Guide

Expert pre-departure and gear briefing.

Others

WiFi (where available)

Transport

Cycle - Hybrid, Touring or Mountain Bike (MTB) with helmet, lights (front and back), water bottle holder, rear panniers (pair), toolkit, pump and lock.

Meals

Pilgrim Dinners (All) Lunches (All) Daily Breakfast - continental style

Accommodation

Accommodation in hostels, upgrade available to small hotels on a twin share basis with shared facilities on most nights if booked in advance.

Not included:

Optional

Options & Supplements i.e., Electric Bike Upgrades (AUD$500). Cycle - Mountain Bike (MTB) available for an additional cost with helmet, lights (front and back), water bottle holder, rear panniers (pair), toolkit, pump and lock. MTB riders often select no panniers and opt for their own small backpack. Cycle - Electric Bikes available for an additional cost (recommend based on experience).

Insurance

Travel insurance is not included; Travel Insurance is compulsory.

Flights

International flights are not included

Others

Tip or Gratuity Buses or Taxis (transport other than cycling). Accommodation before or after the trip. Lunch. Alcohol. Face masks and hand sanitiser.

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Camino Stage #1 - Trekking (Pyrenees) - Roncesvalles, Spain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Camino Stage #1 - Trekking (Pyrenees) - Roncesvalles, Spain

St Jean Pied de Port to Roncesvalles

Day 1 on the Camino Frances is approximately 25km and will take 7 to 9 hours depending on your fitness level. It is the most challenging day of the Camino (Frances).

Saint Jean Pied de Port is a beautiful, bustling French market town in the foothills of the Pyrenees. The Pyrenees is a mountain range that creates a natural border between France and Spain. This is the traditional starting point for the Camino Frances (for all non-Spaniards who traditionally start at Roncesvalles).

Although the walk up the Pyrenees is difficult, it is immensely rewarding. The peace and silence are a precursor of the times ahead on the Meseta. The views are stunning, it is worth getting up early, as the views in the morning sun are spectacular as you look down on the clouds floating below in the valleys.

In the first Pilgrim’s Guide, written by the French monk Aymeric Picaud in about 1130, he refers to Saint Jean Pied de Port as a place where evil tax collectors with club’s attack Pilgrims intending to collect extortionate taxes. A stark warning that a pilgrimage was not easy 900 years ago especially compared to our easy comforts today.

Napoleon Route

This route is the traditional way when safe to do so (weather conditions); your body is probably not accustomed to walking all day carrying a backpack; if you have packed more than 10% of your body weight, you will feel it. If required, we can forward your pack/luggage via courier, included in your package. The route from Saint Jean is steep up quiet tarmac country lanes climbing from 200m above sea level to just above 1,400m, then descend steeply back down again into Roncesvalles at 900m, which can be hard going on your hips, knees and shins; however, we will show you how to minimize the pain ensuring your experience is enjoyable.

Valcarlos Route

FYI - the Napoleon Route can be treacherous during the winter or even spring due to snow and other hazardous weather conditions at these times, it is recommended that pilgrims use the Valcarlos Route. The Valcarlos Route is suitable for all cyclists, whereas the Napoleon is only suitable for mountain bikes, and even then, it is difficult.

Distance: 25km

Elevation Gain: 1200m

Estimated Moving Time: 7h
Day 2 Camino Stage #2 - Touring Bike, Pamplona, Spain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Camino Stage #2 - Touring Bike, Pamplona, Spain

Roncesvalles to Pamplona

Day 2 on the Camino Frances is approximately 47.9km and will take 3 hours; the second part of the Camino Frances (or the first part for many Spanish pilgrims) takes us from the village of Roncesvalles to the village of Larrasoaña. Before departing for your journey, we will visit the Chapel of St James or the Royal Collegiate Church of Saint Mary in Roncesvalles.

On this day we will cross two mountain passes: Alto de Mezquiriz and Alto de Erro before descending to the village of Zubiri and from there cycle four more kilometres to Larrasoaña.

