Home > Camino de Santiago > Camino de Santiago by bicycle from St Jean Pied de Port

Camino de Santiago by bicycle from St Jean Pied de Port

17 Days
480 miles | 772 Km
St Jean Pied de Port - Santiago
From 5,471 CAD
Personalized quotation
Luggage transfer
24h telephone assistance
Hotel accommodations
The full Camino de Santiago de Compostela route by bike starts in one of the most beautiful villages in France, St. Jean Pied de Port. You will cycle through northern Spain from the Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela. During the bike ride, you will be able to contemplate the architectural and cultural richness of emblematic cities such as Burgos, Leon, Astorga and Ponferrada.  An unforgettable adventure!
  • This world-renowned pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela is approximately 772 kilometres long.
  • Cycle through the traditional and charming villages of the Camino Frances: Zubiri, Los Arcos, Puente la Reina, Fromista, and O Cebreiro.
  • Visit the Romanesque bridge in Puente de la Reina; the archaeological sites of the Sierra de Atapuerca, in Burgos; the Episcopal Palace of Astorga and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
  • Delight in 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 St Jean Pied de Port 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 St Jean Pied de Port
Your cycling tour starts in St. Jean Pied de Port. On arrival, you will discover this beautiful town surrounded by ramparts, old houses dating back to the 18th century and, of course, the gateway to Santiago de Compostela. After Sarria, St. Jean Pied de Port is the town from which most pilgrims start the Camino Frances.

Overnight in St Jean Pied de Port

Hotel Ramuntxo

This accommodation enjoys an excellent location in the center of St. Jean Pied de Port. It has all the necessary amenities for you to rest and prepare for your journey.
Its rooms offers free Wi-Fi and a private bathroom.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - St Jean Pied de Port to Zubiri 28,6 miles | 46 km
You will start the day leaving St. Jean Pied de Port to ascend towards the famous Roncesvalles mountain pass. This section requires a little more effort than the rest of the Camino Frances, but will undoubtedly reward you with some splendid views.

Continue in the direction of Roncesvalles, a village surrounded by a welcoming natural environment with beautiful mountainous and wooded landscapes. Here you can visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria.

From this point, you will start to descend into the middle of the Arga Valley, where you will find picturesque landscapes of beech and oak forests. This section crosses two mountain passes: Alto de Mezquiriz and Alto de Erro. You will continue down to Zubiri, where you will be greeted by the famous Puente de la Rabia bridge over the River Arga. 

Overnight in Zubiri

Casa Rural Txantxorena

Located in Zubiri, this country house offers fully equipped rooms with a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
Other facilities offered at the property include a shared lounge, a pretty garden and a terrace.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Zubiri to Puente la Reina 28 miles | 45 km
When you leave Zubiri, follow the path that runs alongside the River Arga in the direction of Larrasoana, a small village that expanded around the San Agustin Monastery. 

You are getting closer and closer to Pamplona, the capital of Navarre. This city is famous for the San Fermin festival, an annual celebration in which participants run in front of 6 bulls through the narrow streets of the town in the popular running of the bulls, which takes place at 8 am from the 7th to the 14th of July.

Afterwards, you will ascend to the Alto del Perdon mountain range, where you will see the emblematic monument to the pilgrim, a group of sculptures that pay homage to pilgrims from different eras. Once you leave it behind, you will descend towards Puente la Reina, a town famous for its medieval streets and the Romanesque bridge from which it takes its name. 

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 4 - Puente la Reina to Los Arcos 26,7 miles | 43 km
Today, a less crowded and easier route awaits you. As you leave Puente la Reina behind, you will be immersed in the wine-growing villages, where you will also see olive groves and cereal crops. You will continue your journey towards Cirauqui, a quiet and welcoming village located on the top of a hill. 

You will travel along the Roman road until you reach Estella, a beautiful medieval town that is home to countless palaces, churches and convents. During this final section, you will pass the Bodegas Irache winery, where you can enjoy a free glass of wine at the fountain that offers wine instead of water.

You will soon come across the “village of four lies”, Villamayor de Monjardin, known as such because it is not a village, it is not big, it has no nuns and no garden. Finally, after enjoying a silent stretch, you will arrive in Los Arcos, an outstanding town on the Santiago route.

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 5 - Los Arcos to Najera 34,8 miles | 56 km
The bike route will take you to Najera through several ascents and descents. Your first stop will immerse you in La Rioja, one of the Autonomous Communities with the richest cultural and historical heritage in Spain. 

Later you will visit the majestic Clavijo Castle, which still conserves part of its original structure. The fortress extends over 1,000 square metres and is located on top of a huge rock. Once in Viana, you can take a moment to relax near the Chapel of the Virgen de las Cuevas.

