The Camino de Santiago or the Way of Saint James is a pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, a city in Galicia (Spain). Itâs believed that in the cathedral of Santiago, the body of the apostle Saint James was buried. The history of the Camino de Santiago goes back to the 9th century when Spanish King Alfonso II completed the first-ever
Small Backpack (35 liters) â These backpacks are best-suited for ultra-light trekkers. If youâre planning to carry only a small sleeping bag or just a sleeping bag liner, get one of these backpacks. Medium-Sized Backpack (40 liters) â Most people hiking the Camino use medium-sized bags.
The last 200 kms of the Camino Portugues to Santiago, by the Central Route, run from the town of Arcos to Santiago de Compostela. To be precise, 208 kilometres of travel. As on the Camino Frances, the first 100 kilometres of this last section of the Camino Portugues are quieter.
El Camino FrancĂ©s, que tanto puede considerarse que empieza en Saint Jean Pied de Port (pequeña localidad del PaĂs Vasco francĂ©s) como en Roncesvalles (pequeño pueblo del Pirineo navarro), es el Camino mĂĄs conocido y concurrido de todos los Caminos de Santiago, con una gran diferencia en el nĂșmero de peregrinos (mĂĄs del 85% del total) respecto a los otros Caminos.
. For over 1,000 years, pilgrims have traipsed wearily across the plains and mountains of the Iberian peninsula to pay homage at the shrine of St James in Spain's northwestern city of Santiago de Compostela. The Camino de Santiago is one of the worldâs most famous long-distance walks, and these days itâs still as popular as ever. You donât have to be religious to make this journey, though. As you tread the storied route, you may well encounter many of the faithful, but youâre equally as likely to meet a diverse mix of hikers, cyclists and horse riders, or just those on some kind of personal journey. Pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago in Galicia © Justin Foulkes / Lonely Planet The Camino de Santiago isn't one single route: there are several Caminos crisscrossing Spain, all converging in holy Santiago. And while some of the less obvious routes are becoming steadily more popular, the most famous is still the Camino FrancĂ©s that traverses northern Spain for 790km, taking around one month to complete. Check out our tips here, and donât miss the following highlights of this epic journey. St-Jean Pied de Port The gorgeous old walled town of St-Jean Pied de Port is a popular starting point for would-be pilgrims, nestled on the French side of the Pyrenees amid gently rolling foothills, 8km from the Spanish border. Strolling the ramparts and clambering up to the citadel make for an ideal final evening before undertaking the slog up through the mountains into Spain, one of the toughest stretches of the whole route â but also one of the most scenic. St-Jean Pied de Port is the gorgeous starting point for many pilgrims © Justin Foulkes / Lonely Planet Navarra Once over the Pyrenees, the Camino takes you through the lush green farmland and demure villages of Navarra before reaching the vibrant city of Pamplona, where you'll find great restaurants and Hemingway haunt CafĂ© Iruña. Past Pamplona is a steep ascent of the Sierra del PerdĂłn: at the summit youâre rewarded with a sculpture depicting pilgrims through history, with soaring views of sunbaked hills and valleys. Heading west, pilgrims arrive at the captivating little town of Puente la Reina, where the Camino FrancĂ©s joins with the Camino AragonĂ©s, coming from the east. The most famous attraction here is the namesake bridge, and when you first catch a glimpse of its six-arched medieval glory, youâll agree itâs a special spot. But this place has many charms, including narrow Calle Mayor, flanked by tall old townhouses that offer delicious shade from the Navarran heat. A six-arched medieval bridge leads into Puente la Reina © Education Images/UIG via Getty Images Logroño and Burgos From Puente la Reina, a mixture of green, undulating countryside and more barren stretches mark the next stage of the walk into Logroño, the understated capital of La Rioja region. Spend a little time here and you'll experience an engaging city with handsome architecture and great tapas bars. Perch outside Bar Soriano and order their signature tapa â an indecently huge, garlicky mushroom adorned with a shrimp. The route is a little flatter over the next few days, passing castles and vineyards before reaching the quietly beautiful city of Burgos. The Gothic cathedral here is quite simply one of Spainâs most unmissable sights. It dazzles you first with its sheer scale; then, the closer you look, with the intricacy of its Gothic masonry. And thatâs all before you step into the ornate wonderland inside. Burgos Cathedral is one of Spain's most jaw-dropping buildings © Tom Stainer / Lonely Planet Burgos to LeĂłn The section of the Camino between Burgos and LeĂłn is one of the most underrated parts of the route: many pilgrims skip it and catch the bus, but take to your feet and you can savour striking views over the long valleys and barren plains of the meseta (the huge plateau of central Spain). The journey is punctuated with picturesque villages, such as Castrojeriz, which is dominated by a castle sitting proudly over lovely sandstone buildings. Admittedly, the monotonous roadside stretch leading into LeĂłn is a challenge, but once complete youâll find a city that offers up a winning mix of beautiful historic buildings and a spirited nightlife. Astorga From LeĂłn the trail climbs west into the sierras that separate Castilla from Galicia. En route, you pass Astorga, one of the most memorable places along the entire route. Itâs at once a workaday Spanish market town and the repository for at least two fabulous buildings: the gorgeous architectural jumble that is the cathedral, and GaudĂâs fairytale Castilian outpost, the Palacio Episcopal. As you march on towards Galicia, taking in endless heather-clad mountains and moody skies around you, itâs hard not to feel a rewarding sense of solitude. GaudĂâs masterpiece in Astorga, the Palacio Episcopal, with the cathedral behind it © tichr / Shutterstock Galicia All the Caminos converge in Galicia. The most gruelling climb along the entire Camino FrancĂ©s ends just over the border in the tiny village of O Cebreiro, at an elevation of 1300m. This place is studded with pallozas: circular, thatched dwellings known in rural Galicia since pre-Roman times, where families lived with their livestock. Depending on your luck, the village might be shrouded in a wet, swirling mist, making it even more atmospheric. Stop into Meson Carolo (RĂșa Cebreiro 20, tel: +34 982 36 71 68) to reinvigorate after the climb with a hearty meal â winners on the menu include chuletĂłn (a gigantic T-bone steak served deliciously rare) and caldo gallego, a traditional soup of potatoes, vegetables and meat. The scallop shell is the symbol of the Camino de Santiago, seen on waymarkers along the route © Justin Foulkes / Lonely Planet To score a âCompostelaâ certificate proving youâve completed the Camino, you have to walk at least the last 100km of the route, so for many pilgrims that means starting out just further west at Sarria (actually 114km from Santiago). From here thereâs a rural trek and a steep descent into PortomarĂn, which sits along the RĂo Miño. The following 25km to Palas de Rei are tough going, but then some delightful country lanes pave the next few kilometres to Melide. Soon after that youâre counting down the final 50km, passing through sleepy villages, rolling green farmland and shady woods along the way. This is beautiful countryside, but itâs astonishing how verdant and small-scale it seems compared to the huge peaks and valleys that have gone before. Pilgrims reaching the end of their journey at Santiago de Compostela © Justin Foulkes / Lonely Planet The last few kilometres of the Camino, along busy roads into central Santiago de Compostela, are pretty bleak, but that sense of nearing the end of your pilgrimage powers you through. Once you emerge onto the huge expanse of Praza do Obradoiro, you are rewarded with both a terrific view of the cathedral's famous western façade, and the sight of whomever else has just completed their journey â all of you united by feelings of elation, exhaustion and pride. Tom explored the Camino de Santiago with support from Follow the Camino. Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.
