SpainCAMINO DE SANTIAGO
Self-Guided Cycling Holiday
SpainCamino de Santiago
Self-Guided Cycling Tour
Length: 8 Days
Level: 
Price:from €1,590
The Camino De Santiago (Way of St. James) is a stunning pilgrimage route in the north of Spain. The
trail, which has been followed by pilgrims for over one thousand years, passes through
charming towns and superb scenery.
Starting in León, this popular cycling holiday moves from Castilian vineyards, through impressive mountain scenery into Galicia, before finishing in the town of Santiago de Compostela. This tour passes through UNESCO world heritage sites, Roman towns and incredibly varied landscapes.
Below you can find a detailed itinerary, and click on the tabs to see more highlights, as well as all the practical information about the holiday.
Day 1 - Arrival - León
We will pick you up from León airport or train station and transfer you to the hotel in the center of the city.
León was originally founded by the Romans as a military camp to keep an eye on nearby gold mines, and it later flourished as the capital of a Christian kingdom in the Middle Ages.
Both the Roman walls and the imposing cathedral remains inside the historic center, along with buildings designed by the great Spanish architect - Antoni Gaudí. Here we will introduce you to your bikes and you can explore the delights of León, including its excellent tapas bars!
León was originally founded by the Romans as a military camp to keep an eye on nearby gold mines, and it later flourished as the capital of a Christian kingdom in the Middle Ages.
Both the Roman walls and the imposing cathedral remains inside the historic center, along with buildings designed by the great Spanish architect - Antoni Gaudí. Here we will introduce you to your bikes and you can explore the delights of León, including its excellent tapas bars!
A lively small square next to León Cathedral
Day 2 - León to Astorga
For the first day in the saddle you head north-west from Leon on gently rolling roads passing by vineyards and
hop fields
characteristic of this region.
Lunch can be taken on the banks of the Rio Orbigo, in the town of Hospital de Orbigo, famous for its legendary Gothic bridge, before you continue cycling on to Astorga.
Astorga was the largest Roman town in the region, and there are several ancient remains dotted around. During the Medieval period it became the seat of a powerful bishop, and the episcopal palace remains the most important building in the town.
Astorga also has a thriving chocolate industry, which is the oldest in Europe. During the Age of Exploration in the 16th and 17th centuries, Spanish ships returning from the Americas brought cocoa beans to the region. Artisans in Astorga were able to carve out a niche as producers of this new and very popular product!
Shorter Route: 42km (27 miles)
Longer Route: 58km (36 miles)
Lunch can be taken on the banks of the Rio Orbigo, in the town of Hospital de Orbigo, famous for its legendary Gothic bridge, before you continue cycling on to Astorga.
Astorga was the largest Roman town in the region, and there are several ancient remains dotted around. During the Medieval period it became the seat of a powerful bishop, and the episcopal palace remains the most important building in the town.
Astorga also has a thriving chocolate industry, which is the oldest in Europe. During the Age of Exploration in the 16th and 17th centuries, Spanish ships returning from the Americas brought cocoa beans to the region. Artisans in Astorga were able to carve out a niche as producers of this new and very popular product!
Cycle Routes:
Shorter Route: 42km (27 miles)
Longer Route: 58km (36 miles)
Astorga Roman Walls & Episcopal Palace
Day 3 - Astorga to Ponferrada
Leaving Astorga, you pass the picturesque stone buildings of Castrillo de los
Polvazares before
heading towards the impressive Montes de León.
The climb to the Iron Cross is the highest point on all of the Camino de Santiago, and it is customary for pilgrims to leave a rock on top of the pass.
The subsequent descent has stunning views, all the way into historic Ponferrada. The town is known primarily for its impressive Castle of the Knights Templar, which was built to protect pilgrims on the Camino from attacks by bandits.
Ponferrada also has a charming center with several delightful bodegas, where you can sample the local Bierzo wine.
The Route: 55km (34 miles)
The climb to the Iron Cross is the highest point on all of the Camino de Santiago, and it is customary for pilgrims to leave a rock on top of the pass.
The subsequent descent has stunning views, all the way into historic Ponferrada. The town is known primarily for its impressive Castle of the Knights Templar, which was built to protect pilgrims on the Camino from attacks by bandits.
