Camino - Leon to Santiago
Camino - Leon to Santiago
$2460
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey along the Camino from Leon to Santiago, a self-guided walking tour through Spain's breathtaking landscapes and historic towns. Traverse stunning mountain villages, where the trail is marked by ancient crosses and statues, and experience the camaraderie of fellow pilgrims. Delight in the architectural wonders of Leon and Santiago, with their magnificent cathedrals. Enjoy 16 nights in quality hotels and farmhouse B&Bs, with luggage transfers provided for your convenience. Savor continental breakfasts and three-course dinners, while exploring the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the Camino. This adventure offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and personal achievement, culminating in the satisfaction of reaching Santiago de Compostela. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a cultural enthusiast, this tour promises an unforgettable experience on one of the world's most famous pilgrimage routes. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
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 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. ...more ...less
Day 2 : Walk To Villar De Mazarife (6Hrs)
Location: Leon, Virgen del Camino, Villadangos del Paramo, Villar de Mazarife
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 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 21km/13mi
Day 3 : Continue To Astorga, Home To Roman Mosaics (6-7Hrs)
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 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 30km/18.7mi
Day 4 : Walk To The Mountain Village Of Rabanal Del Camino (5-6Hrs)
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/3940ft), a charming mountain village.Distance 20km/12.8mi
Day 5 : To Molinaseca (7Hrs)
Location: Mount Irago, Molinaseca
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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
Day 6 : To Villafranca Del Bierzo Via Templar Castle (7-8Hrs)
Location: Ponferrada, Villafranca del Bierzo
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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
Day 7 : Rest Day In Villafranca
Location: Villafranca
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you can enjoy the sights of Villafranca and have a rest from the trail. Own dinner arrangements.
Day 8 : The Last Stage In Castilla To O Cebreiro (8Hrs)
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.
Distance 28km/17.4mi
Day 9 : To Samos (6-7Hrs)
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 with its impressive monastery, one of the oldest in Spain.
Distance 30km/18.6mi
Day 10 : To Sarria (3Hrs)
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. We recommend that you take the time to visit the the Convento de la Magdalena and church before leaving town.Distance 14km/8.7mi
Day 11 : Rest Day In Sarria
Location: Sarria
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you can enjoy the sights of Sarria and have a rest from the trail. Own dinner arrangements.
Day 12 : Walk Through The Hills Of Galicia To Portomarin (6Hrs)
Location: Portomarin
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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
Day 13 : Through The Brooms To Palas De Rei (6-7 Hrs)
Location: Palas de Rei
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
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
Day 14 : Leave Lugo Province To Enter La Coruña, Walk To Arzúa (8Hrs)
Location: Arzúa
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 onto Arzúa in the province of La Coruña.
Distance 28km/17.4mi
Day 15 : Continue To Rúa Or Pedrouzo (6Hrs)
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.
Distance 18km/11.2mi
Day 16 : Arrive Santiago (6Hrs)
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
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
Day 17 : 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
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Accommodation
16 nights in a combination of quality hotels & farmhouse B&Bs -
Digital Information Pack
A digital information pack with route notes, maps, and GPX is included.
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Luggage Transfer
Luggage transfer is provided for one piece of luggage per person, with a maximum weight of 20kg.
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Pilgrim Passport
A pilgrim passport is included for the journey.
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Emergency Hotline
An emergency hotline is available for assistance during the tour.
What's Not Included
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Travel to and from the Tour
Travel to Leon and from Santiago de Compostela is not included.
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Meals Not Listed
Meals not listed as included, as well as drinks, are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Guide
This is a self-guided walking trip, so a guide is not included.
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Solo Traveler Supplement
A supplement will apply if you are traveling solo or book a single room.
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Entrance Fees
Entrance fees to attractions are not included.
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Transfers Not Listed
Transfers not listed as included are excluded.
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Transfers by Taxi or Public Transport
Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage are not included.
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Excess Luggage
Excess luggage beyond the included one piece per person is not included.
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Items of a Personal Nature
Items of a personal nature are not included.
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Drinks, Lunches, and Dinner in Santiago and on Rest Days
Drinks, lunches, and dinner in Santiago and on rest days are not included.
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Excess Baggage Charges
Excess baggage charges apply if you have more than one bag weighing a maximum of 20kg. Extra charges will apply for additional pieces of luggage.
Grading
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. ...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, lunch supplies, water bottle, warm top, phone etc.
Mode of Transport
This tour involves walking through various terrains, with luggage transfer provided (max 1 piece, max weight 20kg per person). Transfers by taxi or public transport are available if you need to skip a stage.
Accommodation
Enjoy 16 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 for a supplement.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 16 nights 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 a supplement.
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Is luggage transfer available during the tour?
Yes, luggage transfer is provided with a maximum of one piece per person, weighing up to 20kg. A supplement applies for excess luggage.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 16 breakfasts and 13 dinners. Breakfasts are usually continental, and dinners consist of three courses. Meals on rest days and in Santiago are not included.
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Is there a guide provided for the tour?
No, this is a self-guided walking holiday, so a guide is not included.
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What should I carry during the walks?
You should carry a daypack with your daily requirements, including wet weather gear, lunch supplies, water bottle, warm top, and phone.
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What is the difficulty level of the walks on this tour?
The tour is graded as level 3, with daily walks ranging from 12-30km on well-marked trails over diverse terrain, from relatively flat to mountainous. A good level of fitness is required.
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What happens if I need to skip a stage of the walk?
Transfers by taxi or public transport are available if you need to skip a stage.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and is mandatory for the tour.
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What is the significance of the Cruz de Ferro on the tour?
The Cruz de Ferro is an iron cross set in a tall oak post at the top of Mount Irago, one of the highest points on the Camino. It is surrounded by a mound of stones left by pilgrims over the centuries.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
17 Days Starting in Leon, Spain and ending in Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Visiting: Leon, Virgen del Camino, Villadangos del Paramo, Villar de Mazarife, Astorga, Rabanal del Camino, Mount Irago, Molinaseca, Ponferrada, Villafranca del Bierzo, Villafranca, O Cebreiro, Samos, Sarria, Portomarin, Palas de Rei, Arzúa, Rúa, Santiago de Compostela ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CT2
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided