Sarria

Sarria is the most popular starting point on the Camino Francés after Saint Jean Pied de Port, for one simple reason: it's just over 100 km from Santiago, the minimum distance required to receive a Compostela. The result is a dramatic change in atmosphere — from Sarria onward, the camino fills with pilgrims who are walking the last section, and the trail becomes significantly busier.

The town itself is more appealing than its reputation for crowding suggests. The old quarter climbs a hillside above the Río Sarria, with the ruined castle at the top providing views over the surrounding countryside. The Monasterio de la Magdalena, run by the Mercedarian order, operates a large albergue and has a pleasant cloister. The Iglesia de El Salvador has a Romanesque tympanum.

The main street — the Rúa Maior — is lined with bars, restaurants, and equipment shops (useful for replacing worn-out gear for the final push). A supermarket, pharmacy, and all services are available. Multiple albergues and hotels serve the large pilgrim population.

The Pilgrim Office issues credenciales and stamps. If you're starting in Sarria, pick up your credencial here and get your first sello. You'll need at least two stamps per day from Sarria to Santiago to qualify for the Compostela.

Getting to Sarria: RENFE trains from Madrid and bus services from Lugo and other Galician cities.