From Santander: Pilgrimage Day to Santo Toribio

Embarking on a spiritual journey from Santander to the Liébana region, the Pilgrimage Day to Santo Toribio offers an enriching experience. This tour, priced affordably for small groups, includes a guided 3km walk to the Monastery of Santo Toribio, where visitors can attend the Pilgrims Mass and admire stunning views from the Chapel of San Miguel. Lunch features a traditional Cocido Lebaniego, allowing travelers to connect with the deep religious heritage of this beautiful region. But the true allure lies in the pilgrimage’s promise of personal reflection and discovery – a chance to uncover the region’s sacred history and one’s own spiritual path.

Key Points

• A 9-10 hour pilgrimage tour from Santander to the Monastery of Santo Toribio, featuring a 3km walking pilgrimage and attendance at a Pilgrims Mass.
• Visit the chapel of San Miguel for stunning views of the Picos de Europa mountains and learn about the religious history of the region.
• Enjoy a traditional pilgrims’ lunch known as Cocido Lebaniego after the morning’s journey.
• Explore the site of reported Virgin Mary appearances in San Sebastian de Garabandal and reflect on matters of faith.
• The tour is priced from €2,907 per person, includes transportation, lunch, and insurance, and is suitable for families and all ages (except those with mobility issues).

Tour Overview

The pilgrimage day tour offers a glimpse into the rich religious and historical heritage of the Liébana region, centered around the Monastery of Santo Toribio and the village of San Sebastian de Garabandal.

Priced from €2,907 per person, the small-group tour (max 8 participants) lasts 9-10 hours and includes hotel pickup, transportation, and a traditional pilgrims’ lunch.

Highlights include a 3km walking pilgrimage to the Monastery, attending Mass, and visiting the chapel of San Miguel for views of the Picos de Europa mountains.

The tour also explores the site of Virgin Mary apparitions in Garabandal.

Guests can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Pricing and Cancellation

The pilgrimage tour is priced from €2,907 per person, with a free cancellation option available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This day-long excursion lasts 9-10 hours and is limited to small groups of 8 participants or fewer. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, making it a convenient choice.

The tour includes guided transport from Santander, a traditional pilgrims’ lunch, and comprehensive civil liability insurance.

While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, it’s recommended for families and people of all ages looking to explore the historical and spiritual significance of the Monastery of Santo Toribio and the site of the Virgin Mary’s appearances in San Sebastian de Garabandal.

Pilgrimage Itinerary

Pilgrims depart from Santander and venture to the capital of the Liébana region, Potes, crossing the striking Hermida Gorge along the way.

They then embark on a 3 km walking pilgrimage, taking approximately 45 minutes, to reach the hallowed Monastery of Santo Toribio.

Once there, they attend a Pilgrims Mass at 12:00 pm and visit the chapel of San Miguel for stunning views of the Picos de Europa mountains.

After, they enjoy a traditional pilgrims lunch featuring the local Cocido Lebaniego dish.

In the afternoon, the group travels to San Sebastian de Garabandal, the site of Virgin Mary appearances between 1961 and 1965, completing the day’s spiritual journey.

Monastery of Santo Toribio

One of the holiest Christian sites, the Monastery of Santo Toribio houses the longest piece of the cross on which Jesus died. This sacred relic was transferred here by Saint Toribio of Astorga to protect it from Muslim invaders. The monastery has a long history of pilgrimage due to its curative and miraculous powers. Visitors can attend mass at 12 pm and visit the chapel of San Miguel for stunning views of the Picos de Europa mountains.

Monastery Highlights
Housed Relic of the True Cross	Pilgrimage Site	Stunning Mountain Views
Transferred by Saint Toribio	Curative & Miraculous Powers	Mass at 12 pm

Pilgrims will find great meaning and spiritual enrichment in visiting this hallowed ground.

Chapel of San Miguel

After visiting the Monastery of Santo Toribio, pilgrims can head to the chapel of San Miguel to take in the stunning views of the Picos de Europa mountains. The chapel, nestled atop a hill, offers a peaceful respite and a chance to reflect on the journey.

