO ______11_KMS___00:12_HRS

08:30      TOURING COACH TO TRANSFER LUGGAGE FROM HOTEL O PINO TO SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA ______23_KMS___00:30_HRS

 Walk Lavacolla - Santiago 10.3km

104km  Villamaior

108.5km  Monte del Gozo –Also known as ‘Monxoi’ or ‘Montjoie’, this is where pilgrims got their first glimpse of the cathedral of Santiago, something that is still possible today, despite much modern development in the foreground. The hill is now crowned by a modern sculpture commemorating the visits to Santiago by St Francis of Assisi and Pope John Paul II. On the slope of the hill is  the small chapel of San Marcos. On the way into Santiago is a modern archway with bronze statues of famous pilgrims to Santiago over the past 1000 years.

111km    San Lazaro - A small (rebuilt) wayside chapel in the suburbs of Santiago recalls another ’lazar house’, beyond which the Camino passes along the Rua de Los Concheiros, where traders  offered scallop shells for sale to pilgrims.

111.5km  San Pedro – An inner suburb of Santiago, with a church and a cross. From here the Rua San Pedro leads to the Porta do Camino,the site of one of the gates into the medieval city, from where a succession of narrow streets lead via the Praza de Cervantes to the Praza do Inmaculada, on the north side of the Cathedral and down a flight of steps beneath the arch connecting the Archbishop’s Palace to the Cathedral, into the Praza do Obradoiro, in front of the  Cathedral’s west front.

 112km Santiago de Compostela. Arrival in time for midday Mass at Cathedral of St James.   

  We arrive in the beautiful city of Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the Camino and one of the most iconic pilgrimage cities in the world, just in time to gather at the magnificent Cathedral of Saint James for midday Mass. After days of walking, reflection, and shared journey, this moment brings everything together in a powerful and deeply moving way.

Inside the Cathedral, pilgrims from across the world unite in prayer and thanksgiving, celebrating the Eucharist at the heart of this sacred place. It is a moment of joy, completion, and gratitude, where footsteps become prayer and the journey finds its meaning in presence, community, and peace at the tomb of Saint James.                                      

LUNCH :  Own arrangements  

AFTERNOON FREE TO RELAX OR EXPLORE SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA.

HOTEL : COMPOSTELA

FULL DAY FREE TO EXPLORE SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA.

Today is a full day to explore the extraordinary city of Santiago de Compostela, one of Europe’s great centres of pilgrimage and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure rich in history, faith, and culture. After the journey of the Camino, the city invites you to slow down and simply enjoy being here, wandering through its winding medieval streets, lively squares, and hidden corners that have welcomed pilgrims for centuries.

At the heart of it all stands the magnificent Cathedral of Saint James, a breathtaking masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and the spiritual centre of the Camino. Pilgrims gather here from all over the world, and the atmosphere is one of joy, achievement, and quiet reflection. You may choose to return to the Cathedral during the day, explore its chapels and courtyards, or simply sit in the square and take in the energy of this remarkable place where so many journeys end and new ones begin.

Beyond the Cathedral, Santiago reveals itself in layers of history and charm. From bustling cafés and traditional Galician streets to centuries-old monasteries and university buildings, the city is alive with stories waiting to be discovered. Whether enjoying local cuisine, browsing small shops, or simply soaking in the atmosphere with fellow pilgrims, today offers a chance to celebrate the journey you have made and to savour the beauty of arriving somewhere truly special.

LUNCH :  UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENTS

DINNER :  UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENTS

HOTEL - COMPOSTELA

09:00      LOCAL TRANSPORT FOR HOTEL - FULL DAY EXCURSION TO  FISTERRA - INCLUDING LUNCH

From Santiago to the edge of the known world, this unforgettable journey takes us to the legendary Cape Fisterra, a place long regarded by medieval pilgrims as the true end of the Camino. In centuries past, travellers would arrive here exhausted and transformed, symbolically laying down their old lives, sometimes even burning their clothes, before standing in silence to watch the sun sink into the vast Atlantic Ocean. It remains one of the most powerful and evocative pilgrimage destinations in Europe, where land, sea, and sky seem to meet at infinity.

Today we follow that same ancient route through some of the most dramatic and breathtaking landscapes in Galicia. Our path leads into the Costa da Morte, the “Coast of Death,” a rugged stretch of coastline named for its wild seas and the many shipwrecks that have marked its history. Far from being bleak, it is stunningly beautiful, shaped by wind, waves, and legend. Along the way we visit the charming fishing town of Muros, with its traditional harbour life and stone streets, and witness the spectacular Ézaro Waterfall, one of the few in Europe that flows directly into the ocean.

We continue to Cape Finisterre itself, where the vast horizon opens out into endless Atlantic views and pilgrims gather in quiet reflection at what once felt like the very end of the world. The journey also includes the coastal village of Muxía, home to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Boat, another sacred and windswept place where faith and legend intertwine with the power of the sea. This is a day of awe, beauty, and reflection, tracing the final steps of countless pilgrims who came before us and stood, just as we will, at the edge of something timeless.

At a fitting moment along this journey, we will gather together for a simple but deeply meaningful liturgy by the sea, bringing the pilgrimage into prayerful focus. In this space where ocean meets sky, we pause to give thanks for the road travelled, the stories shared, and the personal intentions carried along the way. Surrounded by the sound of waves and the vastness of the horizon, this celebration becomes a powerful moment of unity, reflection, and closure, gently holding together all that this pilgrimage has been.

