September 13, 2024
Top 10 most difficult routes of the Camino de Santiago
Discover the top 10 most difficult Camino de Santiago routes, ranked by challenge. Find out which path is right for you!
When it comes to the most difficult Camino de Santiago routes, opinions often differ. For some, a route's challenge might lie in its length; for others, it could be the terrain or the weather. So, in this article, we're going to use some objective measures like elevation, difficulty of paths, and distance to rank the top 10 toughest routes. This should give you a clearer idea of what to expect if you decide to tackle one of them.
Here are the 10 most difficult Caminos, listed in reverse order.
10. Camino Aragonés
Trail Information
With an average pace between 20 km and 30 km per day, this trail can be completed in approximately 6 to 9 days. Expect to climb between 370 m and 555 m, and descend between 509 m and 764 m each day.
Elevation Profile
Starting off with the Camino Aragonés. This route is a great choice if you like solitude, but it comes with steep climbs as you cross the Pyrenees. Though not as popular as other routes, it's definitely a solid physical challenge.
9. Camino Portugués Central
Trail Information
With an average pace between 20 km and 30 km per day, this trail can be completed in approximately 21 to 31 days. Expect to climb between 355 m and 525 m, and descend between 348 m and 513 m each day.
Elevation Profile
The Camino Portugués Central is relatively easier compared to others on this list, but don't be fooled. It's long and can feel endless in sections. You'll also face some steep hills as you approach Santiago, making the final stretch more challenging than expected.
8. Vía de la Plata
Trail Information
With an average pace between 20 km and 30 km per day, this trail can be completed in approximately 24 to 36 days. Expect to climb between 343 m and 515 m, and descend between 321 m and 481 m each day.
Elevation Profile
Known for being one of the longest Caminos, the Vía de la Plata will test your endurance. The terrain can be monotonous and the distances between towns are long, which can be mentally draining. Plus, the heat during the summer can add another layer of difficulty.
7. Camino de Invierno
Trail Information
With an average pace between 20 km and 30 km per day, this trail can be completed in approximately 8 to 11 days. Expect to climb between 550 m and 756 m, and descend between 555 m and 764 m each day.
Elevation Profile
The Camino de Invierno, or "Winter Way," is a lesser-known alternative to the Camino Francés. It avoids the snow of the higher passes but has plenty of steep hills and remote areas, making it a tough walk through Galicia's rugged terrain.
6. Camino Francés
Trail Information
With an average pace between 20 km and 30 km per day, this trail can be completed in approximately 26 to 39 days. Expect to climb between 352 m and 528 m, and descend between 349 m and 524 m each day.
Elevation Profile
The most popular route also packs its challenges. While the Camino Francés has plenty of services, the early stages crossing the Pyrenees and some of the hillier regions in Galicia can be tough for first-time pilgrims. The sheer length of the route also adds to its difficulty.
5. Camino Primitivo
Trail Information
With an average pace between 20 km and 30 km per day, this trail can be completed in approximately 9 to 14 days. Expect to climb between 630 m and 980 m, and descend between 614 m and 956 m each day.
Elevation Profile
The Camino Primitivo is often regarded as one of the hardest routes. The rugged terrain of Asturias, with steep ascents and descents, offers little relief, but the stunning views make it worthwhile. Be prepared for isolated stretches where services are few and far between.
4. Vía Podiensis
Trail Information
With an average pace between 20 km and 30 km per day, this trail can be completed in approximately 25 to 38 days. Expect to climb between 499 m and 759 m, and descend between 512 m and 778 m each day.
Elevation Profile
The French Vía Podiensis is long and demanding. Pilgrims face challenging sections with tough ascents, including crossing the Aubrac plateau, known for its rough weather and isolation. It's not a walk in the park, but it's incredibly rewarding if you’re up for the challenge.
3. Camino del Norte
Trail Information
With an average pace between 20 km and 30 km per day, this trail can be completed in approximately 29 to 43 days. Expect to climb between 495 m and 734 m, and descend between 490 m and 727 m each day.
Elevation Profile
If you’re looking for a Camino with jaw-dropping coastal views and rugged paths, the Camino del Norte will deliver. However, those beautiful cliffs come with a price: constant ups and downs that will test your legs every day. The beginning also involves a lot of walking on roads, which can be tough on your feet and joints. Add in some narrow, tricky paths, and this one ranks high in difficulty.
2. Camino Sanabrés
Trail Information
With an average pace between 20 km and 30 km per day, this trail can be completed in approximately 13 to 19 days. Expect to climb between 969 m and 1417 m, and descend between 997 m and 1457 m each day.
Elevation Profile
The Camino Sanabrés is a mountainous, often isolated route with frequent steep inclines, making it a physically demanding option. The weather can be unpredictable, especially in the colder months, adding to the challenge.
1. Vía Tolonosa
Trail Information
With an average pace between 20 km and 30 km per day, this trail can be completed in approximately 27 to 40 days. Expect to climb between 709 m and 1050 m, and descend between 669 m and 990 m each day.
Elevation Profile
Topping our list is the Vía Tolonosa. This lesser-known route from France involves steep ascents and tricky paths right from the start. It’s not the most popular, and for good reason: it’s tough! But if you're up for a serious challenge and want to avoid crowds, this might be the route for you.
Conclusion: Which Camino is Best for You?
According to our stats, the Vía Tolonosa ranks as the most difficult Camino. With its steep ascents and challenging terrain from the very beginning, it’s a serious test for even the most seasoned pilgrims. However, it’s important to remember that "difficulty" is subjective. Factors like weather, your personal fitness level, and even how much you enjoy the landscapes can greatly affect your experience. While the Vía Tolonosa may be the toughest, another route might feel more challenging for you based on these variables. Choose a Camino that fits both your abilities and your thirst for adventure. Happy walking!