Sarria
Introduction
You will find Sarria nestled in the province of Lugo within the autonomous community of Galicia in northwestern Spain. As the head of its own comarca, this municipality serves as a significant historical and spiritual crossroads.
Experience the deep history of the Camino de Santiago as you navigate this popular starting point for pilgrims. Many choose to begin their journey here because the distance to Santiago allows them to complete the necessary kilometers required to earn a certificate of accomplishment. The town holds a storied past, notably as the place where King Alfonso IX of León passed away in 1230 while traveling toward the Compostela.
Before you go
You should consider your timing carefully when planning your journey to Sarria. While many choose this location as a starting point for the Camino de Santiago to ensure they cover the required distance to earn a Compostela, you may find it significantly more crowded during holy years. If you do not have a religious motivation for your pilgrimage, you should avoid these specific years to ensure you can easily secure accommodation.
Getting there
You can reach Sarria by traveling from several nearby airports. From Santiago de Compostela, you can take a direct Monbus or travel via Lugo or Ourense using a combination of trains and buses. If you arrive at the airport in A Coruña, you have the option of taking a direct train to Sarria or traveling via an intercity bus through Lugo. For those arriving at the airport of Porto, you can take a Flixbus to Santiago de Compostela before continuing your journey by bus or train.
Travelers arriving from the Asturias airport may choose to take an ALSA bus to Oviedo and then to Lugo before catching a bus or train to Sarria. Alternatively, you can check for shared rides that travel along the nearby highway. Upon arrival in town, intercity buses stop at Estacion de Autobuses while trains stop at Estación de tren Sarria.
Getting around
You can explore the village easily on foot.
Where to stay
You can find various accommodations throughout the town, ranging from communal pilgrim hostels to a family-operated hotel. Choose between the public Albergue Municipal or the rustic Albergue San Lazaro, which offers both shared bunk beds and private rooms with access to a common kitchen.
For different experiences, you can stay at Hostel Andaina near the train station, which features sturdy capsule bunks. Alternatively, choose the large Albergue Monasterio de La Magdalena situated on top of the hill before the path leaves town; this site includes a kitchen and vending machines, and the monastery itself can be visited as part of a tour. If you prefer a smaller setting, Hotel Novoa is located on the way uphill toward the Marian monastery.
Food & drink
Savor the local gastronomy by sampling traditional dishes like the hearty cocido, which features ingredients such as pork, octopus, pasty, and wild game including partridge, boar, and hare. You can also try regional specialties like blood crepes made with milk and egg freixos, served with honey or cream.
Depending on your preference for atmosphere, you can choose from a variety of dining styles:
- Enjoy traditional Galician flavors such as octopus in caldero, empanada, lacón, and padron peppers at rustic-style establishments.
- Visit riverside locations to enjoy zamburiñas (black scallops) or dine on an outdoor terrace.
- Experience a unique atmosphere while enjoying pizza and tapas in a Star Wars-themed setting.
- Opt for casual options like local sandwiches, salads, and kebabs with various spice profiles.
- Indulge in high-quality products and elegant presentations at upscale venues.
What to see and do
You can explore the historical architecture of the town by visiting several notable churches, including the 13th-century Igrexa de San Salvador de Sarria located on Rúa Maior. Other significant sites to visit include the Capela de San Lázaro, Igrexa de San Pedro de Maside, Igrexa de Santa Mariña de Sarria, Igrexa de Santiago de Farbán, and the Torre do Batallón.
For outdoor activities, you can enjoy the O Chanto recreational site in the south-east of the center. This neighborhood features a park, a restaurant, and the church of Santa Mariña. You can stroll along the river on Paseo da Riveira to have a picnic or participate in local events. Other options for your visit include swimming at the municipal pool, fishing in preserves along the river Sarria, hunting, trekking, or taking horseback rides.
Three days in Sarria
Day one, you begin your journey in Sarria as you experience the Camino de Santiago. You can find rest at the Albergue Municipal or stay at Albergue San Lazaro.
Day two, you travel through Galicia and explore the region's character. You might choose to visit nearby areas such as Lugo or Ourense while enjoying the local surroundings.
Day three, you continue your travels toward Compostela. You can utilize transport options like Monbus, ALSA, or Flixbus to reach your next destination in Spain.