DINNER :  UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENTS

HOTEL - COMPOSTELA

10:00      COACH TRANSPORT FROM HOTEL TO STATION 

TRAIN FROM SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA TO MADRID (1ST CLASS)

Today we leave the green landscapes of Galicia behind as we board the train from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid, travelling in comfort through the changing face of Spain. This scenic journey offers a final chance to reflect on the Camino as the countryside rolls past the window, gradually giving way to central Spain’s wide horizons and golden tones. It is a smooth and relaxing way to travel, allowing time to rest, share memories with fellow pilgrims, and quietly take in everything that has been experienced along the way. As we approach Madrid, the energy of the capital begins to build, marking a gentle transition from pilgrimage reflection back into vibrant city life.

LUNCH - UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENT

MADRID: TRANSFER FROM STATION  TO HOTEL     
                             
DINNER - UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENT                                  

HOTEL - RIU PLAZA ESPANA

09:00  COACH TRANSPORT TO MEET  AT HOTEL FOR A HALF DAY TOUR WITH GUIDE

Experience the very best of Spain’s vibrant capital on this half day journey through the heart of Madrid,  a city where centuries of history, power, and culture come vividly to life. As we explore together, you will begin to understand Madrid not just as a modern European capital, but as a living story told through its streets, squares, and spectacular architecture.

Our journey takes us through the layers of Madrid’s past, from its Moorish origins to the grandeur of the Habsburg and Bourbon dynasties. We pass iconic landmarks such as the lively Puerta del Sol and the majestic Plaza Mayor, where centuries of civic life, celebration, and tradition have unfolded. Each stop reveals another chapter in the city’s remarkable evolution, bringing history to life in a way that is both engaging and unforgettable.

A true highlight of the day is the magnificent Royal Palace of Madrid, one of the largest and most impressive palaces in Europe. Here we step inside a world of royal splendour, exploring ornate halls, grand staircases, and beautifully preserved collections that reflect Spain’s regal heritage. The experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of Spanish monarchy at its height.

We also enjoy time at Madrid Río, the city’s beautifully transformed riverside park, where modern design meets open green space along the Manzanares River. This relaxed stroll offers a refreshing contrast to the grandeur of the historic centre and a chance to experience how Madrid continues to reinvent itself for today.

Altogether, this tour offers a rich and dynamic introduction to Madrid, blending history, architecture, and contemporary city life into one unforgettable experience at the heart of Spain.

Afternoon Free

EVENING : FLAMENCO SHOW & DINNER AT:  CAFE DE CHINITAS                                                                         

SHOW & DINNER AT:  FLAMENCO SHOW

No trip to Spain is truly complete without experiencing the passion and energy of flamenco in the heart of Madrid. Tonight, we step into an authentic venue where music, rhythm, and emotion come together in a powerful expression of Spanish culture. From the first note of the guitar to the intricate footwork and heartfelt vocals, flamenco is an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of Spain in its most vibrant form.

As we enjoy the performance, we will also share a traditional Spanish meal, adding flavour and warmth to an already memorable evening. It is a chance to relax together, reflect on the journey so far, and simply enjoy the atmosphere of music, food, and friendship in one of Madrid’s most iconic cultural experiences.

 08:00    COACH TRANSPORT MEETS  AT HOTEL FOR FULL DAY EXCURSION TO TOLEDO

Step outside the energy of Madrid and journey back in time on a full-day excursion to the remarkable city of Toledo, one of Spain’s most historic and atmospheric destinations. Perched above the Tagus River, this UNESCO World Heritage city is often described as an open-air museum, where Christian, Jewish, and Muslim influences have shaped a rich and fascinating cultural tapestry over centuries.

On arrival, we enjoy a guided walking tour through the winding medieval streets, uncovering the stories hidden within its stone walls and ancient gateways. Highlights include the historic Jewish Quarter, the imposing Alcázar fortress, the magnificent Gothic Cathedral, and the beautifully intricate Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, each offering a unique window into Toledo’s layered past and enduring significance in Spanish history.

Along the way, we pause for a delicious traditional Spanish lunch in a local restaurant, giving you time to relax and soak up the flavours and hospitality of the region. The afternoon is then yours to wander at leisure, whether browsing artisan shops, discovering quiet courtyards, or simply enjoying the sweeping views across the city and river below.

With roundtrip transportation from Madrid included, this seamless day trip offers a perfect balance of guided discovery and free exploration, making it one of the most memorable ways to experience the heritage, beauty, and timeless charm of Spain.

LUNCH : LOCAL RESTAURANT PROVIDED

DINNER :  UNDER OWN ARRANGEMENTS

HOTEL :  RIU PLAZA ESPANA  

MORNING :   PRIVATE TRANSFERS AT HOTEL FOR ALL AIRPORT DEPARTURES.

As our journey together comes to a close, today is a gentle day of transfers as we make our way to the airport for flights home or onward travel. After days filled with walking, discovery, prayer, shared meals, laughter, and moments of quiet reflection, there is a natural pause as we begin to carry everything we have experienced back into everyday life.

This pilgrimage has taken us through some of the most remarkable places in Europe, but more than that, it has been a journey of people, stories, and moments that will stay with us long after we return home. From sacred cities and mountain monasteries to coastal horizons and the final steps of the Camino, each day has added something unique to the path we have walked together.

We are deeply grateful for your presence, your openness, and the way you have shared in this experience. As we say farewell, we do so with appreciation for the journey we have made together and with hope that the spirit of The Way of Wonder continues to echo in your life in the days, weeks, and years ahead. Safe travels, and until we meet again.