Camino - Leon to Santiago in 15 Days

Camino - Leon to Santiago in 15 Days

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15 Days From

$2190

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Tour Overview

Embark on a 15-day self-guided walking adventure from Leon to Santiago de Compostela, traversing the historic Camino trail through Spain's stunning landscapes. Experience the camaraderie of fellow pilgrims as you journey through mountain villages, past ancient crosses, statues, and grain silos. Delight in the rich history and impressive architecture of Leon and Santiago, including their magnificent cathedrals. Enjoy 14 nights in quality hotels and farmhouse B&Bs, with daily breakfasts and most dinners included. Your route is supported with luggage transfers and a digital information pack with maps and notes. Celebrate the satisfaction of completing the Camino in the vibrant city of Santiago. ...more ...less

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

  • Visit the Templar castle in Villafranca del Bierzo

  • Pass through the narrow valley of the River Valcarce and ascend to O Cebreiro

  • Visit the impressive monastery in Samos, one of the oldest in Spain

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrival In Leon

Location: Leon

Accommodation Name: Hotel

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 Leon. ...more ...less

Day 2 : To Villar De Mazarife (5-6Hrs, 22Km/13.7Mi)

Location: Leon

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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 may choose to shorten the walk today by 9km by taking a bus from Plaza Santo Domingo to Virgen del Camino. Buses leave every 30 minutes and the fare is around €1.

Day 3 : Walk To Astorga, Home To Roman Mosaics (6Hrs, 26Km/16.1Mi)

Location: Astorga

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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, which is 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.

Day 4 : To Rabanal Del Camino, A Mountain Village (5-6Hrs, 19Km/11.8Mi)

Location: Rabanal del Camino

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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/3937ft), a charming mountain village.

Day 5 : To Molinaseca (8Hrs, 25Km/15.5Mi)

Location: Molinaseca

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Passing through broom, heather and other plant species you will continue your ascent to the famous “Mount Irago”. By the mountain pass you will see the “Iron Cross” (1490m/4890ft) and you will now be surrounded by mountains. The route continues downwards to Bierzo. Passing by a coniferous forest you will come to Cruz de Ferro and the Hermitage of Santiago. 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 arrive into Molinaseca with its slate roofs and wooden balconies.

Day 6 : To Villafranca Del Bierzo Via Templar Castle (7Hrs, 30Km/18.6Mi)

Location: Villafranca del Bierzo

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Relatively easy day's 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.

Day 7 : The Last Stage In Castilla To O Cebreiro (8Hrs, 28Km/17.4Mi)

Location: O Cebreiro

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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.

Day 8 : To Samos (6-7Hrs, 30Km/18.6Mi)

Location: Samos

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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 can visit its impressive monastery, one of the oldest in Spain.

Day 9 : To Sarria (3Hrs, 12Km/7.5Mi)

Location: Sarria

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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.

Day 10 : Walk Through The Hills Of Galicia To Portomarin (6Hrs, 22Km/13.7Mi)

Location: Portomarin

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We recommend taking the time to visit the Church of the convent of La Magdalena before leaving town. 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.

Day 11 : Through The Brooms To Palas De Rei (6-7Hrs, 24Km/14.9Mi)

Location: Palas de Rei

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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.

Day 12 : Leave Lugo Province To Enter La Coruña, Walk To Arzúa (8Hrs, 28Km/17.4Mi)

Location: La Coruña

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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 continue on to Arzúa, in the province of La Coruña.

Day 13 : Continue To Rúa Or Pedrouzo (6Hrs, 18Km/11.2Mi)

Location: Rúa

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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.

Day 14 : Arrive Santiago (6Hrs, 21Km/13Mi)

Location: Santiago de Compostela

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 15 : Trip Concludes Santiago De Compostela

Location: Santiago de Compostela

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    14 nights in a combination of quality hotels & farmhouse B&Bs

  • 14 breakfasts, 13 dinners (no dinner 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 d

  • 14 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 and Santiago - supplement applies, must be pre-booked)

  • 16 day itinerary inclusions: 15 nights accommodation, 15 breakfasts and 14 dinners (no dinner in Santiago)

  • Digital information pack with route notes & maps

  • 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

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What's Not Included

  • Travel to Leon and from Santiago de Compostela

    Travel to Leon and from Santiago de Compostela is not included.

  • Meals Not Listed

    Meals not listed as included and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included.

  • Guide

    This is a self-guided walking holiday, so a guide is not included.

  • Solo Traveler Supplement

    A supplement will apply if you are traveling solo or book a single room.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees are not included.

  • Transfers Not Listed

    Transfers not listed as included are excluded.

