It emerged in the 12th century as an alternative to the French Way. This route combines a maritime section used by pilgrims from Northern Europe (English, Irish, Nordic, etc.) to avoid inland routes during dangerous periods. It is a mixed route (maritime and inland) that, once the French Way became established as the main pilgrimage route, lost importance but has been revived in recent years and is now walked by many pilgrims. It is an uncrowded route that can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace, offering landscapes that combine sea and countryside, medieval towns, and Galician villages. Therefore, the English Way of pilgrimage to Santiago starts in Ferrol, crosses the Eume region, and reaches Betanzos. This stage is rich in scenic and heritage resources.
Nature and the English Way
Map bringing together natural areas, rivers, green routes and the English Way as it passes through Betanzos
English Way
Historic route of the English Way from Ferrol to Betanzos, lightly travelled, combining sea and inland landscapes, natural scenery and medieval towns.
English Way
Historic route of the English Way from Ferrol to Betanzos, lightly travelled, combining sea and inland landscapes, natural scenery and medieval towns.
Mariñas Coruñesas and Terras do Mandeo Biosphere Reserve
Pelamios River
Area of great scenic beauty with remains of 19 traditional watermills, now crossed by a hiking route.
Mendo River
Mandeo River
The Mandeo River stands out for its rich fish fauna and for hosting the Os Caneiros pilgrimage, the largest non-religious pilgrimage in Galicia.
Betanzos Estuary
The Betanzos estuary, a protected Natura 2000 area, brings together the Mendo and Mandeo rivers and stands out for its landscape and wildlife richness.
Port of Betanzos
The medieval port of Betanzos has not been preserved, but quays and promenade areas remain.
Os Caneiros Route
Linear riverside route of 3.5 km and low difficulty, from Ponte Vella to Campo dos Caneiros, setting of the traditional pilgrimage.
Pelamios Route
Family-friendly route along the Pelamios River, just over 1.5 km long, easy and quiet, ideal for enjoying nature with children.
Mendo Riverbanks Route
Natural route starting at the Cascas washhouse and running through villages and medieval bridges until connecting with the Os Cabalos bridge.
Wine, Sanctuaries and Rivers Route
Route through Betanzos’ rural surroundings following the Mandeo and Mendo rivers, vineyards and sanctuaries, with two natural and heritage itineraries.