Visitors can:

• Marvel at the breathtaking panorama of the rugged, snow-capped peaks

• Appreciate the chapel’s simple, yet elegant architecture

• Feel a sense of tranquility and spiritual connection in this sacred space

• Learn about the rich history and significance of the Picos de Europa region

• Capture the picturesque scenery with stunning photographs to commemorate the experience

This stop on the pilgrimage provides a moment of serenity and connection with the natural beauty that surrounds the Monastery of Santo Toribio.

Pilgrim’s Lunch

A traditional pilgrim’s lunch, known as the ‘Cocido Lebaniego,’ awaits those who’ve completed the journey to the Monastery of Santo Toribio.

This hearty stew features locally-sourced ingredients like beef, pork, chickpeas, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. The meal is a time-honored part of the pilgrimage experience, offering a nourishing respite after the morning’s walk.

Served family-style, the Cocido Lebaniego allows pilgrims to savor the flavors of the Liebana region and share in the camaraderie of their fellow travelers.

This fulfilling lunch is included in the tour package, ensuring everyone can enjoy the local culinary traditions that have sustained generations of pilgrims on their spiritual journey.

Virgin Mary Appearances

The pilgrimage to San Sebastian de Garabandal, the site of reported Virgin Mary appearances from 1961 to 1965, concludes the day’s journey for those who’ve trekked to the Monastery of Santo Toribio. This small village nestled in the Cantabrian mountains has become a site of great significance for Catholic pilgrims.

The Virgin Mary, known as Our Lady of Mount Carmel, is said to have appeared to several local children, imparting messages of prayer, penance, and conversion. While the Church hasn’t officially endorsed the apparitions, the site continues to draw visitors seeking spiritual renewal and a deeper connection to the divine.

The experience offers:

• Reflection on the power of faith and divine mysteries

• Connection to a rich history of Marian devotion

• Opportunity for personal prayer and contemplation

• Appreciation for the natural beauty of the Cantabrian region

• Inspiration to live a life of greater spiritual awareness

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour’s inclusions cover a range of services, providing participants with a comprehensive and convenient experience. It includes guided transportation, a traditional pilgrims’ lunch, and civil liability insurance, ensuring a seamless and worry-free journey.

Travelers won’t have to worry about navigating the roads or finding a place to dine, as the tour handles these logistics. However, the exclusions are limited, with only food and beverages not on the menu being the responsibility of the participants.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, as the 3 km pilgrimage to the monastery may prove challenging. The inclusions offer an enriching and carefree exploration of the sacred sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Languages Do the Guides Speak?

The guides speak both Spanish and English fluently, allowing them to provide informative and engaging experiences for all participants on the pilgrimage tour. Their linguistic abilities ensure clear communication throughout the day’s activities.

Is Photography Allowed at the Religious Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the religious sites, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting any ongoing religious ceremonies or services. It’s best to check with the guides for specific guidance on photography during the pilgrimage.

Are Any Medications Required for the Pilgrimage?

No specific medications are required for the pilgrimage. However, it’s recommended to bring any personal medications you may need. The tour is suitable for most participants, but those with mobility issues should check with the tour provider.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks for the pilgrimage. The tour package includes lunch, but if you have dietary requirements or prefer your own provisions, you’re welcome to pack them. Just be sure to carry any personal items yourself during the walking portions.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour operator offers a private tour option. Travelers can book a private pilgrimage day to Santo Toribio and San Sebastian de Garabandal with their own group, customized itinerary, and dedicated guide at an additional cost.

Recap

The Pilgrimage Day to Santo Toribio offers an immersive spiritual experience in the Liébana region.

Guests can enjoy a guided 3km walk to the Monastery of Santo Toribio, attend the Pilgrims Mass, and savor a traditional Cocido Lebaniego lunch while appreciating the area’s rich religious heritage.

With stunning views from the Chapel of San Miguel, this tour provides a unique opportunity to connect with fellow travelers and deepen one’s spiritual journey.