Stage Betanzos to Bruma

The journey between Betanzos and Hospital of Bruma is considered by many to be the queen stage of the English Way. It's long, demanding and solitary. The profile is a constant ascent, carrying the pilgrim from almost sea level up to the interior plateau, over 450 meters in altitude. The route leaves Betanzos and enters a deep rural landscape, with long stretches that run through forests and areas of sparse population. Solitude is one of the characteristics of this stage, a contrast to the bustle of Betanzos. It's essential to plan well for the journey, as there are few points of refreshment. The path rises continuously, although with some breaks, over dirt tracks and local roads. As altitude increases, the landscape becomes more open. The end of the stage is found in Hospital de Bruma, in the municipality of Mesía. This small place is a historic enclave of great importance. Its name comes from the pilgrim hospital that existed here in the Middle Ages to serve the travelers who came from the coast. Today, a modern hostel of the Xunta of Galicia continues this tradition of hospitality. In Bruma, the two variants of the English Way converge, one starting from Ferrol and the other from A Coruña.