Stage Ferreira – Melide: Camino Primitivo guide
You climb into the Sierra del Careón, which separates the provinces of Lugo and A Coruña, and descend to Melide, where the Camino Primitivo joins the Camino Francés. You go from walking almost alone to sharing the route with many pilgrims.
Distance
About 20 km
Difficulty
Medium
Estimated time
About 5.5 h
Altitude
Highest point: about 661 m (O Hospital das Seixas); some guides quote up to 710 m
Route map
The stage section by section
Leaving Ferreira and A Leboreira
After crossing the Ferreira bridge you climb along tracks and local roads.
San Xorxe, Montecelo and Merlán
Hamlets linked by old paths. Choose the Melide direction at the fork.
As Seixas and the climb into the sierra
As Seixas has a hostel. The climb towards the Sierra del Careón begins.
O Hospital das Seixas
The highest point of the route (about 661 m) and the crossing into the province of A Coruña.
Vilouriz and Vilamor
Hamlets, pastures and tracks among granaries.
Irago and the entry into Melide
You cross the River Furelos and reach Melide, where it joins the Camino Francés.
What to see
In Melide you can see the Museo da Terra de Melide and the church of San Pedro.
Food and drink
Melide is famous for pulpo á feira, served in pulpeiras and taverns. You can also try Arzúa-Ulloa PDO cheese and melindres.
Practical tips
- Stock up in Melide: the hamlets in between do not guarantee services.
- Choose the Melide direction at the Augas Santas fork.
- There is a mix of asphalt and gravel.
- In Melide the Primitivo’s solitude ends: more pilgrims and more services.
Frequently asked questions
How many km is Ferreira – Melide?
About 20 km.
Where does the Primitivo join the Francés?
In Melide.
What is the highest point?
O Hospital das Seixas, about 661 m; some guides mention 710 m in the Sierra del Careón.
Does it change province?
Yes, you go from Lugo to A Coruña over the Sierra del Careón.
What to try in Melide?
Pulpo á feira, Arzúa-Ulloa PDO cheese and melindres.
After the stage: rest in Arzúa
When you reach Arzúa, we would love to welcome you at Casa Buen Camino: an entire house for up to 8 people, 400 m from the centre. You get in with a code, we confirm your booking within 60 minutes and, if you book directly with us, it is 10 % cheaper.