Pilgrimage by Bike: Embark on a Spiritual Journey from Leon to Santiago de Compostela on the Camino de Santiago

Welcome to a remarkable cycling journey that spans from the charming city of Leon to the revered destination of Santiago de Compostela. This is not just a bike tour, but an exploration of history, culture, and the captivating landscapes that connect these two iconic places.

You join the well-trodden French Way of the Camino de Santiago in Spain and bike the last 320 kilometers. You follow in the footsteps of thousands and thousands of pilgrims who have ventured this route for centuries. The cycling winds through quaint villages, picturesque countryside, and historical sites, offering a serene and reflective way to experience the beauty of northern Spain.

The pinnacle of your experience is Santiago de Compostela. The magnificent cathedral befittingly symbolizes the end of the pilgrimage. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a masterpiece of religious architecture and art.

Finishing the route is a mix of emotions. For some, it's a triumph, the culmination of a physical and mental journey. For others, it's a moment of reflection, a pause to absorb the history and camaraderie that the Camino embodies.

For most, it is much more than a bike tour.

Each pedal stroke becomes a part of your own pilgrimage!

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Highlights

• Historical León
• Palacio de Gaudí
• The picturesque Bierzo Valley
• Incredible landscapes of Galicia
• Santiago de Compostela

Daily program

Day 1: Leon
Your tour begins in the heart of Leon, a city steeped in history. One of the city's most iconic landmarks, the León Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It is renowned for its intricate stained glass windows, elaborate carvings, and stunning sculptures and is the perfect symbolic beginning to your journey.

Day 2: León - Astorga (33 miles/53 km)
Pedal into the pilgrimage as you leave León and venture through idyllic villages and scenic landscapes toward Astorga. En route, you'll encounter the magnificent Episcopal Palace, an architectural gem often referred to as the "Palacio de Gaudí." Its blend of neo-Gothic, neo-Renaissance, and modernist styles is a sight to behold, reflecting the rich history of Astorga.

Day 3: Astorga - Ponferrada (37 miles/59 km)
Today's journey leads you through the picturesque Bierzo Valley, a tapestry of rolling hills and vineyards. As you cycle, the lush green scenery and cultivated fields create a serene backdrop, and the occasional climbs offer a sense of achievement rewarded by stunning views. The Templar Castle awaits in Ponferrada, a symbol of history etched in stone.

Day 4: Ponferrada - Las Herrerias (27 miles/43 km)
The route is challenging yet exhilarating as you ride through the Galician mountains. Dense forests and winding paths immerse you in the beauty of the wilderness. This section of the route offers a unique opportunity for introspection and reflection in the solitude of the mountains.

Day 5: Las Herrerias - Sarria (31 miles/49 km)
Descending from the Galician mountains, today's ride offers a change of pace and a chance to savor the beauty of the Galician countryside. You cycle on rolling hills, through lush meadows, and fields. Arrival in Sarria marks a significant milestone on the Camino.

Day 6: Sarria - Arzúa (47 miles/75 km)
Charming hamlets and cafes dot the scenic route, offering glimpses into the region's cultural fabric. The day's destination, Arzúa, has retained much of its traditional Galician architecture and charm. Treat yourself to the local cheese, "Queixo Arzúa-Ulloa," a soft, creamy cheese made from cow's milk and integral to local cuisine.

Day 7: Arzúa - Santiago de Compostela (24 miles/39 km)
The final leg of your journey brings a sense of accomplishment as you approach Santiago de Compostela. Passing through picturesque villages, you'll arrive at Monte do Gozo, a hill offering panoramic views of the city and its iconic cathedral spires. As you descend toward Santiago, the cathedral stands tall, symbolizing your pilgrimage's culmination.

Day 8: Departure
With lifelong memories, you bid farewell to Santiago de Compostela. As you leave, you carry the stories, landscapes, and reflections that have enriched your Camino experience.

Surface and terrain

Beginning with easy urban pathways in León, the route gradually shifts to the rolling hills of Astorga and Ponferrada. As the journey progresses and leads you to O Cebreiro, the terrain transforms into steep mountain climb. Approaching the final stretch towards Santiago, the path weaves through gentle ascents and descents. Electric bikes are available and recommended as these climbs become both achievable and deeply rewarding.

Hotels

You can choose your level of accommodation!

Standard: 4-star hotels

• Hotel Real Colegiata San Isidoro
• Hotel Via de la Plata
• Hotel Temple Ponferrada
• Hotel Paraiso del Bierzo
• Hotel Alfonso IX
• Hotel Pazo Santa Maria

Premium: 5-star hotels or upgraded rooms within the 4-star establishments

• Parador de León
• Superior room at Hotel Via de la Plata
• Finca Vivaldi Hotel Nature & Spa
• Superior room at Hotel Paraiso del Bierzo
• Superior room at Hotel Alfonso IX
• Superior room at Hotel Pazo Santa Maria
• Parador de Compostela

How to get there

Tour start:

Leon Airport (LEN)

Tour end:

Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ)

Airport transfers are included in your tour price on arrival and departure days.

Dates

Prices

Included services

Bike rentals

Hard tail mountain bicycle*

(*Included in tour price)

Men's frame:

Brand: Trek X-Calibur (or similar)

• 18 speeds
• Hydraulic disc brakes

Women's frame:

Specialized Pitch Comp 27.5

• 24 speeds
• Mechanical disc brakes

Electric Bicycle

Brand: KTM Macina or Cube Acid

• 500 wh battery
• Front suspension
• 9 speeds

Accessories

• Helmet
• Bike tool kit for quick repairs (pump. inner tubes)
• Water bottle
• Lock

Tour Company