3
moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • self guided walk
Accommodation
  • 16 nights in a combination of quality hotels & farmhouse B&Bs
Meals
  • 13 Dinners
  • 16 Breakfasts

17 Days£1950GBP

View Inclusions

Overview

Trip Code: CT2

Trip highlights

  • Walk through stunning scenery, visiting mountain villages
  • Experience the history of the trail marked by crosses, statues and grain silos
  • Arrival into Santiago and experience the satisfaction of reaching the end of the ‘Camino’
  • Enjoying the camaraderie of fellow hikers and pilgrims
  • Explore the magnificent cities of Leon and Santiago with their impressive architecture and cathedrals.

Traverse the centuries of time and the borders of Europe on the medieval pilgrim trail of Compostela. In the 9th century, the tomb of the apostle St James was unearthed in Compostela. The site became the focus of a pilgrim trail beginning in France, and crossing northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela. This journey, also known as the ‘Way of St James’ winds its way across borders, following in the footsteps of thousands of medieval pilgrims through the beautiful Sierras of Navarre and Aragon. The route passes a multitude of churches and monasteries, resembling a travelling museum of Romanesque art.

This stage of the Camino pilgrimage route offers a fine balance of walks in spectacular natural settings with visits to inspiring cultural sites including the magnificent cathedral city of Leon. En route there are numerous reminders of the pilgrims past who travelled the route including crosses, statues and grain silos. In the valley of Ponferrada, O Cebreiro welcomes you to the gates of Galicia and leads you to the fabled Santiago de Compostela. Shorter 15 and 16 day versions are also available.

Countries:

Spain

Starting Point:

Leon

Finishing Point:

Santiago de Compostela

Expand all | Collapse all

Leon is one of the most historic towns of Old Castile, a large province bordered by Galicia, Asturias, Palencia and Zamora. There is evidence of Roman occupation as well as the Moors; however it was the knights of Templar who built the castles and fortifications in the middle Ages. Ensure you take the time to visit the old city. One of Leon’s glories is without doubt the Cathedral. Constructed in the 13th Century for a period of 200 years the Collegiate Church of San Isidoro houses an impressive collection of early manuscripts. The Town Walls are of Roman and medieval construction. Overnight in Leon.

Meals:  D

Leaving Leon, the route will take you right through town until you reach Virgen del Camino, where legend states that the Virgin appeared in front of a shepherd in 1506 and asked him to build a shrine. This section is quite exposed as you cross the Paramo (desert). You will pass through some small villages before arriving in the village of Villadangos del Paramo. This town of Roman origin was the site of a battle that took place between the Queen Dona Urraca of Leon and her husband, Alfonso I of Aragon in the year 1111. Take a quiet walk around the streets and visit the Parish Church which contains an image of the Apostle Santiago from the 18th Century. Continue to Villar de Mazarife for overnight. Note: you can shorten today's walk by 9km by taking a bus from Plaza Santo Domingo to Virgen del Camino. Buses leave approx every 30 minutes, the fare is around €1. Distance 22km/13.7mi

Meals:  B,D

The countryside becomes more agreeable as you make your way to Puente de Orbigo. As you progress, the landscape gradually changes with mountains appearing on the horizon. Walking across a fabulous stone bridge you will pass Le pont de Hospital de Orbigo probably one of the most famous buildings along the way. You will walk by the Santo Toribio stone cross near San Justo de la Vega and will see Astorga in the distant valley. Distance 26km/16.1mi

Meals:  B,D

The walk today is a steady climb to Rabanal Del Camino so we recommend that you start early to avoid the hottest part of the day. Walk through the village and follow the tree lined pavements before passing a polar grove and the River Jerga arriving at Murias de Rechivaldo. You will walk through the village of Santa Catalina de Somoza and onto El Ganso. The landscape will change into densely populated oak trees, heather and conifers as you ascend “los Montes de Leon” before reaching Rabanal Del Camino (1200m/3940ft), a charming mountain village. Distance 19km/11.8mi