#1 Hi all, After doing a week of the Camino a number of years ago I am finally in a position to do the Camino Frances route in September and was hoping for some advice. I have my flight to Biarritz and transfer from the airport to St Jean Pied de Port sorted. I also booked accommodation for St Jean, Roncesvallies, Zubiri and Pamplona as I heard this is where a bottleneck of pilgrims may occur. After that I'm hoping to just wing it and let the Camino provide or else keep a rolling 3-5 day booking system depending on how things develop. Is what I have done pretty much all I need to do? I plan to continue reading the forum for packing tips over the next while and I also plan on spending the next few months learning Spanish, training and eventually showing up to St Jean Pied de Port with my pilgrim passport and ready to walk. I'm also hoping to read some guide books to ensure I don't miss on any sights along the way. Just nervous about it all and wondered if any experienced pilgrim could spot any major flaws in my plan or anything I'm missing and one question I had was regarding the return flight. I cannot predict exactly how many days it will take yet so not sure how to handle this? Thanks. #2 Barry11, You seem to have touched all bases for you autumn camino. Do test your gear from the earlier walk to make certain that it is indeed "good to go". Retrain yourself so that your body is also ready to walk all day, every day for several weeks. Check out this this earlier thread regarding what past walkers thought important. Happy planning, retraining and Buen camino! #3 Barry11, You seem to have touched all bases for you autumn camino. Do test your gear from the earlier walk to make certain that it is indeed "good to go". Retrain yourself so that your body is also ready to walk all day, every day for several weeks. Check out this this earlier thread regarding what past walkers thought important. Happy planning, retraining and Buen camino! Thank you very much for your response, really appreciate it. I will of course check out that earlier thread. #4 I think what youâve done is sensible. Typically numbers fall in mid September so you can decide as you go whether you need to reserve accommodation ahead or not. I think not. Whatever youâre thinking of packing; try it out in advance and âif in doubt; leave it outâ. #5 Why worry? The Camino provides! I had no planning, nothing booked ahead (only one time, from the Albergue in Pamplona to Puente de la Reina, just to have a bed secured after a really long walk). I trained and break in my boots on walks of 100km in total on the local hills. Had no transfer organized from Airport to SJPdP. No guidebook at hand, just like in the old days. And I arrived in SdC after 27 amazing days safe and sound and very happy! My advices to you: -> Do not overplan! -> Take your time, walk your pace. -> Look after your feet. -> Turn around and breathe! -> Drink plenty of water and wine! -> Eat local. -> Connect to your fellow pilgrims, they are your comrades. -> Talk and listen a lot when needed. -> Take only 50% of what's in your b/p, it's enough! -> Have fun! -> Enjoy your walk, even if it sometime gets hard and boring. Hope you will have a great walk! BC Roland #6 Why worry? The Camino provides! I had no planning, nothing booked ahead (only one time, from the Albergue in Pamplona to Puente de la Reina, just to have a bed secured after a really long walk). I trained and break in my boots on walks of 100km in total on the local hills. Had no transfer organized from Airport to SJPdP. No guidebook at hand, just like in the old days. And I arrived in SdC after 27 amazing days safe and sound and very happy! My advices to you: -> Do not overplan! -> Take your time, walk your pace. -> Look after your feet. -> Turn around and breathe! -> Drink plenty of water and wine! -> Eat local. -> Connect to your fellow pilgrims, they are your comrades. -> Talk and listen a lot when needed. -> Take only 50% of what's in your b/p, it's enough! -> Have fun! -> Enjoy your walk, even if it sometime gets hard and boring. Hope you will have a great walk! BC Roland Great advice Roland! I second your list! #7 Two small tips that will help along the way . Make a coloured photocopy of your passport ID page and have it laminated , use this when registering at hostels , it saves dragging out your passport and reduces the risk of losing it or leaving it behind . Only major hotels insist on seeing the original . Take a suction cup with a hook on to use in showers , very few have shelves to rest your fresh clothes or valuables on . The suction cup will let you hang a plastic bag or light day pack from the wall while you wash . #8 Thank you all for the great advice, especially in relation to not overplanning (which I usually do). I'll focus on getting my walking boots up to scratch between now and September and let the Camino provide after that. #9 If you havenât already watched Robâs videos about the Camino, search for then on youtube. He offers many tips and advice helpful for your first or fifth Camino. Buen Camino! #10 Hi all, After doing a week of the Camino a number of years ago I am finally in a position to do the Camino Frances route in September and was hoping for some advice. I have my flight to Biarritz and transfer from the airport to St Jean Pied de Port sorted. I also booked accommodation for St Jean, Roncesvallies, Zubiri and Pamplona as I heard this is where a bottleneck of pilgrims may occur. After that I'm hoping to just wing it and let the