A journey that calls for attention to the ground
The Primitivo starts in Oviedo and heads inland towards Galicia. Its appeal lies in landscapes, heritage and travelling through places with a long history. Do not choose it simply because it appears shorter than the full French Way.
Elevation and the distance between services matter as much as total kilometres. Review every stage carefully, especially if you have never walked consecutive days with a backpack.
How to figure out if it's with you?
Practise consecutive walking days before travelling. Notice your recovery, footwear and actual backpack weight. If your planned days only work without any setbacks, reduce the target and prepare alternatives.
Group size also matters. When walking with others, organise stages around whoever needs more time. Splitting up without an agreed meeting point, or relying on continuous mobile coverage, creates avoidable difficulties.
The decisions of mountain
Do not choose a variant from a photograph or an old recommendation. Check current weather, terrain and local instructions before passing through. Changing plans when a variant is unsuitable is part of preparing well.
A phone route helps with orientation but does not make an exposed section safe. Save the necessary maps before leaving and carry enough battery for your intended use.
Sleep and rest
Check accommodation that determines your stage in advance. Call about dates, arrival and booking conditions. Last season's listing does not guarantee a place is still open.
When you get close to the final section, you can check our guide to dinner in Melide. For a shorter first experience, compare the options from Your first path.
