Camino French Way - Full Cycle

49km, +768 m / -812 m: Today will see you continue through the vineyards and the red earth of the region on another day of delightful cycling. This part of the French Way also passes some of the most famous landmarks of the entire Camino, such as the Monasterio of Irache with its bodega and the steep climb to Villamayor de Monjardin. The day finishes in Logrondo which is the capital city of the world famous wine producing region of La Rioja.

57km, +858 m / -628 m: The fourth day of your trip will see you pass through the countryside of La Rioja on pleasant red earth tracks. As you pass by vineyards, your first stop is Navarrete, a 12th century twon, built by the "Knights of the Holy Sepulchre". Here you can admire the fabulous Baroque Church of "La Ascension". You will see the Cantabrian mountain range to the north, and La Demanda Mountain to the south. En-route, you will have the chance to visit the Monastery of "Valvanera" deep in the middle of the "Sierra de la Demanda".Finally, arriving in Santo Domingo de la Calzada, one of the most beautiful town en-route to Santiago.

68km, +975 m / -760 m: Your cycling today will see you pass through some nice peaceful villages and hilly farmland on your way to the historical city of Burgos. Today is a short cycle along relatively easy terrain, which should allow you plenty of time to explore the wonderful city of Burgos. Burgos stills holds much of its medieval grandeur and also boasts the Cathedral of Burgos. The Cathedral is considered to be a masterpiece of Spanish Gothic Architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are also impressive walks along the banks of the Duero and Arlanza rivers, which complement a visit to the cities historic quarter nicely.

73km, +675 m / -761 m: Todays cycle will see you take a lovely journey through some of the tranquil villages of the region. The influence of the Camino de Santiago on the region is visible in the many obvious references in all the villages.

67km, +445 m / -421 m: There is a common phrase, “Castilla es ancha”, which means “Castilla is wide” and on this stage of the Camino you’lll see why. The wide open spaces are interspersed with crop fields which add tracts of colour to the landscape all year round. The first part of the day is on relatively flat tracks with the run into Sahagun covering more undulating ground.

67km, +392 m / -381 m: Todays cycle will see you travel through the Castillan meseta or plateau, where the colourful landscape appears to be endless. Your cycle over this flat terrain will offer fantastic vistas over the surrounding farmlands. Your destination for today is the lively city of Leon.

44km, +414 m / -379 m: Of all the days on the entire French Way, today is most likely the flattest. However as you are still on the Castilla meseta there are still many great views to be seen including todays destination of Astorga, which can be seen down in the valley below. Astorga is a former Roman stronghold which includes some great sites to visit, such as, the cathedral, the old city walls and the Episcopal Palace.

54km, +1119 m / -1436 m: Today is a relatively tough day of cycling, however it is also the most rewarding! The Camino climbs up to the famous Cruz del Hierro (the Iron Cross) which sits at 1500m above sea level. This climb offers breathtaking views over the surrounding areas. The abundance of natural scenery, combined with the rich history of the towns, make this a fantastic way to finish the section. Your final destination is Ponferrada which is an energetic city with a beautiful medieval centre.

56km, +1487 m / -890 m: Toady will see you cycling through the valley of Bierzo in the province of Castilla y Leon. For much of the day you will have mountains all around you, before moving into the red earth wine making region that leads to the lively medieval town of Villafranca del Bierzo. From here there is quite a bit of climbing and you will pass through the slender valley of the river Valcace before tackling the incline of O Cebreiro. Located between the ranges of "Los Ancares" and "La Sierra do Courel".

46km, +1342 m / -2017 m: This stage of the Camino will see you cycle along some undulating tracks as you gradually make your way out of the Galician Mountains. Along the road to Sarria you will pass many fantastic sites and beautiful, historical buildings. The town of Sarria itself is known for its rich ecclesiastical heritage.

75km, +1216 m / -1231 m: Leaving Sarria the Camino travels upwards through some wonderful oak woods and by the Romanesque Church of Barbedelo. In Portomatin the route crosses the Belesar Dam before continuing along a relatively easy, although slightly lumpy track, to Melide.

54km, +940 m / -1094 m: Today could be considered to be the most exciting day on the whole Camino as you reach Santiago de Compostela! After leaving Melide you will travel along the types of tracks which you have become accustomed to over the last couple of days. As the Camino rises and lowers over the small hills you will come to the nicest part of todays cycle which is El Monte de Gozo (Mount of Joy). Your final destination of Santiago de Compostela is visible in the distance from here!

This is the end of your adventure but not until after you have eaten breakfast. If you wish to stay in the area, we can recommend the following for you: - Explore the magnificent historic centre of Santiago, or - Continue your holiday with us along the "Camino Fisterra" (Finisterre Way), staying overnight in a 2* hotel which is actually a lighthouse, or - take a bus to Fisterra. (Bus to fisterra: 9am, 10am, bus back in Santiago 16:45 & 19:00. takes 3hours) or - Visit the untouched sandy beaches and coves along the west coast. With incredibly few tourists, you are certain to have a very individual experience. Ask us for more information.