The stage, step by step
Grado, San Juan de Villapañada and Cabruñana
Leave Grado with water and something to eat for the way. The route gains height towards San Juan de Villapañada and Cabruñana; Albergue de San Juan de Villapañada and Albergue de Cabruñana are in this first section, in case you have split the stage.
Descent towards La Doriga
Between km 4 and 7.3, the route loses 218 m at an average gradient of 6.7%. It is a descent that can be hard on the knees, especially when the ground is wet. In La Doriga, Ca Pacita combines a cider bar and hostel, making it a useful place to catch your breath before continuing towards Cornellana.
Cornellana and the second rise
The climb between km 9.3 and 12.5 gains 115 m and brings you into the surroundings of Cornellana. You can stop beside the Monasterio de Cornellana; you will also find Albergue de peregrinos de Cornellana and places to buy supplies, such as La tienda de Belen.
The long climb to Salas
After Cornellana, the profile drops sharply between km 12.5 and 13.5, but the respite is short-lived: from km 13.5 to 22.3, you have to climb another 196 m. The finish becomes easier as you approach Salas, where Albergue de Peregrinos de Salas and the town’s services await.
What to see on stage 2
Iglesia de San Martín de Gurullés
This Romanesque church from 1117 lies in the surroundings of Grado. It is one of the first historic landmarks of the day and a good reason not to rush your departure.
Monasterio de Cornellana
Founded in 1024, this is the most important monument along the route. Its Romanesque architecture recalls Cornellana’s importance as a stopping point and place of welcome on the way to Galicia.
La Doriga
La Doriga marks the transition between the initial descent and the Cornellana area. Here, the Camino offers a natural pause before the rises that follow.
Iglesia de San Salvador de Salas
This medieval church, with Romanesque features, forms part of Salas’s protected historic centre. It is a fitting visit to round off the stage before looking for accommodation.
Where to sleep in Salas
Grado offers several starting options, including Albergue municipal de peregrinos Villa de Grado and Albergue La Quintana. On the way, you can stop at Albergue de San Juan de Villapañada, Albergue de Cabruñana or Albergue de peregrinos de Cornellana. In Salas, you have Albergue de Peregrinos de Salas, as well as private options such as Albergue Valle Nonaya, Albergue El Rey Casto, La Campa and Albergue Casa Sueño.
Where to eat and refuel
In Grado, you can have breakfast and buy provisions at Supermercado Claudio, Super Benfer or Alimerka, setting off with the day organised. Along the way, you will find Casa Ricardo and Mesón Dany, as well as La tienda de Belen in Cornellana for supplies. In Salas, you will find Alimerka, Dia and La tiendina de Jose, along with bars and cafés such as Bar La Luciana and El arco.
Practical tips for this stage
Do not underestimate the elevation gain
The 577 m of ascent is a significant increase on the previous stage. Keep a moderate pace from Grado and do not turn the first climb into a race.
Take care in wet woodland
Woodland paths can be dark and slippery when it rains, particularly on the descents. Carry walking poles if you are used to them, and place your feet carefully.
Make sure you have enough water
The route includes Fuente de Arriba, several springs, Fonte de Santiago and Fuencaliente, but do not rely on every one of them being usable. Leave Grado with enough water for the longer sections.
Save your legs for Cornellana–Salas
The climb from km 13.5 to 22.3 is long and steady. If you stop in Cornellana, take the opportunity to eat something: you will continue gaining height for much of the stage afterwards.
Frequently asked questions about stage 2
How much elevation gain is there between Grado and Salas?
There are 577 m of ascent and 371 m of descent over 22 km. The longest climb comes between km 13.5 and 22.3, with 196 m of elevation gain.
Where can I stop between Grado and Salas?
San Juan de Villapañada, Cabruñana, La Doriga and Cornellana are the main landmarks. Cornellana is approximately halfway and has accommodation and places to buy supplies.
Is there a difficult descent?
Between km 4 and 7.3, the route drops 218 m at an average gradient of 6.7%. It can be slippery in wet weather, so take your time on the way down.
Where can I sleep if I do not reach Salas?
You can split the day at Albergue de San Juan de Villapañada, Albergue de Cabruñana or Albergue de peregrinos de Cornellana. Salas has Albergue de Peregrinos de Salas and several private options.