Bike Tour along the Camino de Santiago

Your bike tour along the Camino de Santiago begins in Astorga, a charming town nestled at the foot of the Montes de León in north-western Spain. Traditionally, the people of Astorga have relied on trade, as the region's rocky terrain is not conducive to large-scale agriculture. The town also boasts a long-standing tradition of confectionery production, with delicious local treats such as chocolate, hojaldres, and mantecados being crafted here. Key sights in Astorga include the impressive cathedral and the Bishop's Palace, designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí.

A challenge awaits you right at the start of today's journey along the Camino de Santiago as you begin your ascent into the Montes de León, heading uphill toward the Cruz de Ferro. This small iron cross marks the highest point of the Camino Francés and holds a deep significance in pilgrim traditions. According to custom, pilgrims place a stone from their homeland at the base of the cross, symbolizing a personal sacrifice or prayer. After this meaningful moment, you will be rewarded with a long, exhilarating descent into Molinaseca, where breathtaking views accompany your ride. The village has been an important transit point since Roman times.

Shortly after starting your ride, you'll reach Ponferrada, where a visit to the impressive Templar Castle is a must. Not far from here, you'll encounter Las Médulas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its extraordinary cultural landscape shaped by ancient Roman gold mining. Continuing on, you'll cycle through the picturesque Bierzo wine region, renowned for its vineyards. Your destination for the day is Las Herrerías, where you can explore the oldest pilgrimage church on the Camino de Santiago, along with replicas of the pallozas—the distinctive elliptical huts once used by the Celtiberians.

You have now entered Galicia in Las Herrerías, a region that stands apart from the rest of Spain in many ways. Galicia’s Celtic heritage is still visible in various places, with traces of ancient settlements scattered throughout the land. The landscape, strikingly green and mountainous, captivates with its rugged beauty. The highlight of today's bike tour along the Camino de Santiago is the scenic descent to Samos, where you'll find one of Spain's oldest and most beautiful monasteries. This historic site, surrounded by lush nature, offers a peaceful and awe-inspiring moment during your journey.

Today's stage promises a pleasant ride through serene rural landscapes and charming villages. The route primarily heads westward along picturesque, tree-lined roads, taking you across the Rio Miño and into the municipality of Portomarín on the opposite bank. In the 1950s, the town was moved 50 meters higher to accommodate the Belesar reservoir, resulting in its unique relocation. After exploring this historic town, you'll continue your journey to Palas de Rei, a small town that captures the essence of the Camino de Santiago, where the welcoming spirit of pilgrims fills the air as you reach the day's destination.

Today's bike tour along the Camino de Santiago takes you on a gentle ride with rolling ups and downs towards Melide. This small town is a key crossroads, where the Camino Primitivo merges with the classic Camino Francés, and also connects to the coastal route. A highlight in Melide is the popular Pulpería Ezequiel restaurant, renowned among pilgrims for its exceptional octopus. Nearby Arzúa is famous for producing Arzúa-Ulloa cheese, a delicious Galician specialty. Your destination for the day is Rua, where you’ll rest and reflect on another rewarding stage of your journey.

At the end of your bike tour, a final short stage awaits, giving you plenty of time to explore the magnificent destination of the Way of St. James—Santiago de Compostela, with its UNESCO-protected old town. However, before you reach the city, you'll tackle a hilly stretch. From Monte do Gozo, the "Mountain of Joy," you’ll get your first glimpse of the majestic cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, marking the moment when your long journey draws to a close and the final destination is within sight.

After breakfast, your bike tour along the Camino de Santiago concludes, and you begin your individual return journey. Should you wish to extend your time in this historic city, we would be happy to arrange an extra night in Santiago de Compostela upon request, allowing you to further explore and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable destination.