Camino Primitivo Stage 1

The Primitive Route enters Galicia via the mountain pass at O Acevo (1,030 m). It is a lovely spot covered in snow during the harsh seasons and lush vegetation with sharp contrasts during the milder months. From here it is 171 km to Santiago. Fonfría and its freshwater spring are our first destination. This was home to a major pilgrim hospital located on land held by San Xoán de Paradanova, which was still operating at the start of the 20th century. We pass through Barbeitos and then Paradanova, where there are two alternatives: one running through San Xoán de Padrón and the other via A Proba de Burón. The first option leads to the ‘ holy fountain ’ located in the town centre of A Fonsagrada, linked to Jacobean tradition by a miracle attributed to St. James the Apostle. From there we head to San Xoán do Padrón. [Stage details] Start: Alto do Acevo · End: Paradavella 24.6 km · about 4h 55min · difficulty low