Pilgrimage Day: Santo Toribio de Liebana Way

Walk part of the legendary Camino de Santiago on this memorable pilgrimage day. You'll hike the Liebana Way from Potes to the Monastery of Santo Toribio.

Pilgrimage Day: Santo Toribio de Liebana Way

The pilgrimage day starts with a departure from Santander toward the town of Potes. This two-hour drive includes views of the La Hermida Gorge.

Upon arrival in Potes, you'll receive directions for your walk to the Santo Toribio de Liébana Monastery, a site dating back to the 6th century, believed to house a relic of the True Cross. You'll have free time to explore Potes before starting your hike to the monastery.

The pilgrimage route from Potes spans just under 2 miles (3 kilometers) with steep sections, taking around 45 minutes to reach the monastery. At noon, we'll attend the pilgrim's mass there, where you will be blessed with the relic of the True Cross.

Following the mass, a visit to the chapel and St Michael's viewpoint will provide views of the Picos de Europa mountains. We will then return to Potes by minibus and enjoy a traditional Lebaniego stew at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, you'll have around two hours of free time to explore Potes. Options include visiting the Casa del Oso Pardo, the Torre del Infantado, or shopping for typical products.

Afterward, we will head to San Sebastian de Garabandal, known for reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary in the 1960s, and visit Los Pinos where these visions occurred.

The day concludes with a return journey to Santander, arriving around 7:30 pm.