Following Ancient Footsteps: My Vía de la Plata and Sanabrés Adventure

 

 Introduction

The pull of the Camino is irresistible. After walking the Camino Frances & Finisterre (2021) and the del Norte & Primitivo (2024), I’m drawn back to Spain, this time to trace the ancient Vía de la Plata and Sanabrés routes. 

This 1000+ kilometre journey, from Sevilla to Santiago de Compostela and potentially beyond to Muxía, promises a unique experience—a quieter, more solitary pilgrimage through the heart of Spain.

Starting on March 19th in Seville, I’ll follow the historic Silver Way (Vía de la Plata) north to Granja de Moreruela, where I'll join the Camino Sanabrés. This detour avoids the anticipated crowds of the Camino Francés, offering a more personal and reflective journey. 

My goal is to reach Santiago by late April, hopefully coinciding with more comfortable walking temperatures in Galicia. If my feet and spirit allow, I’ll continue to the coast, perhaps revisiting the dramatic shores of Muxía.

A Journey Through Time: History and Heritage

This route is more than just a walk; it’s a journey through time. The Vía de la Plata, or “Silver Way,” echoes with the footsteps of Romans, Moors, and medieval Christians. The name itself, derived from the Arabic "balatta" (cobbled paving), hints at its ancient origins as a vital trade route. From the grandeur of Seville to the historical treasures of Mérida, Cáceres, and Salamanca, I’m eager to explore the rich tapestry of architectural and cultural heritage that lines this path. Imagine nomadic herders guiding their flocks along this very route millennia ago, followed by the legions of Rome, forging a vital artery through their empire. It’s a powerful connection to the past.

My Daily Rhythm

With daily distances averaging around 30 kilometres (20 miles), I anticipate longer stretches between towns and fewer opportunities for resupply than on previous Caminos. This requires careful planning and a flexible approach. My typical day will begin around 6 a.m., stepping out into the pre-dawn darkness, headlamp illuminating the way. There's something magical about witnessing the sunrise from the trail, a quiet moment of reflection before the day begins. By the time the midday heat arrives, I hope to have covered a significant portion of the day's journey. Accommodation will be in albergues, the traditional pilgrim hostels, though I’m aware they will be less frequent on this route, requiring more careful planning.

Destination and Beyond

My ultimate destination is the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a place of profound spiritual significance. I hope to attend services there, absorbing the atmosphere and tradition, even if the language is a challenge. 

And, of course, the hope of witnessing the swinging Botafumeiro again adds a touch of magic. If all goes well, the journey may continue to Finisterre and Muxía, completing the traditional pilgrimage to the “end of the world.”

Embarking in Spring 2025

My journey begins with an early morning flight from Bristol to Málaga on Tuesday, March 18th, 2025, followed by a bus to Sevilla. This will give me a day to explore the city before setting off on the 19th. 

I plan to keep this blog updated regularly, sharing my experiences and reflections along the way. Join me as I walk in the footsteps of history!

Route Map

The Google map below shows my route of the Camino Vía de la Plata and Sanabrés.

You can expand the map below onto a new web page (click on the top right square, in the map header) and zoom in and out to see more details or if the map is not working, click here to see the route on a new page - Camino Route

Key:

• Main route on the Camino Vía de la Plata and Camino Sanabrés
• My previous route on the Camino del Norte, Camino Primitivo and Camino Francés
• Optional follow-on route to Finisterre & Muxia

 Whole route elevation profile of the routes (walking right to left)

Camino Vía de la Plata height profile

 

Camino Sanabrés height profile