Traditionally pilgrims opt to stop in the village of Zubiri due to the tiring first day (walking), starting the next day from there early getting into Pamplona in the afternoon for Tapas and wine.

The main element of today’s stage is the bridges. We will start the day by crossing the “Rabies” bridge and will finish by crossing the La Magdalena bridge, at the entrance to Pamplona.

Today’s stage will offer us a shorter route with gentle hills. This allows us to save our energy and enjoy the first city on the French Way, Pamplona, where we’ll find numerous cultural attractions and exquisite food:

• Tapas & Wine

• Historical

• Cathedral (must see)

Along the way, we will have the option to follow the original Jacobean route, which runs a bit further away from the Arga River, or stay on the N-135 and follow selected off-road routes.

Pamplona, historically also known as Pampeluna in English, is the capital city of the Chartered Community of Navarre, in Spain.

It is also the third-largest city in the greater Basque cultural region.

Distance: 47.98km

Elevation Gain: 375m

Estimated Moving Time: 2.5hrs
Day 3 Camino Stage #3 - Logrono, Spain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Camino Stage #3 - Logrono, Spain

Pamplona to Logroño

Day 3 on the Camino Frances is approximately 94.9km (elevation gain 1,344m) and will take 6 hours or 7 if we explore.

The route from Pamplona is a mixture of countryside and busy roads, and one of the best views that you are ever likely to have of Pamplona. Leaving Pamplona, the route is well-marked out of the city and takes you across some local parks before heading into a small valley. The first and easiest climb of today brings you to Cizur Menor a small village and suburb of Pamplona.

The 12th Century Church of San Miguel has a fortified tower that was part of the Monastery de Pamplona to Puente la Reina Maplas Hospitalarios de San Juan de Jerusalem. The church was restored during the late 20th century after being used for farm storage for more than 100 years.

The climb up the Alto del Perdon leaves the Atlantic Basin behind and the scenery changes after the descent to mostly crop fields.

Puente La Reina to Estella

Throughout today’s journey on the French Way, we will leave behind the grain crops to slowly enter a land of vineyards that announces our arrival to the La Rioja region.

Estella (the beer) is a beautiful place with markets and a river running through the village that enhances the singing, dancing, wine and tapas.

Estella is our first stop for coffee and cake :)

Estella to Torres Del Rio

For most of this stage of the Camino Frances, you will pass through vineyards and farmland. Along our route, we will pass through the village of Azqueta and then Villamayor de Monjardin.

The village of Torres del Río is between a hilltop and a deep basin. Despite being a small town, it is one of the most interesting villages on the Way because of its Church of the Holy Sepulchre. An architectural jewel of 12th-century Romanesque architecture linked to the Pilgrim’s Way since its origins.

Its octagonal floor plan is reminiscent of the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. It also has a unique star-shaped vault inspired by the Caliphate. Originally, it was a beacon on the Way, the light emitted by the lantern that crowns the temple served as a guide for pilgrims.

Torres del Río to Logroño

We leave Torres del Río at its highest point and take the road and ascending, the hermitage of the Virgen del Poyo comes into view. A sanctuary built in ashlar stone dating from the 16th century, but which has been renovated on several occasions. Leaving the hermitage behind, we pilgrims stay on the road towards Bargota. Continuing along the road, we reach a track that descends comfortably down the Cornava ravine the last village on the Pilgrim’s Way in Navarre.

This part of the French road begins in Torres del Río, passes through Viana and ends in Logroño in front of the Cathedral of Santa María de la Redonda. In the 10th century, the Camino de Santiago crosses the Ebro River over a bridge that gives rise to a town that would eventually become the city of Logroño.

Distance: 94.98km

Elevation Gain:1344m

Estimated Moving Time: 5hrs
Day 4 Camino Stage #4 - Belorado, Spain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Camino Stage #4 - Belorado, Spain

Logroño to Belorado

Day 4 on the Camino Frances is approximately 79.1km and will take 4 hours.

Logroño to Najera

Passing through the natural environment surrounding the La Granjera dam, we leave Logroño to face a long stage of 30 kilometres that runs between vineyards and fruit trees. During the day, we will pass through Navarrete, a town with a long-standing pottery tradition, and we will get to enjoy the magnificent views that the San Antón peak offers us.

