The Camino Primitivo is considered and also called the Original Way because it is believed to be the original route taken by pilgrims to Santiago and, in particular, King Alfonso II of Asturias. He is said to have walked this route in the 9th century when this was the only part of Spain that remained independent from the Moor’s conquered lands known as Al-Andalus.
Even though it’s the original one, it’s actually one of the quietest of the caminos, perhaps because it is also more demanding in parts. It takes you between the cathedral in Oviedo, the capital of Asturias, and Santiago, approximately 312km, and you can walk the complete route in 16 days, stage 1 between Ovideo and Lugo in nine days and stage 2 between Lugo and Santiago in seven days. You can also cycle the complete Camino Primitivo, with options over eight or 11 days. For more details, see our blogs on the Camino de Santiago routes and The best time to hike the Camino de Santiago.
Camino Primitivo Stage 2: Lugo to Santiago
Full Camino Primitivo: Oviedo to Santiago
Cycling the Camino Primitivo: Oviedo to Santiago (11 Days)
Cycling the Camino Primitivo: Oviedo to Santiago (8 Days)
Camino Primitivo Stage 1 in Comfort: Oviedo to Lugo
