Some hotels are on the path, but this one becomes the heart of the pilgrimage. 

After completing our 14-day Camino along the Portuguese route, we decided to stay an extra night in Santiago de Compostela. We had originally booked a room at The Last Stamp, which was comfortable, but since we couldn’t secure a two-night stay, we had to pack up again and move to another hotel.

I’m so glad we did, because it led us to Hospedería San Martín Pinario. Located in the historic center of Santiago de Compostela, adjacent to the cathedral’s side entrance, this former Benedictine monastery has welcomed pilgrims visiting the tomb of the Apostle since the late 16th century. Covering an area of 20,000 square meters, it is the second-largest religious monument in Santiago after the Cathedral.

Despite its name, there is no actual Saint Martín Pinario. The Hospedería takes its name from the 16th-century Benedictine monastery of San Martín Pinario, dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, with “Pinario” referring to the monastery’s historic designation. Over the centuries, it has welcomed pilgrims traveling the Camino de Santiago, and today it continues that tradition as a hotel where history, faith, and hospitality meet.

After checking out at The Last Stamp, we set off for Hospedería San Martín Pinario. The walk was short, but pulling our luggage over the cobblestone streets made it feel like a little adventure in itself. Part of the façade was under construction, so I wasn’t sure if we were in the right place at first, but the hotel staff quickly put my doubts to rest. They let us leave some of our bags at a room by the entrance while we headed out to Finisterre. When we came back, check-in was effortless. We booked one single room and one double, and just stepping into them, I knew this stay would be special.

Our rooms recreated the old monastic cells, with stone walls, wrought-iron furniture crafted by a renowned local artist, and windows offering amazing views of the city. Each room had a full bathroom with shower and hairdryer, heating, telephone, free Wi-Fi, and a small touch that made pilgrims feel welcome, the Camino shells on the beds.

The hotel has 81 rooms in total, two dining rooms/restaurants, meeting and conference rooms, a cafeteria and coffee lounge, and a 24-hour reception. That night, we decided it was time to tackle our laundry. Thankfully, the Hospedería had a laundry room, and it was incredibly convenient. We grabbed some takeout from nearby restaurants, settled into one of the Hospedería’s cozy lounges, and enjoyed a quiet meal while the washing went on. It felt like a small, comforting ritual after days on the Camino.

The next morning, we enjoyed a buffet breakfast. The hall was bustling with fellow pilgrims, but there was more than enough for everyone. 

We also explored the small garden with the km 0,135 marker, topped with a Marian statue, a subtle nod to the Camino that felt both sacred and celebratory.

The hotel’s souvenir shop deserves special mention as well; it is, in my opinion, the most beautiful I have ever seen in a hotel.

That same morning, we made a quick tour around Santiago de Compostela, buying last-minute souvenirs, lining up inside the Cathedral to see the tomb of St. James, and offering prayers again.

Staying at Hospedería San Martín Pinario was more than just a night in Santiago, it was the perfect conclusion to our pilgrimage.