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For centuries, pilgrims have crossed the Iberian Peninsula guided by faith and purpose, with a goal to reach the tomb of St. James the Apostle in Santiago de Compostela. While many of these paths were very long, coming all the way from France, central Spain or even Portugal, the shortest of them, Camino Ingles, is one that carries some of the most remarkable heritage to this day.
Short pilgrimage with deep roots
The Camino Ingles, also known as the English Way, is widely regarded as the shortest of the traditional Camino de Santiago routes that finish in Santiago de Compostela. Spanning roughly 114 kilometers from Ferrol in Galicia, or a shorter 75 kilometer variant from A Coruña, this route originates back in the Middle Ages, when the whole of Europe heard about the discovery of the remains of St. James.
It’s believed that pilgrims from the British Isles and the Nordic countries would arrive by sea and the Galician ports of Ferrol and A Coruña became the gateways to Compostela. The rich backstory of this short Camino route makes it highly appealing to those interested in the history of pilgrimage. However, today it’s also one of the more quiet routes, ideal for those who prefer to be away from the crowds.
Landscapes and landmarks along the way
Beginning in Ferrol, the journey quickly moves through landscapes shaped by both sea and soil, usually divided into 5 or 6 main stages. Pilgrims pass from the historic naval harbour of Ferrol itself into riverside Neda and onwards to Pontedeume, a medieval village known for its iconic Andrade Tower and Fragas do Eume natural park.
From here, the path continues through the charming Betanzos, whose old town and church architecture reflect the Galician heritage. Between these larger settlements are rural stretches and beautiful Miño beaches that introduce a slower pace.
Further inland, the route threads through Hospital de Bruma and Sigüeiro, villages that retain their historic charm with a number of attractions. The artistic Complex of Betanzos, for one, holds well-preserved Gothic and medieval architecture, with key monuments like the Church of Santa María del Azogue.
While Ferrol is usually preferred as the starting point due its longer distance (traditionally 100 kilometers were required for the Compostela certificate), the A Coruña variant still honours centuries of pilgrimage journeys, featuring a significant historic centre.
The living heritage of northern Galicia
What makes this short Camino route distinctive is not only its length but the way heritage runs through its living community. In these towns, such as Betanzos, walkers get fully immersed in the history, through the cobbled streets and churches as well as regional culinary traditions. Both the culture and the nature of this part of Galicia brings a unique atmosphere – one that sweeps you back in time step by step.
Small but mighty
Although the shortest, the English Way truly packs a punch! It brings a similar walking experience to the more popular Caminos, together with a meaningful sense of heritage felt through its ancient trails, medieval villages, beautiful nature and an even more incredible community.