The Way Of St. James

Historic part of the Camino Norte

The old and original way

The Camino Norte, the old North Way, runs through Trabada. This is one of the oldest Ways and it was used by those pilgrims who could not afford to cross the estuary by boat from Asturias to Galicia (Ribadeo). The section Vegadeo-Trabada-Mondoñedo is recommended for pilgrims who are looking for peace and tranquility. 

The old North Way is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful as it passes through a variety of natural woods and forests where nature is the pilgrims greatest ally and travel companion. 

STAGE 1: From Tol (Castropol) to Vegadeo 

The Way that goes from Tol (Castropol) to Lantoira and Vegadeo is considered the official Way and the oldest pilgrim route. The main reason is because it was the only option on foot at that time, as to get to Ribadeo, it was necessary to cross the estuary by boat. 

STAGE 2: From Vegadeo to Trabada 

Pilgrims who arrive in Galicia via the North Way do so through Trabada. The crossing point between Asturias and Galicia is in the parish of Abres, where there is a bridge between Asturias and Galicia called the Fornacho bridge. Pilgrims on this stage will go from Ría the Abres to Sante and from there to Trabada. On this route, they will go through beautiful woodland and enjoy a spectacular riverside landscape. 

STAGE 3: From Trabada to Mondoñedo. 

The pilgrims, on leaving Trabada, follow the route through Muín Queimado, which goes westwards through the valley of Rego de Trabada. 

As they arrive in la Trapa, they will turn off to climb the Alto da Cadeira, and from there, they will go down to the Fortaleza de Tovar, which is in the valley of Lourenzá. Then, they will carry on to Mondoñedo, the old capital of Galicia, before the final push to Santiago de Compostela.