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The Pilgrimage Route of St. James 2008
Probably the most famous Christian pilgrimage route of all is the medieval route to Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain, alleged burial place of St. James, brother of John the Evangelist and one of Christ's twelve apostles. Pilgrimages began in the 10th century AD and by the 15th century tens of thousands of pilgrims were making the journey from all over Europe. There were four principal routes across France leading into Spain one of which - the route we use - was known as the Via Podensis (Le Puy Road), the route taken by Godescalc, Bishop of Le Puy, in 950 AD.
We follow the whole route from Le Puy to Santiago in ten stages (click the links below to see the detailed itinerary). You may choose the section that passes through the part of the country that interests you and are able to start from any point along the entire route. Your luggage is moved ahead each day and you are accommodated in comfortable small hotels and guest houses or 'gites' with breakfast and dinner each night unless stated otherwise. Depart any day you like from May 1st to October 30th, subject to accommodation availability. For a note on accommodation see 'GENERAL NOTES, ACCOMMODATION' at the bottom of the page.
Click the links below to see the detailed itineraryLE PUY - NASBINALS6 nights/5 days walk - £395.00 per person
6 nights/5 days walk - £385.00 per person
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Below we have provided further information to help you plan your journey. Click the appropriate link for further details.
Railway Stations (Spain)  |
Railway Stations (France) |
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| LE PUY - NASBINALS |
Day 2: Le Puy - St Privat, 24 km/15 miles. Altitude at departure 625m/2063ft
The route climbs up to the high plateau of the Velay. On the horizon is the silhouette of the Deves mountains. Away to the left are the higher peaks as we descend gently towards St. Privat, overlooking the Allier gorges.
Altitude at arrival: 890m/2937ft.
24 kms/15 miles. 6 hours walking.
Day 3: St Privat - Saugues, 20 km/12.5 miles. Altitude at departure: 890m/2937ft.
The route overlooks the gorges as far as Rochegude (967m/3191ft), dominated by an ancient tower, then down to to the Allier itself, which we cross at Monistrol (619m/2043ft). Then it climbs again to the plateau (+400m/1320ft) before arriving at Saugues, well known for its wild mushrooms.
Altitude at arrival: 960m/3168ft.
20 kms/12.5 miles. 5 hours.
Day 4: Saugues - Les Faux, 30 km/18.75 miles. Altitude at departure: 960m/3168ft.
Today the route crosses the solitary highlands of the Margeride at over 1000m/3300ft, as far as the L'Hospitalet pass (1304m/4303ft). After the chapel at St. Roch a sign records that there are only 1443 kms/902 miles to Santiago. The hamlet of Les Faux, just off the route, is tiny but the inn, a handsome stone building, offers you a well-deserved rest.
Altitude at arrival: 1113m/3673ft. 30 kms/18.75 miles. 8 hours.
Day 5: Les Faux - Aumont Aubrac, 16 km/10 miles. Altitude at departure: 1113m/3673ft.
After Saint Alban de Limagnole (950m/3135ft), where we arrive after little more than an hour, we continue across an impressive and beautiful granite plateau. At Pont des Estrets (932m/3076ft) there is a toll to pay for crossing the Truyere and then the route follows the ancient Roman 'Agrippa Way' (Lyon-Toulouse) that take us to Aumont Aubrac.
Altitude at arrival: 1050m/3465ft. 16 kms/10 miles. 4 hours.
Day 6: Aumont - Nasbinals, 26 km/16.25 miles. Altitude at departure: 1050m/3465ft.
With the Margeride behind us, we now tackle the Aubrac. An immense plateau of pasture and marshy moorland, bristling with granite boulders, you will meet more livestock than people - the cattle here, the Aubrac, are wonderful, with their honey-coloured coat and lyre-shaped horns. After a place known as 'the Four Tracks' (1178m/3887ft), the route continues across Riutort (literally 'the Twisted Stream') to Nasbinals.
Altitude at arrival: 1080m/3894ft. 26 kms/16.25 miles. 6 hours 45 minutes.
Day 7: End of the trip after breakfast.
7 days - 6 nights - 5 days walk.
GETTING THERE
Arrive: Le Puy en Velay train Station or Aumont Aubrac train Station.Depart: Return shuttle to the train station.
DIFFICULTY
4 to 6 hours walking a day. Easy route with 150 to 500 metres of altitude change per day.LUGGAGE
Your luggage is transferred from accommodation to accommodation every day.ACCOMMODATION
6 nights in hotel 1* or 2*Half board, double room
NUMBER OF PEOPLE
This tour is available for groups of 2 or more.WHEN TO GO
There are departures every day between May 1st and October 30th.
PRICE
£395 pp sharingSingle room supplement - £80 Supplement for person walking alone £25
| NASBINALS - CONQUES |
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Day 1: Arrival at Nasbinals (overnight and dinner).
Day 2: Nasbinals - St Chely d'Aubrac 24.6 km/15.4 miles. Altitude at departure: 1180m/3894ft.
This section begins on the high plateau of the Aubrac. 'In loco horroris et vastae solitudinis...' (in this place of horror and profound solitude), words once engraved on the pediment of the monastery at Aubrac, which well express the fears of the pilgrims of the past. Today we may tramp these sumptuous pastures with a light heart; and just before the village of Aubrac, we cross a pass at 1360m/4480ft to leave the Lozere department and enter the Aveyron.
Altitude at arrival: 808m/2666ft. 24.6 kms/15.4 miles. 6 hours.
Day 3: St Chely - Espalion, 24 km/15 miles. Altitude at departure: 808m/2666ft
The trail continues via the 'old bridge', crossing the Boralde de St Chely (792m/2614ft) for the first time. Then come to L'Estrade on the plateau before going down again to cross the river once more. Then it climbs up to La Rozere and reaches the Lot Valley at Come d'Olt (385m/1271ft), where the church has a strange, spiralling bell tower. After crossing the Lot there are two possibilities for getting to Espalion: follow the valley along a little road, or steeper paths.
Altitude at arrival: 342m/1129ft. 24 kms/15 miles. 6 hours.
Day 4: Espalion - Estaing, 12.4 km/7.75 miles. Altitude at departure: 342m/1129ft
This section is a formality, without any difficulty. Some might care to wander slowly along the Lot Valley, taking in the region's varied architecture - especially the church at Bessuejouls (335m/1106ft) - whilst others may prefer to get to Estaing more quickly to get to know this beautiful town dominated by its unusual castle.
