Camino Primitivo

The Camino Primitivo or Original Way is arguably the oldest Camino route. It travels from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela directly over the mountains. This is one of the most challenging routes, but the pilgrim is rewarded with amazing views and a beautiful walk. This Camino is not meant to be walked in the winter as dangerous conditions exist during the winter months. The total distance of this Camino is approximately 321km.

The reason that this Camino is called the first Camino is that in the year 813 after the discovery of St James grave, King Alfonso II of Gallaecia walked to Santiago. He started in Asturias and traveled through Asturian villages on his way to Lugo. From Lugo, he continued on to Santiago de Compostela. When he arrived he ordered that a church be built upon the site when the grave was discovered. Today that church is the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Many people followed in the footsteps of King Alfonso II and thus the Camino Primativo was born.

This is considered one of the hardest Caminos as the trail travels through the mountains of Asturias and Galicia. There are few albergues, there are, however, many private hostels, casa rurals, and hotels. The main cities along the way are Oviedo, Lugo, and Santiago de Compostela. There are many ups and downs along the way as the pilgrim will travel along many mountain trails.

There are 13 or 14 stages along this route. Of the 321Km about half are in Galicia and half in Asturias. The weather even in the summertime can be wet. Both Galicia and Asturias are along the Atlantic coast of Spain. Coastal weather of rain and clouds are possible year round.

Camino-Primitivo-stages