One of the questions we most often encounter from pilgrims who are encouraged for the first time is: what am I going to find along the way? Will there be all the necessary services?

And as good Galicians we are the answer will be: it depends.

It depends on many things, among them, which road you choose to take to get to the capital. But it will also depend on the stretch of road you are travelling. And, of course, it depends on what you call “all the services”.

Bars and restaurants

Yes, as a general rule, you will find places to sit and have a drink and places to eat. Obviously, these will be more plentiful in the urban centres you pass through.

We recommend that you order typical local or seasonal food at home. After all, the Camino de Santiago is also a gastronomic route that you should not miss.

And another tip we give you is to take advantage of these stops for such essential things as going to the toilet, changing your socks to keep your feet dry and avoid blisters or to hydrate yourself and avoid carrying large bottles of water.

Pharmacies

You will probably need a pharmacy along the way.

Although we always recommend carrying a small first aid kit in your rucksack, you may need to replenish some of the essentials or buy something you didn’t count on.

As with the bars, you will find pharmacies at many points along the way. However, this is a bit like petrol stations when you have your car on reserve. It’s best to make sure you go to the first one you see, lest the next one is too far away and you don’t get there in time.

Hostels and hostels

It is common knowledge that public hostels cannot be booked and are occupied on a first come, first served basis.

If you do not want to gamble (especially in mid and high season) book your stay in a private hostel.

Obviously we recommend that, if you pass through Sarria, make your reservation in our Hostel Monasterio Magdalena.

And when you arrive in Santiago de Compostela, we will be waiting for you at the Albergue Seminario Menor.

Remember that if you book directly through the web you will have a 10% discount using the following codes:

–Magdalena Monastery Hostel: MAGDALENA23

–Minor Seminary Hostel: SEMINARIO23

Bon Camino, pilgrim!