Altitude at arrival: 320m/1056ft. 12.4 kms/7.75 miles. 3 hours 30.
Day 5: Estaing - Espeyrac, 23.5 km/14.7 miles. Altitude at departure: 320m/1056ft. Today the route continues along the Lot Valley before climbing above the Lot gorges to reach the Rouergue plateau. A cross with its little stone pilgrim awaits us at the entrance to the Golinhac (650m/2145ft), ancient resting place on the St. James Way. Finally we come to Espeyrac via Les Albusquies and Campagnac (593m/1957ft).
Altitude at arrival: 369m/1218ft. 23.5 kms/14.7 miles. 6 hours.
Day 6: Espeyrac - Conques, 12.1 km/7.5 miles. Altitude at departure: 369m/1218ft.
A short stage, which is all to the good as the arrival at Conques, after walking through fields and woodland, is magical. The medieval quarter is visible only at the last moment to the pilgrim coming from the east; and the town extends away in tiers of pointed roofs overlooked by the three towers of Basilica Sainte Foy. It is worth devoting as much time as possible to the discovery of this enchanting town.
Altitude at arrival: 280m/924ft. 12.1 kms/7.5 miles. 3 hours 30.
Day 7: End of the trip after breakfast
7 days - 6 nights - 5 days walk.
GETTING THERE
Arrival: Aumont Aubrac train station or St Christophe train station
Departure: Conques does not have a railway station - the nearest is at St. Christophe, with direct TGV service to Paris. Some bus services or an inexpensive taxi ride.
Rodez has an airport with flights from London Stansted and a station with trains to Toulouse and Paris.
DIFFICULTY
4 to 5 hours walking a day. Easy route with 150 to 450 m of altitude change per day.LUGGAGE
Your luggage is transferred from accommodation to accommodation every day.ACCOMMODATION
6 night in hotel 1* or 2*Half board - double room
NUMBER OF PEOPLE
This tour is available to groups of 2 or more.WHEN TO GO
There are departures every day between May 1st and October 30th.PRICE
£385 per person sharingSingle room supplement - £80.00 Supplement for person walking alone £25
| CONQUES - CAHORS |
Day 1: Arrival at Conques (overnight and dinner)
Day 2: Conques - Decazeville, 17.4 km/10.9 miles. Altitude at departure: 280m/924ft.
After the bridge over the Dourdou, the route climbs up the charming Chapel of St. Foy, with one last look at beautiful Conques. Soon after, you have a choice of shorter or longer routes to bring you to the old mining town of Decazaville.
Altitude at arrival: 225m/743ft. 17.4 kms/10.9 miles. 4 hours 30.
Day 3: Decazeville - Figeac, 31.5 km/19.7 miles. Altitude at departure: 225m/743ft. A short climb to the Saint Roch chapel (353m/1165ft) and then down to the Lot Valley and on to Livinhac (220m/726ft), followed by a fairly strenuous climb into the Lot department and the aptly named village of Montredon ('the round mountain'). The route takes you then to Figeac with its historic centre.
Altitude at arrival: 194m/640ft. 31.5 kms/19.7 miles. 9 hours.
Day 4: Figeac - Cajarc, 29 km/19.7 miles. Altitude at departure: 194m/640ft
We reach Carjac by walking on the plateau that separates the Cele and Lot valleys. After Faycelles (319m/1053ft) and Beduer, the landscape changes. Menhirs and dolmens appear, along with charming dry-stone constructions which accompany us to Grealou (374m/1234ft) in the extreme south of the regional park of the Causses du Quercy; and then again into the valley of the Lot.
Altitude at arrival: 160m/528ft. 31.5 kms/19.7 miles. 8 hours 30.
Day 5: Cajarc - Limogne, 17 km/10.6 miles. Altitude at departure: 160m/528ft.
Head southwards to cross a marshy plain in a meander of the River Lot to the lush pastures of Gaillac. Then it is up to the Causse de Limogne where stone is used for everything. Before reaching Limogne (famous for its truffle market), we pass by Mas de Pech (339m/1119ft) and the Mas de Borie.
Altitude at arrival: 300m/990ft. 17 kms/10.6 miles. 4 hours 15.
Day 6: Limogne - Lalbenque, 22 km/13,75 miles. Altitude at departure: 300m/990ft.
Continue across the Causse, skirting the village of Varaire and become one with the old Roman road (ancient paving stones still lie beneath the mud). At the D55, we leave the path to reach Lalbenque.
Altitude at arrival: 250m/825ft. 22 kms/13.75 miles. 5 hours.
Day 7: Lalbenque - Cahors, 19 km/11.9 miles. Altitude at departure: 250m/825ft.
There are a couple of options. Purists will return to the where they joined the D55, others will continue onwards via another path to join the main route further on. Then one more wild plateau before the descent into handsome Cahors.
Altitude at arrival: 122m/403ft. 19 kms/11.9 miles. 4 hours 30.
Day 8: End of the trip after breakfast.
8 days - 7 nights - 6 days walk.
GETTING THERE
Arrival: Rodez train station, then bus for Conques.Departure: Cahors train station.
DIFFICULTY
4 to 7 hours walking a day, easy routh with 50 to 350 m of altitude change per day.LUGGAGE
Your luggage is transferred from accommodation to accommodation every day.ACCOMMODATION
7 nights in hotel 1* or 2*Half board - double room
NUMBER OF PEOPLE
This tour is available to groups of 2 or more.WHEN TO GO
There are departures every day between May 1st and October 30th.PRICE
£465 per person
Single room supplement - £80 Supplement for person walking alone £25
| CAHORS - LECTOURE |
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Day 1: Arrival at Cahors (overnight and dinner)
Day 2: Cahors - Montcuq, 31 km/19.4 miles (possibility of shuttle). Altitude: 122m/403ft.
We finally leave the Lot Valley that we have been following on and off since Espalion, and head more directly south. Meanwhile, we scale the slopes above the river by means of steps and rungs (height difference of 200m); then the route stretches away across the fertile Quercy Blanc (a name derived from its chalky soil) to Montcuq and its distinctive fortress.
