Camino Frances

That is exactly what you will find here: A pilgrimage hike on the classic Camino francés through France and Spain lets you explore vast landscapes, admire magnificent historic old towns and sights, and enjoy delicious mediterranean food along the way. The Camino francés can serve as a gateway into a new stage of life and a powerful support on your individual healing journey. As a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, there is routes for every level of fitness thanks to the different levels of difficulty of the stages, we will be happy to advise you!

Of course it is possible to divide the Camino francés according to your individual wishes into sections of 1 to 2 weeks. For example, hike the section from Sarria to Santiago accompanied by your dog!

The Way of St. James to Santiago de Compostela has a rich history and is known for its profound spiritual significance. Every year, they attract numerous pilgrims from all over the world who walk the famous routes through the impressive landscapes of Spain and Portugal. Santiago de Compostela is the destination that awaits pilgrims at the end of their journey. The Camino de Santiago offers a unique opportunity to harmonize body, mind and soul and to have an unforgettable spiritual experience.

The Camino de Santiago is an extensive network of pilgrimage routes that stretches for hundreds of kilometers and leads to the tomb of the apostle James in the impressive cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. The arrival in Santiago de Compostela marks the end of this inspiring journey and is a moment of joy and fulfillment. Whether alone or in the company of other pilgrims, the Way of St. James is a journey that lifts the spirit and touches the heart.
When I set off on my first Way of St. James, I felt a mixture of anticipation and awe. The Camino de Santiago routes in Spain and Portugal are marked with symbols of the scallop shell, the well-known sign of the Way of St. James, and I followed in the footsteps of countless pilgrims before me. The majestic beauty of the Pyrenees accompanied me on the first stages of the Camino Frances and the Camino del Norte as I made my way towards Santiago de Compostela.
Every step over steep paths and through picturesque landscapes was an invitation to connect with nature and find inner peace. The sound of the streams and the chirping of the birds accompanied me along the way and created an atmosphere of calm and serenity.

Pilgrimage on the Way of St. James is far more than a hike to Santiago de Compostela, more than a physical journey. Pilgrims often only carry the bare essentials in their rucksacks and consciously do without material things. The path is often seen as a metaphor for life itself, with its ups and downs, challenges and rewards.
It is a journey of inner contemplation that creates space for self-reflection, healing and personal growth. A way to meet oneself on different levels. The steady progress, step by step, requires stamina and endurance. Every step on this pilgrimage is an invitation to connect with the history and traditions of the Way of St. James and to find and walk your own path.
Pilgrimage offers the opportunity to leave everyday life behind, to calm down and to reflect on the essentials. The path gives us space and time to immerse ourselves and discover our own spirituality. Or, as Hape Kerkeling aptly summed it up, to learn who you really are.

Along the way, I met pilgrims from different countries and cultures. We shared stories, experiences and personal adventures. This community of pilgrims was a source of inspiration and support, where we met on a personal level without much small talk. Helping each other connected me with many other people on this unique journey - on the way to Santiago de Compostela.
With every kilometer I covered, I felt a change in myself. The physical challenges of the Way of St. James pushed me to my limits, but strengthened my will and my belief in myself. Every aching muscle and every tired step was a testament to my perseverance and determination to reach my goal. Nevertheless, I understood that it was not really about the destination, but about the journey.
The physical efforts were rewarded by the encounters with the locals and their warm hospitality, especially on the Camino Francés. In the hostels, the so-called "albergues", I found peace and community. Sharing meals and stories with other pilgrims created an atmosphere of cohesion and connection. We laughed about the blisters on our feet and encouraged each other to get up and keep going every day. It was a sense of community that bound us all together, regardless of our backgrounds or life stories. The encounters with other pilgrims were just as enriching as the nature experiences.