Santo Domingo to Belorado

We leave Santa Domingo by the Puente del Santo bridge over the Rio Oja and pass the 16th century Iglesia de San Juan Bautista and Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Calle before arriving at Belorado, a town which can be traced back to Roman times.

Distance: 79.12km

Elevation Gain:960m

Estimated Moving Time: 4hrs
Day 5 Camino Stage #5 - Burgos, Spain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Camino Stage #5 - Burgos, Spain

Belorado to Burgos

Day 5 on the Camino Frances is approximately 47km and will take 3 hours (an early start allowing us the whole day to explore and visit historical landmarks).

One of the most interesting stops during this section of the Camino Frances is undoubtedly the city of Belorado and its old town centre. This section ends in the beautiful city of Burgos, the birthplace of “ El Cid ”. Burgos is known for being the Gothic capital of Spain.

Burgos is our second RNR (rest and relaxation) of three key rest days.

Burgos ’Points of Interest’

1. Catedral De Burgos

2. Historic Center of Burgos

3. Plaza Mayor

4. Plaza del Mio Cid

5. Museo de Burgos

6. Eremitorio de Presillas de Bricia

7. Puente De San Pablo

8. Hospital del Rey

Burgos is a city in Spain located in the autonomous community of Castile and León. It is the capital and most populated municipality of the province of Burgos. Burgos is situated in the north of the Iberian Peninsula, on the confluence of the Arlanzón river tributaries, at the edge of the central plateau. The municipality has a population of about 180,000 inhabitants. The Camino de Santiago runs through Burgos.

Distance: 47.03km

Elevation Gain: 487m

Estimated Moving Time: 2.5hrs
Day 6 Camino Stage #6 - Carrion De Los Condes, Spain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Camino Stage #6 - Carrion De Los Condes, Spain

Burgos to Carrion de los Condes

Day 6 on the Camino Frances is approximately 84 km and will take 5 hours if we take the inland route, or 3.5 hours if we stay on the road.

Burgos to Hontanas

Before leaving Burgos, don’t forget that the next big city, Leon is six days away, thus if you need to buy walking gear or some rare items, be sure to do it now as the options for shopping will be quite limited during the next days.

Getting out of Burgos is easy and the way is well marked. The first place you reach is Villalbilla de Burgos, a suburb town where not much can be seen. Next is Tandajos, where we can find a café and shop. The church here dates back to the 13th century.

The village of Rabe de las Calzadas is close from here and thirty minutes away is Hornillos del Camino. This small village has only 67 inhabitants but there is a bar where you can drink and refill your bottle; from Hornillos del Camino we cycle to Hontanas then onto Carrión.

This stage, we face endless straight stretches without shade or shelter (La Meseta) finishing in Carrión (405.3 kilometres to Santiago).

Distance: 84.05km

Elevation Gain: 512m

Estimated Moving Time: 3.5hrs
Day 7 Camino Stage #7 - Leon, Spain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Camino Stage #7 - Leon, Spain

Carrion de los Condes to Leon

Day 7 on the Camino Frances is approximately 22km and will take 4 hours (we will stop often as this stage has points of interest and the halfway certificate, Sahagún).

Carrion de los Condes to Terradillos de Templarios

In this stage, we face endless straight stretches without shade or shelter, beginning with a brief visit to Carrión (405.3 kilometres to Santiago). Crossing the streets of San Antonio, where we will find the church of Santiago with its famous frieze sculptures, an example of Romanesque splendour.

Terradillos de los Templarios to Puente Villarente

Puente Villarente is most notable for its medieval bridge of 17 arches.

The bridge, which already impressed Aymeric who calls it ‘huge’ in the twelfth century and the functional disposition of the hospital in which it was established that there would be an ass on the verge of, was recognized as the first ambulance to pilgrims, ready to carry the sicks to Leon stand out in this town.

Moreover, in this village, you can find the Parish Church of San Pelayo.