Meals:  B,D

Passing through broom, heather and other plant species, the trail climbs to the famous Mount Irago, one of the highest points on the Camino at 1520m. At the top stands the Cruz de Ferro, an iron cross set in a tall oak post. It is surrounded by a mound of stones, which have been left by pilgrims over the centuries. From Manjarin you will be able to see the valley floor and the Leon mountains. A descent into the Ponferrada Valley passes the quaint village of Acebo before you head further down into Molinaseca. Across the bridge you'll find a pleasant and relaxing town with slate roofs, wooden balconies and welcoming bars. Distance 25km/15.5mi

Meals:  B,D

The terrain today is relatively easy as you continue across the Valley of Ponferrada. You will see the Templar castle before walking through a well-watered valley to Villafranca del Bierzo. The region of Bierzo is situated in a low lying area whose agreeable climate allows for the cultivation of many fruits and vegetables. It's also known for its wine. Distance 30km/18.6mi

Meals:  B,D

Today you can enjoy the sights of Villafranca and have a rest from the trail. Own dinner arrangements.

Meals:  B

Your final day in the El Bierzo area is one of the most beautiful and the most challenging. The route passes through woodlands of chestnuts, conifers, oaks, heather and bracken. You will pass through the narrow valley of the River Valcarce before tackling the challenging ascent of O Cebreiro (1300m/4265ft), situated between the ranges of Los Ancares and La Sierra do Courel. Distance 28km/17.4mi

Meals:  B,D

The day begins with an ascent through the pine covered slopes of Monte Poso e Areas before joining the track in the direction of Linares. You will walk through forested areas before arriving at Padornelo, where you can fill your water bottles at the fountain. After the village of Fonfria the trail passes through birch forest which takes you to Biduedo, from where you descend to Triacastela. Continue on to Samos with its impressive monastery, one of the oldest in Spain. Distance 30km/18.6mi

Meals:  B,D

A shorter day today to allow you ample time to visit the monastery. Continue in the afternoon towards Sarria. You will not pass through any other villages so pack some snacks. Sarria is located on a hilltop with a river on either side affording you great views of the region. We recommend that you take the time to visit the the Convento de la Magdalena and church before leaving town. Distance 12km/7.5mi

Meals:  B,D

Today you can enjoy the sights of Sarria and have a rest from the trail. Own dinner arrangements.

Meals:  B

Over the “Meseta lucense”, the Lugo Plateau, you will pass through many hamlets dotted along areas of cultivated land, grazing pastures and woodlands and view the first “horreos”, typical raised grain silos. A relatively easy walk until your descent, crossing the Dam of Portomarin where you can see ruins of the ancient flooded village, and into the town for your accommodation. Distance 22km/13.7mi

Meals:  B,D

The route takes you through the brooms with their magnificent fragrance. Along the path you will pass charming hamlets and calvaries. Over this stage you will pass through Ventas de Naron where you can fill your water bottles, over the gentle Sierra de Ligonde, then downhill through Previsa, Lameiros and Ligonde where will find a church dedicated to the apostle St James. Emperor Charles V stayed here in the modest village of Ligonde, on the 24th of March 1520. Distance 24km/14.9mi

Meals:  B,D

The terrain becomes much easier today as you walk through the villages of Carballal, San Xuilan do Camino and Lebereiro and past Eucalyptus trees. You will be able to stop at one of many villages for lunch. Crossing over the River Seco on the Magdalena Bridge you will reach Furelos and onto Arzúa in the province of La Coruña. Distance 28km/17.4mi

Meals:  B,D

Today’s walk will bring you to the small town of Rua which has a population of only 50 people. The walk today is lovely, as you pass large green fields and rural landscapes. Distance 18km/11.2mi

Meals:  B,D

Today you will pass many ancient sites including monuments, chapels and bridges – all which have a story to tell. Follow country lanes and forest paths through increasingly populated countryside. The last day on the trail is always a special one. Continue downhill to the city. Arriving in the fabled Santiago de Compostela there is plenty to see and do – or simply relax and celebrate the end of the journey. Dinner is not included tonight so you can try one of the many restaurants in town. Distance 21km/13mi

Meals:  B

Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. If you'd like to add an extra night, please ask for our rates.