During the journey, pilgrims also have the opportunity to discover the culinary delights of the region. The local cuisine is characterized by fresh ingredients and traditional dishes that give pilgrims new energy.
Santiago de Compostela, the destination of all the Camino de Santiago pilgrimages, is a city of profound spiritual significance. It is home to the cathedral with the tomb of St. James the Apostle. Every day, hundreds of pilgrims gather to attend mass and complete their journey. The arrival in Santiago de Compostela is a poignant moment, marked by joy, pride and fulfillment. The emotional atmosphere, the ringing of the bells and the festive mood are overwhelming. Pilgrims from all over the world, often a colorful mix, reach their destination together and experience this special moment of fulfillment that makes them grow inwardly.
The time in Santiago de Compostela offers pilgrims the opportunity to relax, exchange experiences and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the city. The narrow streets, historic buildings and lively squares radiate a special energy that captivates pilgrims. The city is characterized by the centuries-old tradition of pilgrimage and thrives on encounters between different cultures and ways of life.

After arriving in Santiago de Compostela, pilgrims can receive the so-called "Compostela", a certificate that attests to their successful pilgrimage. In order to receive the Compostela, pilgrims must prove that they have covered at least 100 kilometers on foot or 200 kilometers by bike. This special award is a sign of recognition for personal effort and perseverance during the pilgrimage.
For many pilgrims, reaching Santiago de Compostela does not mean the end of their spiritual journey. They feel deeply connected to the place and return in the following years to explore further sections of the Way of St. James or to deepen their previous experiences. The Way of St. James has a transformative effect on pilgrims, who often return with strengthened faith and new life priorities.
However, the Way of St. James is not just a journey for believers. People of different religious beliefs or without a religious background also embark on this pilgrimage to find their inner center or to discover the impressive landscapes and cultural treasures of Spain and Portugal. It is therefore not unusual for many people to walk the Way of St. James again and again.

The Camino de Santiago offers a unique opportunity to combine culture, nature and spirituality. Each route is an individual adventure that shapes the personality and enriches the spirit. The impressive landscape, the encounters with other pilgrims and the spiritual atmosphere make this journey a very special experience. Regardless of the reason for setting out on the Way of St. James, everyone returns home with new insights and unforgettable memories.
Arriving in Santiago de Compostela not only marks the end of the physical journey, but also the beginning of a new phase of life. The Way of St. James has shown me that pilgrimage is more than just a hike - it is a way of life.

The Way of St. James may not appeal to everyone, but I hope that many people will find the courage and determination to walk their own Way of St. James. I wish them the strength and courage to embrace their life's journey, find their inner compass and connect with it - if it brings them joy. The Way of St. James is an invitation to discover oneself, to overcome fears and to find one's own path - one of many paths that lead to self-development. This pilgrimage may lead us to Santiago de Compostela, but above all it leads us to ourselves.
The last few kilometers of the Way of St. James were particularly moving for me. Many pilgrims feel joy and triumph when they reach Santiago de Compostela. Entering the famous Plaza del Obradoiro and seeing the majestic cathedral in front of you touches the soul. Everyone experiences the Way of St. James and the arrival differently. For most, the physical part of the Way ends here, but the spiritual journey remains in the heart and only really begins now. Those who walk the Way of St. James themselves understand what is meant by this. Many pilgrims continue from Santiago de Compostela to Cape Finisterre, the "end of the world", or even further to Muxía and back.

Day 1: Arrival
Individual arrival at your pilgrim hostel in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port.

Day 2: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port - Roncesvalles (approx. 15.0 miles / approx. 7 hours / challenging)
The first stage on the Camino Frances leads from the French border town of Saint Jean Pied de Port across the Pyrenees to Roncesvalles in Spain. A 20km long, but mostly leisurely ascent, along flocks of sheep and with wonderful panoramas again and again, leads the pilgrim to the highest point, the Col de Lepoeder and then (sometimes a bit challenging) downhill to Roncesvalles. Alternatively, you can split the stage over 2 days and only walk about 8km to Orisson on the first day.

Day 3: Roncesvalles - Zubiri (approx. 13.3 miles / approx.6.5 hours / middle)
We leave the impressive monastery complex of Roncesvalles behind us. A very varied route, partly on asphalt, partly on forest and gravel paths or on old Roman roads, takes us through small villages and finally to Zubiri. We reach the idyllic place over a picturesque bridge.

