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Camino de Santiago by bicycle from Roncesvalles

16 Days
464 miles | 747 Km
Roncesvalles - Santiago
From
16 Days
464 miles | 747 Km
Roncesvalles - Santiago
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Camino de Santiago by bicycle from Roncesvalles

16 Days
464 miles | 747 Km
Roncesvalles - Santiago
Personalised Quotation
Luggage Transfers
24/7 Travel Assistance
Selected Accommodations
This section of the Camino Frances to Santiago by bike starts in the historic and cultural town of Roncesvalles. Enjoy cycling through the main towns on this section of the Camino Frances from the north of Spain, in Navarre, to Santiago de Compostela.
  • Explore the 747 kilometres of the Camino Frances by bike, starting in Roncesvalles.
  • Visit some of the must-see towns along the Camino Frances, such as Puente la Reina, Burgos, Sahagun, Leon, Ponferrada and Sarria.
  • Cycle through the impressive vineyards, over the endless mountains and along the surrounding rivers.
  • Get to know the emblematic places along the route: the Pilgrim's Monument, at the Alto del Perdon; the Paso Honroso Bridge, in Hospital de Orbigo; Burgos Cathedral and the Templars' Castle, in Ponferrada.
  • Venture out to sample the gastronomic variety of the towns along the Camino.
  • Enjoy cycle holidays along the Camino Frances, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1993.
Furthermore, by booking your Camino de Santiago from Roncesvalles with Orbis Ways, you will stay in en suite rooms in charming hotels and country cottages and we will transfer your luggage between stages.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival at Roncesvalles
Your cycling tour begins in Roncesvalles, a beautiful town which, in the Middle Ages, was part of the route of the Camino de Santiago and became the ideal starting point for pilgrims arriving from France. Let yourself be captivated by the historic charm that the place preserves.

Overnight in Roncesvalles

Hotel Roncesvalles

Enjoy a pleasant evening at this recently restored medieval hospital, which features a bar and restaurant, where an excellent breakfast is served every morning.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Roncesvalles to Puente la Reina 41 miles | 66 km
Start the day early so that you can enjoy all the wonders that the Camino has in store for you. As you leave Roncesvalles behind you, a downhill section awaits you that will allow you to contemplate beautiful fields of beech and oak trees.

Afterwards, ascend through the Alto de Mezquiriz and Alto de Erro mountain passes. From here you will advance towards Zubiri. When you get there you will come to the Puente de la Rabia Bridge, over the River Arga. 

The next town is Pamplona, the capital of Navarre, known for the San Fermin festival, an annual festival that takes place from the 7th to the 14th of July. During these celebrations, participants run in front of six bulls through the narrow streets of the town in the popular 'encierros’ (the running of the bulls).

On the last section of the route, you will climb the Alto del Perdon mountain range, where you will see the Pilgrim's Monument and be able to enjoy the views of Pamplona and the Pyrenees. You will finish the stage in the village of Puente la Reina, named after the Romanesque bridge that Queen Dona Mayor ordered to be built for pilgrims to cross. 

Ascent: 763m (2,503ft) / Descent: 1353m (4,438ft)

Overnight in Puente la Reina

Hotel El Cerco

This family hotel has its own typical style combined with modern touches. The rooms feature a TV, air-conditioning and a private bathroom.
It offers free Wi-Fi and a bar, ideal for a drink after a day of walking.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Puente la Reina to Los Arcos 26,7 miles | 43 km
Today you will undertake a less crowded and demanding cycling route than the previous day. On your way to the village of Cirauqui, situated on a hilltop, you will ride through fields of cereals and olive groves. In this area, you can enjoy the rural landscape and the architectural beauty of the Gothic Church of San Roman. 

Your next stop will be Estella, known as the "Toledo of the north" for its rich historical and artistic heritage. On leaving Estella, you will head towards the Bodegas Irache winery, founded in 1891, where you can enjoy a free glass of wine at the fountain that offers wine instead of water.

Continue to Villamayor de Monjardin, where you will see the ruins of the San Esteban de Deyo Castle, built in the 10th century. You have a quiet stretch left while you enjoy the breeze before reaching Los Arcos. Once there, explore the medieval charm of this small town. 

