Day 1, average distance of the route from Sarria to Morgade is 12.9km with altitude from 457m to 663m.

from start	destination
1.1km 2,5km 3,6km 4,2km 5,2km 7,3km 8,2km 9,1km 10,1km 11,3km 12km	Ponte Aspera Vilei Church of Santiago de Barbadelo O Mosteiro Rente Molino de Marzan A Pena Peruscallo Cortinas A Brea Morgade

In life, we frequently face the heartfelt choice between a lengthy yet straightforward path and a shorter yet more challenging and demanding route. Walking from Rua Benigno Quiroga to arrive at Mua Maior at the front of a hotel, Pensión Escalinata:

• the actual Camino route leads onto Rua Escalinata Maior – there are approximately 6 flights of stairs ascending to Mua Maior.
• Certain pilgrims opt for the incline of Rua Marques de Ugena, which rises toward the gently ascending slope of Rua Maior.

Igresia Parroquial de Santa Maria (Parish Church of Santa Maria) is the first church located along the Camino route from Sarria to Santiago Compostela.

Note: The doors to the Parish Church of Santa Maria does not seem to open often. We walked to the Chapel twice during our stay in Sarria and the doors were closed.

The Camino route takes us pass the church and through the narrow street of an old town. No, there is no mistake on this. Walk to the end of the street and follow the paved roads in the direction of the Monastery of la Magdalena. The route will pass a school on a declining road towards a medieval bridge.

Cross Ponte Aspera, the medieval bridge stretched over Pequeno River.

Pass under the viaduct of Lugo-Monforte road, cross the railway and a stream for the first uphill trekking.

At the altitude of 469meters and following along the railway crossing, you will embark on a 650-meter walk that ascends an elevation of 50 meters. The initial stretch of the trail may be slippery, muddy, and uneven, which emphasizes the necessity of appropriate footwear for the Camino.

Vilei is the first stopover point. On entering the village, the souvenir shop is located beside a vending machine. Camino shell are available from Eur2.50 to Eur3,00 between locally made and imports. A stamp credential will only be given upon purchase of any item from the shop.

On departing Vilei along the trail leading to the Church of Santiago de Barbadelo, one may encounter large shepherd dogs. These dogs may bark but they pose no threat. For those who are not particularly fond of dogs, I recommend continuing on your path and remaining unresponsive to them.

Church of Santiago de Barbadelo (Iglesia de Santiago de Barbadelo) is a small 11th century small church with a small cemetery along the route.

Along the Camino route, pilgrims have to cross a road and pass through Rente, a tiny township with just 12 residents. It’s really important to point out that the road from O Mosteiro to Rente is mostly for motor vehicles. So, make sure to look out before you cross!

Molino de Marzan is this cool Albergue in Marzan on the Camino Frances route, and I gotta say, those gates are pretty wild! They totally give off vibes like something out of a sci-fi flick, kinda like Stargate.

From Vilei to Morgade, pilgrims will come across a bunch of horizontal and vertical streams. No need to dive into the water to get across, though! There are slabs of stone set up for you. Just keep your eyes and trekking sticks on the stones as you step. Watch out for those sneaky, partially submerged rocks in the water—you never know which rock is unsecured and poking them with your trekking sticks can send you splashing into the stream!

Tip: If ever you need to lay your bag down or lean on a stone wall to rest, always choose a higher rock as no one or animal would climb high to pee or poop

Casa Morgade is a charming old guest house right on the French route, perfect for pilgrims looking for a cozy place to crash. They’ve got free Wi-Fi, and every room comes with its own bathroom, so you can relax in style!

For those who enjoy natural beauty before starting your journey, be early for breakfast. The owners are happy for you to explore the grounds before breakfast.