Meals:  B

Expand all | Collapse all

Leon is one of the most historic towns of Old Castile, a large province bordered by Galicia, Asturias, Palencia and Zamora. There is evidence of Roman occupation as well as the Moors; however it was the knights of Templar who built the castles and fortifications in the middle Ages. Ensure you take the time to visit the old city. One of Leon’s glories is without doubt the Cathedral. Constructed from the 13th Century for a period of 200 years the Collegiate Church of San Isidoro houses an impressive collection of early manuscripts. The Town Walls are of Roman and medieval construction. Overnight in Leon.

Meals:  D

Leaving Leon, the route will take you right through town until you reach Virgen del Camino, where legend states that the Virgin appeared in front of a shepherd in 1506 and asked him to build a shrine. This section is quite exposed as you cross the Paramo (desert). You will pass through some small villages before arriving in the village of Villadangos del Paramo. This town of Roman origin was the site of a battle that took place between the Queen Dona Urraca of Leon and her husband, Alfonso I of Aragon in the year 1111. Take a quiet walk around the streets and visit the Parish Church which contains an image of the Apostle Santiago from the 18th Century. Continue to Villar de Mazrife for overnight. Note: you can shorten today's walk by 9km by taking a bus from Plaza Santo Domingo to Virgen del Camino. Buses leave approx every 30 minutes, the fare is around €1.

Meals:  B,D

The countryside becomes more agreeable as you make your way to Puente de Orbigo. As you progress, the landscape gradually changes with mountains appearing on the horizon. Walking across a fabulous stone bridge you will pass Le pont de Hospital de Orbigo probably one of the most famous buildings along the way. You will walk by the Santo Toribio stone cross near San Justo de la Vega and will see Astorga in the distant valley.

Meals:  B,D

The walk today is a steady climb to Rabanal Del Camino so we recommend that you start early to avoid the hottest part of the day. Walk through the village and follow the tree lined pavements before passing a polar grove and the River Jerga arriving at Murias de Rechivaldo. You will walk through the village of Santa Catalina de Somoza and onto El Ganso. The landscape will change into densely populated oak trees, heather and conifers as you ascend “los Montes de Leon” before reaching Rabanal Del Camino (1200m), a charming mountain village.

Meals:  B,D

Passing through broom, heather and other plant species, the trail climbs to the famous Mount Irago, one of the highest points on the Camino at 1520m. At the top stands the Cruz de Ferro, an iron cross set in a tall oak post. It is surrounded by a mound of stones, which have been left by pilgrims over the centuries. From Manjarin you will be able to see the valley floor and the Leon mountains. A descent into the Ponferrada Valley passes the quaint village of Acebo before you head further down into Molinaseca. Across the bridge you'll find a pleasant and relaxing town with slate roofs, wooden balconies and welcoming bars.

Meals:  B,D

Relatively easy days terrain as you continue across the Valley of Ponferrada. You will see the Templar castle before walking through a well-watered valley to Villafranca del Bierzo. The region of Bierzo is situated in a low lying area whose agreeable climate allows for the cultivation of many fruits and vegetables.

Meals:  B,D

Today you can enjoy the sights of Villafranca and have a rest from the trail. Own dinner arrangements.

Meals:  B

Your final day in the El Bierzo area is one of the most beautiful and the most challenging. The route passes through woodlands of chestnuts, conifers, oaks, heather and bracken. You will pass through the narrow valley of the River Valcarce before tackling the challenging ascent of O Cebreiro (1300m/4265ft), situated between the ranges ofLlos Ancares and La Sierra do Courel.

Meals:  B,D

The day begins with an ascent through the pine covered slopes of Monte Poso e Areas before joining the track in the direction of Linares. You will walk through forested areas before arriving at Padornelo where you can fill your water bottles at the fountain. After the village of Fonfria the trail passes through birch forest which takes you to Biduedo, from where you descend to Triacastela. Continue on to Samos where you will have the opportunity to visit its impressive monastery which is one of the oldest in Spain.

Meals:  B,D

A shorter day today to allow you ample time to visit the monastery. Continue in the afternoon towards Sarria. You will not pass through any other villages so pack some snacks. Sarria is located on a hilltop with a river on either side affording you great views of the region.

Meals:  B,D

Today you can enjoy the sights of Sarria and have a rest from the trail. Own dinner arrangements.