Camino provide or else keep a rolling 3-5 day booking system depending on how things develop. Is what I have done pretty much all I need to do? I plan to continue reading the forum for packing tips over the next while and I also plan on spending the next few months learning Spanish, training and eventually showing up to St Jean Pied de Port with my pilgrim passport and ready to walk. I'm also hoping to read some guide books to ensure I don't miss on any sights along the way. Just nervous about it all and wondered if any experienced pilgrim could spot any major flaws in my plan or anything I'm missing and one question I had was regarding the return flight. I cannot predict exactly how many days it will take yet so not sure how to handle this? Thanks. Of course the key to packing is to keep things as light as possible. When I am deciding what to take with me I try and select items which have more than one purpose. My cotton scarf can be used as a towel, I take plain black recycled polyester underpants and a light weight pull on crop top type bra ( yes i know you are a bloke but this bit is useful for the girls) that serve as a bathing costume for swimming. I wear cheap close fitting T shirts, and as I am short so cut off the extra length so they are just below my waist so reducing excess weight. When walking early spring or Autumn carry a very light weight cashmere shawl that I bought in India for chilly evenings which I can wrap around or put over me if it gets cold at night Hi all, After doing a week of the Camino a number of years ago I am finally in a position to do the Camino Frances route in September and was hoping for some advice. I have my flight to Biarritz and transfer from the airport to St Jean Pied de Port sorted. I also booked accommodation for St Jean, Roncesvallies, Zubiri and Pamplona as I heard this is where a bottleneck of pilgrims may occur. After that I'm hoping to just wing it and let the Camino provide or else keep a rolling 3-5 day booking system depending on how things develop. Is what I have done pretty much all I need to do? I plan to continue reading the forum for packing tips over the next while and I also plan on spending the next few months learning Spanish, training and eventually showing up to St Jean Pied de Port with my pilgrim passport and ready to walk. I'm also hoping to read some guide books to ensure I don't miss on any sights along the way. Just nervous about it all and wondered if any experienced pilgrim could spot any major flaws in my plan or anything I'm missing and one question I had was regarding the return flight. I cannot predict exactly how many days it will take yet so not sure how to handle this? Thanks. For me the key to packing is to keep things as light as possible. When I am deciding what to take with me I try and select items which have more than one purpose. I use a light cotton scarf also used as a towel, I take plain black recycled polyester underpants and a light weight pull on crop top type bra ( yes I know you are a bloke but this bit is useful for the girls) that serve as a bathing costume for swimming. I wear cheap close fitting T shirts, and as I am short so cut off the extra length so they are just below my waist so reducing excess weight (the fabric does not ladder). When walking early spring or Autumn carry a very light weight cashmere scarf/shawl that I bought in India. It proved very useful under my cape when it rained and chilly evenings which I can wrap around or put over me if it gets cold at night. I have also cut off the tops of my Bridgedale thick walking socks to just above the tops of my lightweight boots as I find their trainer style summer walking socks too short (also the fabric does not ladder). RJM Veteran Member #11 My first Camino I did with little to no planning. It was amazing. Sure, I had to obtain other things along the journey, but wasn't that big a deal and I arrived in Santiago alive. My next Camino I actually over planned and brought things I didn't need that found new homes on donativo tables. After that I stuck with the little to no planning method. The carry the minimum, no what if's and cross your fingers philosophy. It will be alright. You won't die. Last edited: Jun 13, 2022 #12 Thanks again everyone for all the additional advice, I'll be sure to check out Rob's videos on youtube. Also thanks Julie for the tips re multi purpose packing, makes sense when you say it. #13 Hi all, After doing a week of the Camino a number of years ago I am finally in a position to do the Camino Frances route in September and was hoping for some advice. I have my flight to Biarritz and transfer from the airport to St Jean Pied de Port sorted. I also booked accommodation for St Jean, Roncesvallies, Zubiri and Pamplona as I heard this is where a bottleneck of pilgrims may occur. After that I'm hoping to just wing it and let the Camino provide or else keep a rolling 3-5 day booking system depending on how things develop. Is what I have done pretty much all I need to do? I plan to continue reading the forum for packing tips over the next while and I also plan on spending the next few months learning Spanish, training and eventually showing up to St Jean Pied de Port with my pilgrim passport and ready to walk. I'm also hoping to read some guide books to ensure I don't miss on any sights along the way. Just nervous about it all and wondered if any experienced pilgrim could spot any major flaws in my plan or anything I'm missing and one question I had was regarding the return flight. I cannot predict exactly how many days it will take yet so not sure how to handle this? Thanks. Re return flight - if you find Santiago is booked, try A Coruna. 