Puente Villarente to Mansilla de las Mulas

We pass through Sahagún (midway or halfway point is a town and municipality of Spain, part of the autonomous community of Castile and León and the province of León. It is the main populated place in the Leonese part of the Tierra de Campos natural region. Sahagún contains some of the earliest examples of mudéjar architecture.

Compostella halfway Certificate.

There is a nice place for a swim in the river in the northwest corner of Mansilla (if warm enough, otherwise cooling our feet is a must). We cross over the small pedestrian bridge towards the camping place (not the road bridge that the Camino crosses) located in the northwest corner of town. Getting there will take us through several of Mansilla’s small plazas.

The walled enclave, founded in 1181 by King Ferdinand II is strongly linked to the Camino and lived in an age of splendour, as is reflected in its architectural activity that led to it having seven churches, a house for pilgrims, three hospitals and two monasteries.

Mansilla de las Mulas to Leon

The cycle leads us out of Mansilla by way of a medieval bridge over the River Elsa and then leads onto a dirt track that once again runs alongside the N120 (road).

The cycling is easy with only one small rise and fall between Arcahueja and Leon.

As the day passes it will become obvious that we are closing on another major city, the last major city until Santiago, though Ponferrada is a very large town which you will pass through within the next few days.

The two Camino routes enter the town at different points, the Camino Real, (Road Route), enters via the south gate, Puerta de Santiago, which has lost its arch; the Roman Road route enters via the east gate, Arco de los Concepcion, which is the only town entrance with an intact arch.

Much of the original town walls, (built by Fernando II of Leon in the 12th century) are intact and at some point, we can walk along them for great views (photos).

Day 8, a day of rest :)

Distance: 21.76km

Elevation Gain: 378m

Estimated Moving Time: 4.5h
Day 8 Camino Stage #Rnr (Rest And Relaxation) - Day Off
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Camino Stage #Rnr (Rest And Relaxation) - Day Off

Leon ’Points of Interest’

Steeped in history, León has the monuments to prove its rich heritage. Besides a brief stint under the Moorish rule of Al-Mansur in the 10th century, León’s heyday was in the 10th to 12th centuries when it was capital of the Kingdom of León. During this medieval period, León was an important stop for pilgrims on the Way of Saint James route to Santiago de Compostela.

The old monastery that lodged pilgrims over the centuries is now a luxury hotel and is an important landmark of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Other remarkable buildings include the 11th-century Collegiate Church of Saint Isidore and the city’s magnificent Gothic cathedral with its spectacular stained-glass windows.

León’s renowned gastronomy is part of its rich cultural heritage. Tourists enjoy sampling regional culinary specialties at the city’s authentic eateries. Hidden within a maze of narrow cobblestone streets are lively little tapas restaurants that serve delicacies such as cured meats and croquettes.
Day 9 Camino Stage #8 - Astorga, Spain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Camino Stage #8 - Astorga, Spain

Leon to Astorga

Day 9 on the Camino Frances is approximately 51km and will take 3 hours.

Leon to Villar De Mazarife

It is fairly easy to lose the Camino leaving Leon, most of the waymarks are on the ground so care has to be taken not to miss any. Fortunately, the locals are great with pilgrims and will stop you and point you in the right direction if they see you cycling in the wrong direction.

We will follow the discreet shells out of Leon, past the flawless cathedral and out of the city via San Marcos. There are two routes for today. Our route follows a nicer, quieter route to Villar de Mazarife (our direction), whereas the main route runs parallel to the busy N-120 for most of today (which we take if the group prefers).

The way out of Leon is fairly uninspiring through rubbish dumps and industrial areas, but not as long and tough as the route into Burgos.

Villar De Mazarife to Astorga

We pass through Hospital de Orbigo and a gothic bridge over the river Orbigo. This bridge is the site of a legendary medieval jousting competition. Don Suero de Quinones was a wealthy knight from León who was rejected by the woman he loved. As a result of his heartbreak, he had an iron collar secured around his neck and swore he would not remove it until he had bested 300 knights in jousts. The call went out and knights from all over the kingdom came for the Holy year 1434. Quinones succeeded in his quest freeing him from the torment of love. He took off the collar and made a pilgrimage to Santiago where he left a bejewelled bracelet which can still be seen in the cathedral museum.