Meals:  B

We recommend before leaving town that you take the time to visit the Church of the convent of La Magdalena. Over the “Meseta lucense”, the Lugo Plateau, you will pass through many hamlets dotted along areas of cultivated land, grazing pastures and woodlands and view the first “horreos”, typical raised grain silos. A relatively easy walk until your descent, crossing the Dam of Portomarin where you can see ruins of the ancient flooded village, and into the town for your accommodation.

Meals:  B,D

The route takes you through the brooms which have a magnificent fragrance. Along the path you will pass charming hamlets and calvaries. Over this stage you will pass through Ventas de Naron where you can fill your water bottles, over the gentle Sierra de Ligonde, then downhill through Previsa, Lameiros and Ligonde where will find a church dedicated to the apostle St James. Emperor Charles V stayed here in the modest village of Ligonde, on the 24th of March 1520.

Meals:  B,D

The terrain becomes much easier today as you walk through the villages of Carballal, San Xuilan do Camino and Lebereiro and past Eucalyptus trees. You will be able to stop at one of many villages for lunch. Crossing over the River Seco on the Magdalena Bridge you will reach Furelos and a little while later the town of Melide.

Meals:  B,D

Continue walking towards Ribadiso crossing over the Rio Boente and the Rio Iso rivers enroute. Shortly after Ribadiso you arrive into the town of Arzúa in the province of La Coruña.

Meals:  B,D

Today’s walk will bring you to the small town of Rua which has a population of only 50 people. The walk today is lovely, as you pass large green fields and rural landscapes.

Meals:  B,D

Today you will pass many ancient sites including monuments, chapels and bridges – all have a story to tell. Follow country lanes and forest paths through increasingly populated countryside. The last day on the trail is always a special one. Continue downhill to the city. Arriving in the fabled Santiago de Compostela there is plenty to see and do – or simply relax and celebrate the end of the journey. Dinner is not included tonight so you can try one of the many restaurants in town.

Meals:  B

Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. If you'd like to add an extra night, please ask for our rates.

Meals:  B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

  • 16 breakfasts, 13 dinners (no dinners on the rest days or in Santiago): Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, cheese, ham, tea, coffee & juices. Dinner will consist of 3 courses, usually starting with a salad, followed by chicken, red meat, fish or a pasta dish & finishing with a dessert of fruit or cakes.
  • 16 nights in a combination of quality hotels & farmhouse B&Bs on a twin share basis generally with ensuite facilities (upgrade to superior hotel in Arzua (recommended) and Santiago - supplement applies)
  • 18 day itinerary inclusions: 17 nights accommodation, 17 breakfasts and 14 dinners (see itinerary 2)
  • Digital information pack with route notes, maps & GPX
  • Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
  • Pilgrim Passport
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Leon and from Santiago de Compostela
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel Insurance - mandatory
  • Guide – this is a self guided walking holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Excess luggage
  • Option to split the Palas de Rei to Arzua stage - supplement applies. See itinerary 2, 18 day itinerary
  • Items of a personal nature

Accommodation

Comfortable hotels

During the trip you will stay in a collection of hand picked accommodation ranging from quality hotels, farmhouse B&Bs and guesthouses. Location is one of the key factors, with clean mainly spacious rooms, ensuite facilities, helpful staff and a comfortable relaxed atmosphere. Generally our meals will be taken at the hotel and this is another key factor in our selection process.

Comfortable hotels

During the trip you will stay in a collection of hand picked accommodation ranging from quality hotels, farmhouse B&Bs and guesthouses. Location is one of the key factors, with clean mainly spacious rooms, ensuite facilities, helpful staff and a comfortable relaxed atmosphere. Generally our meals will be taken at the hotel and this is another key factor in our selection process.

Comfortable hotels

During the trip you will stay in a collection of hand picked accommodation ranging from quality hotels, farmhouse B&Bs and guesthouses. Location is one of the key factors, with clean mainly spacious rooms, ensuite facilities, helpful staff and a comfortable relaxed atmosphere. Generally our meals will be taken at the hotel and this is another key factor in our selection process.