Ponferrada also has a charming center with several delightful bodegas, where you can sample the local Bierzo wine.
Cycle Routes:
The Route: 55km (34 miles)
Ponferrada Castle
Day 4 - Ponferrada to O Cebreiro
The most challenging day of the cycling holiday begins by making your way to the picturesque
town of Villafranca del Bierzo.
With stunning views of Galicia providing the backdrop, you cross the vibrant green countryside before starting the tricky climb of around 12km up to the rural village of O Cebreiro. This is another of the highest points on the Camino, and is one of the most rewarding, with fine views as you reach a high plateau.
The day ends in the historic village of O Cebreiro. This small settlement is made up of beautiful stone buildings; including several round houses in the traditional Celtic style of the Galicia region. The picturesque church of Santa María is located in the center of the village, and once supposedly housed the Holy Grail.
The Route: 60km (37miles)
With stunning views of Galicia providing the backdrop, you cross the vibrant green countryside before starting the tricky climb of around 12km up to the rural village of O Cebreiro. This is another of the highest points on the Camino, and is one of the most rewarding, with fine views as you reach a high plateau.
The day ends in the historic village of O Cebreiro. This small settlement is made up of beautiful stone buildings; including several round houses in the traditional Celtic style of the Galicia region. The picturesque church of Santa María is located in the center of the village, and once supposedly housed the Holy Grail.
Cycle Routes:
The Route: 60km (37miles)
Cycling through the Bierzo region
Day 5 - O Cebreiro to Sarria
Leaving the area of O Cebreiro, you start to descend before tackling one last modest climb up to El
Poyo. The open scenery continues to offer fantastic views over the rolling green hills.
A long descend then leads down to a charming monastery in Samos, which makes for a nice place to stop for refreshments. From there it is just a short distance to the town of Sarria, which you arrive at via a beautiful Medieval bridge.
Sarria has a nice historic center and is always bustling with hikers on the Camino. This is the last place along the Camino that walkers are allowed to begin, if they wish to get their Compostela certificate upon their arrival in Santiago. In the evening we recommend sampling some delicious Galician cuisine - including the famous Pulpo a la Gallega.
A long descend then leads down to a charming monastery in Samos, which makes for a nice place to stop for refreshments. From there it is just a short distance to the town of Sarria, which you arrive at via a beautiful Medieval bridge.
Sarria has a nice historic center and is always bustling with hikers on the Camino. This is the last place along the Camino that walkers are allowed to begin, if they wish to get their Compostela certificate upon their arrival in Santiago. In the evening we recommend sampling some delicious Galician cuisine - including the famous Pulpo a la Gallega.
Cycle Routes:
The Route: 42km (26 miles)
Green Galician countryside
Day 6 - Sarria to Arzua
The route today is mostly rolling, as you head through the pleasant forests of Galicia. The ride crosses a picturesque reservoir to reach the town of Portomarín and then continues
along quiet country lanes to the town of Palas de Rei.
This makes for a nice coffee stop, after which your route splits from the hiking Camino. This is necessary to avoid the traffic on some busier highways that the walking route uses. Instead, you take scenic backroads through arable farmland and pine forests. This is a long ride along rolling terrain, but it's really enjoyable and there are plenty of interesting places to stop and take a break along the way.
The day finishes in the lively town of Arzua. Here you stay in a fantastic 18th century villa, with beautifully decorated rooms.
The Route: 83km (52 miles)
This makes for a nice coffee stop, after which your route splits from the hiking Camino. This is necessary to avoid the traffic on some busier highways that the walking route uses. Instead, you take scenic backroads through arable farmland and pine forests. This is a long ride along rolling terrain, but it's really enjoyable and there are plenty of interesting places to stop and take a break along the way.
The day finishes in the lively town of Arzua. Here you stay in a fantastic 18th century villa, with beautifully decorated rooms.
Cycle Routes:
The Route: 83km (52 miles)
Not many kilometres left until Santiago!
Day 7 - Arzua to Santiago de Compostela
Today is perhaps the most exciting day of the cycle tour as you leave Arzua towards the beautiful ‘El Monte
de Gozo’ (Mount of Joy). So named because of the happiness felt by pilgrims as they get their first real
glimpse of Santiago de Compostela.
