Lalín

Lalin is famous across Galicia for its cocido, a rich stew of meats (beef, pork, chorizo, morcilla, lacón), chickpeas, potatoes, and greens. The annual Festa do Cocido in February draws thousands of visitors, but the restaurants in Lalin serve cocido year-round. It is a monumental dish, designed for cold days and hard work, and after weeks of walking it is deeply satisfying. Order a full cocido with all the trimmings. You have earned it.

Lalin is where the Camino de Invierno (Winter Way, from Ponferrada via Monforte de Lemos) meets the Camino Sanabres. Pilgrims from both routes continue together towards Santiago. If you have been walking the Via de la Plata from Sevilla, meeting pilgrims who have walked from a completely different starting point is a reminder of how many paths lead to Santiago. Compare stories. You have walked through different landscapes, climates, and cultures, but you share the same destination.

The municipal market in the town centre sells fresh produce, local cheese, bread, and cured meats. The Galician dairy products (particularly the cheeses and the butter) are excellent. The market is a good place to stock up on supplies for the remaining stages to Santiago. Buy some San Simon cheese, a loaf of bread, and a piece of empanada for the trail.

Lalin is approximately 66 km from Santiago de Compostela, which is three comfortable walking days (or two long ones). The terrain ahead is gently rolling Galician countryside, with forests, small villages, and stone churches. The Camino passes through Silleda, Bandeira, and eventually joins a familiar final approach to Santiago. If you started in Sevilla, you have walked over 900 km. The end is close. The anticipation builds with every step.