Suitability

moderate

3

MODERATE - GRADE 3 Daily walks are between 12-30km on well marked trails over diverse terrain – from relatively flat to mountainous. This is a well worn path where route finding will be reasonably straight forward (refer below for further details on self guided adventures). The main areas to concentrate on route finding are arriving and leaving towns and cities. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure.

Departure dates

Daily from 1 Mar to 1 Nov

Notes

Note:
15 or 16 day versions of this trip are available - trip code CT9. An 18 day version is available with the stage from Palas de Rei split over two days - overnight in Melide - 14km or around 4 to 4.5hrs each day.
Note:
Other dates are available on request. Supplements may apply outside of the main season due to additional charges for luggage transfers and hotel closures (some transfers may be required to confirm your booking)
Note:
Departures in winter are likely to experience wetter and colder conditions than at other times with snow possible. Winter can be a magical time to experience the Camino with fewer people and more local encounters, but the walking day is shorter. In addition, hotel closures are possible which may require a change in overnight towns.

Priceper person from

£1950GBP

Options & Supplements*
  • Upgrade to superior hotel in Arzua - twinshare ppGBP£80
  • Supplement for 18 day version - twinshare ppGBP£80
  • Supplement for 18 day itinerary - single room (in a party)GBP£120
  • Excess luggage (per piece, max 20kg in weight)GBP£140
  • Upgrade to superior hotel in Arzua - singleGBP£170
  • Single Supplement - 17 day itineraryGBP£630
  • Solo traveller supplement - 17 day itineraryGBP£690
*Prices listed are per person

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand all | Collapse all

The walking is graded moderate (3). Daily walks are between 14 and 24km on well marked trails over diverse terrain – from relatively flat to mountainous. This is a well worn path where route finding will be reasonably straight forward (refer below for further details on self guided adventures). The main areas to concentrate on route finding are arriving and leaving towns and cities. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure.

There are many bars and cafes at various points along the trail where you can stop and fill up on a slice of Spanish Tortilla, or a bocadillo. These spots will also have facilities you can use if you're buying something, and will often be happy to refill your water bottle.

Card is accepted is most places, but please be aware that some individual bars or cafes may be cash only. You will also find along the way some special stamps offered for donations - it is worthwhile having some coins handy for these.

In order to secure your place on the trip we recommend you book as soon as you are ready. Bookings open for the following year in mid September.

We are able to cater for gluten free diets, however at times, choices are limited. Breakfasts served at the hotels are generally continental style and we suggest bringing your own gluten free breads or cereals. We also recommend bringing your own snacks. Generally in Europe it is quite easy to purchase gluten free foods from supermarkets and shops, but can be harder in restaurants.

This trip can be booked from 1 February to 15 November. The summer months tend to be busy months on the Camino Trail and the weather can be quite hot. In our experience starting the trip in late April or May, or from September to early October, is the best time to travel. The trail is less busy and the weather is cooler. Galicia experiences rain year round.

The Pilgrim's Passport or 'Credencial' is included on this trip and you will receive one locally. The Pilgrim's Passport makes a great souvenir and way to track your walk. You can ask to have your Pilgrim's Passport stamped at churches, your hotels and many other places along the route.

The Compostela is a certificate of completion of the Camino de Santiago and you must walk at least the last 100km into Santiago to receive it. This trip starts in Leon which is well beyond that, so you will be able to receive your Compostela at the end of the walk. To show that you have walked the last 100km you will need to have at least 2 stamps per day in your Pilgrim's Passport.

The Camino Trail is exceptionally well waymarked, with yellow arrows and markers used frequently throughout the route. It is nearly impossible to get lost on this walk.

It is possible to book an extra night at any of the hotels we use which would allow you to have a rest day. However, this does need to be advised at the time of booking.

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been walking and cycling the planet for over four decades and are passionate about delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of Europe, and are eager to share the many benefits of travelling on foot or by bike.

Great Value & Quality

Our well priced trips offer great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guide books along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. We take the stress out of organising your holiday.

Self-Guided Specialists

We have been operating active self guided holidays since 1973. We handle all the necessary logistics so that you can relax and explore your destination at your own pace. Many of our tours depart daily, giving you even greater flexibility.

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