With the destination in sight you continue to the city; reaching the magnificent Santiago Cathedral to mark the end of the Camino de Santiago.
The route today is quite short and so you should make it into Santiago in good time. The cathedral is the centrepiece of the city and a must-visit, but the winding streets of the old town are crammed with other historic buildings and beautiful architecture, which you will have a lot of fun exploring.
The Route: 40km (25 miles)
With the destination in sight you continue to the city; reaching the magnificent Santiago Cathedral to mark the end of the Camino de Santiago.
The route today is quite short and so you should make it into Santiago in good time. The cathedral is the centrepiece of the city and a must-visit, but the winding streets of the old town are crammed with other historic buildings and beautiful architecture, which you will have a lot of fun exploring.
Cycle Routes:
The Route: 40km (25 miles)
Santiago de Compostela Cathedral
Day 8 - Departure / Extension
After breakfast in Santiago the tour comes to an end. We would be happy to help you arrange an extension to the tour, either staying extra nights in Santiago, or perhaps cycling on towards
Galicia's stunning Atlantic coast.
Otherwise we will transfer you to Santiago airport or train station in time for your onwards journey.
To find out more information about this holiday; including practical information, prices, dates and more tour highlights; return to the top of the page and click on the various tabs.
Otherwise we will transfer you to Santiago airport or train station in time for your onwards journey.
To find out more information about this holiday; including practical information, prices, dates and more tour highlights; return to the top of the page and click on the various tabs.
Muxia Beach - The Galician coast is one popular option to extend the holiday
This cycling holiday rides the Camino de Santiago from León to Santiago. On the route you will be immersed in the stunning history and scenery of north-western Spain.
You will see Roman ruins, medieval towns, stunning churches and cathedrals, and charming villages. You will ride through rolling countryside, with great views of the vibrant green landscapes, and you will cycle through calm forests.
You can experience the excellent Galician gastronomy, and sample the local Bierzo and Rias Baixas wines, as you follow a route that has been in use for the last ten centuries.
Check out just a few of the tour highlights in the photo album below:
You will see Roman ruins, medieval towns, stunning churches and cathedrals, and charming villages. You will ride through rolling countryside, with great views of the vibrant green landscapes, and you will cycle through calm forests.
You can experience the excellent Galician gastronomy, and sample the local Bierzo and Rias Baixas wines, as you follow a route that has been in use for the last ten centuries.
Check out just a few of the tour highlights in the photo album below:
Astorga Roman Wall
Astorga was founded by the Emperor Augustus in the year 19 BCE on top of an existing Roman military camp. Known originally as Asturica Augusta, it marked victory over the local Cantabri and Astures tribes, which completed Rome's conquest of Spain.
Villafranca del Bierzo
A picturesque village surrounded by vineyards in the heart of the Bierzo wine region.
Ponferrada Castle
This castle of the Knight's Templar is situated right in the heart of Ponferrada. One of its roles was to help to protect pilgrims along the Camino during the Middle Ages.
Episcopal Palace - Astorga
For centuries Astorga was home to an important bishopric. This relatively modern building though was designed by Antoní Gaudí - arguably Spain's greatest architect.
Mountainous Scenery
North-Western Spain is characterized by this kind of hilly and green scenery. The Camino generally avoids the highest passes, but there is still some climbing to be done!
Country Roads
Much of the Camino is open scenery, gradually becoming more forested as you head into Galicia.
Galician Octopus
The region of Galicia is known for its gastronomy. If you're not a fan of octopus, don't worry! There is plenty of other great fish and seafood here, including oysters, razor clams and, of course, the classic Camino scallops. Galicia is also renowned in Spain for its steaks and various soups and stews.
Medieval Bridge - Hospital de Orbigo
A stunning 200m long bridge consisting of twenty arches.
León Cathedral
The imposing facade of León cathedral is one of the most impressive buildings on the Camino route. León was founded as a home for Roman soldiers who were keeping an eye on the nearby gold mines at Las Medulas.
Plaza Mayor - León
The main square and hub of activity. A great place to grab a bite to eat in the evening.
With or Without Panniers?
We recommend transferring your luggage each day and being free to ride without any extra weight.
