Spanish Camino de Santiago I

The first part of your hike takes you comfortably via Villar de Mazarife. The route is almost flat and runs through typical small villages and wide fields of grain, which characterise the landscape of this region.

Today you hike through the flat landscape of the Castilian plateau, past quiet villages and fields. You reach your stage destination, Hospital de Órbigo, via the impressive medieval bridge ‘Puente de Órbigo’. The charming town forms the transition from the plain to the hills and offers a final rest before the terrain becomes more challenging.

On today's route, the climbs gradually increase and offer you sweeping views over the fields and valleys of the region. You follow the Camino de Santiago through a gently undulating landscape to Astorga, a city steeped in history with a well-preserved old town and majestic cathedral.

You stroll through picturesque villages such as Murias de Rechivaldo and Santa Catalina de Somoza with their traditional stone houses. The landscape becomes increasingly wooded and rocky, while the views become more expansive. The ascent to Foncebadón, an almost abandoned mountain village at an altitude of 1,400 metres, rewards you with impressive nature and magnificent views.

The first ascent takes you to the legendary Cruz de Ferro on Monte Irago, the highest point of the Spanish Camino de Santiago at 1,500 metres. From there, the descent begins to the town of Ponferrada, the capital of the Bierzo region. This region is known for its rich gastronomy, including the typical dish botillo, and especially for its wines with a protected designation of origin.

The route climbs gently to Villafranca del Bierzo, a charming little town with historical flair and a lively atmosphere. This stage offers a successful mix of cultural sights and natural beauty.

Today you will pass traditional villages, picturesque hills and the lush forests of the Bierzo region. The route follows the old N-VI and runs along the river Valcarce to the quiet village of Vega de Valcárcel, where you can relax and end the day.

The legendary ascent to O Cebreiro, the gateway to Galicia and the biggest climb on Spanish territory, awaits you on this probably most beautiful and exciting stage. The difference in altitude is almost 700 metres and takes you over the infamous La Faba hill. However, the effort is rewarded by your arrival in the enchanting village of O Cebreiro, rich in Jacobean tradition.

You start the day with an ascent to San Roque, where the statue of the pilgrim gives you courage for the strenuous path to O Alto do Poio. Once you reach an altitude of 1,337 metres, you will experience one of the most challenging sections of the trail over a relatively short distance. You then descend towards Triacastela to reach your next stage destination.

The last, shorter stage towards San Xil is a pleasant walk through the peaceful, picturesque landscape. You cross the San Xil valley, one of the most beautiful valleys in Galicia, before reaching your destination of Sarria. Enjoy the local culture of this important pilgrimage site and reflect on your past experiences.