Day 4: Zubiri - Pamplona (approx. 12.7 miles / approx.6 hours / very easy)
Today's route leads mainly through the valley of the Rio Arga. After a few kilometres we reach Larrasoana and after another beautiful stretch we reach the village of Zuriain. It is worth taking a short break here. The stage ends in Pamplona. Afternoons and evenings are best spent strolling through the old town and letting the flair of the city work its magic on you.

Day 5: Pamplona - Puente la Reina (approx. 14.8 miles / approx.7 hours / easy)
Leaving the city behind, soon you will reach Cizur Menor (12th century Romanesque church). Then the dirt road meanders along a mountain flank and up to the Alto del Perdón. The pilgrim caravan sculpture is a classical photo spot. Then it's back down into the valley via a somewhat difficult, stony section. After Obanos you finally reach Puente la Reina.
 

Day 6: Puente la Reina - Estella (approx. 13.4 miles / approx.6.5 hours / easy)
Out of Puente la Reina the path leads over the elegant eponymous bridge of the Queen. One of the most beautiful stages of the Camino Francés leads along grain fields and isolated vineyards. The Pyrenees are now behind us, the landscape is changing. The small town of Lorca invites you to take a break with its bars. Along the Rio Ega we reach our destination Estella-Lizarra.

Day 7: Estella - Los Arcos (approx. 13.2 miles / approx.6.5 hours / easy)
Shortly after Ayegui you reach the famous wine fountain of Irache. Then mostly gravel paths lead back along fields and vineyards to Los Arcos. Narrow alleys, small bars and cafes as well as the impressive Iglesia de Santa Maria make the place a perfect stage destination.

Day 8: Los Arcos - Logroño (approx. 17.1 miles / approx.8 hours / easy)
After an unspectacular, flat first section to Sansol, the route becomes more varied again. Many beautiful views over the hilly landscape of idyllic villages and impressive mountain peaks characterize this stage. We leave the region of Navarra and arrive in Logroño, the young and lively capital of La Rioja.

Day 9: Logroño - Nájera (approx. 18.0 miles / approx. 8.5 hours / easy)
Today we first leave Logroño and go through the Parque de San Miguel recreation area. In Navarrete, it is worth visiting the old pilgrims' hospital and the Iglesia de la Asunción. Then we go on a red sand path typical of the region and along vineyards and partly next to the motorway.

Day 10: Nájera - Santo Domingo de la Calzada (approx. 12.9 miles / approx.6 hours / very easy)
After the two long stages of the last few days, you can recover today. Except for a few small sleepy villages and the Cruz de los Peregrionos, this section is relatively unspectacular. But our stage destination Santo Domingo is rewarding us with its charm. The convent, the free-standing church tower and the cathedral with the "chicken" miracle of Santo Domingo are worth a visit!

Day 11: Santo Domingo de la Calzada - Belorado (approx. 13.7 miles / approx.6.5 hours / very easy)
A few kilometres after Santo Domingo we reach the town of Grañon, which is ideal for a (second) pilgrim breakfast. Shortly thereafter we leave La Rioja and enter the region of Castilla y León. On the next very rural section some nice villages offer a short rest before reaching Belorado.

Day 12: Belorado - San Juan de Ortega (approx. 14.8 miles / approx.7 hours / easy)
Today is a very varied and hilly stage. The last few kilometres before San Juan, which run through a fragrant pine forest, are also beautiful and picturesque. Once you have arrived at your destination, it is worth visiting the monastery complex of San Juan de Ortega.

Day 13: San Juan de Ortega - Burgos (approx. 16.0 miles / approx. 7.5 hours / easy)
Today's stage first takes us through forests, then along fields in the direction of Burgos. After Orbaneja-Riopico there are 2 variants, one along the airport and through the industrial area and a second one that first goes southwest and finally through a beautiful park right into the center of Burgos.