Celtic Hut - O Cebreiro
The traditional style Celtic house of Northern Spain. These round houses contrasted with the rectangular shape favoured by the Romans and most Mediterranean cultures.
The Iron Cross
This marks the highest point on the Camino de Santiago. You pass over here on the ride from Astorga to Ponferrada. It is common to leave a stone here as you pass by.
Samos Monastery
One of the largest monasteries on the Camino route - you arrive here near to the end of a long descent.
Church of Santa Maria
This church in O Cebreiro once reportedly housed the Holy Grail.
Santiago Cathedral
The towers of the cathedral can be seen from several miles out - and mark the end of the Camino for most pilgrims.
Muxia Beach
Some pilgrims on the Camino now extend the route to reach the stunning Galician coast. This adds an extra one or two days on to the route by bike.
Included
- ✔ Seven Nights Accommodation (see the Hotels section for more details)
- ✔ Continental breakfast each day
- ✔ Bicycle Hire (We recommend hybrid bikes or e-bikes for this holiday)
- ✔ Transfers to and from the arrival and departure points (see below for details)
- ✔ Luggage transferred between hotels
- ✔ GPS routes and mobile app to easily follow the routes
- ✔ Detailed information pack about the routes, restaurants and everything to see along the rides
Not Included:
- ❌ Flights
- ❌ Tour Extensions
- ❌ Travel Insurance
Bicycles
Bicycle hire is included in the cost of the holiday. We can provide either hybrid (trekking) bikes, road bikes or e-bike. All are good options for these routes.
More details about our bikes can be found on our bicycles page. The exact model depends on availability, so please get in touch if you would like more information.
All of our bikes come with helmets and handlebar bags if required.
More details about our bikes can be found on our bicycles page. The exact model depends on availability, so please get in touch if you would like more information.
All of our bikes come with helmets and handlebar bags if required.
Difficulty Level & Roads
We rate this tour as Medium to Challenging level. Most of the routes are medium with manageable distances and rolling climbs. There are a couple of more challenging climbs on days 3 and 4; mainly due to the length, as the gradients are gentle at around 4-5% average.
The ride on day 6 is also quite long and it is advisable to have done some preparation before the trip to ensure that you will be comfortable over such distance.
If you like the look of the tour but are worried about the distances or hills, an electric bike may be worth considering. You can switch off the motor if you don't need it, but it can help if you are struggling at any point.
Our Camino cycling route follows quiet country roads. At times the hiking route is alongside a main road, and so we avoid this and stick to the back roads.
The vast majority of the route is on paved roads, but there are some short sections on light gravel tracks. These can be avoided if you prefer to stay on pavement, or if you choose to ride on a road bike.
Find out more about our tour difficulty levels here.
The ride on day 6 is also quite long and it is advisable to have done some preparation before the trip to ensure that you will be comfortable over such distance.
If you like the look of the tour but are worried about the distances or hills, an electric bike may be worth considering. You can switch off the motor if you don't need it, but it can help if you are struggling at any point.
Our Camino cycling route follows quiet country roads. At times the hiking route is alongside a main road, and so we avoid this and stick to the back roads.
The vast majority of the route is on paved roads, but there are some short sections on light gravel tracks. These can be avoided if you prefer to stay on pavement, or if you choose to ride on a road bike.
Find out more about our tour difficulty levels here.
Arrival and Departure
Arrival is in León which is accessible by air from Barcelona and several other destinations. It is also only three
hours from Madrid by train (renfe.com).
We will pick you up from León aiport or train station at the start of the tour.
Departure is from Santiago de Compostela which has an international airport with flights across Europe and the Atlantic. Regular high speed trains also run between Santiago and Madrid.
We will transfer you to Santiago airport or train station at the end of the holiday.
We will pick you up from León aiport or train station at the start of the tour.
Departure is from Santiago de Compostela which has an international airport with flights across Europe and the Atlantic. Regular high speed trains also run between Santiago and Madrid.
We will transfer you to Santiago airport or train station at the end of the holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please browse through some of the frequently asked questions about this cycling tour. If you have any further questions, or would like any more information, please contact us and we will answer by email.
When can I do this tour?
This tour is available throughout the year.
Spring and autumn (fall) are generally the most popular seasons to do the Camino. But this section of the route is also very nice to do in summer; it doesn't get so hot in north-western Spain as in much of the rest of the country.