Altitude at arrival: 175m/577ft. 31 kms/19.4 miles. 7 hours 45.
Day 3: Montcuq - Durfort Lacapelette, 25.7 km/16 miles. Altitude at departure: 175m/577ft.
Continue across Quercy to Lot and Garonne. We pass our first 'bastide' (fortified town), Lauzerte, isolated on its pinnacle (a worthwhile
2 km/1.25 mile detour) and, enjoying the pretty architecture of the region, head on to Durfort.
Altitude at arrival: 206m/680ft. 25.7 kms/16 miles. 6 hours 30.
Day 4: Durfort - Moissac, 14 km/8.75 miles. Altitude at departure: 206m/680ft.
A short walk across fields and orchards bring us swiftly to Moissac, a lovely town on the banks of the Tarn that has always been an important halt on the Way of St. James. As well as the historic centre, it is worth having a look at the Canal Bridge, where the Garonne canal spans the river.
Altitude at arrival: 76m/251ft. 14 kms/8.75 miles. 3 hours 30.
Day 5: Moissac - Auvillar, 19.2 km/12 miles. Altitude at departure: 76m/251 ft.
Our route today follows the canal towpath for the most part - a relaxing, tranquil day (unless you decide to take the higher path along the slopes above). Cross the bridge at Pommevic and head south to Auvillar.
Altitude at arrival: 108m/356ft. 19.2 kms/12 miles. 4 hours 45.
Day 6: Auvillar - Lectoure, 33.1 km/20.7 miles. Altitude at departure: 108m/356ft.
Soon we enter the Gers - pass Flamarens and its old castle, followed by Miradoux, the oldest bastide in the Gers, before reaching Castet Arrouy, where you have a choice of routes - the more direct route or the old route via Avit Frandat (191m/630ft).
Altitude at arrival: 186m/614ft. 33.1 kms/20.70 miles. 8 hours.
Day 7: End of the trip after breakfast
7 days - 6 nights - 5 days walk
GETTING THERE
Cahors train station or Agen train station or Auch train stationDIFFICULTY
4 to 6 hours walk a day, no difficulty, 50 to 150 m of altitude change per dayLUGGAGE
Your luggage is transferred from accommodation to accommodation every day.ACCOMMODATION
6 night in hotel 1* , 2* or 3*Half board - double room
NUMBER OF PEOPLE
This tour is available to groups of 2 or more.DEPARTURE DATES
There are departures every day between May 1st and October 30th.PRICE
£445 per personSingle room supplement - £95 Supplement for person walking alone £25
| LECTOURE - AIRE-SUR-ADOUR |
Day 1: Arrival at Lectoure (overnight and dinner)
Day 2: Lectoure - La Romieu, 19 km/11.9 miles. Altitude at departure: 186m/614ft. Initially head west, passing Marsolan (171m/564ft) and then the chapel at Abrin, at which point the route goes northwards for La Romieu. This is not the historic route (pilgrims would in the past have headed directly for Condom) but La Romieu, with its collegiate church of St. Peter, served as a staging post for pilgrims coming from Rocamadour and Agen and it is where we pass the night.
Altitude at arrival: 167m/551ft. 19 kms/11.9 miles. 4 hours 45.
Day 3: La Romieu - Condom, 16 km/10 miles. Altitude at departure: 167m/551ft.
A short section to Condom, via Castelnau sur L'Auvignon, and the old Romanesque chapel of St. Germaine. Conoisseurs may like to try a glass of Armagnac, for which Condom is famous.
Altitude at arrival: 81m/267ft. 16 kms/10 miles. 3 hours 45.
Day 4: Condom - Montreall du Gers, 16.3 km/10.2 miles. Altitude at arrival: 81m/267ft.
Into the heart of Gascony, with its gastronomic and rural traditions. It is worth making a short detour to Larresingue and its ramparts, before crossing the Osse via the ancient bridge at Artigues and heading to Montreal, ancient bastide overlooking the Auzoue.
Altitude at arrival: 135m/446ft. 16.3 kms/10.2 miles. 4 hours.
Day 5: Montreal du Gers - Eauze, 16.3 km/10.2 miles. Altitude at departure: 135m/446ft. The route heads due south across country. From Lamothe (167m/551ft) the path is along the former railway line, guaranteeing good, easy walking.
Altitude at arrival: 142m/469ft. 16.3 kms/10.2 miles. 4 hours.
Day 6: Eauze - Nogaro, 20km/12.5 miles. Altitude at departure: 142m/469ft.
Today, undulating landscapes, vineyards, fields of maize, forests...half way is Manciet, the old meeting point of the Via Podiensis and the route from Auch.
Altitude at arrival: 98m/323ft. 20 kms/12.5 miles. 5 hours.
Day 7: Nogaro - Aire-sur-Adour, 30 km/18.75miles. Altitude at departure: 98m/323ft. Gradually the landscape changes from woodland to, in the Landes department, the Adour plain. A curiosity here are the dovecotes hidden in the treetops.
Altitude at arrival: 81m/267ft. 30 kms/18.75 miles. 7 hours.
Day 8: End of the trip after breakfast.
8 days -7 nights -6 days walk.
GETTING THERE
Arrival: Agen ou Auch train station.Departure: bus to Lectoure from Aire-sur-Adour.
DIFFICULTY
4 to 7 hours walking a day, easy route with 150 m of altitude change per dayLUGGAGE
Your luggage is transferred from accommodation to accommodation every day.ACCOMMODATION
5 nights in hotel 1* or 2*, 2 nights in cottage ('gite').Half board - double room
NUMBER OF PEOPLE
This tour is available to groups of 2 or more.WHEN TO GO
There are departures every day between May 1st and October 30th.PRICE
£455 per personSingle room supplement - £90 Supplement for person walking alone £25
| AIRE-SUR-ADOUR - ST JEAN PIED DE PORT |
Day 1: Arrival at Aire-sur-Adour (overnight and dinner)
Day 2: Aire-sur- Adour - Arzacq, 32 km/20 miles. Altitude at departure: 81m/267ft.
This first section is partly in the Landes but away from the forests and pines and instead making its way over countryside, where maze blazes around spinneys and copses. As we reach the Pyrenees Atlantiques, a sign informs us that there are still 924 kms/577.5 miles to Compostela. Possibility of slightly shortening this day with an alternative path.