Ascent: 609m (1,998ft) / Descent: 499m (1,637ft)

Overnight in Los Arcos

Pensión Los Arcos

Rooms are equipped with Wi-Fi, a TV and a private bathroom. Every morning the accommodation serves a delicious buffet or continental breakfast.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - Los Arcos to Najera 34,8 miles | 56 km
Today's destination is Najera. To get there you will have to overcome several ascents and descents. You will advance to La Rioja, an autonomous region in the north of Spain, known for its great wine-growing tradition. 

From there you roll on to Clavijo Castle, a majestic 1,000-square-metre fortress perched on top of a rock. The next town is Viana, one of the prettiest villages in Navarre. Take a moment to relax near the Virgen de las Cuevas Chapel.

You will continue to the capital of La Rioja, Logrono, famous for the quality of its wines and its exquisite tapas. You will continue to the village of Navarrete, a must for pilgrims. 

After passing through these emblematic places, you will reach the medieval town of Najera.

Ascent: 619m (2,030ft) / Descent: 580m (1,902ft)

Overnight in Najera

Hotel Duques de Nájera

This hotel, located in an old property, will ensure a pleasant stay in Najera. The rooms are very bright and colourful, they include a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
In the morning you can enjoy a good breakfast.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Najera to Belorado 27,3 miles | 44 km
Today the splendid landscape of the Sierra de la Demanda awaits you, a protected natural area populated by beeches, oaks, wild pines, eagles, hawks and other birds. From here you can see the majestic San Lorenzo, the highest peak in the region, at 2,771 metres above sea level.

The route will take you to Azofra, the small village dedicated to the patron saint of La Rioja, the Virgin of Valvanera. In this area you will have the opportunity to take a detour to the monasteries of Yuso and Suso de San Millan de la Cogolla, declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1997.

You will then head towards Santo Domingo de la Calzada, a town historically linked to the Camino de Santiago. From this point, you will leave La Rioja and enter the region of Castile-Leon, specifically Belorado, the final town on this stage. 

Ascent: 556m (1,824ft) / Descent: 267m (876ft)

Overnight in Belorado

Hotel Rural Verdeancho

The rooms at this cosy hotel feature a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
The accommodation also has a bar where a good breakfast is served.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Belorado to Burgos 30,4 miles | 49 km
Today's destination is Burgos. Along the route, you will be able to enjoy varied landscapes that include lush forests and extensive fields of crops. The first town is Villambistia, a small village of no more than 40 inhabitants. You can visit the water spring which, according to legend, has curative powers. 

The next place is Villafranca Montes de Oca, a municipality that owes its name to the Camino Frances, as it developed along the route, which is why it has a longitudinal layout and stretches along both sides of the road. Afterwards, you will head towards San Juan de Ortega, where you can visit the monastery of the same name, founded in the 11th century. 

You will then head towards the Sierra de Atapuerca mountain range, where you can take a detour to explore the sites that have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The last part of this stage will take you downhill to Burgos, a beautiful city with a great architectural treasure. 

Ascent: 424m (1,391ft) / Descent: 330m (1,082ft)

Overnight in Burgos

Hotel Forum Evolución

This hotel is located just a few minutes from the historic center and main tourist attractions.
Its rooms feature private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - Burgos to Fromista 41 miles | 66 km
Today you will get ready to ride along trails shielded by endless fields and forests. You will head towards Hornillos del Camino, a small village that is visited every year by thousands of pilgrims on the Camino Frances. 

You will advance until you come across the Cross of Santiago, a characteristic symbol on the Camino de Santiago that stands out for its cross and sword shape.

You will descend to the River Bol Valley and continue to Castrojeriz, a pretty town known by some pilgrims as “the long town", as its main street is more than two kilometres long. From there, you will climb the Alto Mostelares and then cross the River Pisuerga, in the direction of the region of Tierra de Campos. 

Later, you will come to the Canal de Castilla, one of the most important hydraulic constructions in Spain. Follow its course until you reach Fromista. Once there, you can visit the 11th-century Church of San Martin.