30 minutes on the train with flights to the UK. #14 Hi all, After doing a week of the Camino a number of years ago I am finally in a position to do the Camino Frances route in September and was hoping for some advice. I have my flight to Biarritz and transfer from the airport to St Jean Pied de Port sorted. I also booked accommodation for St Jean, Roncesvallies, Zubiri and Pamplona as I heard this is where a bottleneck of pilgrims may occur. After that I'm hoping to just wing it and let the Camino provide or else keep a rolling 3-5 day booking system depending on how things develop. Is what I have done pretty much all I need to do? I plan to continue reading the forum for packing tips over the next while and I also plan on spending the next few months learning Spanish, training and eventually showing up to St Jean Pied de Port with my pilgrim passport and ready to walk. I'm also hoping to read some guide books to ensure I don't miss on any sights along the way. Just nervous about it all and wondered if any experienced pilgrim could spot any major flaws in my plan or anything I'm missing and one question I had was regarding the return flight. I cannot predict exactly how many days it will take yet so not sure how to handle this? Thanks. Not sure how far you intend to walk dailey? But do keep an eye out for festivals and Holidays as it can be that most everything gets booked up. Some of the major towns on weekends in September and early Oct. will be difficult to find private rooms. Also weekend rates go up in Cities/towns like Leon, Ponferrada, and Portomarin. We have booked private rooms and the pickings are slim in early Oct. from Sarria. Logrono. Wednesday, September 21, 2022 - Sunday, September 25, 2022 Wine Festival Everything fills up including albergues. Spain: Hispanic Day. Oct. 12 #15 Not sure how far you intend to walk dailey? But do keep an eye out for festivals and Holidays as it can be that most everything gets booked up. Some of the major towns on weekends in September and early Oct. will be difficult to find private rooms. Also weekend rates go up in Cities/towns like Leon, Ponferrada, and Portomarin. We have booked private rooms and the pickings are slim in early Oct. from Sarria. Logrono. Wednesday, September 21, 2022 - Sunday, September 25, 2022 Wine Festival Everything fills up including albergues. Spain: Hispanic Day. Oct. 12 Thanks for this, I plan to stick to the standard route which is around 20-30k per day. but hopefully allow some flexibility if tired or like an area to rest a few more days. I don't plan on going with private rooms too often but definitely something I will keep in mind to try book ahead if needs be. Ensure that your fitness levels are good , I am just back from St Jean to Burgos and the amount of people that we met that were struggling was unreal . People who thought there were only hills on Day 1 and who couldnât believe how tough certain parts were . Take your time and enjoy every minute of it but be ready for it physically. Thanks, I have a decent level of fitness but will be certain to get a bit more walking and hill walking in over the Summer. I did find when I walked from Sarria to Santiago a few years ago it was a lot tougher than expected due to packing too heavy and not having the correct footwear. Both those issues I'm hoping to not have to deal with this time #16 Thanks for this, I plan to stick to the standard route which is around 20-30k per day. You mean the standard guidebook stages?
General Start775km â 31 stagesThe French way linking St Jean Pied de Port to Santiago de Compostela is the most popular of all the caminoâs. Since the discovery of the tomb of St. James in Compostela in the 9th century, the Camino de Santiago became the most important pilgrimage route of medieval Europe. Thousands of pilgrims made their way to Compostela from all European countries and this was the starting point of a whole new development that left its mark all along the Camino de Santiago. Pilgrims nowadays walk for all kinds of different reasons. Whether it is the sports challenge, religious believes, spiritual searching for answers within oneself or simply enjoying relaxation in pure nature and the social aspect, thousands of pilgrims (and the number is growing each year!) find their way to Santiago de Compostela. If you have never walked the Camino before, the French Way is the way to few options to get started taking an average of 15 km to also account for some rest days:115 km - ~7 days: Sarria150 km - 10 days: O Cebreiro206 km - 14 days: Ponferrada260 km - 17 days: Astorga310 km - 20 days: LeĂłn488 km - 32 days: Burgos611 km - 41 days: Logroño706 km - 47 days: PamplonaStage 1 Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port - Roncesvalles25,7 km â 9 alberguesKm 0: Saint Jean Pied de Port (All services) 5: Huntto (Albergue)Km 7,5: Orisson (Albergue, Bar/Restaurant). Km 8,5: Aubergue Borda (new 2021)Km 20,5: Reach of altitude 1430mKm 25,7: Roncesvalles (Albergue, Bar/Restaurant/Tourist Office) Book your accommodation 2 Roncesvalles - Zubiri21,5 km â 7 alberguesKm 0: Roncesvalles (Albergue, Bar/Restaurant, Tourist Office)Km 2,8: Auritz/Burguete (Hostels, Rural houses, Bars, Shop, Health center, Pharmacy, ATM)Km 6,5: Aurizberri/Espinal (Albergues, Hostel, Rural houses, Bar, Shop) Book your accommodation 11,4: Bizkarreta/Gerendiain (Rural house, Bar, Shop)Km 13,3: Lintzoain Book your accommodation 17,8: Alto de Erro (Bar)Km 21,5: Zubiri (All services) Book your accommodation 3 Zubiri - Pamplona20,4 km â 17 alberguesKm 0: Zubiri (All services)Km 2,9: IlarratzKm 3,7: EskirotzKm 5,5: Larrasoaña (Albergue, Pensions, Bar, Shop/Supermarket)Km 6,1: Akerreta (Rural hotel)Km 9,2: Zuriain (Albergue, Bar)Km 11,2: Irotz (Bar)Km 15,8: Villava (All services) Book your accommodation 17,2: Burlada (All services) Book your accommodation 20,4: Pamplona (All services) Book your accommodation 4 Pamplona - Puente la Reina24 km â 14 alberguesKm 0: Pamplona (All services)Km 5: Cizur Menor (Albergues, Bars, Shop)Km 11: Zariquiegui (Albergues, Shop)Km 13,4: Alto del PerdĂłn (Mobile Bar from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. From April 1st to October 31st)Km 16,8: Uterga (Albergue, Hostel, Bar) Book your accommodation 19,5: MuruzĂĄbal (Albergues) Book your accommodation 21,3: Obanos (Albergue, Bars, Shop, Pharmacy, ATM)Km 24: Puente la Reina (All services) Book your accommodation 5 Puente la Reina/Gares - Estella/Lizarra22 km â 9 alberguesKm 0: Puente la Reina (All services)Km 5,2: Mañeru (Albergue, Rural house, Bar, Shop, Pharmacy)Km 7,8: Cirauqui (Albergue, Bar, Shop, Pharmacy, ATM) Book your accommodation 13,3: Lorca (Albergue, Bar, Shop)Km 17,8: Villatuerta (Albergue, Bars, Shops, Pharmacy, ATM) Book your accommodation 22: Estella (All services) Book your accommodation 6 Estella/Lizarra - Torres del RĂo29 km â 8 alberguesKm 0: Estella (All services)Km 2: Ayegui (Albergue, Bars, Shop, Pharmacy, ATM)Km 7,4: Ăzqueta (Bar, Inn)Km 9,2: Villamayor de MonjardĂn (Albergues, Shop, Bar)Km 21,2: Los Arcos (All services) Book your accommodation 28: Sansol (Albergue, Rural house, Bar, Pharmacy)Km 29: Torres del RĂo (Albergues, Bar, Shop, ATM) Book your accommodation 7 Torres del RĂo - Logroño20 km â 10 alberguesKm 0: Torres del RĂo (Albergues, Bar, Shop, ATM)Km 2,7: Virgen del Poyo (Bar)Km 10,5: Viana (All services)Km 20: Logroño (All services) Book your accommodation 8 Logroño - NĂĄjera29,6 km â 14 alberguesKm 0: Logroño (All services)Km 12,7: Navarrete (All services) Book your accommodation 16,1: DesvĂo a SotĂ©s (Albergue, Bar, Pharmacy)Km 19,4: Ventosa (Albergue, Bars)Km 29,6: NĂĄjera (All services) Book your accommodation 9 NĂĄjera - Santo Domingo de la Calzada21 km â 5 alberguesKm 0: NĂĄjera (All services)Km 5,7: Azofra (Albergue, Shop, Bars, Pharmacy)Km 15: Cirueña (Albergues, Bar) Book your accommodation 21: Santo Domingo de la Calzada (All services) Book your accommodation 10 Sto Domingo de la Calzada - Belorado22,7 km â 11 alberguesKm 0: Santo Domingo de la Calzada (All services)Km 6,8: Grañón (Albergue, Bars, Shop, Pharmacy, ATM)Km 10,7: Redecilla del Camino (Albergue, Bar, Shop)Km 12,4: Castildelgado (Hostel, Bar, Shop)Km 14,3: Viloria de Rioja (Albergues) Book your accommodation 17,8: Villamayor del RĂo (Albergue, Bar)Km 22,7: Belorado (All services) Book your accommodation 11 Belorado - AgĂ©s27,4 km â 10 alberguesKm 0: Belorado (All services)Km 4,7: Tosantos (Albergue, Bar)Km 6,6: Villambistia (Albergue, Bar)Km 8,2: Espinosa del Camino (Albergue, Bar)Km 11,7: Villafranca Montes de Oca (Albergues, Hotel, Bar, Shop)Km 23,7: San Juan de Ortega (Albergue, Rural Tourist Center, Bar)Km 27,4: AgĂ©s (Albergues, Shop, Bar)Stage 12 AgĂ©s - Burgos23 km â 9 alberguesKm 0: AgĂ©s (Albergues, Shop, Bar)Km 2,6: Atapuerca (Albergues, Bars, Shops) Book your accommodation 7: VillalvalKm 8,6: Cardeñuela RĂopico (Albergues, Bars)Km 10,6: Orbaneja Riopico (Bar)Km 15,3: Castañares (Bar, Shop, Tourist info in Bar/Restaurant Peregrina-T)Km 23: Burgos (All services) Book your accommodation 13 Burgos - km â 11 alberguesKm 0: Burgos (All services)Km 10,8: Tardajos (Albergue, Pension, Bar, Shop, Pharmacy, ATM)Km 12,6: RabĂ© de las Calzadas (Albergues, Bar)Km 20,6: Hornillos del Camino (Albergues, Bar, Shop) Book your accommodation 26,2: Arroyo San Bol (Albergue)Km 31,1: Hontanas (Albergues, Hostel, Rural houses, Bar, Shop) Book your accommodation 14 Hontanas - Boadilla del Camino28,5 km â 15 alberguesKm 0: Hontanas (Albergues, Hostel, Rural houses, Bar, Shop)Km 9,2: Castrojeriz (All services) Book your accommodation 18,5: Puente Fitero (Albergue)Km 20,3: Itero de la Vega (Albergues, Hostel, Bar, Shop)Km 28,5: Boadilla del Camino (Albergues, Bar) Book your accommodation 15 Boadilla del Camino - CarriĂłn de los Condes24,6 km â 12 alberguesKm 0: Boadilla del Camino (Albergues, Bar)Km 5,7: FrĂłmista (All services) Book your accommodation 9,2: PoblaciĂłn de Campos (Albergue, Tourist Center, Bar, Shop) Book your accommodation 12,6: Revenga de Campos (Bar)Km 14,7: Villarmentero de Campos (Albergue, Rural Tourist Center, Bar) Book your accommodation 18,8: VillalcĂĄzar de Sirga (Albergue, Hostel, Bar, Shop) Book your accommodation 24,6: CarriĂłn de los Condes (All services) Book your accommodation 16 CarriĂłn de los Condes - Terradillos de los Templarios26,6 km â 6 alberguesKm 0: CarriĂłn de los Condes (All services)Km 17: Calzadilla de la Cueza (Albergue, Hostel, Bar, Shop)Km 23,4: Ledigos (Albergue, Bar) Book your accommodation 26,6: Terradillos de los Templarios (Albergue, Bar, small shop in one of the albergues)Stage 17 Terradillos de los Templarios - El Burgo Ranero30,6 km â 13 alberguesKm 0: Terradillos de los Templarios (Albergue, Bar, small shop in one of the albergues)Km 3,3: Moratinos (Albergue, Hostel, Bar in the albergue)Km 5,8: San NicolĂĄs del Real Camino (Albergue, Bar in the