Sarria to Portomarín: Complete Stage Guide

The stage from Sarria to Portomarín covers 22.20 km and usually takes 5-6 hours. It is rated easy to moderate, but it is worth saving some energy for the short climbs and the final descent towards the Belesar reservoir.

At a glance

• Distance: 22.20 km, with 450 m of ascent and 530 m of descent.
• Typical walking time: 5-6 hours over mixed terrain.
• Ferreiros is a good halfway stop before continuing towards Vilachá.
• Setting off before 7:30 means fewer people on the trail in high season.

What are the key facts about the Sarria to Portomarín stage?

• Route: French Way.
• Distance: 22.20 km.
• Estimated walking time: 5-6 hours.
• Elevation gain: 450 m.
• Elevation loss: 530 m.
• Difficulty: easy to moderate.
• Terrain: country paths, woodland tracks and some stretches of tarmac.

For many pilgrims who start in Sarria, this is their first day as they set out to walk the final 100 km and apply for the Compostela. Its popularity is particularly noticeable in high season, when large numbers of walkers gather at the start and at the main rest stops.

What is the route from Sarria to Portomarín like?

Leaving Sarria

The day begins with a descent through Sarria's old quarter. After crossing the river Celeiro on a medieval bridge, the route enters rural Galicia, alternating between stone villages, tree-lined paths and stretches of tarmac for much of the day.

The opening stretch is gentle and makes it easy to settle into a comfortable pace. There is no need to rush: the succession of short climbs and descents gradually takes its toll, although no single obstacle makes this a particularly tough stage.

From Barbadelo to Ferreiros

Barbadelo is one of the first major landmarks along the route. Its Romanesque church is worth a short stop, and the bar with a terrace is a convenient place for a drink or snack before walking on.

Further ahead, Ferreiros makes a good halfway stop. It has two bars and a fountain, making it a practical place to refill your water, have something to eat and check your feet before tackling the second half.

Arriving in Portomarín

After Ferreiros, the Camino climbs gradually towards Vilachá. From there, the final descent towards the Belesar reservoir begins, one of the stage's most recognisable stretches.

You enter Portomarín across the long bridge over the reservoir. On the far side, a flight of steps leads up into town—one final effort that you will feel after several hours on foot. Portomarín was relocated in the sixties when the dam was built, and the Church of San Nicolás was moved stone by stone.

Where can you find water, food and other services?

Sarria is the best place to pick up anything you still need before setting off. It has supermarkets, pharmacies, cash machines and shops selling pilgrim gear. Carry water and some food from the start, even though you will find services along the route.

• Barbadelo: bar with a terrace and a Romanesque church open to visitors.
• Ferreiros: two bars and a fountain.
• Portomarín: supermarket, pharmacy, cash machine and the other services you would expect at the end of a stage.

To locate the villages and services in advance, check the map of routes, stages and albergues. On hot days, do not rely on reaching the next establishment with an empty water bottle.

Where can you stay in Portomarín, and how much does it cost?

The Xunta albergue is at the entrance to Portomarín, with 60 beds and a listed price of €8. The town also has private albergues charging €12-18, some with double rooms, and guesthouses offering doubles for €25-45.

This stage can be very busy because so many pilgrims converge here. Use the guide to public albergues and private accommodation to weigh up price, privacy and whether you can book ahead. You can also browse the albergues on the French Way before planning your night.

What tips will help you complete the stage?

• Set off before 7:30 if you want to avoid some of the crowds, especially in high season.
• Do not start too fast. The profile is manageable, but the short climbs and the descent will eventually tire your legs.
• Stamp your pilgrim credential at least twice: you can do so when leaving Sarria and when you arrive in Portomarín.
• Check your feet in Ferreiros. If you notice any rubbing, deal with it before it turns into a blister; our guide to foot care on the Camino explains how to prevent problems.
• Save some energy for the final flight of steps leading up from the bridge to Portomarín.
• Try pulpo a la gallega when you finish, one of the area's classic specialities.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to walk from Sarria to Portomarín?

The estimated walking time is 5-6 hours. Your actual time will depend on your pace, how often you stop and how busy the most popular stretches are.

Is the Sarria to Portomarín stage difficult?

It is considered easy to moderate. The terrain is varied and there is some elevation change, but the main challenge is pacing yourself well over the 22.20 km.

Where is the best place to stop halfway?

Ferreiros is a practical choice because it has two bars and a fountain. Take the opportunity to drink, eat something and check your feet.

Why do so many people start the Camino in Sarria?

Many pilgrims choose Sarria as their starting point so they can walk the final 100 km of the French Way and qualify for the Compostela. The guide to the final 100 km from Sarria will help you plan the entire stretch.

What stage comes after Portomarín?

The next stage runs from Portomarín to Palas de Rei and covers 24.80 km. Read up on it before bed so you can choose your start time and prepare for a slightly longer day.