spring break 2027…

Father-Son Spring Break Pilgrimage: Walk the Camino de Santiago
March 5-13, 2027
7th and 8th grade boys from St. John Paul II Catholic School

Next spring break, join Fr. Eamonn for a once-in-a-lifetime experience on the Camino de Santiago!  Designed for 7th and 8th grade boys (both incoming and newly graduated) and their fathers, this is more than simply a walk across Spain. It is a pilgrimage that has inspired travelers for centuries - an unforgettable journey of faith, friendship, challenge, and discovery. 

Over six days and 115 kilometers (72 miles), fathers and sons will journey together on foot through some of Spain’s most breathtaking countryside, following the ancient paths that lead pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela. Along the way, participants will share meaningful conversations, moments of prayer and reflection, and the thrill of adventure together. 

The Camino has a unique way of deepening spiritual and human relationships, building character and resilience, and creating lifelong memories. Whether you are seeking adventure, connection, spiritual renewal, or simply quality time together away from the distractions of daily life, this pilgrimage offers a truly extraordinary experience. 

Come walk the Camino and discover why this ancient pilgrimage continues to transform hearts today.

Itinerary

Saturday, March 6th:
Arrive in Madrid and independently transfer by train to Sarria, the traditional starting point of the final Camino route to Santiago. Sarria has welcomed pilgrims for centuries and still preserves remnants of medieval walls, ancient churches, and narrow stone streets that reflect the deep Christian heritage of northern Spain.

Sunday, March 7th:
Begin walking the Camino through the rolling countryside of Galicia, passing ancient villages, stone chapels, and winding country paths. Along the route, pilgrims encounter traditional Galician hórreos (raised stone granaries), Romanesque churches, and centuries-old Camino markers that have guided travelers to Santiago for generations. Arrive in the striking riverside town of Portomarín, whose historic church-fortress of San Nicolás was painstakingly relocated stone-by-stone after the original town was flooded to create a reservoir. (22.3 km)

Monday, March 8th:
Cross the Miño River and continue through forested hills and rugged Galician terrain. Today’s route includes quiet oak forests, rural farming communities, and ancient roadside crosses that have encouraged pilgrims for centuries. Along the way, pass through Gonzar and Ligonde, villages historically linked to medieval pilgrim hospitals and noble families who supported the Camino tradition. (24.8 km)

Tuesday, March 9th:
This will be one of the most rewarding and demanding days of the pilgrimage as fathers and sons journey together through the heart of Galicia toward Arzúa. Along the route, pass through the historic village of Leboreiro, known for its medieval bridge, ancient pilgrim hospital, and Romanesque church dedicated to Santa María. Midday, arrive in the famous pilgrim town of Melide, where the French and Primitive Camino routes converge. Here, the group will stop for lunch and enjoy Galicia’s legendary Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician octopus), one of the region’s most celebrated culinary traditions and a favorite meal among Camino pilgrims for generations. Continue onward through eucalyptus forests, quiet farmland, and traditional Galician hamlets before arriving in Arzúa, a town long associated with Camino hospitality and pilgrimage culture. (29.1 km)

Wednesday, March 10th:
After several days on the Camino, the group will pause for a morning spiritual retreat focused on Catholic fatherhood, virtue, leadership, and the call to become men of faith in today’s world. The retreat will include time for prayer, reflection, conversation, and fellowship among fathers and sons while remaining immersed in the peaceful atmosphere of rural Galicia.

Thursday, March 11th:
Continue through peaceful villages, open farmland, and forest trails as anticipation builds for arrival in Santiago. Along the route, encounter centuries-old parish churches, roadside shrines, and traditional Galician hamlets largely unchanged by time. Pilgrims often describe this stage as one of the most prayerful stretches of the Camino. (16.3 km)

Friday, March 12th:
Complete the final stage of the Camino as the towers of the Cathedral of Santiago slowly emerge on the horizon. Pass through Monte do Gozo (“Mount of Joy”), where medieval pilgrims first caught sight of Santiago and often fell to their knees in gratitude after months of travel. Enter the historic city together as pilgrims have done for over a thousand years. Walk through the ancient streets of Santiago de Compostela and arrive at the magnificent Cathedral, which houses the tomb of St. James the Apostle. Attend the Pilgrim’s Mass, receive your official Compostela certificate, and celebrate the completion of this extraordinary father-son journey. (22.2 km)

Saturday, March 13th:
Individual flight departure to the United States.

Planned events are subject to change based upon availability and approval.

What is Included

• Nightly Accomodations 

• Breakfast and Dinner Daily 

• Entrance Fees for Tours

• Dedicated Trip Director 

• Daily Mass 

• Confession and Spiritual Direction

• Guided Reflections and Led Group Discussions

• Luggage Transportation Along the Camino 

Price Per Person

$2495

Payment Details

Deposit

A non-refundable deposit of $500 per person (payable by check or credit card) is required to secure your spot. Participation is limited to 25 travelers to ensure the best possible experience. Reserve your place today - registration closes October 15.

Final Payment

Final Payment due by November 1, 2026