Cycling day trip from Sarria to Melide

This epic ride drops you right into the heart of Galicia’s green hills, starting in Sarria—one of the most popular jumping-off points for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. The first few clicks will weave you through sleepy villages and past ancient chestnut trees, with farmhouses dotting the countryside. Expect a real workout: the route gains nearly 2,000 meters in elevation, so bring your climbing legs! Much of your ride (about 80%) is along quiet roads, where the only traffic might be the occasional tractor and the sound of cowbells.

Keep your wits (and your handling) about you: some surfaces are a bit of a mystery, so you could get anything from smooth tarmac to that rough-and-ready Galician gravel. After the ups and downs (with almost as much descent as ascent), you’ll cruise into Melide—famous for its octopus (“pulpo”) and a classic Camino stop. The town’s lively main street and pulperías are the perfect way to end a big day. Grab a plate, toast your ride, and soak up the Camino spirit!