Arzúa, the land of cheese and rest on the French Camino de Santiago

A place where the Camino is savoured

In the heart of the **French Way**, **Arzúa** welcomes thousands of pilgrims every year who seek a final breath before reaching Santiago. Its rural atmosphere, the warmth of its people, and its unmistakable Arzúa-Ulloa cheese make it an essential stop.

This inland municipality of **A Coruña** combines tradition, rest, and good food. It is an ideal point to enjoy authentic rural Galicia, where time seems to stand still among meadows, granaries, and eucalyptus-lined paths.

➤ The famous Arzúa-Ulloa cheese: a symbol of Galician identity

Arzúa-Ulloa cheese has Protected Designation of Origin status and is made from local cow’s milk. Its creamy texture and mild flavour have made it one of Galicia’s most iconic products.

• Produced in small family-run dairies.
• Featured every year at the Festa do Queixo de Arzúa, declared of Galician Tourist Interest.
• Can be tasted in numerous local bars and shops.

For many pilgrims, tasting this cheese is almost a ritual before continuing the Camino to Santiago.

➤ A stop for rest and fellowship

Arzúa offers a wide variety of **rural lodgings, guesthouses, and traditional Galician homes**, where travellers can relax after long walks. Its quiet streets, central square, and churches invite strolling and meeting fellow pilgrims.

• Welcoming atmosphere and Galician hospitality.
• Excellent gastronomy: empanadas, Galician meats, and local honey.
• Connection with nature through nearby routes and rivers.

Many consider that the spirit of the Camino is felt most strongly in Arzúa: the solidarity among travellers, shared rest, and the excitement of being just one step from the goal.

➤ What to see in Arzúa

• Church of Santiago, featuring a carving of the pilgrim Apostle.
• Chapel of La Magdalena, remains of an old convent run by the Hospitallers.
• Nature routes such as As Barrosas or the recreational area of the Brandeso River.

Additionally, the town has an interesting interpretation centre where you can learn about the history of **Arzúa-Ulloa cheese** and its connection to Galician rural life.

➤ One step away from Santiago

Arzúa marks the penultimate stage of the French Way. From here, only about 40 kilometres remain until the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. For this reason, many pilgrims take the opportunity to recharge, reflect on the journey, and prepare for the arrival with renewed excitement.

Rest in Arzúa, enjoy its cheese, and feel true Galician hospitality before the final stretch to Santiago.

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