Ascent: 478m (1,568ft) / Descent: 556m (1,824ft)

Overnight in Fromista

Eco Hotel Doña Mayor

The rooms of this sustainable hotel feature private bathrooms, TV and free Wi-Fi.
The accommodation has a pleasant terrace with views of the garden and a bar where a delicious breakfast is served.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Fromista to Sahagun 36,6 miles | 59 km
Once you leave Fromista behind, you will head towards Poblacion de Campos, through Villovieco. This section runs over flat terrain that rewards you with views of cereal crops. 

You will continue towards Carrion de los Condes, the most important town on the Camino, in the province of Palencia, for the richness of its historical heritage. The next section, which takes you to Calzadilla de la Cueza, is the longest route without intermediate villages on the whole of the Camino Frances. 

After enjoying the tranquillity of the countryside, you will enter the province of Leon. This section requires a little more effort, but the views will reward you. You will pass through beautiful oak forests, cereal crops and, finally, the River Valderaduey. 

After crossing the river, you'll head towards Sahagun, a place of special charm and historical and cultural richness. Once there, don't forget to visit the churches of San Lorenzo and San Tirso and the Plaza Mayor.

Ascent: 219m (718ft) / Descent: 183m (600ft)

Overnight in Sahagun

Hostal Domus Viatoris

Located in Sahagun, it offers rooms with a private bathroom, TV and free Wi-Fi.
The accommodation has a bar and a restaurant where you can taste typical cuisine.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 9 - Sahagun to Leon 34,2 miles | 55 km
Today you will leave Sahagun behind to enter the small and quiet village of Calzada del Coto, where you can visit its 17th-century parish church. The route will pass through the Leon plateau, amid dreamlike landscapes that extend throughout the region. 

You will ascend towards Mansilla de las Mulas, a charming town on the banks of the River Esla, which annually celebrates the feast day of Santiago the Apostle on the 25th of July with medieval festivities that include a market, theatrical performances and jousting between knights. 

You'll move on to Leon, a stunning city renowned for housing one of Spain's most stunning Gothic temples, the Cathedral of Leon. Another of its architectural gems is the Basilica of San Isidoro, home to a royal pantheon and museum.

Ascent: 175m (574ft) / Descent: 159m (522ft)

Overnight in Leon

Hotel Alda Vía León

This centrally located hotel offers rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi throughout its facilities.
You can enjoy a buffet breakfast at its restaurant.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 10 - Leon to Astorga 32,3 miles | 52 km
After leaving the vibrant city of Leon, you will come to the town of La Virgen del Camino. You will drive along the bypass that leads away from the traffic and into cultivated areas and unpaved roads. 

The route will take you to Villar de Mazarife, a village surrounded by splendid rural and agricultural landscapes, characteristic of the northern plateau. From here, you will head towards Hospital de Orbigo, a beautiful municipality where you can visit the Orbigo Bridge, one of the most emblematic places on the Camino. 

Before entering Astorga, you will see the impressive hills and the panorama of the Leon mountains. Upon arrival, indulge yourself with its incredible gastronomy and admire the Astorga Episcopal Palace, a work designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi. 

Ascent: 247m (810ft) / Descent: 217m (712ft)

Overnight in Astorga

Hotel Restaurante La Peseta

This hotel located in Astorga offers a restaurant with exquisite and traditional food. It offers comfortable and spacious rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 11 - Astorga to Ponferrada 32,3 miles | 52 km
A pleasant journey through the mountains of Leon and El Bierzo awaits you. Be amazed by the dazzling vegetation including oaks, heather and brush. 

Your next stop is Rabanal del Camino, the ideal place to take a break and stroll through its cobbled streets and the Parish Church of La Asuncion, built at the end of the 12th century.

After enjoying the historic towns along this stretch, you will end your journey in Ponferrada. Take some time to explore the representative symbol of the city, the Templar Castle, built in the 12th century; discover the Basilica of La Encina and the old quarter, where you can sample its exquisite traditional gastronomy.

Ascent: 710m (2,329ft) / Descent: 1070m (3,510ft)

Overnight in Ponferrada

Hotel El Castillo

This charming hotel is located close to the Templar Castle in Ponferrada and of the old town. The rooms are spacious and have private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 12 - Ponferrada to O Cebreiro 33,5 miles | 54 km
Today's day is made up of some ascents and descents, from which you can enjoy the views over the vineyards and the characteristic crops of the region. 