In winter temperatures can be quite cold on the higher altitude sections around León (often less than 10°C / 50°F even during the day). It is rideable, but just bear in mind that it won't be t-shirt weather!
Rain is relatively common throughout the year, particularly on the final three days in Galicia. You are still more likely to get sunny days than not, but we strongly advise bringing a rain jacket with you whatever time of year you do the trip.
What is a single supplement?
Our prices are based on two people sharing a hotel room (in a double or twin room). For cyclists that wish to stay in their own room, the single supplement is payable.
Can I personalise or change aspects of this tour?
Absolutely! This is the most popular version of the Camino tour that we run, as it crosses the most interesting section of the route. However, it can be modified however you like.
If you would like to go on this holiday as it is you can book it right away. If you would like to modify it in some way, please don't hesitate to contact us, and we can work with you to tailor the holiday.
Can I do this as a guided tour?
Yes, we can run this as a guided and fully supported tour for groups of six or more people. Please
to discuss dates and any changes you would like to make
What is your cancellation policy?
The full cancellation policy can be found in our terms and conditions.
Why book with us?
We are a small and independent company who are locally based, which offers several advantages:
- We have a lot personal experience of all of our tours, which have been refined over many years. We believe we are genuine experts in the regions where we run tours, and we are also close at hand to offer support and a personalized service.
- We are flexible and can tailor our itineraries to suit your requirements.
- We have low overheads. We don't spend money on advertising and don't use third party agents. We only sell our tours through this website.
By cutting out the middle man, you can be sure that more of what you pay is
being spent on the important things: like hotels, equipment and other services.
- We are a registered and fully bonded tour operator in accordance with EU regulations.
Where can I find more information about the region?
We have plenty more detailed information on the website.
Check out our guide to the Camino de Santiago: French Route.
And we also have several other articles looking more generally at the history and culture of the region:
Hotel Alfonso V
This historic 4-star hotel is located in the center of the city and is housed in a stylish art-deco building. It is situated next to Gaudí's Casa Botines and is just 200m from Leon's imposing cathedral. It's ideally located for exploring the city, and also has
large and comfortable rooms.
Hotel Spa Ciudad de Astorga
This boutique 4-star hotel is located in the historic heart of Astorga, right next to the Roman wall and Episcopal Palace. It has charming rooms and excellent spa facilities for relaxing at the end of the ride.
Hotel Aroi Bierzo Plaza
An attractive 3-star hotel housed in a 17th century mansion. It has well furnished rooms and is located on Ponferrada's main square. There are several excellent tapas bars and bodegas close at hand, and the city's iconic castle is only a few minutes away by foot.
Hotel O Cebreiro
This charming boutique hotel is housed in a beautiful historic building that at one time was both the town hall and the local jail. It is in the center of the village next to the Santa María church and has comfortable rooms.
Hotel Alfonso IX
An excellent 4-star hotel in the center of Sarria. The large rooms are well furnished, and you can also relax in the swimming pool. The hotel is situated right next to Malecon Street - Sarria's gastronomic center, where you can find pulperías and great tapas bars.
Pazo Santa María
This boutique hotel is one of our favourite along the entire Camino. It is located on the edge of Arzua and is housed in a stunning 18th century building. The historic rooms are nicely decorated and the large gardens are ideal for relaxing. The bustling town center of Arzua is only a short walk from here.
Hotel Virxe da Cerca - Pousadas de Compostela
This 4-star boutique hotel is housed in a beautiful historic building in Santiago's historic center. It is just 300m from the cathedral and has stunning rooms and attractive gardens.
To find out more about how we select our hotels, please see our accommodation page.
| Starting Date | Price (per person)¹ | Single Supplement | Bike Hire | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan - May & Oct-Dec | €1,590 EUR | €390 EUR | Included | |
| June - September | €1,760 EUR | €470 EUR | Included |
¹Price is based on two people sharing a double or twin room. If you would prefer to stay in a single room, the single supplement is applicable.
To reserve a place on the tour, click the button above and complete the reservation form. We will then get back to you within 24 hours to confirm the reservation, and to arrange for payment of the deposit.
For more details on the booking process, please check out our Reservations page.
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