
Pilgrims on the road and friends along the way send me changes every day, and they go out the same day. The Vía de la Plata app carries all of it offline, and it's still being built — new features arrive routinely.
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The ground behind you: what the walk into El Ganso crosses, and where it could have been broken.
Tomorrow from El Ganso
Nothing says you have to stop here, or there. These are simply the towns within a comfortable day's walk, so you can decide tonight.
| Town | km from here | Shared | Private | The walk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rabanal del Camino | 6.6 | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | |
| Foncebadón | 11.8 | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | The walk from El Ganso to Foncebadón |
| El Acebo | 23.2 | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | The walk from El Ganso to El Acebo |
| Riego de Ambrós | 26.6 | ✓ Yes | — No | The walk from El Ganso to Riego de Ambrós |
| Molinaseca | 31.1 | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | The walk from El Ganso to Molinaseca |
El Ganso ('The Goose') is a village in various states of ruin and restoration. Some houses have been beautifully rehabilitated; others are crumbling. The Cowboy Bar — decorated in an incongruous Wild West theme — has become a Camino institution, though opinions on the food vary.
The Ermita de Cristo de los Peregrinos, with its thatched roof, is one of the few remaining examples of traditional Maragato roofing. A couple of albergues operate in the village.
1. July 2026 - 18:29
Costs 16 euros even though it should cost 14 euros. Very unfriendly man: shoes here, beds there, that's it. I regret coming here. NO reception or hospitality. Too bad.
15. June 2026 - 19:50
I ventured across the forest from El Ganso to Santa Colomba, and I am glad I did. The forest walk follows a grassy path that is not too challenging to walk.
Santa Colomba de Somoza is a beautifully preserved Maragato village, similar to Castrillo de los Polvazares. They have a couple good accommodation options there: Casa Pepa and El Molinero. Good options when Rabanal is fully booked and you're looking for the charm that is missing in El Ganso.
The climb to Rabanal from there is a bit bleak, since there is no soft path next to the road, just tarmac. Consider returning to El Ganso the way you came.
15. June 2026 - 19:46
Just like the Elvis Bar in Reliegos, one of those iconic, funky businesses full of character that one cannot miss along the Camino. Even if you pop your head in it should be enough.
22. April 2026 - 13:35
Avoid this hostile man asking people to pay to use the bathroom.
Langer.
11. July 2025 - 16:30
Beautiful family-run albergue. I was greeted with , ‘This is your home’. The space is relaxed and welcoming with a garden and easy washing by hand or for a few euro in the machine. There’s donativo breakfast and the kitchen has all you need. There’s a little shop up the road with basic provisions and a few treats. Ice creams for everyone in the afternoon.
30. June 2025 - 17:19
This is a cute little place that looks like it also has rooms.
Little snacks of birds, fruit, dried fruit and other supermarket things. A warm. welcoming seating area.
1. June 2025 - 8:16
Come prepared with water bc there weren’t any drinkable taps on May 31st 2025. The signs read ‘aqua no potable’
28. April 2025 - 9:36
Go through village for this place, it's worth it.
24. January 2025 - 20:04
Desolate. Not a soul. Nothing open. Two cats ~ the only sign of life as I passed through mid- morning.
27. September 2024 - 20:01
Í’m afraid it’s closing, today is the last day it’s open. Really sad great place.
16. September 2024 - 11:01
On the right hand side of the road
ere is a tienda/cafe/casa rural.
It is peaceful has wonderful tea and coffee.
Provides tasty snacks and tistadas. It is akso a lovely gift shop. There are five of us sat in the shade, one in the sun in this lovely little oasis enjoying refreshments.
13. June 2024 - 7:51
The Indian Way Albergue in El Ganso, and I must say, it was truly a magical experience. From the moment I arrived, I felt a sense of warmth and welcome that is often hard to find.
The Hosts:
The hosts, who are also pilgrims, along with their son, create a genuinely inviting and homely atmosphere. Their stories, kindness, and passion for hospitality are evident in every interaction. One remarkable aspect of this place is the community they have built – one pilgrim arrived a year ago and has never left, which speaks volumes about the environment they've cultivated.
