What started as a 750-kilometre pilgrimage for devout medieval Christians has become one of Europe's top long-distance hiking trails. The Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of Saint James, traverses green northern Spain. It starts in the Pyrenees, winding its way through Pamplona,

The cathedral at the end of a long walk

Burgos and Leon, past orchards and vineyards, thatched-roof houses, historic churches and castles. The journey ends at the extravagant cathedral in the Galician city of Santiago de Compostela, the supposed burial site of the apostle Saint James. The Camino de Santiago still attracts a religious element, as Christian lore has it that those who complete the pilgrimage are absolved of their sins. These days you're just as likely to see super-fit outdoor types tackling the route on bicycles as you are white-bearded old men shuffling along with wooden canes. Accommodation en route is at special pilgrims' hostels known as a refugio which cost well under 10 Euro per night. You don't need to undertake the entire 750km journey to be mentioned at the pilgrims' mass at the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela or to receive a certificate at the pilgrims' office - that honour is available to anyone who has completed the last 100km on foot or final 200km by bicycle.