Altitude at arrival: 231m/762ft. 32 kms/20 miles. 8 hours.
Day 3: Arzacq - Maslacq : 30.5 km/19 miles (possibility of shuttle). Altitude at departure: 31m/762ft. Today we enter Bearn, becoming ever closer to the Pyrenees. Fields and wooded valleys as far as Arthez de Bearn (211m/696ft), perched over the Gave plain. Then it is down to the Gave de Pau before reaching Maslacq.
Altitude at arrival: 78m/257ft. 30.5 kms/19 miles. 8 hours.
Day 4: Maslacq - Navarrenx, 22 km/13.75 miles. Altitude at departure: 78m/257ft. Initially we follow the Gave de Pau before going up higher from where there are magnificent views of the Pyrenees. Down to Sauvelade before reaching a high point of 251m/828ft. Then a sharp descent through forest as far as Meritein (148m/488ft) before reaching the almost entirely fortified town of Navarrenx.
Altitude at arrival: 125m/413ft. 22 kms/13.75 miles. 5 hours 45.
Day 5: Navarrenx - St Palais, 30 km/18.75 miles (possibility of shuttle). Altitude at departure: 125m/413ft. We remain the the Bearn as far as Gave de Mauleon, before reentering the Basque country. At the 'Stele de Gibralter', which marks the supposed meeting point of the routes from Le Puy, Tours and Vezeley, we need to go north to get to St Palais. Originally not on the route, from the 13th century St Palais became a popular staging point.
Altitude at arrival: 50m/165ft. 30 kms/18.75 miles. 7 hours.
Day 6: St Palais-Larceveau, 15 km/9.4 miles. Altitude at departure: 50m/165ft.
We are clearly in the Basque country as we meander over green hills to the charming white village of Ostabat (124m/409ft) before continuing on to Larceveau.
Altitude at arrival: 160m/528ft. 15 kms/9.4 miles. 3 hours 45.
Day 7: Larceveau - St Jean Pied de Port, 18 km/11.25 miles. Altitude at departure: 160m/528 ft. This is officially the last entirely French stage of the Via Podiensis. The landscapes are superb and the town of St. Jean-Pied-de-Port is magical. On the way you will pass the old cross of Galzetaburu (262m/865ft).
Altitude at arrival: 180m/594ft. 18 kms/11.25 miles. 5 hours 15.
Day 8: End of the trip after breakfast.
8 days-7 nights-6 days walk
GETTING THERE
Arrival: Aire-sur-Adoure train station.Departure: bus to Aire - sur - Adour or St Jean Pied de Port train station.
DIFFICULTY
4 to 7 hours walking a day, easy routes with 50 to 150 m of altitude change per dayLUGGAGE
Your luggage is transferred from accommodation to accommodation every day.ACCOMMODATION
7 nights in hotel 1* & 2*Half board - double room
NUMBER OF PEOPLE
This tour is available to groups of 2 or more.WHEN TO GO
There are departures every day between May 1st and October 30th.PRICE
£440 per personSingle room supplement - £80 Supplement for person walking alone £25
| ST JEAN PIED DE PORT - LOGRONO |
Day 1: Arrival at St Jean Pied de Port (overnight & dinner)
Day 2: St Jean Pied de Port - Roncesvalles, 24.9 km/15.6 miles. Altitude at departure: 180m/594ft. To cross the Pyrenees, it is better to use the Route Napoleon which tallies with the old Roman road between Bordeaux and Astorga and was used by pilgrims. The other route via Arneguy is less interesting. Initially, we climb up to Our Lady of Biakorri (or Orisson) at 1095m/3614ft, then a short respite before continuing up to the Col Lepoeder at 1430m/4719ft, the high point of the entire pilgrimage. From here, descend to Puerto de Ibaneta and Roncesvalles.
Altitude at arrival: 920m/3036ft. 24.9 kms/15.6 miles. 8 hours.
Day 3: Roncesvalles - Zubiri, 21.8 km/13.6 miles. Altiitude at departure: 920m/3036ft. This first completely Spanish section is essentially Pyreneean. Pass several pretty villages - Burguete, Espinal, Viscarret...whilst everywhere is in the shade of the immortal Roland.
Altitude at arrival: 526m/1736ft. 21.8 kms/13.6 miles. 6 hours.
Day 4: Zubiri - Pamplona, 20.8 km/13 miles. Altitude at departure: 526m/1736ft.
The itinerary follows the Arga Valley as far as Zabadilca before crossing to Pamplona, the first major Spanish town on the route. Don't be taken in by the frequently unattractive nature of Spanish towns' suburbs – they often conceal fascinating historic centres ('casco antiguo'). Pamplona is just such an example and it worth spending time exploring the old town's ancient streets, especially as unusually dinner is not included tonight.
Altitude at arrival: 415m/1370ft, 20.8 kms/13 miles, 5 hours 30.
Day 5: Pamplona - Puente La Reina, 23.5 km/14.7 miles. Altitude at departure: 415m/1370ft. With the Pyrenees far behind us, we continue across Navarre. After the picturesque village of Zariquiegui, we cross the Sierra del Perdon, bristling with windmills. At the top (780m/2574ft), we pass a surprising group of pilgrms fashioned in metal, before descending to Puente la Reina, joining point for pilgrims coming from Arles via the Somport pass. As the accommodation is just outside the old town, you may prefer to visit it tomorrow. Altitude at arrival: 346m/1142ft, 23.5 kms/14.7 miles, 5 hours 30.
Day 6: Puente La Reina - Estella, 22.1 km/13.8 miles.
Altitude at departure: 346m/1142ft. As the route heads towrds the Rioja region, which we will reach the day after tomorrow, the landscape is flatter and drier. Nonetheless there are curiosities to enjoy along the way – roman roads, medieval bridges...half-way we will cross the restored centre of Cirauqui (498m/1643ft).
Altitude at arrival: 426m/1406ft, 22.1 kms/13.8 miles, 5 hours 30.
Day 7: Estella - Los Arcos, 21.3 km/13.3 miles. Altitude at departure: 426m/1406ft. The route flanks immense fields, whilst a short detour is worthwhile to the monastery of Irache, where a curious wine fountain has been built. The more sober-minded may prefer to quench their thirst further on a the fountain of Villamayor de Monjardin.