Accommodation:
This Albergue is charming and cozy, with hammocks that invite you to relax and take in the serene surroundings. The teepees are clean, comfortable that make you feel at home.
Food:
The food at The Indian Way is another highlight. The hosts prepare amazing, wholesome meals that reflect both local flavors and their own unique culinary flair. Every meal feels like a communal experience, bringing guests together to share stories and laughter.
Atmosphere:
The company and the overall atmosphere are what truly set this place apart. Whether you are a pilgrim or a traveler looking for a peaceful retreat, the sense of camaraderie and tranquility is unparalleled. The conversations, shared experiences, and the hosts' genuine care for their guests make this hotel a special sanctuary.
The Future:
Unfortunately, there are concerns about the hotel's future, as El Ganso is threatening to close it down due to loss of revenue. This news is heartbreaking for anyone who has experienced the magic of The Indian Way. It's more than just a hotel; it's a community hub and a haven for weary travelers.
I urge anyone who values unique, heartfelt hospitality to support The Indian Way. It would be a great loss to see such a special place shut its doors.
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If you have stayed here, please share your experiences and help spread the word. Let’s rally together to keep this gem alive!
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Feel free to post this review on travel sites, social media, or any platform where it can help garner support for The Indian Way hotel.
5. July 2023 - 18:06
The albergue Gabino is run by the brother (and mother?). The shop (Tea and Coffee) at the end of the village by the sister (and father?)
But at the shop there are also private rooms! But not just rooms. You have a tiny house to yourselves 😍
With a small kitchen with fridge, an en-suite bathroom, a double bed and a single bed! Separated by a small wall, so privacy enough to share it 😊
Lovely place, lovely people. Don’t miss it! Totally recommend it!
You can have dinner at the albergue €10,- 😉
17. June 2023 - 17:12
The hostel is ran by a mother and son, you stay in a tipi/yurt with 9 beds all single beds no bunks. The kitchen is open during siesta hours and is reasonably priced. My bed, a beer, Aquarius, salad, Spanish soup, and wings came out to €27. Definitely would recommend
5. June 2023 - 8:24
This was the best albergue I stayed at in all my camino so far. The people running the place became like family in a short time and the pets were all so precious and sweet. They took care of everything for the pilgrims and the food was also amazing. If I were to ever come back and volunteer at an albergue, this would be the place. I definitely recommend because missing out on this place would be missing out on a very amazing experience. I literally cried when I left because it brokey heart that I will not see these angels again.
28. May 2023 - 6:46
Highly recommend the Indian way in El Ganso. And their excellent paella! Also check out the small market in town. Lots of fresh options for hungry hikers.
18. May 2023 - 19:36
So happy that I saw another piligrim' s comment and booked Indian Way. Not very warm but they have blankets and you sleep in a tipy. So lovely.
3. May 2023 - 18:28
The hostel is called Indian Way and you sleep with 9 persons in an Indian Teepee for €10 a night. Separate toilet/bathroom for both sexes , reachable via outside. The albergue offers a terrific Paella Pelgrim menu. via a family recepy. Good value for money, the reception has a small bar.
1. May 2023 - 14:11
Another recommendation for the cafe/shop at the end of the town. Look out for a Tea and Coffee sign. Helpfully the little shop sells lots of essentials like tampons, sun block and chocolate. And it's open on Bank Holidays too
22. April 2023 - 15:40
Albergue Indian Way is such a genuine surprise. Such friendly hosts, warm and welcoming and so eager to share their unique albergue with you. The teepees are such a unique experience and great to have single beds - no bunks! The bathrooms were lovely - separate ladies and gents. But the best part was dinner!! The biggest, most delicious seafood paella! Absolutely my favourite!

Esta entidad ha sido beneficiaria de una ayuda del Programa de incentivos a la movilidad eficiente y sostenible (MOVES III), gestionado por la Xunta de Galicia a través del Instituto Enerxético de Galicia (INEGA) en el marco del Real Decreto 266/2021, y cofinanciada por la Unión Europea — NextGenerationEU, dentro del Plan de Recuperación, Transformación y Resiliencia.