Easy cycle into the beautiful city of Astorga (one of my favourites): Lovely Plaza, Music, Food and Dancing, Historic Cathedral (a must)

Distance: 51km

Elevation Gain: 354m

Estimated Moving Time: 2.5hrs
Day 10 Camino Stage #9 - Ponferrada, Spain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Camino Stage #9 - Ponferrada, Spain

Astorga to Ponferrada

Day 10 on the Camino Frances is approximately 62km and will take 4 hours.

Foncebadon

The heavily trafficked point-to-point trail features a river and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and backpacking and is accessible year-round; therefore, we will come across many Pilgrims’ walking, riding etc.

Foncebadon to Ponferrada

The route leaves Foncebadón and follows closely along the LE-142 motorway until the famous Cruz de Fierro or Cruz de Hierro, which indicates the 1,500m elevation at this point of the Camino, the highest on the Spanish side of the French Way. This is also the place where the chapel devoted to Santiago Apóstol can be found.

We will stop at Campo, with its Roman fountain and the church of Nuestra Señora de la Encina.

The capital of El Bierzo is the last city on the French Way before reaching Santiago de Compostela. Ponferrada can boast of its fantastic Templar Castle, erected in the 11th century and preserved throughout the ages. We, Pilgrims, can also visit the Calle del Reloj with its tower, and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento with the Town Hall at a discounted rate.

Knights Templar - Castle awaits :)

Distance: 61.98km

Elevation Gain: 672m

Estimated Moving Time: 3hrs
Day 11 Camino Stage #10 - Samos, Galicia, Spain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Camino Stage #10 - Samos, Galicia, Spain

Ponferrada to Samos

Day 11 on the Camino Frances is approximately 88.9km and will take 6.5 hours.

Villafranca del Bierzo

Heading to Villafranca del Bierzo, a gorgeous mountain town surrounded by idyllic countryside. The St. James church in Villafranca del Bierzo is the only other church on the Camino de Santiago where pilgrims can receive a plenary indulgence.

Villafranca del Bierzo to O Cebreiro (O Cebreiro second hardest climb,1335m)

Considered the second hardest climb gaining over 900m elevation throughout the day; however, Galicia awaits :)

The portion between Villafranca del Bierzo and O Cebreiro is more difficult, firstly because it spans over 29 kilometres and secondly because the last part of the journey consists of a 600 metres ascent.

Before leaving Villafranca del Bierzo we will ensure to stock up on supplies, depending on the route we take, we might not find another settlement for the next hour.

There are two possible routes we can take in the first part of the day. The first one follows the main road and passes through Pereje before reaching Trabadelo and the second one is a more difficult, albeit a more scenic route where you climb and descend.

O Cebreiro to Samos

The visit to O Cebreiro and its surroundings can take a whole morning. It also has several natural attractions nearby. The closest is the Sierra de O Courel, without forgetting the natural monument folding Campodola; and the important monastery of Samos.

Distance: 88.99km

Elevation Gain:1322m

Estimated Moving Time: 4.5hrs
Day 12 Day 12: Camino Stage #11 - Palas Del Rey, Galicia, Spain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Camino Stage #11 - Palas Del Rey, Galicia, Spain

Samos to Palas Del Rey (via Sarria 700km point)

Day 12 on the Camino Frances is approximately 66.5km and will take 5 hours.

Samos to Ferreiros

This a beautiful trail and road. Chestnut trees everywhere, fieldstone rock fences along the trail and in the fields with most covered in moss.

We will pass through Sarria today which is a popular starting point for people wanting to do the last 100 km of the Camino. It is apparently a good thing in Spain to have a Compostella listed on your resume, and you can receive one for walking the last 100km (2-3 days); three are available; first is the halfway point (Sahagun), second is the 100km (basic) or the third which is the original and full distance Camino (Frances) 779.5km. The additional cost however lists out the distance of 779.5km with a cost of approximately $2.

