Set out on a captivating pilgrimage from Santander to the hallowed Monastery of Santo Toribio. This immersive 9-10 hour journey transports you through stunning landscapes, where you’ll attend the revered Pilgrims Mass and savor a traditional Cocido Lebaniego lunch. With personalized attention and an emphasis on the pilgrimage’s deep cultural and spiritual significance, this small-group tour offers travelers of all ages a chance to connect and reflect. But the true allure lies in what awaits beyond the monastery walls – a sacred sanctuary that’s sure to leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Key Points
- Depart from Santander at 9:00am for a 9-10 hour pilgrimage journey to the Monastery of Santo Toribio, the capital of Liébana.
- Attend the Pilgrims Mass at noon following a 3km walking pilgrimage, and enjoy a traditional Cocido Lebaniego stew for lunch.
- Explore the Monastery of Santo Toribio, home to the longest piece of the cross on which Jesus was crucified, a holy Christian site.
- Visit the nearby Sanctuary of Los Pinos, a tranquil site with Romanesque architecture and stunning valley and mountain views.
- The tour is priced at $126.70 per person, with a small group size of up to 8 participants and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour offers an immersive experience of the Pilgrimage Day to Santo Toribio, priced at $126.70 per person and lasting 9-10 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, making it a convenient option.
This small-group tour, limited to 8 participants, allows for a more personalized and intimate journey.
With hotel pickup available in Santander, you’ll be able to start your day stress-free.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a group, this pilgrimage tour caters to all ages and interests, providing an enriching cultural and spiritual experience.
Itinerary and Highlights
Departing from Santander at 9:00am, the tour takes participants to Potes, the capital of the Liébana region, where they’ll cross the breathtaking gorge of the Hermida en route to the Monastery of Santo Toribio.
After a short 3km walking pilgrimage, the group will attend the Pilgrims Mass at noon. Next, they’ll savor a traditional Cocido Lebaniego stew for lunch before visiting San Sebastian de Garabandal, the site of reported Virgin Mary appearances in the 1960s.
The journey continues to the Sanctuary of Los Pinos, allowing travelers to soak in the spiritual atmosphere of these hallowed grounds. With an expert guide providing historical context, this immersive experience offers a unique window into the region’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
Monastery of Santo Toribio
After visiting the scenic gorge and undertaking the short pilgrimage, travelers arrive at one of the holiest Christian sites – the Monastery of Santo Toribio.
This revered location houses the longest piece of the cross on which Jesus was crucified, making it a destination of immense spiritual significance alongside Santiago, Rome, and Jerusalem.
The monastery regularly celebrates Jubileum, with the next Jubilee Year scheduled for 2023.
These sacred relics were once transferred here to protect them from Muslim invasions, adding to the historical significance of this hallowed ground.
Visitors can feel the weight of centuries of pilgrimage and devotion as they step into this awe-inspiring sanctuary.
Group and Guide Information
A small group limited to 8 participants accompanies travelers on this pilgrimage, with a live tour guide available in both Spanish and English to share their exceptional knowledge and insights.
Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a family group, this experience is suitable for all ages.
The tour offers optional hotel pickup from Santander, so you can easily join the journey from your accommodations.
And with a minimum group size of 4 required, you can rest assured there’ll be plenty of friendly faces to share in the spiritual and cultural significance of this pilgrimage to the Monastery of Santo Toribio.
Customer Feedback and Experience
Travelers rave about the exceptional quality of the guides, captivating scenery, and enriching historical insights they experience on this pilgrimage to the Monastery of Santo Toribio.
With an overall rating of 5 out of 5 based on 10 reviews, the tour consistently delights participants through its seamless service and the guide’s ability to bring the spiritual and cultural significance of the locations to life.
Reviewers highlight:
- The guide’s exceptional knowledge and their ability to share it in an engaging way
- The breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere of the pilgrimage sites
- The profound spiritual impact of visiting the holy relics at the monastery
- The delicious traditional ‘Cocido Lebaniego’ stew served for lunch
- The overall enriching and memorable nature of the day-long experience
Pilgrims Mass and Lunch
The highlight of the pilgrimage is attending the Pilgrims Mass at the Monastery of Santo Toribio, where visitors can enjoy the sacred rituals and atmosphere of this hallowed site.
Following the mass, travelers enjoy a traditional ‘Cocido Lebaniego‘ stew, a hearty and flavorful dish that perfectly complements the spiritual nature of the day’s events. The stew’s rich broth and tender meats provide a satisfying and restorative lunch, allowing pilgrims to refuel after their short hike to the monastery.
This combination of religious ceremony and local culinary tradition creates a truly authentic and memorable experience, one that connects the modern traveler to the centuries-old legacy of the Camino de Santiago.
Sanctuary of Los Pinos
After visiting the Monastery of Santo Toribio, the pilgrims often make their way to the nearby Sanctuary of Los Pinos, a tranquil and revered site nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Liébana region.
This sacred destination offers a peaceful respite from the journey, allowing visitors to connect with the spiritual essence of the area.
Some highlights of the Sanctuary of Los Pinos include:
- The beautiful, whitewashed chapel with its classic Romanesque architecture
- Stunning views overlooking the picturesque valleys and mountains
- Opportunities for quiet reflection and contemplation
- The chance to light a candle and offer prayers
- Exploring the serene trails and gardens surrounding the sanctuary
Cancellation and Payment Options
One can cancel their tour booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible scheduling.
Plus, the ‘Reserve now & pay later‘ option allows travelers to secure their spot without an immediate payment. This gives folks the convenience to plan ahead without the commitment of upfront costs.
The tour pricing of $126.70 per person provides excellent value for the immersive 9-10 hour experience. From the stunning Hermida gorge to the pilgrim’s lunch and mass at the Monastery of Santo Toribio, this day trip covers an array of cultural and spiritual highlights.
Ultimately, the cancellation policy and payment flexibility make this pilgrimage tour an accessible and appealing option.
Things To Known
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?
Absolutely! Participants are welcome to bring their own food and snacks on the tour. The tour allows ample time for travelers to enjoy their personal provisions along the way, enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience.
Are There Any Accessibility Options for Guests With Disabilities?
The tour offers accessibility options for guests with disabilities. Small group size and advance notice allow the guide to accommodate special needs, such as wheelchair access or assistance during the pilgrimage walk. Contact the tour provider for more details.
What Is the Dress Code for the Monastery and Pilgrimage?
The dress code is generally casual, but respectful attire is recommended when visiting the monastery. Avoid revealing or overly casual clothing, and cover up shoulders and knees. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for the pilgrimage route.
Can I Extend My Stay in the Region After the Tour?
Yes, you can extend your stay in the region after the tour. The tour itinerary provides flexibility, and the local guides can offer recommendations on where to explore further and the best ways to extend your experience in the picturesque Liébana region.
Is There an Option to Book Private Transportation for the Tour?
Yes, the tour offers private transportation options. Travelers can arrange for a private transfer to be picked up from their hotel or a designated location. This allows for a more personalized and convenient tour experience.
Sum Up
The ‘From Santander: Pilgrimage Day to Santo Toribio‘ offers a truly immersive cultural and spiritual experience.
Travelers will journey through stunning landscapes to the Monastery of Santo Toribio, where they’ll attend the Pilgrims Mass and enjoy a traditional Cocido Lebaniego lunch.
With personalized attention and an emphasis on the pilgrimage’s significance, this tour is perfect for those seeking connection and reflection on their travels.
