the way of st. james
Final 100km of the Camino Francés
‘Thus says the Lord: “Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls.”’ (Jeremiah 6:16)
Set your feet on the Way of transformation, following the ancient paths of the Camino de Santiago. Experience a spiritual journey along a path that has transformed pilgrims for centuries, culminating in Santiago de Compostela at the tomb of St. James the Apostle, who walked with Christ. With an experienced pilgrimage guide leading the way and full-time spiritual accompaniment from Fr. Pier Giorgio Dengler, OP, this pilgrimage follows the final 100 kilometers of the Camino Francés (French Way), immersing you in the fullness of the pilgrim experience: good, honest food, hallowed churches, breathtaking landscapes, prayer, fellowship, and the simple rhythm of walking toward Santiago.
HIGHLIGHTS
- The Medieval village of Portomarin with its historic church and fascinating history
- Hiking through the countryside with constant incredible views
- The Pilgrim's Mass in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
ITINERARY
Sarria & Portomarin
Days 1-2: Whether flying into Madrid Airport to meet our group transfer or joining us directly in Sarria, we transition into our pilgrimage with a welcome dinner and time to relax along the River Sarria before setting out on the last 100 km of the French Way to Santiago I Get your first stamp in your pilgrim passport and pray in the ancient Monastery of La Magdalena I Pray in the 12th-century Romanesque church of San Xoán
Palas de Rei, Arzua, & Amenal
Days 3-5: On the way to Palas de Rei we will cross the river Miño (Galicia’s longest river) and enjoy several peaceful hamlets along the way I Hiking to Arzua, we will stop in the market town of Melide to taste some local specialties I The next day's hike to Amenal will be on a mix of country roads and forest paths
Santiago de Compostela
Days 6-7: Hiking into Santiago de Compostela, we will pass Lavacollo where pilgrims used to wash themselves in the river in preparation for arriving at the tomb of St. James I With the hike being shorter today, we plan to make it to the 12pm pilgrims mass I Spend some time in prayer at the tomb of St. James I Stroll through the city and enjoy a celebratory dinner
*Itinerary Subject to Change
Lodging
Lodging
LEVEL: Standard (Rooms will typically be capped at 4 per person)
OPTIONAL UPGRADE: Superior (Double-occupancy)
SINGLE-ROOM SUPPLEMENT: Available (Superior level)
To find out more about our lodging levels, click below.
EATING
We will eat at restaurants and our lodgings. Menus may be limited to fixed options or set menus. Breakfasts provided are in the local style (typically not as hearty as American style). We can accommodate most food allergies.
LUGGAGE TRANSFERS
Luggage transfers are included on this trip. You may bring a suitcase or a backpack in addition to the daypack you will be hiking with. We will provide a detailed packing list.
PRAYING
Prayer is at the heart of our pilgrimage. Mass, the liturgy of the hours, the rosary, and other prayer opportunities are available throughout the pilgrimage.
Camino de Santiago
$1,980
INCLUDES
• 6 nights lodging
• 3 breakfasts
• All dinners
• Luggage transfers
• Coach from Madrid Airport to Sarria
• Pilgrimage materials (reading packet, prayer booklet, maps, group gear)
• Masses and other spiritual activities
• All tips and service charges to drivers, restaurants, etc.
DOES NOT INCLUDE
• Flights
• 3 breakfasts
• All lunches
• Taxis if skipping a hike
• Train to Sarria at the beginning of the pilgrimage if you miss the coach
• Fee if paying by credit card
• Single-room supplement ($650)
• Optional upgrade to Superior Lodging ($400/person)
• Anything else not listed
DATES
April 24-30, 2027
Sign-up Deadline: December 11, 2026
Deposit: $300 due upon sign-up
Capacity: A waitlist will be started after 20 sign-ups.
Details
ACTIVITY LEVELS
Day 2: Hiking
Level: 3
Distance: 13.8 miles
Elevation gain: 1175ft
Day 3: Hiking
Level: 3
Distance: 15.3 miles
Elevation gain: 1725ft
Day 4: Hiking
Level: 4
Distance: 17.9 miles
Elevation gain: 1550ft
Day 5: Hiking
Level: 3
Distance: 13.9 miles
Elevation gain: 1050ft
Day 6: Hiking
Level: 2
Distance: 9.9 miles
Elevation gain: 850ft
Click Here to learn more about how we determine our activity levels
Activities are weather-dependent. Distances and durations may vary from the information given above
ARRIVAL
Arrival Airport: Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD)
Arrival Date: April 24, 2027 (please note that this typically means departing from the USA on April 23, 2027)
Arrival Time: Please arrive by 11am at the latest. You may arrive as early as you need to. If you are delayed past noon, you will need to take a train to Sarria as the coach will not be able to wait for you.
Please wait to buy your plane tickets until you receive a confirmation from us.
You may meet the group in Sarria if you will not be flying into Madrid.
DEPARTURE
The pilgrimage concludes in Santiago on April 30, 2027. Please note that return transportation on this final day is not included, allowing you flexibility with your travel plans. You are welcome to fly out of whichever airport you prefer and depart as early in the morning as your schedule requires.
INSURANCE
Each pilgrim should have health insurance. We highly recommend purchasing traveler's insurance as well.
ELIGIBILITY
Open-enrollment. Must be at least 18 years old. Must be comfortable with the activities and activity levels. Must have a sense of adventure.
By signing up for this pilgrimage, you agree to our Booking Terms & Conditions. Refund Policy
LEADERS
FR. PIER GIORGIO DENGLER
HEIDI CINQUEGRANA
TRICIA CHAI-ONN
CHRISTOHER BAKER- Founder and Director of ALP
How to get started
Sign Up
Fill out the online form to secure your spot.
Contact us
Reach out with any questions about the trip.
Check Calendar
View all of the upcoming pilgrimages.