When you come to a beautiful stone bridge over the River Ebro, you will know that you are entering Logrono, the capital of La Rioja, famous for the quality of its wines and its exquisite tapas. 

From here, head for Navarrete, a town known for its pottery and wine-making tradition. After visiting these emblematic places, you will reach the mediaeval town of Najera.

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 6 - Najera to Belorado 27,3 miles | 44 km
Today's cycle route is shorter than yesterday's. It will take you through wonderful landscapes towards the Sierra de la Demanda, where you will see the highest peak in the area in the distance: the imposing San Lorenzo, which rises to a height of 2,771 metres. 

You will continue to the small village of Azofra, located near the River Tuerto. Right here 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'll move on to Santo Domingo de la Calzada, a municipality named after Santo Domingo, an 11th-century saint. You are getting closer and closer to Belorado, the final town on this stage, located in the province of Burgos. 

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 7 - Belorado to Burgos 30,4 miles | 49 km
The route from Belorado winds through beautiful natural scenery and charming villages. The first is Villambistia, a small village with a spring that, according to legend, has curative powers.

The next is Villafranca Montes de Oca, a municipality that grew up along the Camino Frances, which is why it has a longitudinal layout and stretches along both sides of the road. You will then head for San Juan de Ortega, where you can visit the monastery of the same name, founded in the 11th century. 

You will continue to the Sierra de Atapuerca, a mountain range known for its archaeological importance. Here you will have the chance to take a detour to visit the Atapuerca Mountains, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2000. The last part of this stage will take you downhill to Burgos, a beautiful city with great architectural treasures. 

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 8 - Burgos to Fromista 41 miles | 66 km
Today you will gradually leave behind the wonderful region of Burgos to enter a plateau, where you will ride along paths surrounded by impressive fields and forests, which will make the route very pleasant. 

You will continue to Hornillos del Camino, a small village of medieval origin. Later you will come across the Cross of Santiago, a characteristic symbol of the Camino de Santiago, which stands out for its cross and sword shape. 

As you go on, you will descend into the River Bol Valley and continue towards the pretty village of Castrojeriz, near the River Odra. You will climb the Alto Mostelares pass and then cross the River Pisuerga in the direction of the Tierra de Campos region. When you reach the Canal de Castilla, one of the most important hydraulic structures in Spain, you will skirt along it until you reach Fromista.

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 9 - Fromista to Sahagun 36,6 miles | 59 km
You will start the day by saying goodbye to Fromista and heading towards the Poblacion de Campos, through Villovieco. This simple and flat stretch will take you through beautiful cereal crops. 

The next town is Carrion de los Condes, where you can explore its historical heritage. You will then travel along the ancient Roman road "Via Aquitania", built in the Middle Ages. 

When you reach Calzadilla de la Cueza, you will enjoy the typical Castilian landscape characterised by its wide agricultural fields, which stretch as far as the eye can see.

The final stretch of the cycle route will take you into the last Castilian province: Leon. You will pass through beautiful oak forests, and cereal crops before finally reaching the River Valderaduey. After crossing the river, you will ride to Sahagun, a place of special charm and historical and cultural richness. 

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 10 - Sahagun to Leon 34,2 miles | 55 km
You will start the day heading away from Sahagun and towards the River Cea and the Calzada del Coto. The tracks are noted for their idyllic scenery including beautiful cereal and grain plantations, which adorn the Leon plateau. 

The route will take you over several ascents that will bring you to Mansilla de las Mulas, a town located on the banks of the River Duero. Among its many architectural highlights are the Iron Bridge, or Charles III Bridge, which crosses the River Esla, and the Parish Church of Santa Maria, a Gothic-style building dating back to the 13th century.

After leaving Mansilla de las Mulas you will travel along the main road to gradually immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the vibrant city of Leon. Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to admire the outstanding architectural heritage present in the Cathedral of Leon, an iconic work in the Spanish Gothic style. 

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 11 - Leon to Astorga 32,3 miles | 52 km
You'll start the day by heading out of Leon and towards the town of La Virgen del Camino. Once there, you'll take the bypass that leads away from the traffic and into the cultivated areas and unpaved roads. This route will take you to Villar de Mazarife, a town surrounded by splendid rural and agricultural landscapes, characteristic of the northern plateau. 

You will advance along gravel and dirt tracks towards one of the most beautiful villages on the Camino Frances, Hospital de Orbigo. Here you can visit the Orbigo Bridge, also known as the 'Paso Honroso' Bridge, one of the most emblematic places on the Camino. 

You will ride along a flat section and, later on, you will face some hills.  This last part of the route will require some extra effort, but it is definitely worth it, as you will have the chance to contemplate the breathtaking panorama of the mountains of Leon. 