Your first break will be in the pretty village of Villafranca del Bierzo, set in beautiful natural surroundings, including mountains, forests and the River Burbia, which runs through the area. Here you will see the Puerta del Perdon, which opens only during Holy Years.

You will continue towards a steep ascent, which requires a great deal of effort. Once you reach it, the route will reward you with the picturesque scenery of the valley of the River Valcarce. The final stretch will take you to O Cebreiro, at an altitude of 1,330 metres. It is one of the most representative historical sites on the Camino de Santiago and one of the first in terms of assistance to pilgrims. 

In O Cebreiro, be sure not to miss architectural wonders such as the oldest church on the Camino Frances and the Church of Santa Maria la Real, the second most visited church in Galicia after the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. 

Ascent: 1030m (3,379ft) / Descent: 557m (1,827ft)

Overnight in O Cebreiro

Hotel O Cebreiro

This accommodation is a stone rural house with spacious rooms, formerly the town hall of O Cebreiro. It features 5 rooms with private bathrooms and a restaurant.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 13 - O Cebreiro to Sarria 24,8 miles | 40 km
Today you will have one of the shortest stages of the Camino Frances. Leaving O Cebreiro, head towards Triacastela, where you will find a typical mountain landscape, as it is located in the foothills of the Eastern Galician Sierras. 

From Triacastela, you will continue towards Sarria. To get there, take the San Xil by-pass. This route runs parallel to the road, through one of the most beautiful valleys on the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. 

You will end your cycling trip in the magical town of Sarria, the favourite starting point for many pilgrims who walk the Camino de Santiago every year. Explore the historic centre of the Roman town and explore its cobbled streets and traditional Galician-style buildings. 

Ascent: 676m (2,217ft) / Descent: 1229m (4,032ft)

Overnight in Sarria

Mar de Plata

This cosy accomodation enjoys an excellent location in Sarria, and has common areas where you can rest and recover from the days walk.
The rooms feature spacious beds, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. Enjoy delicious local food in its restaurant.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 14 - Sarria to Melide 36 miles | 58 km
Start your day early so that you can enjoy all the wonders of the route at your leisure. You will ride through varied and hilly terrain, allowing you to contemplate the imposing trees that provide shade. 

On your way to Portomarin, you will come across the River Minho, this tributary was on the banks of the village for centuries. However, due to the construction of the Belesar Reservoir in 1963, Portomarin was flooded by the waters of the reservoir. The current town was built in the early 1960s and fortunately, the buildings of most historical interest were moved. 

After visiting Portomarin, you should cross the River Minho to head towards the Ligonde Mountains. You will pass through the small villages of Gonzar and Ventas de Naron, before arriving in Palas de Rei, a municipality that has been highly influenced by the Camino de Santiago. You will end the day in Melide, a town famous for its traditional gastronomy, especially the Galician octopus. 

Ascent: 1028m (3,372ft) / Descent: 1009m (3,310ft)

Overnight in Melide

Hotel Carlos 96

Enjoy the excellent atmosphere provided by this hotel, making available its complete facilities, including a spacious restaurant.
It also features fully equipped rooms, with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 15 - Melide to Santiago de Compostela 33 miles | 53 km
Today you will undertake the last stage on the Camino de Santiago by bike. Once you leave Melide, you will start your journey through various types of terrain and with some ascents and descents. You will ride over a hill and then continue downhill towards the River Ribadiso, its gentle flow will indicate that you are approaching Arzua. 

Leaving Arzua behind, you will descend through extraordinary villages, beautiful landscapes and close to several streams. On your way, you will come across a baroque-style fountain, attributed with curative powers, located in the Chapel of Santa Irene. 

Continue to O Pedrouzo, a town of 540 inhabitants, where you can visit the neoclassical Church of Santa Eulalia de Arca. Take some time to rest and catch your breath, as you are only 20 kilometres from Santiago. 

On this final stretch, explore the Church of San Paio, built in 1840, and head to Monte do Gozo to see the majestic Cathedral of Santiago. Your last stop will be in the Plaza del Obradoiro, where you can enjoy the wide range of cultural and gastronomic offerings that Santiago has to offer.