Altitude at arrival: 447m/1475ft, 21.3 kms/13.3 miles, 5 hours 15.
Day 8: Los Arcos - Logrono, 27.9 km/17.4 miles.
Altitude at departure: 447m/1475ft. Today we pass from Navarre into Rioja, famous for its vineyards, and watered by the Ebre river. The old town in Logrono, the regional capital, hides some fine surprises for the walker. End of the trip in the afternoon. Possibility of a night in Logrono if required - please ask for more information. Dinner not included in Logrono.
Altitude at arrival: 400m/1320ft, 27.9 kms/17.4 miles, 6 hours 45.
7 nights-7 days walk.
GETTING THERE
Arrival: St Jean Pied de Port train station.Departure: Logrono train station & bus station
DIFFICULTY
6 to 8 hours walk a day, no difficulty, 300m of altitude change per day (except D2: 1300 metre climb).LUGGAGE
Your luggage is transferred from accommodation to accommodation every day.ACCOMMODATION
6 nights in hotel** & 1 night in hotel 1*.Half board (except in Pamplona B & B) - double room
NUMBER OF PEOPLE
This tour is available to groups of 2 or more.WHEN TO GO
There are departures every day between May 1st and October 30th. NB Itinerary not possible during Running of Bulls Festival 3-16 July.PRICE
£475 per personSingle room supplement - £80 Supplement for person walking alone £25
| LOGRONO - BURGOS |
Day 1: Arrival at Logrono for overnight
Day 2: Logrono - Najera, 29.1 km/18.2 miles. Altitude at departure: 400m/1320ft.
First we make our way out of Logrono to enter the lovely area of Pantano de la Grajera, a 32 hectare lake surrounded by woodland. Next, we pass through Navarrete, town of potters, then enter beautiful Najera via the Alto de San Anton, where once there stood a Templar monastery.
Altitude at arrival: 485m/1601ft, 29.1 kms/18.2 miles, 7 hours.
Day 3: Najera-Santo Domingo de la Calzada, 20.8 km/13 miles. Altitude at departure: 485m/1601ft. Today's walk gives the first taste of what the route will be like until we enter Galicia, as we cross the Spanish Meseta, the high plateau of corn fields where shade comes but rarely. Fortunately, just before Ciruena, a beautiful grove of oaks offers sanctuary before we reach Santo Domingo de la Calzada.
Altitude at arrival: 638m/2105ft, 20.8 kms/13 miles, 5 hours 30.
Day 4: Sto Domingo de la Calzada-Belorado, 26 km//16.25 miles.
Altitude at departure: 638m/2105ft. The itinerary undulates over the bare, grandiose landscape of the Meseta, as we quit Rioja to enter the immensity of Castille and the province of Burgos. Leaving Santo Domingo, a variant is available to avoid part of the N120.
Altitude at arrival: 796m/2627ft, 26 kms/16.25 miles, 6 hours 40.
Day 5: Belarado - San Juan de Ortega, 24 km/15 miles and return by taxi to Belorado.
Altitude at departure: 796m/2627ft. For the first part of the day we are on the Meseta but then things change quickly as we cross the 'Montes de Oca', covered in forest and once the realm of wolves and highwaymen. After Villafranca, the route goes through forest to Puerto de la Pedraja (1150m/3795ft), and crosses the plateau to San Juan de Ortega. (Taxi back to Belorado for overnight).
Altitude at arrival: 1012m/3340ft, 24 kms/15 miles, 6 hours 15.
Day 6: Taxi to San Juan de Ortega. Then San Juan - Burgos, 27.6 km/17.25 miles. Altitude at departure: 1012m/3340ft. Taxi to San Juan de Ortega to begin the walk. Leave behind the forests of 'Montes de Oca', to go down to the fertile plains of the Rio Arlanzon. To avoid the suburbs, it is recommended to take a slightly longer route into Burgos via the parks of Fuentes Blancas and Miraflores. Dinner not included tonight in Burgos but there is a wide choice of restaurants in the old town. Altitude at arrival: 856m/2823ft, 27.6 kms/17.25 miles, 7 hours 15. Night in Burgos (dinner not included).
Day 7: End of the trip after breakfast.
7 days - 6 nights - 5 days walk.
GETTING THERE
Logrono train & bus station. Burgos train & bus station.DIFFICULTY
4 to 7 hours walk a day, no difficultyLUGGAGE
Your luggage is transferred from accommodation to accommodation every day.ACCOMMODATION
6 nights in hotel 1* & 2**.3 nights half board, 3 nights B & B in Logrono, Santo Domingo and Burgos.
NUMBER OF PEOPLE
This tour is available to groups of 2 or more.WHEN TO GO
There are departures every day between May 1st and October 30th.PRICE
£455 per personSingle room supplement - £80.00 Supplement for person walking alone £75
| BURGOS - LEON |
Day 1: Arrival at Burgos (overnight only - dinner not included)
Day 2: Burgos - Castrojeriz, 38.7 km/24.2 miles (possibility of shuttle). Altitude at departure: 856m/2823ft. This is a very long section across the Meseta (although, at extra cost, there is the possibility of a transfer to Hornillo del Camino). After the suburbs of Burgos, the route comes to Rabe de las Calzadas, then climbs up to the plateau before redescending to Hornillo del Camino, a timeless village built along its one street. Back up to the plateau, descend to Hontanas, and we arrive at Castrojeriz along a charming valley.
Altitude at arrival: 800m/2640ft, 38.7 kms/24.2 miles, 10 hours.
Day 3: Castrojeriz - Fromista, 25.5 km/15.9 miles. Altitude at departure: 800m/2640ft. Up to the plateau again before going down to cross the twelve arches of the Itero bridge which marks the frontier between Burgos and Palencia provinces. We come to the Castille canal which is followed to the entry into Fromista, whose church of St. Martin is a model of Romanesque architecture. Altitude at arrival: 780m/2574ft, 25.5 kms/15.9 miles, 6 hours 30.
Day 4: Fromista : Carrion de los condes, 20.5 km/12.8 miles. Altitude at departure: 780m/2574ft. To get to Carrion, there are two possibilities: follow either the official, most direct route, or a more rural path beside the Rio Ucieza. In either case a detour via the centre of Villacazar de Sirga is worthwhile. From afar it is impossible not to notice the immense church high above the fields...not without similarities with a certain cathedral at Chartres! Altitude at arrival: 840m/2772ft, 20.5 kms/12.8 miles, 5 hours 15.