When you arrive in Astorga, enjoy its incredible gastronomy and admire the works of the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi.

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 12 - Astorga to Ponferrada 32,3 miles | 52 km
Today you will get ready for a trip through the beautiful mountains of Leon and El Bierzo. On the way, you will be surrounded by a lot of vegetation such as oaks, heather and brush.

You will continue to Rabanal del Camino, a village where pilgrims meet and rest. Enjoy the Calle Real, where you will find the Chapel of San Jose. Don't forget to stroll through its cobbled streets and visit the Parish Church of La Asuncion, built at the end of the 12th century.

You will end your journey in Ponferrada, a historic city that experienced its heyday in the 11th century as a result of the pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela. Take time to explore the city's emblematic symbol, the Templar Castle, built in the 12th century.

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 13 - Ponferrada to O Cebreiro 33,5 miles | 54 km
The goal for the day is O Cebreiro. As you arrive, enjoy an amazing bike ride with gentle ascents and descents through vineyards and crops. You will soon come across Villafranca del Bierzo, a village in a hilly and wooded setting, where you can visit the 12th-century Romanesque Church of Santiago. 

After leaving Villafranca del Bierzo behind, you will face an ascent that demands a great deal of effort. However, the picturesque scenery of the River Valcarce valley that will surround you during the ascent will be a great reward. 

O Cebreiro, located at an altitude of 1,330 metres, will allow you, on a clear day, to see the most splendid scenery of the entire stage. Be sure not to miss the architectural wonders of the village, 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.

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 14 - O Cebreiro to Sarria 24,8 miles | 40 km
Today's route is shorter compared to the previous days. You will start the stage descending towards the small town of Triacastela, where you can visit the Church of Santiago and the engravings and paintings discovered in the prehistoric caves of Cova Eiros.

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

This cycling stage ends in Sarria, but the experiences on the Camino do not end here. Let yourself be amazed by this beautiful place as you cycle through its cobbled streets and traditional Galician-style buildings. Be sure to visit the Church of Santa Marina, built in the 13th century, and the Church of San Salvador, which dates back to the 12th century.

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 15 - Sarria to Melide 36 miles | 58 km
Today you will embark on a cycling route that will take you through varied and steep terrain. The route will be full of green meadows and leafy trees that will provide you with shade. 

As you go along, the River Mino will indicate that you are approaching Portomarin. There you can visit the Romanesque Church of Santiago de Barbadelo and the Church of San Nicolas.

As you leave this town, a climb awaits you. Once you cross the River Mino, you should head for the Sierra de Ligonde. Continue through small villages such as Gonzar and Ventas de Naron until you reach Palas de Rei. You will end the day in Melide, a town famous for its traditional gastronomy, especially Galician octopus.

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 16 - Melide to Santiago de Compostela 33 miles | 53 km
Start the day early to continue your adventure towards Santiago de Compostela. You will start by climbing a hill and then continue downhill towards the tranquil River Ribadiso, its slow flow will indicate your proximity to Arzua. 

On your way to A Rua, you will descend through pretty villages, and past picturesque landscapes and some streams. Before entering the municipality, you can go to the Chapel of Santa Irene to visit the famous statue of Santiago. Your next stop will be O Pedrouzo, located in the region of Galicia. This is the ideal place to take a break and catch your breath.

Get ready for the final stretch of the Camino. After crossing San Paio and going around Santiago Airport, you will see the Church of Lavacolla. The last few kilometres will take you to Monte do Gozo, from where you will have beautiful views of the imposing Cathedral of Santiago. Upon arrival in Santiago, enjoy its spectacular architectural wealth and marvel at its UNESCO World Heritage Site historic Old Quarter.

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 17 - Santiago de Compostela
The beautiful city of Santiago de Compostela is the end of your cycling route along the Camino de Santiago. If you have a couple of extra days to spare, don't hesitate to contact us to help you arrange a tour of Santiago de Compostela and enjoy all it has to offer. 

End of our services.

Itinerary map

Services

Included

  • Accommodation in en suite rooms in charming hotels and country cottages
  • Daily Breakfasts
  • MTB bike
  • Luggage transfers between accommodations
  • 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 start this journey along the Camino de Santiago Frances, you can arrive at Biarritz Airport in France or Pamplona Airport in Spain, and then head towards St. Jean Pied de Port.

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.

Thousands of travelers trust us

Why Choose Orbis Ways?

Find Your Ideal Trip

Explore over 200 carefully designed routes tailored just for you.

Tailor-Made Budget

We adapt to your needs to provide you with the best possible experience.

Get the Most Out of Your Trip

Join the Orbis Ways community and embark on an unforgettable adventure.