Camino Francés from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port: 20 days by bike, shorter stages

Your Camino day by day

1. Day 1 Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port → Zubiri 47.0 km · +1843 m / -1601 m

   This stage is a challenging trek through the Pyrenees, covering 47 km with significant climbs. Pilgrims will pass through picturesque villages like Valcarlos and enjoy stunning mountain views. A practical tip is to start early to make the most of daylight hours.

   Did you know that Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Citadel, which dates back to the 17th century? This historic town has long been a traditional starting point for pilgrims heading to Santiago.

   

   Map of Zubiri: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Zubiri →

2. Day 2 Zubiri → Puente la Reina 45.0 km · +982 m / -1058 m

   Today’s stage is a long trek of 45 km, featuring a mix of rolling hills and scenic valleys. Pilgrims will pass through charming villages like Obanos, with its rich history and welcoming atmosphere. A practical tip is to start early to manage the distance comfortably.

   Did you know that Puente la Reina is famous for its medieval bridge, which was built in the 11th century to facilitate the passage of pilgrims? This impressive structure has stood the test of time and remains a key landmark on the Camino.

   

   Map of Puente la Reina: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Puente la Reina →

3. Day 3 Puente la Reina → Los Arcos 43.0 km · +918 m / -851 m

   Today's stage is a long trek of 43 km, featuring a mix of gentle hills and some steeper climbs, with a total ascent of 918 m. Pilgrims will pass through quaint villages like Mañeru and Cirauqui, each offering a glimpse of local culture. Make sure to stay hydrated, as the distance can be challenging.

   Did you know that Puente la Reina is famous for its medieval bridge, which was built in the 11th century to unite two routes of the Camino de Santiago? This stunning structure is a symbol of the town's historical significance in pilgrimage travel.

   

   Map of Los Arcos: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Los Arcos →

4. Day 4 Los Arcos → Logroño 28.0 km · +488 m / -593 m

   Today’s stage takes you through rolling vineyards and charming villages, making it a picturesque walk. The 28 km trek includes a moderate climb, so pace yourself as you enjoy the scenery. A practical tip is to fill up on water in the villages along the way.

   Did you know that Logroño is famous for its tapas bars, particularly on Calle del Laurel, where you can sample local delicacies like patatas a la riojana? This vibrant street is a culinary hotspot in the heart of La Rioja.

   

   Map of Logroño: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Logroño →

5. Day 5 Logroño → Santo Domingo de la Calzada 50.0 km · +548 m / -406 m

   Today's stage stretches 50 km, taking you through the scenic vineyards of La Rioja and charming villages like Navarrete and Nájera. The route is moderately challenging with a climb of 548 m, so pace yourself and take breaks as needed. Don't forget to stay hydrated on this long trek.

   Did you know that Santo Domingo de la Calzada is famous for its chicken miracle? According to legend, a pilgrim was wrongfully hanged, and a rooster crowed to prove his innocence, leading to the town's patronage of pilgrims.

   

   Map of Santo Domingo de la Calzada: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Santo Domingo de la Calzada →

6. Day 6 Santo Domingo de la Calzada → Belorado 23.0 km · +400 m / -234 m

   Today's stage from Santo Domingo de la Calzada to Belorado covers 23 km, with a climb of 400 m and a descent of 234 m. The route features picturesque villages and rolling landscapes, making it a rewarding experience for pilgrims. A practical tip is to start early to enjoy the cooler morning temperatures.

   Did you know that Santo Domingo de la Calzada is famous for its chicken miracle, where a wrongly accused man was saved from execution by a live chicken? This legend highlights the town's deep-rooted connection to the Camino and its history.

   

   Map of Belorado: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Belorado →

7. Day 7 Belorado → Burgos 50.0 km · +901 m / -690 m

   The stage from Belorado to Burgos is a long trek of 50 km, with a notable climb of 901 m. Pilgrims will pass through charming villages and scenic landscapes, making it a rewarding but challenging day. A practical tip is to start early to manage the distance comfortably.

   Did you know that Burgos is home to the stunning Burgos Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site? This Gothic masterpiece was constructed over several centuries and is famous for its impressive architecture and the tomb of El Cid.

   

   Map of Burgos: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Burgos →

8. Day 8 Burgos → Castrojeriz 41.0 km · +434 m / -528 m

   Today's stage spans 41 km, taking you through a mix of open landscapes and charming villages. Expect a moderate climb, with a total ascent of 434 m and descent of 528 m. A practical tip is to start early to make the most of the cooler morning temperatures.

   Did you know that Burgos is home to the stunning Burgos Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site? This Gothic masterpiece was completed in the 16th century and is renowned for its intricate architecture and impressive altarpiece.

   

   Map of Castrojeriz: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Castrojeriz →

9. Day 9 Castrojeriz → Carrión de los Condes 44.0 km · +378 m / -405 m

   Today's stage is a long trek of 44 km through the vast plains of Castile, with gentle climbs and descents. Pilgrims will pass through charming villages like Itero de la Vega and San Nicolás del Real Camino. Carry enough water and snacks, as services can be sparse along the way.

   Did you know that Carrión de los Condes was once an important stopping point for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago, with over 25 monasteries established there in the Middle Ages?

   

   Map of Carrión de los Condes: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Carrión de los Condes →

10. Day 10 Carrión de los Condes → Sahagún 40.0 km · +336 m / -288 m

    Today's stage is a long stretch of 40 km, featuring gentle hills and serene landscapes. Pilgrims will pass through small villages, offering a glimpse of rural Spanish life. It's advisable to start early to manage the distance comfortably.

    Did you know that Sahagún is known for its exquisite pastries, particularly the 'dulces de Sahagún'? This town has a rich monastic history, being home to the famous San Benito monastery established in the 11th century.