Day 14: Burgos - Hornillos del Camino (approx. 13.0 miles / approx. 6 hours / easy)
After Burgos the Meseta begins, the central Spanish high plateau. Initially still hilly, the landscape becomes flatter towards León. Grain fields and partly abandoned old stone villages line this stage. In keeping with the landscape, Hornillos del Camino looks like an old western town, with houses lined up left and right along the Camino.

Day 15: Hornillos del Camino - Castrojeriz (approx. 12.4 miles / approx.6 hours / easy)
After a few kilometers we reach Hontanas, another sleepy place hidden in a small valley. Along the way we pass San Antón, an old monastery and pilgrim hospital. Via an alley we reach the destination of the day, Castrojeriz. If you still have strength, you can visit the ruined castle enthroned above the village and enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the Meseta.

Day 16: Castrojeriz - Frómista (approx. 15.3 miles / approx.7.5 hours / easy)
Shortly after Castrojeriz, a steep ascent may challenge our breath. The following plateau puts the pilgrim in a meditative mood before an equally steep descent awaits him. The beautiful views of the wide landscape are worth the effort. The last few kilometers to Frómista are scenic along a canal.

Day 17: Frómista - Carrion de los Condes (approx. 11.7 miles / approx.5.5 hours / very easy)
In the village of Poblacion de Campos we can choose again between two variants. The slightly longer but nicer path goes to the right via Villovieco in the direction of Villacázar de Sirga. Once there, it is worth visiting the imposing church and stopping at the café on the opposite side.

Day 18: Carrion de los Condes - Terradillos de los Templarios (approx. 16.3 miles / approx.8 hours / easy)
A typical Meseta stage is on the agenda for today – we go straight ahead for kilometres along fields of grain. If you set off early, you can enjoy a beautiful sunrise behind you when the weather is good. Terradillos de los Templarios used to belong to the Templars and still exudes the charm of the old order of knights.

Day 19: Terradillos de los Templarios - Bercianos del Real Camino (approx. 14.4 miles / approx.7 hours / easy)
After a few smaller towns we come to the small chapel Ermita de la Virgen del Puente just before Sahagun. If this is really the half-time of the Camino Francés remains questionable, but certainly it is a nice resting place for a nice photo. After Sahagun, just before Calzada del Coto, we can again choose between 2 variants. We take the southern path towards Bercianos del Real Camino.

Day 20: Bercianos del Real Camino - Mansilla de las Mulas (approx. 16.3 miles / approx.8 hours / easy)
Today the landscape is becoming again more varied agein. The plains of the Meseta slowly turn into a gentle hilly landscape. Sunflower fields and grain fields line the way.

Day 21: Mansilla de las Mulas - Léon (approx. 11.5 miles / approx.5.5 hours / very easy)
A rather unspectacular stage that takes us through the suburbs of León today. The camera can safely remain in the backpack until the end of the stage. But León is full of charms. A visit to the imposing cathedral is a must, and an extensive long walk through the beautiful old town.

Day 22: Léon - Villar de Mazarife (approx. 13.1 miles / approx.6.5 hours / easy)
The way out of the city is also an experience. You pass the former monastery of San Marco and the Basilica de San Isidoro. After the village of Virgen del Camino, the hustle and bustle of the big city is over. We follow the turn-off to the left and walk over dirt roads in the direction of today's destination, Villar de Mazarife

Day 23: Villar de Mazarife - Astorga (approx. 19.5 miles / approx.9 hours / easy)
After a few kilometres along the country road, you first go to Hospital de Orbigo, where an imposing bridge leads into the village. Then it goes mostly hilly on dirt roads. On a plateau just before Astorga, a break at the snack bar "La Casa de los Dioses" is good (voluntary donations). Astorga attracts with all kinds of chocolate specialties, a beautiful cathedral and the Palacio Gaudí.

Day 24: Astorga - Rabanal del Camino (approx. 16.0 miles / approx. 7.5 hours / easy)
Varied stage, sometimes next to the country road, then on old cobblestones through picturesque villages, on narrow pilgrim paths and along forests. In Rabanal del Camino we recommend a visit to the small church, which in its simplicity stands in stark contrast to the imposing cathedrals in the larger cities.

