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Leave your number and we will call you within 24h for free, no obligation.
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The oldest documented Jacobean route, first walked by King Alfonso II of Asturias in 829. 320km from Oviedo through the mountains of Asturias and Galicia, with a rugged and imposing landscape that makes every step worthwhile.
When we talk about the Primitive Way, we are talking about pure history. In 829, King Alfonso II of Asturias walked this route from Oviedo to the site where the remains of the Apostle James had been found. He was the first official pilgrim in history, and the path he followed is essentially the same one you can walk today. That is why it is called "el Primitivo": it is the original route, the one that gave rise to all the others.
This route is the most physically demanding of all the Caminos de Santiago. It crosses the Cantabrian Mountains through passes above 1,000 metres, passes through almost virgin oak and chestnut forests, and for much of the route you will hardly find any tourist infrastructure. This solitude is precisely what attracts those who choose it: a real adventure Camino, free from crowds.
The Primitive Way passes through Lugo — our city — and that gives us a unique advantage. We know the Galician stretch of this route inside out: its best accommodation, its shortcuts and its support points. If you choose the Primitivo with Easy Camino Santiago, you will have the support of people who know the route from the inside.
The start of the oldest route. Oviedo, with its pre-Romanesque cathedral, is the departure point. The route descends into the Nalón valley, crossing the municipality of Las Regueras with its hórreos and Asturian granaries.
The Asturian valleys in all their splendour. The route climbs and descends between stone villages and green meadows, passing through Cornellana with its 11th-century Benedictine monastery, one of the most important on the Primitive Way.
Climbing into the highlands of Asturias. Tineo, a medieval town with a good pilgrim atmosphere, is the last major settlement before the hardest mountain passes on the Primitive Way.
The hardest stage of the Primitive Way. The climb to the La Mesa pass (1,230m) is the highest point on the entire route and one of the most demanding of all the Caminos. Breathtaking views on clear days. Only recommended in good weather conditions.
Descent from the mountain passes down to the Salime reservoir. A long but rewarding stage through remote Asturian valleys with little infrastructure — stock up in Borres. The views over the reservoir are spectacular.
The crossing into Galicia. After crossing the Salime reservoir, the route climbs to A Fonsagrada, the first Galician settlement on the Primitive Way. The moment of crossing into Galicia is always an emotional one.
The inland Galician stretch to the walled city of Lugo. Four stages through the heart of the most authentic Galicia: O Cádavo, Castroverde, with its hills and villages, right up to Lugo — the only city in the world with an intact Roman wall encircling the entire old town. This is where our base is — we know this stretch better than anyone.
The Primitive Way joins the French Way at Melide for the final stages into Santiago. Four days through the most classic Galician scenery: hórreos, cruceiros, stone paths and the scent of eucalyptus announcing the imminent arrival at the City of the Apostle.
For experienced pilgrims seeking the most authentic challenge.
Private room in charming guesthouses and rural houses along the Primitive Way
Hotels and charming rural houses along the main stages
Prices per person in double room. The Primitive Way requires previous experience and good physical fitness. Ask us.
Hostels and guesthouses booked and confirmed, including the most remote stretches of Asturias.
Your bag travels from stage to stage. On the mountain passes, this makes all the difference.
Specialist guide with weather variants, pass condition alerts and water points.
Your Camino passport to stamp at each stage and collect the Compostela in Santiago.
On the Primitivo, support is especially important. We always respond, even in mountain areas.
We are based in Lugo, the city through which the Primitive Way passes. We know this stretch better than anyone.
Practical guides to plan every detail before you set off
The definitive list: technical clothing, footwear, first-aid kit and what you don't need to bring.
Read more → BudgetA real breakdown of costs: accommodation, food, transport and extras. From €35/day.
Read more → PlanningMay, June and September account for 60% of pilgrims. Find out which month is best for you.
Read more →320km, 14 stages, the ultimate challenge. If you are ready, so are we. Tell us your level and we will prepare your Primitivo just for you.