Start Off on the Right Foot at Hostal La Poetisa
The Camino de Santiago has something special. Every year, it attracts thousands of people in search of adventure, spirituality, a break from the routine, or simply a good walk through places full of history. Among all the possible routes, the English Way stands out as a charming and different option, especially if you choose to start from the city of A Coruña.
If you’re thinking about embarking on this journey, keep reading. We’ll tell you how to take your first steps and why Hostal La Poetisa is the perfect place to start your journey full of energy and good vibes.
The English Way from A Coruña: A Charming Plan
Although most people know the section of the English Way that starts in Ferrol, the route that starts in the center of A Coruña has a unique charm and a lot of history behind it. In the Middle Ages, this was the arrival point for many pilgrims from the British Isles and Ireland. And today, starting here still has its appeal:
- A Journey with History: You’ll start from the Church of Santiago, in the heart of A Coruña’s old town, a place with centuries of Jacobean tradition.
- A Stroll Through A Coruña: Before starting the Camino, take some time to explore this vibrant city, with the Atlantic Ocean at your feet and plenty of interesting spots like the Tower of Hercules or San Antón Castle.
- More Peaceful: Usually, there are fewer people than on the Ferrol route (at least until Hospital de Bruma) or the popular French Way. That allows you to enjoy the experience in a more relaxed and personal way.
Does It Make Sense to Split the First Stage?
Good planning makes a big difference on the Camino. Most guides suggest the first stage goes from A Coruña to Sergude (or even Hospital de Bruma), which is around 19–20 km or more. It’s doable, of course, but it’s worth thinking it over. Here’s why:
- The first day is a bit chaotic: You arrive in A Coruña, probably a bit anxious, maybe tired from the trip... Tackling a long stage right away can be tough, both physically and mentally.
- Your body needs to warm up: Walking with a backpack for several days is not the same as a casual stroll. Starting gently helps you avoid blisters, overuse injuries, and lets you enjoy the landscape without feeling exhausted.
- Stress-free organization: Finding the starting point, getting your credential stamped, orienting yourself... all that takes time. A shorter day gives you space to begin without rushing.
That’s why we suggest an idea that can really make a difference: split that traditional first stage into two shorter ones. And for that, there’s no better place to make your first stop than Hostal La Poetisa, ideally located so you can start off on the right foot and without stress.
The Best Way to Start: Your First Steps on the English Way from A Coruña
We suggest a plan designed to help you start slowly, let your body adapt, and enjoy the beginning of your Camino adventure to the fullest.
Arrival Day / Stage 0: Preparation and First Contact
Arrival in A Coruña
Try to arrive early. That way you avoid rushing and can start the Camino with peace of mind.
Come straight to Hostal La Poetisa
We’re located in Culleredo, about 7.5 km from the official starting point of the Camino, in the center of A Coruña. The good thing is you can come directly here as soon as you arrive.
Drop off your backpack and relax
Settle in, leave your luggage, and get ready for the first step of your journey. Starting without a load is a blessing—trust us.
Head to the start point without your gear
You can take a bus or taxi to the Church of Santiago in the old town. That’s where the English Way officially begins. Get your credential stamped, soak in the atmosphere, and… start walking!
First steps without your backpack
Walk those initial 7.5 km back to Hostal La Poetisa carrying only the essentials. It’ll be a peaceful walk—perfect for getting into the rhythm, following the famous yellow arrows, and settling into the experience.
First night at the Hostal
After your first mini-stage, it’s time to rest. Hot shower, delicious dinner, and a good night’s sleep like a true pilgrim. You’ve started the Camino—and you’ve started it right!
Stage 1 (easy version): Culleredo – Sergude (Carral) (approx. 11–12 km)
After a good night’s sleep and a breakfast to fuel up, grab your backpack and return to the Camino right where you left off the day before.
This stage is very pleasant: you’ll leave the urban area behind, walk along the beautiful Valiñas River trail, and head into Carral, where nature begins to take center stage.
The distance is perfect for the second day. You’ll have time to walk calmly, enjoy the scenery, and arrive without racing against the clock.
Where to sleep: The public hostel in Sergude (San Xián parish, Carral) is a great, well-reviewed option. Ideal to keep the pilgrim spirit going.
Stage 2: Sergude – Hospital de Bruma (approx. 13–15 km)
This is one of the classic stages of the English Way. The route continues inland with a steady but manageable profile.
In Hospital de Bruma, you’ll meet pilgrims coming from A Coruña (like you) and others who started in Ferrol. From here on, everyone continues in the same direction toward Santiago.
Where to sleep: There’s a well-known public hostel. If you’re traveling in high season, try to arrive early, as it often fills up.
Next Stages (After Joining the Route)
From Bruma onwards, the route is unified and usually follows this plan:
Stage 3: Hospital de Bruma – Sigüeiro (Oroso) (approx. 24 km)
Stage 4: Sigüeiro – Santiago de Compostela (approx. 16 km)
Note: Distances may vary slightly depending on where you start or finish each stage, but this gives a good reference for planning.
Why Is Hostal La Poetisa the Best Choice for Your First Night?
Where you sleep your first night can really impact how you start the Camino. At Hostal La Poetisa, we don’t just offer you a bed—we offer a solid base to begin the English Way from A Coruña on the right foot.
- Ideal Location
We’re just 7.5 km from the official starting point. Perfect for doing that welcome “mini-stage” the same day you arrive… and without carrying a heavy load! - Total Comfort
After your journey, the last thing you want is to share a room or deal with noise. Here, you have your own space to rest comfortably, recharge, and start the next day full of energy. - Simple Logistics
As soon as you arrive, you can leave your backpack with us. Head light to the starting point, get your credential stamped, and do the first kilometers with ease. Now *that’s* how you start an adventure. - Start Gently
Splitting the first stage is key to letting your body adjust gradually. You’ll avoid strain, soreness, and other discomforts no one wants on day one. - We Take Care of You Like Family
At Hostal La Poetisa, we welcome you with warmth and a desire to help. We know the Camino and are happy to share useful advice for what’s ahead.
Start Your Camino with a Touch of Poetry
The Camino de Santiago is more than just walking: it’s an experience you live inside and out. Starting from A Coruña connects you with history, the sea, and unique landscapes. And starting it right—thoughtfully, in a comfortable and well-located place—makes all the difference.
At Hostal La Poetisa, we want to be that first breath before the great journey. Let your adventure begin gently, with good rest and a smile.
Are you ready to take that first step?
Book your room at Hostal La Poetisa and start your English Way on the right foot.
We’ll be here waiting for you with open arms and wishing you a Buen Camino!