Day 25: Rabanal del Camino - Ponferrada (approx. 16.6 miles / approx.8 hours / middle)
Today is one of the highlights of the Camino Francés on the program - the Cruz de Ferro. Here, at the highest point of the Way of St. James, pilgrims place a symbolic stone they have brought from home under the iron cross. A moving moment for every visitor. Then the path goes downhill, again through villages with the typical stone houses, until we reach Ponferrada. The old Templar castle is worth a visit, even if your tired legs say something different.

Day 26: Ponferrada - Villafranca del Bierzo (approx. 15.0 miles / approx. 7 hours / easy)
While we hike through the hilly landscape the vineyards are a welcoming change. And they are like a reminiscence of past Camino frances days. In general, this is a scenic stage today. In Villafranca del Bierzo it is time to relax, as tomorrow we have the challenging hike up to O Cebreiro ahead of us.

Day 27: Villafranca del Bierzo - O Cebreiro (approx. 17.3 miles / approx.8 hours / difficult)
At first slightly uphill and relatively steep from La Faba, it goes up to O Cebreiro. Many small towns and vantage points allow us to take a welcoming break. Our destination is an old museum village whose history goes back to the 9th century.

Day 28: O Cebreiro - Triacastela (approx. 12.9 miles / approx.6 hours / easy)
The region of Castilla y León is now behind us. A long but incredibly beautiful descent is in front of us. The Camino shows its most beautiful side. It only gets flatter just before Triacastela. As long as no herds of cows block our way, we are making a good progress.

Day 29: Triacastela - Sarria (approx. 15.5 miles / approx.7.5 hours / middle)
From Triacastela you may take an alternative route via Samos. This is about 7 km/ 4.3 miles longer, but offers pleasantly a secluded path and a monastery from the 5th century that is worth seeing. The main path is also scenically attractive and mostly leads along narrow streets to Sarria.

Day 30: Sarria - Portomarín (approx. 13.8 miles / approx.6.5 hours / easy)
From Sarria, the Camino frances leads along forest paths first to Barbadelo and then through small villages, along grain fields and finally through forests to Portomarín. In between, small cafés invite you to take a break. Finally, you reach Portomarin after crossing an impressive bridge.

Day 31: Portomarín - Palas del Rei (approx. 15.4 miles / approx.7.5 hours / easy)
Similar to yesterday, the camino again leads through an agricultural environment. Depending on the season, the mild climate ensures an opulent plant splendor. In Villar de Donas we can visit a Romanesque church from the 13th century, before we reach Palas de Rei via small towns.

Day 32: Palas del Rei - Arzúa (approx. 17.7 miles / approx.8.5 hours / middle)
Plant lovers will have their pleasure on this stage. Cactuses, palm trees, big aloe vera plants, banana trees, huge hydrangeas and finally eucalyptus forests line our path, which is pleasant and slightly hilly.

Day 33: Arzúa - O Amanal (approx. 12.0 miles / approx. 6 hours / easy)
Again eucalyptus forests and scenic varied sections on narrow mostly unpaved paths lead us closer and closer to Santiago. Many nice bars and cafés line the path, but also many pilgrims who travel this section.

Day 34: O Amanal - Santiago de Compostela (approx. 12.0 miles / approx. 6 hours / easy)
The last stage on the Camino frances – once again the scent of eucalyptus, before we go through the suburbs first to Monte do Gozo and past the well-known pilgrimage monument, perhaps taking a last break up there before we proudly and happily reach Santiago via the Rúa dos Concheiros and through the Porta do Camino entering the old town and finally standing in front of the Catedral de Santiago de Compostela.

Day 35: Santiago de Compostela
Relax and discover the diversity of one the most important old town in Europe.
You have the whole day to maybe visit the pilgrim museum or even the rooftop of the cathedral.

Day 36: Departure
Today it's time to say goodbye and, if possible, slowly enjoy your way home.
Alternatively, we recommend that you continue your Camino to the so-called end of the world - to Cape Finisterre, which in reality is not the westernmost point of Europe.

This itinerary is only an example and varies according to personal preference and booking.