albergue)Km 13: SahagĂșn (All services) Book your accommodation 23: Bercianos del Real Camino (Albergues, Bar, Shop)Km 30,6: El Burgo Ranero (Albergues, Bars, Shop, Pharmacy) Book your accommodation 18 El Burgo Ranero - LeĂłn37,1 km â 18 alberguesKm 0: El Burgo Ranero (Albergues, Bars, Shop, Pharmacy)Km 13: Reliegos (Albergues, Bars)Km 19: Mansilla de las Mulas (All services) Book your accommodation 23,5: Villamoros de Mansilla (Shop)Km 25,3: Puente Villarente (All services) Book your accommodation 29,5: Arcahueja (Albergue, Bar)Km 37,1: LeĂłn (All services) Book your accommodation 19 LeĂłn - San MartĂn del Camino25,9 km â 9 alberguesKm 0: LeĂłn (All services)Km 3,9: Trobajo del Camino (All services) Book your accommodation 7,6: Virgen del Camino (All services) Book your accommodation 12,2: Valverde de la Virgen (Bars, Pet-friendly accommodation here).Km 13,6: San Miguel del Camino (Bars)Km 21,3: Villadangos del PĂĄramo (Albergue, Bars, Shops, Pharmacy, ATM)Km 25,9: San MartĂn del Camino (Albergues, Bars, Shop) Book your accommodation 20 San MartĂn del Camino - Astorga24,2 km â 10 alberguesKm 0: San MartĂn del Camino (Albergues, Bars, Shop)Km 6,9: Puente de Ărbigo (Bar)Km 7,7: Hospital de Ărbigo (All services)Km 10: Villares de Ărbigo (Albergue, Bar, Shop, Pharmacy)Km 12,6: Santibåñez de Valdeiglesias (Albergues, Bar-CafĂ©)Km 20,3: San Justo de la Vega (Albergue, Bars, Shop, Pharmacy)Km 24,2: Astorga (All services) Book your accommodation 21 Astorga - FoncebadĂłn25,9 km â 17 alberguesKm 0: Astorga (All services. Advice: donât leave without some cash; the next ATM can be found in Ponferrada)Km 2,6: DesvĂo a Valdeviejas (Albergue, Bar)Km 4,7: Murias de Rechivaldo (Albergues, Bars)Km 9,3: Santa Catalina de Somoza (Albergues, Bars)Km 13,4: El Ganso (Albergue/Apartments Gabino, Bars, Shop)Km 20,3: Rabanal del Camino (Albergues, Bars, Shop)Km 25,9: FoncebadĂłn (Albergues, Pension, Bars, Shop, Medieval Restaurant serves dinner until Enjoy the views, youâll be sleeping at the highest point of the Camino FrancĂ©s!Book your accommodation here at the splendid âEl Trasgu de FoncebadĂłnâ. Highly recommended by Camino Comfort!Stage 22 FoncebadĂłn - Ponferrada27,3 km â 10 alberguesKm 0: FoncebadĂłn (Albergues, Bars, Shop)Km 4,5: ManjarĂn (Albergue, In high season a mobile bar between ManjarĂn and El Acebo)Km 11,6: El Acebo (Albergues, Hotel, Bar, Shop)Km 15: Riego de AmbrĂłs (Albergue, Bar)Km 19,7: Molinaseca (Albergues, Hostels, Bars, Shops, Pharmacy) Book here your accommodation in this lovely pilgrim 24: Campo (Bar)Km 27,3: Ponferrada (All services) Book your accommodation 23 Ponferrada - Villafranca del Bierzo24,1 km â 12 alberguesKm 0: Ponferrada (All services)Km 3,7: CompostillaKm 5,5: Columbrianos (Bar, Shops, Pharmacy)Km 8: Fuentes Nuevas (All services)Km 10,5: Camponaraya (All services)Km 16,6: Cacabelos (All services) Book your accommodation 18,5: Pieros (Albergue, Bar)Km 24,1: Villafranca del Bierzo (All services) Book your accommodation 24 Villafranca del Bierzo - O Cebreiro28,4 km â 16 alberguesKm 0: Villafranca del Bierzo (All services)Km 5,2: Pereje (Albergue, Bar)Km 9,7: Trabadelo (Albergues, Bar, Shop, Pharmacy)Km 13,7: La Portela del Valcarce (Albergue, Bars, Basic Shop, ATM)Km 14,9: Ambasmestas (Albergue, Bars)Km 16,5: Vega de Valcarce (All services) Book your accommodation 18,6: RuitelĂĄn (Albergue, Hostel, Bars)Km 20,1: Las HerrerĂas (Albergue, Bars)Km 23,5: La Faba (Albergues, Bar, Shop)Km 25,9: Laguna de Castilla (Albergue, Bar)Km 28,4: O Cebreiro (Albergue, Rural houses and Pensions, Bars, Shop) Book your accommodation in Piedrafita do 25 O Cebreiro - Triacastela21,1 km â 9 alberguesKm 0: O Cebreiro (Albergue, Rural houses and pensions, Bars, Shop)Km 3,2: Liñares (Bar)Km 5,7: Hospital da Condesa (Albergue, Bar)Km 8,1: PadorneloKm 8,5: Alto do Poio (Albergue, Bars)Km 11,9: FonfrĂa (Albergue, Bar)Km 14,3: O Biduedo (Bar)Km 17,3: Fillobal (Albergue, Bar/Shop)Km 21,1: Triacastela (All services) Book your accommodation 26 Triacastela - Sarria18,3 km â 27 alberguesFrom Triascastela there are 2 itineraries to get to Sarria: the Southern alternative is a bit longer but it passes by the Monastery of Samos and follows the banks of the river Oribio; the other itinerary is more to the North and passes through San Xil and also crosses some very nice landscapes full of oaks and 0. Triacastela (Todos los Servicios)If you stayed the night in the public albergue youâll have to cross Triacastela through its central road until you leave town. That road splits in two ways and this is the point where youâll have to chose which itinerary to the left, via the LU-633, goes the way to Samos and its Benedictine Monastery and from there it continues to Sarria. Book your accommodation in Samos your right youâll have the choice to continue to San Xil: 6,5 km shorter, but with a climb of 238 meters in the first 5,5 those going to Samos: follow the arrows, weâll meet up in Sarria! Weâll turn right and cross the LU-633 main 2,2: A Balsa (Albergue)Km 7,8: MontĂĄnKm 8,5: FontearcudaKm 10,4: Furela (Bar)Km 11,7: PintĂn (Bar)Km 13,1: Calvor (Albergue)Km 13,6: Aguiada (Bar)Km 18,3: Sarria (All services) Book your accommodation 27 Sarria - PortomarĂn22,4 km â 25 alberguesThis is the most popular starting point of all, since it covers the final 100K to Santiago on the Camino FrancĂ©s: the minimum you need to walk to obtain your pilgrimâs certificate: La 0: Sarria (All services)Km 2,9: As ParedesKm 3,7: Vilei (Albergue, Bar)Km 4,5: Barbadelo (Albergues, Bar)Km 6: Mercado da