    

    Map of Sahagún: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Sahagún →

11. Day 11 Sahagún → León 54.0 km · +498 m / -588 m

    Today's stage is a long trek of 54 km, winding through the scenic landscapes of the León province. Pilgrims will pass through small villages and fields, with a moderate climb of 498 m. Be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks to enjoy the views.

    Did you know that León's Gothic cathedral, known for its stunning stained glass windows, took over 300 years to complete? It is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Spain.

    

    Map of León: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in León →

12. Day 12 León → Astorga 49.0 km · +569 m / -561 m

    Today’s stage from León to Astorga is a long trek of 49 km, featuring a mix of urban and rural landscapes. Pilgrims will pass through charming villages and enjoy scenic views, with a moderate climb of 569 m. Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

    Did you know that Astorga is home to the Episcopal Palace, designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí? This striking building, completed in 1915, showcases Gaudí's unique modernist style and is a key landmark in the town.

    

    Map of Astorga: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Astorga →

13. Day 13 Astorga → Rabanal del Camino 21.0 km · +642 m / -100 m

    Today’s stage from Astorga to Rabanal del Camino offers a mix of rolling hills and scenic views, with a total distance of 21.0 km and a climb of 642 m. Pilgrims will pass through small villages, experiencing the tranquil beauty of the region. A practical tip is to refill your water supply in the villages along the way, as stretches can be long without facilities.

    Did you know that Astorga is famous for its chocolate? The city has a long tradition of chocolate-making, dating back to the 18th century, making it a delightful stop for pilgrims.

    

    Map of Rabanal del Camino: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Rabanal del Camino →

14. Day 14 Rabanal del Camino → Ponferrada 32.0 km · +308 m / -1186 m

    Today's stage from Rabanal del Camino to Ponferrada covers 32 km, with a gentle climb of 308 m before a steep descent of 1186 m. Pilgrims will pass through charming villages and beautiful landscapes, making it a rewarding trek. Remember to stay hydrated, especially during the descent.

    Did you know that Ponferrada is home to the Templar Castle, built in the 12th century? This impressive fortress served as a stronghold for the Knights Templar, who played a significant role in the protection of pilgrims on the Camino.

    

    Map of Ponferrada: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Ponferrada →

15. Day 15 Ponferrada → Villafranca del Bierzo 24.0 km · +316 m / -351 m

    Today's stage from Ponferrada to Villafranca del Bierzo covers 24 km, featuring a gentle climb and descent through picturesque landscapes and charming villages. The path winds through vineyards and rural scenery, making it a pleasant trek. A practical tip is to carry enough water, as some stretches may be remote.

    Did you know that Villafranca del Bierzo is known for its rich historical heritage, with origins dating back to Roman times? The town is famous for its stunning architecture, including the 12th-century Church of Santiago.

    

    Map of Villafranca del Bierzo: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Villafranca del Bierzo →

16. Day 16 Villafranca del Bierzo → O Cebreiro 28.0 km · +905 m / -188 m

    Today's stage takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Bierzo Valley, with its lush vineyards and charming villages. The trek to O Cebreiro is challenging, featuring a significant climb of 905 meters over 28 kilometres. A practical tip is to start early to enjoy the cooler morning temperatures.

    Did you know that O Cebreiro is famous for its unique round huts called 'pallozas'? These ancient structures date back to the pre-Roman era and are a distinctive feature of the region.

    

    Map of O Cebreiro: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in O Cebreiro →

17. Day 17 O Cebreiro → Sarria 39.0 km · +515 m / -1383 m

    Today's stage is a long trek of 39 kilometres, descending through lush landscapes and charming villages. Pilgrims will experience a moderate climb of 515 metres before descending significantly, making it essential to pace yourself. Remember to stay hydrated, as there are stretches with limited services.

    Did you know that Sarria is the most popular starting point for the Camino de Santiago? It is located just over 100 kilometres from Santiago, allowing pilgrims to complete the minimum distance required to earn a Compostela certificate.

    

    Map of Sarria: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Sarria →

18. Day 18 Sarria → Palas de Rei 47.0 km · +950 m / -800 m

    Today's stage from Sarria to Palas de Rei is a lengthy trek of 47 km, featuring a climb of 950 m. Pilgrims will pass through charming villages and lush landscapes, making for a rewarding but challenging day. Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

    Did you know that Sarria is one of the most popular starting points for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago? It is estimated that around 30% of all pilgrims begin their journey here, making it a bustling hub of activity.

    

    Map of Palas de Rei: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Palas de Rei →

19. Day 19 Palas de Rei → Arzúa 29.0 km · +550 m / -550 m

    Today's stage from Palas de Rei to Arzúa stretches 29 km through lush green landscapes and charming villages. Pilgrims will encounter gentle climbs and descents, making it a moderately challenging trek. Remember to take breaks and enjoy the local hospitality along the way.

    Did you know that Arzúa is famous for its cheese, known as Arzúa-Ulloa? This creamy cheese has been produced in the region for centuries and is a staple in local cuisine.

    

    Map of Arzúa: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Arzúa →

20. Day 20 Arzúa → Santiago de Compostela 39.0 km · +650 m / -700 m

    Today’s stage is a long trek of 39 km, making it one of the most challenging segments of the Camino. Pilgrims will pass through lush landscapes and charming villages, with a gradual climb of 650 m before descending into Santiago. A practical tip is to start early to allow plenty of time for rest along the way.

    Did you know that Santiago de Compostela is home to the impressive Cathedral of Santiago, which is believed to house the remains of Saint James, one of Jesus's apostles? This cathedral has been a pilgrimage site for centuries, attracting visitors from all over the world.

    

    Map of Santiago de Compostela: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Santiago de Compostela →

Another way to do it

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