Day 5: Carrion - Moratinos, 30.5 km/19.1 miles. Departure by taxi to Carrion. Altitude at departure: 840m/2772ft. After Carrion we pass the San Zoilo monastery, before continuing across the 'paramo', or 'desert'; we pass through a number of places before getting to isolated Moratinos, from where there is a transfer for overnight to the interesting town of Sahagun.
Altitude at arrival: 816m/2693ft, 30.5 kms/19.1 miles, 8 hours.
Day 6: Taxi to Moratinos, then Moratinos - Burgos Ranero, 27.9 km/17.4 miles. Altitude at departure (Sahagun): 816m/2693ft. Taxi back to Moratinos (although you can start from Sahagun if preferred) and then continue over the immensity of the Paramo, today lined with trees to provide some shade for travellers. Another variant is also possible, which follows an ancient Roman road.
Altitude at arrival: 878m/2897ft, 27.9 kms/17.4 miles, 7 hours 30.
Day 7: Burgos - Ranero - Mansilla de las Mulas, 20 km/12.5 miles. Altitude at departure: 878m/2897ft. Two possible routes today as far as Reliegos where the two routes converge before arriving at Mansillas de las Mulas.
Altitude at arrival: 799m/2637ft, 20kms/12.5 miles, 5 hours 30.
Day 8: Mansilla - Leon, 18.4 km/11.5 miles.
Altitude at departure: 799m/2637ft. A comparatively short and very pleasant section with a beautiful descent into Leon, one of the most important towns of the Camino Frances. To the north we can see the chain of mountains forming the Cordillera Cantabrica.
Altitude at arrival: 822m/2713ft, 18.4 kms/11.5 miles, 5 hours.
End of the trip in the end of afternoon. (Possibility of an extra night in Leon. Please ask for more information)
8 days- 7 nights-7 days walk
DIFFICULTY
6 to 8 hours walking a day (except Day 2: 11 hours walk, can be shortened), easy routes.LUGGAGE
Your luggage is transferred from accommodation to accommodation every day.ACCOMMODATION
7 nights in hotel 1* & 2**, one hotel with shared bathroomHalf board except B & B in Burgos
NUMBER OF PEOPLE
This tour is available to groups of 2 or more.WHEN TO GO
There are departures every day between May 1st and October 30th.PRICE
£475 per person (includes 2 transfers on days 5 & 6)Single room supplement - £60 Supplement for person walking alone £110
| LEON - SANTIAGO (St Jacques de Compostelle) |
(15 days - can be shortened)
Day 1: Arrival at Leon (overnight & dinner)
Day 2: Leon - Hospital de Orbigo, 36 km/22.5 miles (shuttle possible at extra cost). Altitude at departure: 822m/2713ft. Today it is better to start by taking the local bus through the Leon suburbs, which departs every 20 minutes from Plaza Santo Domingo, to Virgen del Camino. Two itineraries are then possible from here: the Camino Real that follows the main road, or the Calzada de los Peregrinos further to the south. In either case we have to cross the Paramo, literally 'the desert', to reach Hospital and the famous Puente de Orbigo.
Altitude at arrival: 819m/2703ft, 36 kms/22.5 miles, 9 hours.
Day 3: Hospital de Orbigo - Astorga, 17.8 km/11.1 miles. Altitude at departure: 819m/2703ft. A section that is one of transition from the implacable Meseta to the Montes of Leon and short enough to allow you to enjoy Astorga on arrival. Astorga, with its Gothic cathedral, Gaudi palace and Roman mosaics, is a fascinating city. Altitude at arrival: 869m/2868ft, 17.8 kms/11.1 miles, 4 hours 30.
Day 4: Astorga - Rabanal del Camino, 20.6 km/12.9 miles. Altitude at departure: 869m/2868ft. With the Meseta behind us, the landscape is more mountainous – not vertiginous peaks but large hills, with rounded crests. Nonetheless, the isolated nature of the countryside, and the stone houses, are redolent of mountain places. At 1149m/3792ft, Rabanal del Camino will allow us to recharge batteries before tomorrow's long section.
Altitude at arrival: 1149m/3792ft, 20.6 kms/12.9 miles, 5 hours.
Day 5: Rabanal - Ponferrada : 32.7 km/20.4 miles. Altitude at departure: 1149m/3792ft. The route soon leaves the village and climbs gradually among the mountains. We are in the heart of the countryside, the air is fresh and morale is high. At 1504m/4963ft, the Cruz de Ferro is the high point of the route since Le Puy-en-Velay, and the view is wonderful. However, no time to delay, as we can see Ponferrada is away to the west below, and there is still a long way to go. We tumble down to Acebo and Molinaseca, two superb villages with their wooden balconies. Then across the Bierzo plain and finally we arrive at Ponferrada and its templar castle.
Altitude at arrival: 543m/1792ft, 32.7 kms/20.4 miles, 8 hours 15.
Day 6: Ponferrada - Vilafranca del Bierzo, 22.5 km/14.1 miles.
Altitude at departure: 543m/1792ft. Today the route wanders across the river plain of the Bierzo as far as Cacabelos (483m/1594ft), then Villafranca, 'the Frankish town', charming nestling against the foot of the mountain.
Altitude at arrival: 511m/1686ft, 22.5 kms/14.1 miles, 6 hours 15.
Day 7: Vilafranca del Bierzo - El Cebreiro, 30 km/18.75 miles. Altitude at departure: 511m/1686ft. Another beautiful section through the mountains as we pass from Catille to Galicia. Leaving Villafranca to avoid the motorway that accompanies the normal route, we can take a path that climbs through broom to the village of Pradela (940m/3102ft) and then redescends to Trabadelo (600m/1980ft) to rejoint the main route. Several possible variants bring us to El Cebreiro, a lovely town with wonderful views of the Galician countryside and which has always been an important point of pilgrimage.
Altitude at arrival: 1300m/4290ft, 30kms/18.75 miles, 8 hours.