Ascent: 845m (2,772ft) / Descent: 1023m (3,356ft)

Overnight in Santiago de Compostela

Hotel Pazos Alba

This property is the perfect place to relax in the heart of Santiago de Compostela, combining Galician tradition with maximum comfort.
Enjoy its rooms with private bathroom, free Wi-Fi and a good breakfast.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 16 - Santiago de Compostela
The beautiful city of Santiago de Compostela is the end of your cycling route along the Camino de Santiago. We recommend you visit the city centre, get to know its history and churches, before returning home. If you have a couple of free additional days, don't hesitate to contact us to help you arrange a tour of Santiago de Compostela and enjoy all that it has to offer.

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Itinerary Map

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    Services

    Included

    • Accommodation in en suite rooms in charming hotels and country cottages
    • Daily Breakfasts
    • Luggage transport between accommodations
    • MTB bike
    • Camino de Santiago pilgrim credential
    • Information dossier with maps and routes
    • 24-hour telephone support
    • Assistance vehicle in case of emergency
    • Travel insurance
    • Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
    • Taxes

    Extras

    • E-bike
    • Cancellation insurance
    • Additional nights
    • Dinners
    • Picnics

    Accomodation

    General information


    The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available.

    Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip.

    The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip.

    We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.

    The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.

    Room types


    It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms.

    All rooms have private bathrooms.

    Travel & Transfers

    To get to the starting point of this cycling route you can get to Pamplona by plane, train or bus. From the airport or train station, you can take a bus or taxi to Roncesvalles.

    At the end of your tour, you can take public or private transport from your accommodation to get to Santiago Airport.

    FAQs

    Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
    Absolutely! Each traveller has included 1 piece of luggage that we will transfer between your accommodations. It's important that this piece of luggage meets the following criterias:
    • Maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg).
    • Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
    • Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
    • Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
    The approximate luggage delivery time will be at 4:00 PM.
    What is the best time of year to do this trip?
    We recommend you take this walking holiday in spring or autumn. However, it is available also from February to November.
    How far in advance should I book my trip?
    We recommend that you ​book as soon as you are sure about your dates​, as accommodation can fill up very quickly in this area.
    How fit should I be?
    You must have good physical endurance to be able to make the most of this trip.
    What equipment do I need to bring?
    Once you make your reservation we will send you all the ​detailed information about the specific equipment you need​ for this route, considering recommendations for shoes, boots, clothes and a day-to day backpack.
    Can I take this trip solo?
    Yes, you can take this trip alone or accompanied. There are no restrictions.
    How do I get the pilgrim's credential?
    The pilgrim's credential can be found upon arrival at your first accommodation.  This credential must be stamped in churches, restaurants and hotels during your journey on the Camino de Santiago. At the end of the trip in the city of Santiago, you can obtain the Compostela that certifies you as a pilgrim.
    Can I combine and change a few days of the tour?
    Yes, we can adjust the route to your needs and tastes. However, our routes are designed to bring out the best in each trip.
    Can some of the longer stages of the itinerary be divided?
    Yes, below is a list of all the stages that we can divide, so that you do not have to walk so many daily kilometres:  
    • St. Jean Pied de Port to Roncesvalles (with overnight in Valcarlos).
    • Roncesvalles to Zubiri (with overnight in Bizkarreta).
    • Los Arcos to Logroño (with overnight in Viana).
    • Mazarife to Astorga (with overnight in Hospital de Órbigo).
    • Rabanal del Camino to Ponferrada (with overnight in El Acebo de San Miguel).
    • Villafranca del Bierzo to O Cebreiro (with overnight in Las Herrerías).
    • Sarria to Portomarín (with overnight in Ferreiros).
    • Portomarín to Palas de Rei (with overnight in Ventas de Narón).
    • Palas de Rei to Arzúa (with overnight in Melide).
    There are some stages that cannot be divided as our quality department has determined that it is not recommended based on our standards. This is because luggage cannot be transported or there are no accommodations available. For the stages you find longer, you can take a taxi in the morning after breakfast, to drop you off at a point along the way where you can guarantee to finish the stage. This is the most popular option with walkers. You can also take a look at these other options of the Camino Frances.

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