Full French Way Bike Tour – Camino de Santiago from the Pyrenees

Reception at Saint-Jean-Pied-De-Port

This amazing cycling trip starts in the little village of Saint-Jean-De-Port. This place is famous, because it is the starting point of the Camino Francés. This road crosses the Pyrenees with several medieval streets ending in Spain, in Roncesvalles. This village is known as the first resting point for all pilgrims.

Today's route passes through the interior of Spain. The destination is Puente la Reina. Prepare to see lots of nature and amazing views. During this path, there are some little villages to stop at. Puente la Reina lies between Pamplona and Estella on the Way of St. James pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. It is the first town after the junction of the French Way and the Aragonese Way.

Continuing through the interior of Spain, the next stop is Logroño. This town is a centre of the trade in Rioja wine, for which the area is noted. It also produces wood, metal, and textile products. This village is also known for its Tapas, offering 50 taperías (tapas restaurants) located within a four-block area near the city center.

The next destination is Santo Domingo de la Calzada. On this day, you will see several fishermen and diverse agricultural lands, with several vines, since this place is famous for the Rioja wine. The town of Santo Domingo is a municipality situated on the banks of the Oja River. Its name refers to its founder, Dominic de la Calzada, who built a bridge, hospital, and hotel for pilgrims on the Way of St. James.

The ride today has severeal rivers and streams, and the destination is the city of Burgos. This city has many historical landmarks, of particular importance - the Cathedral of Burgos, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1984, the seat of the Metropolitan Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Burgos. The city is known as a main crossroad of northern Spain along the Camino of Santiago, which runs parallel to the River Arlanzón.

Continuing the Camino, the next stop is Carrión de los Condes. Carrión de los Condes was taken from the Moors by Alonso Carreño, around 791–842. Don Carreño took the name Carrión at this time. This city was known for the strong presence of the Jews. Although they outnumbered the Christians both in numbers and in property, they submitted in 1126 to the victorious King Alfonso VI.

You will spend one day resting in the city of Sahugún or in the city of Leon. Leaving Carrión de los Condes and continuing the cycling trip, the destination is Sahugún. This town is located in the province of León. Sahagún contains some of the earliest examples of the mudéjar style of architecture. The city of Leon is located on the Camino de Santiago, which is ranked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the city's most prominent historical buildings are the Cathedral, the finest example of French Gothic classical style architecture in Spain.

Discover Léon city

The road is to Astorga. This path is made of clay and with many viewpoints to admire the landscape. Arriving in the city center of Astorga, you can admire several monuments, such as the Cathedral the Episcopal Palace and the walls that surround the town built at the time of Ancient Rome.

Upon departing Astorga, the next town is Cacabelos. On this day the way presents us with diverse agricultural lands and forest areas. You can also admire the rails until reaching Cacabelos, which are from the time of the Medieval Era. Arriving in Cacabelos, you can taste its famous wines, while admiring the medieval bridge that passes over the Cua River.

Ascend into the Galician mountains, enjoying the challenge of the climbs as you head to Las Herrerias. The fresh mountain air and rugged surroundings create an exhilarating experience.

Descend from the mountains into Sarria, a bustling town marking the 100-kilometer point on the Camino. This stretch takes you through lush Galician countryside and offers a mix of terrains.

Cycle through picturesque villages and shaded paths as you approach Arzúa. The gentle terrain allows you to savor the natural beauty of Galicia.

The final leg of your journey leads you through serene landscapes and traditional villages. Arrive in Santiago de Compostela, where the grand Cathedral awaits, marking the culmination of your pilgrimage. Day 8: Departure As your remarkable bike tour comes to an end, take time to reflect on the experiences and connections you've gained. Depart from Santiago de Compostela with memories of a transformative journey along the Camino de Santiago. This 8-day bike tour takes you through diverse landscapes, historic towns, and challenging terrains, offering a mix of physical accomplishment and spiritual reflection.

Departure