O Pedrouzo

O Pedrouzo (also called Arca) is the final overnight stop for most pilgrims before Santiago. Tomorrow you walk 20 km into the city and your Camino ends at the Cathedral. Tonight, the atmosphere in the albergues and restaurants is charged with anticipation, nerves, and emotion. Some pilgrims are jubilant. Others are quiet. Some have been walking for five days, others for five weeks. Everyone is arriving tomorrow.

O Pedrouzo has plenty of restaurants and bars serving pilgrim menus. This is your last chance for a proper Galician dinner on the trail. Order whatever you like and raise a glass to what you have accomplished. Tomorrow will be chaotic and emotional. Tonight is your last calm evening as a walking pilgrim.

A short walk from the centre of O Pedrouzo, the small Chapel of Santa Irene sits in a peaceful grove beside a spring. According to legend, the spring has healing powers. The chapel is simple and the setting is beautiful. It is a quiet spot for a moment of reflection on the eve of your arrival in Santiago.

Most pilgrims leave O Pedrouzo early to arrive in Santiago in time for the noon pilgrim mass at the Cathedral. The route passes through Lavacolla, where medieval pilgrims traditionally washed in the river before entering the holy city. Then comes Monte do Gozo (Hill of Joy), where pilgrims first catch sight of the Cathedral towers. From there, it is just 5 km to the Praza do Obradoiro. Set your alarm. Pack your bag one last time. Tomorrow, you arrive.