Day 8: El Cebreiro - Triascastela, 21 km/13.1 miles. Altitude at departure: 1300m/4290ft. After El Cebreiro the route meanders over ridges with tremendous views over green Galicia (high point at Alto del Poyo 1337m/4412ft). We pass an astonishing bronze giant struggling with the elements and then plunge into the valley with its landscape that has the look of the Pays Basque.
Altitude at arrival: 665m/2195ft, 21 kms/13.1 miles, 5 hours 15.
Day 9: Triascatela - Sarria, 17.5 km/10.9 miles. Altitude at departure: 665m/2195ft. There are two possibilities today – one predominately follows roads via Samos (532m/1756ft) and its imposing monastery, whilst the second, shorter route meanders across the pretty Galician countryside.
Altitude at arrival: 420m/1386ft, 17.5 kms/10.9 miles, 4 hours 30.
Day 10: Sarria - Portomarin, 22.5 km/14.1 miles. Altitude at departure: 420m/1386ft. Tracks and paths take us through hamlets and villages to Portomarin, a village reconstructed higher up on the slopes after the original in the valley had to make way for a lake created with the construction of a dam.
Altitude at arrival: 550m/1815ft, 22.5 kms/14.1 miles, 5 hours 45.
Day 11: Portomarin - Palas de Rei, 24.5 km/15.3 miles. Altitude at departure: 550m/1815ft. The route after Hospital de la Cruz follows a charming path that meanders through woods, hedges and prairies, dotted with the very distinctive local granaries ('horreos'), and crucifixes similar to those in Brittany that remind us that we are in Celtic country.
Altitude at arrival: 565m/1865ft, 24.5 kms/15.3 miles, 6 hours 30.
Day 12: Palas de Rei - Arzua, 29.4 km/18.4 miles(possibility of shuttle). Altitude at departure: 565m/1865ft.
Almost without realising it we lose altitude as we approach the sea and lots of greenery and forests of eucalyptus. Half way, Melide (454m/1498ft) marks the meeting point of the Camino Frances and the northernmost variant of the Camino del Norte.
Altitude at arrival: 389m/1284ft, 29.4 kms/18.4 miles, 7 hours 30.
Day 13: Arzua - Lavacolla, 28.8 km/18 miles.
Altitude at departure: 389m/1284ft. The last long stage, so that we can arrive in good time tomorrow to explore Santiago itself.
Altitude at arrival: 320m/1056ft, 28.8 kms/18 miles, 7 hours 30.
Day 14: Lavacolla - SANTIAGO de COMPOSTELA, 10.1 km/6.3 miles.Altitude at departure: 320m/1056ft. A formality today but savour these last few paces and prepare to enjoy the delights of Santiago. Night in Santiago (dinner not included).
Altitude at arrival: 264m/871ft, 10.1 kms/6.3 miles, 2 hours 45.
Day 15: End of the trip after breakfast
15 days - 14 nights - 13 days walk
GETTING THERE
Arrival: Leon train & bus station. St Jacques de Compostelle train & bus station. You can fly to France or Santiago & train Santiago - Leon.DIFFICULTY
4 to 8 hours walking a day (there are 3 long days, but they can be shortened: ask for more information), easy routes.LUGGAGE
Your luggage is transferred from accommodation to accommodation every day.ACCOMMODATION
14 nights in hotel 1* or 2 *Half board (except in Santiago) - double room
NUMBER OF PEOPLE
This tour is available to groups of 2 or more.WHEN TO GO
There are departures every day between May 1st and October 30th.PRICE
£825 per personSingle room supplement - £120 Supplement for person walking alone £200
Final stage of the Pilgrim route - pilgrims who walk this section are entitled to the Pilgrim's Certificate.
7 days, 6 nights, 5 days walking. Dinner each night except in Santiago.
PRICE:
£365 per person (based on two people sharing)Day 1: Arrive and overnight in Sarria, a modern town with old quarter.
Day 2: Walk Sarria - Portomarin. 14.5 miles/23.2kms. The walk between Sarria and Portomarin is one of the quietest and most peaceful of the Camino. During the summer there are plenty of places for lunch and drinks along the way. Overnight in Portmarin
Day 3: Walk Portomarin - Palas de Rei 15.5 miles/24.8kms. There are several miles of road walking along this stretch but the roads are quiet and you pass through some small villages - i.e. the Romanesque Church of Santa Maria in Gonzar is 5 miles into the walk. There is a lovely Galician cemetery church in Ligonde which is about another 3 miles. Overnight in Palas de Rei
Day 4: Walk Palas de Rei - Arzua 18 miles/28.8kms. but can be shortened by using a shuttle. The route takes you to Melide about 4 miles from Palas - this is a pleasant town with a former monastery Church Santci Spiritu, along with a pilgrim hospital and the Church of San Pedro and the church of Santa Maria as you leave the town. Overnight in hotel in the small town of Arzua
Day 5: Walk Arzua - Lavacolla 17.5 miles/28kms. The route continues to the small village of Lavacolla where traditionally pilgrims used to cleanse themselves before the final walk into Santiago de Compostela. Overnight Lavacolla
Day 6: Walk Lavacolla - Santiago 7.5 miles/12kms. The last day's walk is short so pilgrims can arrive in the Plaza de Obradoiro and enter the Cathedral by midday when the pilgrims are blessed. Overnight Santiago (dinner not included)
Day 7: End of the tour after breakfast
INCLUDED
6 nights accommodation with breakfast, dinner (except Santiago), transport of luggage between stops, route notesGETTING THERE
Arrival: bus and train from St Jacques de Compostelle train & bus station. You can fly to Santiago from where we can arrange a taxi to Sarria (approximate cost 70 euro for 2 people).LUGGAGE
Your luggage is transferred from accommodation to accommodation every day.ACCOMMODATION
6 nights in hotel 2 *Half board (except Santiago) - double room
NUMBER OF PEOPLE
This tour is available to groups of 2 or more.WHEN TO GO
There are departures every day between April 1st and October 30thPRICE
£385 per personSingle room supplement - £55 Supplement for person walking alone £90
| THE BEST OF THE PILGRIM ROUTE |
14 days, 13 nights, 9 days walking. Dinner each night except in Burgos and Santiago.
