Camino Finisterre and Muxia
There is a good reason for this, as the route to Fisterra is believed to have been taken by pre Christian communities following the Milky Way to what they believed was the most westerly point on Earth; and therefore the trail is even older than the Camino and the pilgrimage to Santiago itself. However since the Middle Ages, Camino pilgrims have continued their journey to reach the ‘end of the world’ and watch the sun set in this magical place.
The Romans named Fisterra, Finis Terrae, meaning ‘land’s end’ or ‘end of the world’ as it was here where their known world came to an end.
This is a wonderful Camino route with a mix of rolling countryside and beautiful coastal scenery, particularly on the stretch between Fisterra and the fishing village of Muxia. Pack your swimming togs, as Langosteira Beach and Lires Beach are great sandy strands where pilgrims can enjoy a swim on a sunny Summer’s day.
This is a fascinating route and region where pagan myths and legends are present and intertwine with Christian traditions; such as the ‘magic stones’ by Our Lady of the Boat Sanctuary where visitors come from all over Galicia to cure their ailments.
Muxia’s Our Lady Virxe da Barca Sanctuary, sits perched on the rocks on a stunning location by the Atlantic Ocean and attracts many pilgrims each September to its ‘Romaria’.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE ON THE CAMINO FINISTERRE
There is a lot to do, see and taste on the Camino Finisterre and these are some of our tips:
- Catch a sunset at Cape Fisterra
- Go for a swim in the Atlantic Ocean
- Walk 9 times under the ‘magic stones’ at Muxia
- Explore the Old Town in Santiago de Compostela
- Enjoy green rural landscapes
- Treat yourself to the region’s delicious seafood
Pilgrims walking Camino Finisterre should request the ‘Finisterrana’ pilgrim certificate at the local town council; and if you continue on to the fishing village of Muxia, you can also request the ‘Muxiana’ certificate.
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CAMINO FINISTERRE TOURS
The Camino to Fisterra and Muxia is unique as it is the only one to start in Santiago de Compostela, but it can be easily walked in both directions (it is marked to follow from and to Santiago).
The most popular option is to start in Santiago and walk to Cape Fisterra, over 5 days, or continue all the way to the village of Muxia, which will take a full week in total.
If you are looking to walk to Santiago, you will have to start in Muxia, walk to Fisterra and then to Santiago in order to complete the 100kms required to obtain the Compostela certificate at the Pilgrims Office.
Talk to our travel agents to discuss your Camino plans and we will create the perfect tour for you.
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