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SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA |
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SPAIN
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WHY?
One the world's most famous pilgrim destinations, Santiago de Compostela is located in Spain's northwestern corner, in the beautiful province of Galicia. The paths to the city are used by everyone from the most dedicated religious traveller to hip city folk who are looking for meditation through walking. Galicia was once the last outpost of Christianity and the town has been the centre of a massive pilgrim influx since the 11th century. Choose one of many routes into Santiago de Compostela itself (all roads to the town is considered a pilgrimage) - the most popular, Camino Francés, starts in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Pont in France and takes you across the Pyrenees to Roncesvalles in Spain and onto Santiago de Compostela. Pilgrims adorn their walking sticks with shells as protection on the way.
WHERE TO STAY
Just south of Pamplona and at the crossroads of the pilgrims' paths in Puente la Reina, you will find the beautiful Hotel el Peregrino. With seven rooms and five suites, it will make a serene break on your way to Santiago de Compostela, and the hotel has luxury features such as an outdoor swimming pool and beautiful rooms with stone walls and refined interiors. The restaurant's outdoor patio has a great view of the surrounding landscape. Hotel el Peregrino, Calle Irunbidea, Puente la Reina (00 34 948 34 00 75; www.relaischateaux.com).
WHEN TO GO
The town's university makes sure that restaurants and bars are open all year round, but the main pilgrim season takes place around St James' Day on 25 July each year. Be aware that during this time of the year days can be very hot.
TOURIST INFORMATION
THE SPANISH TOURISM BOARD
Spain's main tourism board has extensive coverage of the pilgrimage routes on its website, click here for more information.
Read all about Santiago de Compostela in CNTraveller.com's city guide |
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