Camino Finisterre: The route to the end of the world!

If you've ever dreamt of walking beyond the “end” of the Camino de Santiago, let me introduce you to the stunning Camino Finisterre-Muxía.

This lesser-known yet deeply rewarding route is often seen as a spiritual and symbolic extension of the Camino de Santiago. After completing this route myself in May 2025, I can wholeheartedly say this journey is worth every step.

The trail leads from Santiago de Compostela to the dramatic Atlantic coastline of Galicia, finishing in the small town of Finisterre—or Fisterra, as it's called in the local Galician language. The name itself comes from the Latin Finis Terrae, meaning “End of the Earth,” a nod to the ancient Roman belief that this windswept cape was the westernmost point of the known world.

But the adventure doesn’t have to stop there...

Many pilgrims choose to continue even further to the tranquil fishing village of Muxía, about 50 km north of Finisterre. This leg adds another two days (50km) of walking through coastal beauty and peaceful countryside. And for those feeling especially inspired, there’s the option to complete the full loop—Santiago to Finisterre to Muxía and then back to Santiago. Not only does this offer a full-circle experience, but it now also qualifies for a Compostela certificate upon returning to Santiago!

What drew me most to the Camino Finisterre was how approachable it is. At around 90 kilometers, it’s shorter than the main Camino routes and generally considered easier to walk — making it a perfect choice for beginners or anyone looking for a rewarding but less demanding adventure.

Picture – Praia Langosteira: A beautiful, long sandy beach as you approach Fisterra, historically used for purification rituals by pilgrims.

The trail itself is a feast for the senses. You’ll wander through enchanting forests straight out of a fairy tale, then suddenly catch a breathtaking glimpse of the Atlantic Ocean. That moment when the sea appears on the horizon is pure magic, and the excitement of reaching the West Coast of Europe starts to build.

When you reach the lively town centre of Finisterre, a warm welcome awaits in the form of cozy cafés and inviting restaurants—perfect spots to recharge before claiming your ‘Fisterrana,’ the Camino Finisterre’s own version of the Compostela certificate.

But don’t stop there! Just 2 more kilometres will bring you to the iconic lighthouse and epic “KM 0” marker, where every pilgrim deserves to pause for that unforgettable photo.

Whether you plan to walk the Camino Finisterre-Muxía as a stand-alone pilgrimage or as a meaningful extension after finishing in Santiago, trust me, this route deserves a top spot on your bucket list!

Picture: Lighthouse of Finisterre: An iconic structure guiding ships, it stands as a symbol of hope and safety on a historically treacherous coastline (known as the Costa da Morte, or Coast of Death).

Camino Finisterre: The route to the end of the world!

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