PRICE:
£895 per person (based on two people sharing)
INCLUDED
- 13 nights accomodation with breakfast, dinner (except Burgos and Santiago)
- Transport of luggage between stops. Transfers as mentioned on the programme
- Road book
To book email walking@star.co.uk - T: +44 (0) 1242 254353
Day 1 : Arrival in Burgos - capital of Castille with splendid Gothic Cathedral and Santiago chapel and many important buildings.
Day 2 : Visit of Burgos and transfer to Castrojeriz. This small town was built by the Romans and was an important place for pilgrims in former times - with several hospitals for pilgrims. Today it is a nice place to stay with three interesting churches and a good view of the ruins of the Alcazar on the hill above the town.
Day 3 : Walk Castrojeriz - Fromista 15 miles/24kms. Fromista - small town with Romanesque Church in centre of town (now
deconsecrated) and one of the best preserved National Monuments to the Camino. The main church is the 15th Century Church of San Pedro.
Day 4 : Transfer to Leon. Free day in Leon - here it is worth spending a whole day. The three most important monuments are the 13th c cathedral in French Gothic style with marvellous stained glass windows, the Basilica of San Isidoro and the Romanesque church of San Marcos, formerly an important pilgrim hospital and now a parador. The Casa de las Bottines by Gaudi is now a bank.
Day 5 : Transfer to Hospital de Orbigo and walk Hospital - Astorga 10 miles/16kms. Transfer to the longest Pilgrim bridge in Spain crossing the river Orbigo at Hospital de Orbigo - it is 204 metres long and has 20 arches - from where it is just over 10 miles to Astorga. Astorga is the junction of two of the major Pilgrim routes - the Camino Frances and the Via de la Plata. In Astorga you will find the Bishop's palace built by Gaudi, the pilgrim museum and the beautiful Gothic cathedral along with several other interesting churches. Overnight in a hotel in Astorga.
Day 6 : Transfer to Rabanal del Camino and walk Rabanal - Ponferrada 18.75 miles/30kms. After about 4 miles you come to the small deserted village of Foncebadon where the hermit Gaucelmo built a hospital, church and hospice for pilgrims in the 12th century - however the remains are all that is seen today along with several ruined houses. A mile further along the route you come to Cruz de Ferro (1504m) with fantastic views on a clear day. It is traditional to take a stone from home and add it to the pile. From here the route is all downhill as far as Ponferrada. After another mile you will walk through another nearly abandoned village and after about 5 miles will come to the village of El Acebo which formerly had a pilgrim hospital - today it has a long narrow street with attractive old houses with overhanging balconies and a church. Overnight Ponferrada
Day 7 : Visit of Ponferrada and transfer to Villafranca del Bierzo. Ponferrada is a large industrial town - with an old and a new town. The small historic part of the town has a 13th century castle built by the Knights Templar, the 16th C basilica of Nuestra Senora de la Encina (Our Lady of the Evergreen Oak) and in the suburbs there is the 10th century church of Santo Tomas de Ollas. There is time to visit Ponferrada before transferring to Villafranca del Bierzo - here the Iglesia de Santiago was previously the point where pilgrims who were too weak or ill to continue to Santiago were able to obtain the same indulgences had they continued their pilgrimage. There are a number of other interesting churches in the town. Overnight Villafranca
Day 8 : Walk Villafranca - O Cebreiro 18 miles/28.8kms. The walk between Villafranca and El Cebreiro is a strenuous walk and you should set out early - there are mountains and a stiff climb but in the end it is worth the effort and at the end of the day you stay in a very atmospheric hostel opposite the Church. El Cebreiro is a tiny village with lots of pallozas (round wooden dwellings of Celtic origin). The Church contains relics and a 12th century statue of the Virgin who inclined her head after a miracle took place in the 16th Century. Overnight El Cebreiro
Day 9 : Transfer to Sarria, a modern town with old quarter and walk Sarria - Portomarin. 14.5 miles/23.2kms. The walk between Sarria and Portomarin is one of the quietest and most peaceful of the Camino. During the summer there are plenty of places for lunch and drinks along the way. Overnight in Portmarin
Day 10: Walk Portomarin - Palas de Rei 15.5 miles/24.8kms. There are several miles of road walking along this stretch but the roads are quiet and you pass through some small villages - i.e. the Romanesque Church of Santa Maria in Gonzar is 5 miles into the walk. There is a lovely Galician cemetery church in Ligonde which is about another 3 miles. Overnight in Palas de ReiDay 11 : Walk Palas de Rei - Arzua 18 miles/28.8kms. but can be shortened by using a shuttle. The route takes you to Melide about 4 miles from Palas - this is a pleasant town with a former monastery Church Santci Spiritu, along with a pilgrim hospital and the Church of San Pedro and the church of Santa Maria as you leave the town. Overnight in hotel in the small town of Arzua
Day 12: Walk Arzua - Lavacolla 17.5 miles/28kms. The route continues to the small village of Lavacolla where traditionally pilgrims used to cleanse themselves before the final walk into Santiago de Compostela. Overnight Lavacolla
Day 13: Walk Lavacolla - Santiago 7.5 miles/12kms. The last day's walk is short so pilgrims can arrive in the Plaza de Obradoiro and enter the Cathedral by midday when the pilgrims are blessed. Overnight hotel.
Day 14: End of the tour after breakfast
NUMBER OF PEOPLE:
This tour is available to groups of 2 or more.
WHEN TO GO:
There are departures every day between May 1st and October 30th
GETTING THERE:
Train and bus station in Burgos
PRICE
- £925 per person
Single room supplement - £150 Supplement for person walking alone £295
GENERAL NOTES - ACCOMMODATION
Please note that accommodation is variable. In some places there is little or no choice, whilst upgrades can be offered in some places. In small hotels, very occasionally a meal will be offered in the room if the restaurant is closed or if the hotel is not busy.
WHAT TO TAKE
Walking boots and walking socks (with a change of socks in rucksack), rucksack/day pack, water bottle, insect repellent, sunglasses, sun hat, sun block/cream, compass, torch, mobile phone, container for sandwiches and a first-aid kit.
INSURANCE
We recommend that you take out appropriate holiday insurance covering you against illness, injury, and loss or damage to luggage. This insurance should also cover the possibility of your having to cancel your holiday for whatever reason.
CONTACT
To book, contact worldwalks at: walking@star.co.uk or
telephone +44 (0) 1242 254353