Serra (Bar/Shop)Km 8,2: Leiman (Bar)Km 12: Morgade (Albergue, Bar)Km 13,1: Ferreiros (Albergues, Bar)Arriving at Ferreiros which you will recognize when you see a small shelter (see picture) you will have an albergue at your back (a more comfy one) but if you continue down the road you will arrive in Mirrallos and a lovely little church (just 500 meters down-hill). There is a bar/restaurant there. The owner is called Natalia. Although she will have no sign stating it, she has 25 beds available for peregrinos and the price is so-called âdonativoâ which means you can give whatever you want. Giving at least the amount you would give in a normal albergue is the decent thing to do. The food and the way you are treated and served there is absolutely fabulous! You can wash your clothes and they have a lovely terrace. The little church is their neighbor so you wonât have any trouble checking it out, no matter how tired you are. Totally recommended!Km 13,6: Mirallos (Albergue, Bar)Km 14,4: A Pena: (Albergue, Bar)Km 16,8: Mercadoiro (Albergue, Bar)Km 17,1: MoutrĂĄs (Shop Peter Pank)Km 20: VilachĂĄ (Albergue)Km 22,4: PortomarĂn (All services) Book your accommodation 28 PortomarĂn - Palas de Rei25 km â 19 alberguesKm 0: PortomarĂn (All services)Km 8: Gonzar (Albergues, Bar)Km 9,3: Castromaior (Bar, Pension)Km 11,8: Hospital da Cruz (Albergue, Bar)Km 13,3: Ventas de NarĂłn (Albergues, Bar) Excellent albergue with a couple of private rooms: Albergue O 16,5: Ligonde (Albergues, Bar)Km 17,4: Airexe (Albergue, Bar)Km 19,4: Portos (Albergue, Bar)Km 20: Lestedo (Albergue, Bar, Rural house)Km 25: Palas de Rei (All services) Book your accommodation 29 Palas de Rei - ArzĂșa28,8 km â 27 alberguesKm 0: Palas de Rei (All services)Km 3,4: San XuliĂĄn do Camiño (Albergue, Bar)Km 4,5: Pontecampaña (Albergue)Km 5,7: Casanova (Albergues, Bar)Km 8,5: O Coto (Bar, Shop)Km 9,2: LeboreiroKm 13: San XoĂĄn de Furelos (Bar)Km 14,8: Melide (All services) Book your accommodation here. Donât forget to eat here at Casa Alongos!Km 20,5: Boente (Albergues, Bar)Km 22,7: Castañeda (Albergue, Bar)Km 25,8: Ribadiso da Baixo (Albergues, Bar)Km 28,8: ArzĂșa (All services) Book your accommodation 30 ArzĂșa - O Pedrouzo19,1 km â 13 alberguesKm 0: ArzĂșa (All services)Km 2,2: PreguntoñoKm 5,2: Taberna Vella (Albergue, Bar, Shop)Km 5,8: Calzada (Bar)Km 7,8: Calle (Bars)Km 11,1: Salceda (Albergues, Bar, Pharmacy at 600 meters)Km 15,3: O Empalme (Bars)Km 16,3: Santa Irene (Albergues)Km 17,9: A RĂșa (Bars, Pensions, Rural houses)Km 19,1: O Pedrouzo (All services) Book your accommodation 31 O Pedrouzo - Santiago de Compostela20 km â 15 alberguesKm 0: O Pedrouzo (All services)Km 4: CimadevillaKm 7,7: San Paio (Bar)Km 9,5: Lavacolla (Bar, Shop, Pharmacy, Hotel, Albergues)Km 14,8: San Marcos (Bar, Shop)Km 15,2: Monte do Gozo (Albergue, Bar, Shop, ATM)Km 20: Santiago de Compostela (All services) Book your accommodation here. Items in our Pilgrim Shop that might be helpful in your quest
There are four main Camino routes in France; in France, they are referred to in France as the Chemin Saint Jacques. The only route I have walked so far has been the first ten days of the Le Puy Route. France has always been the favored starting point for Camino pilgrims. Back when Santiago de Compostela was little known about, most pilgrims were French, and the path they walked came to be known amongst the Spanish as âThe French roadâ. Today, pilgrims can choose from one of the four main Camino de Santiago routes in France that join the Camino de Santiago routes in Spain to get to Santiago in Spain. Routes leave from different cities and pass through certain places, giving them distinct characteristics that are uniquely their own. Camino Le Puy or Via Podiensis The Le Puy Route is also known as Le Chemin du Puy or Via Podiensis. This route starts in Le Puy en Velay and joins with two other routes in France at Ostabat near St Jean Pied de Port which they pass through and continue along the Camino Frances to Santiago. The route is fairly tough going and quite hilly, it is harder than the Camino Frances and at 736km is nearly as long. The waymarking on the route is the GR65 signs and there are very few Camino signs. Le Puy or Via Podiensis offers the best views amongst all Caminos in France, and itâs also the shortest, running for only 736 km. For these reasons, its immense popularity among pilgrims shouldnât surprise you. The route starts in the scenic town of Le Puy-en-Valey and goes through several towns before it reaches the French-Spanish border at Saint-Jean Pied-de-Port. The terrain is variable but rarely flat and can be exhausting for people who arenât used to hiking. The route goes through ascents and descents in the Velay region, then travels uphill the Aubrac Plateau at a height of 1,300 meters above sea level. From this mountainous region, the trail starts to ease up and descends to Conques. You will pass by a series of limestone scrublands called causses, Cahors, some farmlands, Moissac, and then finally reach the Basque Country. This last stop will leave you breathless, as the city is located in the foothills of the Pyrenees. The route is known for its natural sceneries and the many historical monuments dotted along the way. Every town or village you stop over will have an old abbey, church, or a cathedral that is worth your while. Paris and Tours Way or Via Turonensis The Paris Camino Route is also known as the Chemin de Paris or Via Turonensis or The Tours Way, (the last really describes the route from