Stage 10: Caldas de Reis

The Caldas de Reis–Padrón leg is, for many, one of the most beautiful on the entire Camino de Santiago. During these final stages of the pilgrimage, it’s common to see more and more people along the routes, more lodging options, and, above all, more shops along the roads leading to the Galician capital.
With just a slight climb along the way, this leg presents no major difficulties. Even locals walk these routes as a form of exercise for the whole family.

Before we know it, we find ourselves in the middle of the Spanish forest, with ancient Roman roads, helping us get into the spirit of the early pilgrims. To top it all off, Padrón looks like a replica of a city from the ancient empire of Caesar Augustus, with its brown hues and architecture that stands out from the rest of the region. It’s time to sit down and order the peppers that bear the city’s name—Padrón.

Exit:

Arrival:

Where to eat

Where to sleep

Caldas de Reis - Padrón: Photos

Caldas de Reis - Padrón: Itinerary

A: Caldas de Reis

Caldas de Reis, despite being a small municipality, has plenty to visit. Between restaurants and cafés for breakfast, don't miss the church of Santa Maria. Both the interior and exterior are well worth your time.

B: The Cross

Shortly after leaving the village, you will reach O Cruceiro, one of the highlights of this stage. It is here that the Way opens up between rural houses and shadier trails. The stone cross, which gives the place its name, marks the meeting point of ancient pilgrim routes and invites you to take a peaceful break and snap a good photo.

C: The Pin

The trail climbs gently, revealing enchanting scenes of living nature: streams, water mills, and dense vegetation that creates an almost magical atmosphere. The village of O Pino appears shortly after, surrounded by fields and pine forests that reinforce the tranquility of the route.

D: Pontecesures

After passing through woods and small farms, the Way takes you to Pontecesures. The bridge over the River Ulla symbolically marks the proximity of your destination and has a strong connection to the legend of St. James: according to tradition, it was along this river that the remains of the apostle James arrived from Palestine.

E: Padrón

Padron is the last major stage before Santiago de Compostela. According to legend, it was the rock below the church of Santiago that the boat carrying the apostle hit. Painted a toasted yellow, today it is known for its iconic chapel, its streets with an architecture unlike any other town we've come across and the Padrón peppers, a delicacy available in every café.