Ferreiros to Palas Del Rey

A long day as we cycle forward with the goal in sight elevation increases to 651m.

Palas de Rey is a small, but a pretty little town with its main Palas de Rey strip being on a road that arcs its way down and around an incline.

As a town to live in (or near to), Palas de Rey has all of the local facilities required for modern living with a number of shops and enough bars and cafes for some casual social activity and people-watching.

It is fact that for pilgrims (us) that have cycled longer, this is a bit of a culture shock as the new peregrinos are not yet " in the groove".

Distance: 66.54km

Elevation Gain: 1016m

Estimated Moving Time: 4.5hrs
Day 13 Camino Stage #12 - Santiago De Compostela, Spain
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Camino Stage #12 - Santiago De Compostela, Spain

Palas Del Rey to Santiago de Compostela

Day 13 on the Camino Frances is approximately 68km and will take 4 hours.

Arzua

The landscape is flat and allows a smooth hike initially passing through medieval villages, local chapels and cross-arched stone bridges.

Much of this section is shaded and shortly after Melide, where the Camino Primitivo joins the Frances, we will cycle through Oak and Eucalyptus Forest (Australians will think they’re at home) with the wonderful smell. Melide is where the Camino Primitivo joins with the Camino Frances.

Arzua is the last large town we will pass through before Santiago, (pop circa 7,000). Historically there is little to see apart from the local parish Church of St James and the ruins of the Convent of La Magdalena. The church, rebuilt in 1955, has two statues of Santiago one as a pilgrim and the other as the Moorslayer.

Arzua to San Marcos

We pass through several hamlets. The first notable stop might be in Santa Irene, where a small 18th-century chapel is located.

After passing Arca do Pino and Amenal, the Camino continues to Labacolla where the parish church of Sabugueira dedicated to San Pelayo is found.

Monte del Gozo (Mount of Joy) is the summit from where pilgrims can first have a glance at the Santiago cathedral.

San Marcos to Santiago de Compostela

If we start from Palas Del Rey early (4 am), we can ride in on sunrise looking over Santiago de Compostela. From here it’s an easy ride downhill and we have reached our final destination, the Santiago cathedral, the reliquary of the body of the Apostle Saint James.

Last Stamp, Compostela :)

This cycling tour can be adjusted depending on the group’s fitness and overall desires (flexible). Generally, we work to 14 days giving us an additional RNR if required taken during or on the last day (as above).

Distance: 67.57km

Elevation Gain:1014m

Estimated Moving Time: 3.5hrs
Day 14 Santiago De Compostela (Explore, Celebrate, Depart)
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Santiago De Compostela (Explore, Celebrate, Depart)

RNR

Celebrations (Food & Wine)

Cathedral (Religious)

Depart (Travel)

+11

14 days tour

Camino De Santiago (Francés) Guided *Cycle* Tour/Packing/Mtb

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Camino De Santiago (Francés) Guided *Cycle* Tour/Packing/Mtb

Camino Stage #1 - Trekking (Pyrenees) - Roncesvalles, Spain

Camino Stage #2 - Touring Bike, Pamplona, Spain

Camino Stage #3 - Logrono, Spain

Camino Stage #4 - Belorado, Spain

Camino Stage #5 - Burgos, Spain

Camino Stage #6 - Carrion De Los Condes, Spain

Camino Stage #7 - Leon, Spain

Camino Stage #Rnr (Rest And Relaxation) - Day Off

Camino Stage #8 - Astorga, Spain

Camino Stage #9 - Ponferrada, Spain

Camino Stage #10 - Samos, Galicia, Spain

Day 12: Camino Stage #11 - Palas Del Rey, Galicia, Spain

Camino Stage #12 - Santiago De Compostela, Spain

Santiago De Compostela (Explore, Celebrate, Depart)

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Camino De Santiago (Francés) Guided Cycle Tour/Packing/Mtb

Itinerary of your trip Camino De Santiago (Francés) Guided Cycle Tour/Packing/Mtb