Video Stage 26: O Cebreiro to Samos (via Triacastela) | Camino Frances with Jhonatan Barrios
Video Stage 26: O Cebreiro to Samos (via Triacastela) | Camino de Santiago Frances with Jhonatan Barrios
Jhonatan Barrios shares in detail the unforgettable experience he had during Stage 26 of the Camino de Santiago, running from O Cebreiro to Samos, a 33-kilometre stretch. This stage was part of the full journey walked between 26 April and 26 May 2022.
In the video, Jhonatan recounts the adventure towards Samos, where they explored O Cebreiro, a charming village full of magic. Along the way, they marvelled at Galicia’s rural scenery, climbed up to the Alto de San Roque, crossed paths with cows again (keeping a safe distance this time), discovered the tiniest church on the Camino in O Biduedo, and visited Triacastela, a beautiful town home to a centuries-old chestnut tree, the oldest on the Camino de Santiago at over 800 years old. Despite the fatigue built up over the final kilometres, they made it to Samos and took in its impressive Benedictine monastery, an experience they’ll never forget. Join him on this exciting journey!
Stage 26: O Cebreiro to Samos (via Triacastela) with Jhonatan Barrios
Jhonatan Barrios sets off from the Laguna de Castilla hostel, starting at half past seven in the morning with the goal of covering 33 kilometres, passing through O Cebreiro and reaching Samos. This stretch is a key part of the Camino de Santiago Frances, known for its beauty and the challenges it presents. On this stage, Barrios faces a demanding route that, although originally planned over three stages, he covers in two. This change to his route plan raises the difficulty, but also promises a richer experience.
Challenges Along the Way: The Route from O Cebreiro
The route begins with a challenging, long stage, one Barrios describes as a combination of natural beauty and physical effort. Deciding to walk from O Cebreiro to Triacastela in a single stage calls for extra mental and physical preparation, since this stretch is normally split into three stages for greater comfort.
Discovering Galicia
Crossing the border into Galicia, Barrios comes across the iconic milestone marker that signals the entrance to this region. Galicia, known for its green, mountainous landscape, offers a striking contrast with the earlier regions of the Camino. Arriving in O Cebreiro, a town of great historical and cultural importance, is a highlight of this stage. The Church of Santa María la Real, a royally protected sanctuary since the 11th century, is one of its main attractions.
The Climb to the Alto de San Roque
One of the standout moments of this stage is the climb to the Alto de San Roque, at nearly 1,300 metres above sea level. Here, Barrios and his companion come across a statue of a pilgrim symbolising the struggle against the hardships of the Camino. This statue, created by sculptor José María Acuña in 1993, stands as a tribute to the pilgrims who have faced this challenge.
Exploring the Alto de Poio and Hospital da Condesa
The History of the Hospital de la Condesa
About 300 metres from the Alto de Poio, in the village of Hospital de la Condesa, Barrios learns the history of one of the oldest hospitals on the Camino de Santiago. Founded in the 9th century, this hospital played a crucial role in caring for pilgrims travelling the Camino Frances.
From the Alto de Poio to Triacastela
After trying a delicious Galician empanada, Barrios sets off again towards Triacastela. The stretch from the Alto de Poio to Triacastela is a rewarding experience, marked by the beauty of the Galician countryside. Despite the difficulties, reaching Triacastela is a major achievement. The town, founded by Alfonso IX and rich in Camino history, marks the end of this stage for many pilgrims.
The Camino Continues: From Triacastela to Samos
The Southern Variant and a Well-Deserved Rest
From Triacastela, Barrios decides to continue his route towards Samos, taking the southern variant that follows the river. This additional 10-kilometre stretch to Samos is a physical and mental challenge, but also a chance to enjoy the scenery and the local atmosphere. Along the way, Barrios and his companion stop at the canteen in Renche, enjoying a moment of rest and the local music, which leaves a lasting impression on them.
The Monastery of San Julián de Samos
Arriving in Samos is a deeply meaningful moment. The Monastery of San Julián de Samos, founded in the 6th century, is one of the oldest monasteries in Galicia. Its 12th-century Baroque facade and staircase, inspired by the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in the city of Santiago de Compostela, are truly impressive. The monastery is not only a place of architectural beauty, but also a testament to the region’s rich monastic history.
Wrapping Up Stage 26 of the Camino Frances
After a day full of challenges and discoveries, Barrios and his companion take some time to rest and reflect. The experience at the Monastery of San Julián de Samos is a fitting reward for the day’s efforts. Dinner at the hostel, followed by some relaxed conversation, lets Barrios recover his strength and prepare for the next stage of the Camino de Santiago.
In short, the stage from O Cebreiro to Samos is a test of endurance and determination, marked by moments of natural beauty, rich history and the unbreakable spirit of pilgrims. Through his detailed account, Jhonatan Barrios offers a complete picture of the challenges and rewards of this part of the Camino, inspiring future pilgrims to take on their own adventure with passion and preparation.