Tours), â quite a few designations for a route that is not very popular at present and is said to still being re-built in parts. Like all of the routes in France, this one also follows a GR, the GR655. The route is about 1,000km to St Jean, currently, the distances are not exact. As the most northerly route, Paris, and Tours or Via Turonensis was traditionally used by pilgrims coming from the Low Countries, as well as those living in northern and western Europe. Not many pilgrims travel this way, and despite being located in a touristy city, it is the least known of the Camino routes in France. However, it is slowly gaining popularity now that other French routes are becoming overcrowded. The route is described to start from Tour St. Jacques in the Pilgrimâs Guide, but most modern pilgrims begin anywhere. Many set off from Chartres. Others take a detour to OrlĂ©ans which leads across the Loire Valley and Tours and converges with the road from Chartres. From there, the route heads southwest through Poitou, Saintonge, Bordeaux, Les Landes, where it once again merges with two of the four main Camino routes in France â Le Puy and VĂ©zelay. Paris and Tours span for 913 kilometers and takes nearly two months to walk if rest and sightseeing are included. Pilgrims are encouraged to create their own routes since the old footpath no longer exists and has been replaced with major roads. This routeâs main advantage is the opportunity to explore Paris before the pilgrimage. The VĂ©zelay Route or Via Lemovicensis The Vezelay Camino Route is also known as the Chemin de Vezelay or the Via Lemovicensis, the Latin name. Again joins the above two rotes just before St Jean and continues along the Camino Frances. The distance to St Jean is about 900km. Most of the route follows the GR654 but there have been efforts to re-create the original route by associations in France. Pilgrims coming from northern and eastern Europe have traveled this way since the Middle Ages, making it one of the oldest Camino de Santiago routes. It was originally called Via Lemovicensis since it goes through Limoges, a city valued for its history and culture. The route begins in the town of VĂ©zelay in Burgundy, where a pilgrimage to Mary Magdalene can also be found. From here, the main route branches out into the Bourges and Nevers. The Bourges route is shorter and easier to walk. Its path is more consistently flat, but the sight of forests and farmlands tend to get boring. Only the Bourges Cathedral is worth paying a visit when passing by. Nevers route is longer and more challenging thanks to its varied terrain. If you choose to go this way, make a quick trip to the shrine of St. Bernadette Soubirous. The two routes converge and continue on to Limousin, PĂ©rigord, Aquitaine, and the Landes. Once you reach GR 65 near Ostabat, the VezĂ©lay joins two more routes from France â Tours and le Puy-en-Velay. The entire route is about 900 km long and covers a wide array of landscapes including hills, valleys, mountains, forests, farmlands, and vineyards. It also passes several historical landmarks. You would have to travel another 800 km via Camino de FrancĂ©s from St. Jean Pied-de-Port to reach Santiago. The Arles Route or Via Tolasana The Arles Camino Route is also known as Via Tolasana or Chemin dâArles. This route has its own association who are working hard to look after the route; I met a couple of them on the Le Puy route. This is the one main route that does not go to St Jean but joins the Camino Aragones and then joins the Camino Frances at Puente la Reina. This route follows the GR653. Pilgrims have been walking the Arles Way since medieval times. It was a convenient route for Jacobean pilgrims since it was closest to the south and east Europe. Back in its heyday, it was aptly called Via Tolosana as it passes by Toulouse, the most important city along the way. Tradition tells us the route begins at Arles in Provence, but you can start your pilgrimage further at Montpellier in Languedoc. As you travel westwards, you will come across causses, Castres, and the sharp hills of Haut-Laguedoc. The way becomes easier from Toulouse to Oloron-Saint-Marie as the road becomes flatter and leads through lower hills and an open plateau. The trail continues southwards to Aspe Valley and crosses the Pyrenees to reach AragĂłn on the border of Spain. The entire route is 800 km long on the French side. Arles Route is extremely varied and physically demanding, but it is also the most isolated path for those yearning to have a peaceful walk. Much like the Le Puy Way, there will be plenty of historic attractions including the church and abbey of Saint-Gilles-du-Gard, the basilica of Saint Sernin in Toulouse, and Canal du Midi in Montferrand. Attractive and picturesque villages such as Saint-Guilhem-le-DĂ©sert and Revel can likewise be expected. If ever you decide to go on The Way of St. James via France, you can never go wrong with Le Puy, VĂ©zelay, Arles, and Tours. The four main Camino routes in France may be lengthy and challenging for most, but they pay off with stunning landscapes, religious architecture, and other historical monuments. Various accommodations are available along these routes, as well as a decent selection of places to eat local cuisine. There are many other routes in France, most of them are feeder routes to the above and the others in themselves can be very long. If you were interested in similar hikes, there are many alternatives to Camino de Santiago.
camino de santiago camino frances