  • Transfers by Taxi or Public Transport

    Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage are not included.

  • Excess Luggage

    Excess luggage is not included. Please advise if you will have more than one bag weighing a maximum of 20kg as extra charges will apply for additional pieces of luggage.

  • Items of a Personal Nature

    Items of a personal nature are not included.

  • Drinks, Lunches Daily, 1 Dinner

    Drinks, daily lunches, and 1 dinner are not included.

  • Tour Guide

    This is a self-guided walking trip, so a tour guide is not included.

  • Transfers

    Transfers are not included.

Grading

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. Distances on some days will be challenging. 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. ...more ...less

What You Carry

As the walks are fully supported you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements including wet weather gear, good walking boots / shoes, water bottle, lunch supplies, mobile phone and sun protection etc.

Mode of Transport

Travel to Leon and from Santiago de Compostela is included. Transfers by taxi or public transport are available if you need to skip a stage, with a supplement applying for excess luggage.

Accommodation

Enjoy 14 nights in a combination of quality hotels and farmhouse B&Bs on a twin share basis, generally with ensuite facilities. Upgrades to superior hotels in Arzua and Santiago are available with a supplement and must be pre-booked.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of meals are included during the tour?

    The tour includes 14 breakfasts and 13 dinners (no dinner in Santiago). Breakfasts are usually continental, inclusive of breads, cheese, ham, tea, coffee, and juices. Dinners will consist of three courses, usually starting with a salad, followed by chicken, red meat, fish, or pasta. ...more ...less

  • What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will stay in a combination of quality hotels and farmhouse B&Bs on a twin share basis, generally with ensuite facilities. There is an option to upgrade to superior hotels in Arzua and Santiago for an additional supplement, which must be pre-booked.

  • Is luggage transfer available during the tour?

    Yes, luggage transfer is available. You can transfer one piece of luggage with a maximum weight of 20kg. A supplement applies for excess luggage.

  • Is this a guided tour?

    No, this is a self-guided walking holiday. You will receive a digital information pack with route notes and maps to help you navigate the trail.

  • What should I carry during the walks?

    As the walks are fully supported, you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements, including wet weather gear, good walking boots or shoes, a water bottle, lunch supplies, a mobile phone, and sun protection.

  • What is the difficulty level of this tour?

    The tour is graded as moderate (Grade 3). Daily walks range between 12-30km on well-marked trails over diverse terrain, from relatively flat to mountainous. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure.

  • What happens if I need to skip a stage of the walk?

    If you need to skip a stage, transfers by taxi or public transport are available, but these are not included in the tour price.

  • What is the emergency support available during the tour?

    An emergency hotline is available for any urgent issues that may arise during your walk.

  • What is the Pilgrim Passport?

    The Pilgrim Passport is included in the tour and serves as a record of your journey, allowing you to collect stamps from various locations along the Camino.

  • Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?

    Additional costs include meals not listed as included, drinks, travel insurance, entrance fees, and any personal items. A supplement will also apply if you are traveling solo or book a single room.

  • How fit do I have to be?

    Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.

  • What happens if something goes wrong?

    On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.

  • I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?

    Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

M. Sacree(New Plymouth, New Zealand)  

Camino - Leon to Santiago in 15 Days

24 May 2023

Everything ran like clockwork, and the accommodation and meals were first class. Detailed trip notes and maps were included. All together it made for a very enjoyable, worry-free trip.

G. Nelson(Eketahuna, New Zealand)  

Camino - Leon to Santiago in 15 Days

14 May 2024

The accommodation was of varying standards but all great with its own charm. Luggage arrived on time at every destination and the meals were great. The route was also perfect with long days for my level of fitness and time to visit important sites along the way. As a solo female I felt very safe and well supported locally. ...more ...less

C. Larwood(Adelaide, Australia)  

Camino - Leon to Santiago in 15 Days

7 Nov 2023

All travel involves some unforeseen situations but that is part of the deal. Overall my Camino adventure went well. Luggage transport was flawless, the hotels, accommodation and meals were all reasonable. Having completed Leon to Santiago in 14 walking days, I would suggest future customers opt for the longer 16 or 17 option to reduce the very long days, build in rest days. ...more ...less

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Mar 28, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025
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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Camino - Leon to Santiago in 15 Days

15 Days Starting in Leon, Spain and ending in Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Visiting: Leon, Astorga, Rabanal del Camino, Molinaseca, Villafranca del Bierzo, O Cebreiro, Samos, Sarria, Portomarin, Palas de Rei, La Coruña, Rúa, Santiago de Compostela ...more ...less

Tour operator:

UTracks

Tour code:

CT9

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

moderate

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural, History

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $2190 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 22-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

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