Stage of the Camino
Stage Description
This is the final stage of the Primitivo Way as an independent route. It's a trek through a "rocky terrain" that crosses the Sierra do Careón, the last mountainous obstacle. The landscape is of great beauty, with panoramic views from above. After the descent, the path approaches Melide, and the pilgrim starts to notice a significant increase in the number of walkers. Arrival at Melide marks the union with the multitudinous Camino Francés. It's a bittersweet moment: the end of the solitude of the Primitivo and the entry into the bustle of the main route. The celebration usually takes place by enjoying the famous pulpo de Melide.
The stage from San Romao da Retorta to Melide is the last one on which the Primitivo pilgrim walks "alone." The route presents the typical Galician profile of broken stones, with the ascent to Sierra do Careón as the main challenge. The path traverses a rural landscape, passing through small villages and forests. The climb up Sierra do Careón is gradual and offers magnificent views from its summit of the A Ulloa region. This high point marks the border between the provinces of Lugo and A Coruña. The descent leads the pilgrim to the final stretch. Just before arriving in Melide, in the village of O Coto, there is the milestone that marks the official union of the Primitivo Path with the French Way. From here, the atmosphere changes radically. The tranquility and solitude of the original route give way to bustle and a large influx of pilgrims from the French Way. Arrival in Melide is a moment of celebration and cultural shock.
Last updated: 12/08/2025
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