The French Way - From Ponferrada
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The French Way > The French Way - From Ponferrada
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The French Camino which starts from St Jean offers a way for you to bike to the Santiago de Compostela from Ponferrada. Cycling through the Camino Frances provides you a chance to glide through the route and appreciate the beauty that the Camino has to offer.
Ponferrada is a historic town in el Bierzo region, located in Northern Spain. It is located in the province of Leon. A town that has a good mix of tradition and modernity, it is known for its iconic Templar Castle. It is one of the stages in the Camino de Santiago, that serves as a starting point for your bike tour.
3/5
Difficulty
Ponferrada
Start
203 Km
Distance
6
Nights
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Favourable months to travel
Peak season
Shoulder season
Off season
Choose your package
BASIC PACKAGE
LUXURY PACKAGE
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This package includes:
This package includes:
Nights in hostels and rural houses with breakfast
Travel
insurance
Room with private bathroom
Welcome pack with digital credential
24h assistance
Route itinerary
Free cancellation
up to 15 days before
Basic bike rental
All the basic package services
+
Luxurious hotels
Instead of standard hostels
and rural houses
Transfer to hotel
If accommodation deviates
slightly from your itinerary
ebike upgrade
Full equipped with
double suspension
You deserve a break, enjoy it in the best way possible.
Walk the same route but with better accommodations thanks to our selection of high standing hotels.
Read more info about our accommodations and how our team handpicked the best venues.
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Itinerary
Stage 1
Ponferrada - O Cebreiro
52 km
The initial day of cycling is a rigorous climb to O Cebreiro. This demanding section can be divided over two days for comfort with an overnight stop at a camino accommodation in Villafranca del Bierzo, located in the el Bierzo region. Remember, it is important to pace yourself if you feel exhausted.
Stage 2
O Cebreiro - Sarria
40 km
Departing O Cebreiro, the route winds through Galicia's mountainous terrain offering breathtaking views along the way. A significant highlight en route is the Monasterio de Samos— a key attraction on the French Way. Sarria is notably where many walking pilgrims start their journey, marking the commencement of the final 100 km of this path.
We also offer tours from Sarria as a component of the French route, click here to check them out.
Stage 3
Sarria - Portomarín
23 km
On this stretch, you can enjoy a lighter cycling day mingling with walking pilgrims. The route passes through quaint woods and rural hamlets typical of Galicia en route to Portomarín, a favored stop along the French Way.
Stage 4
Portomarín - Melide
38 km
While walkers generally conclude their day at Palas de Rei, cyclists push forward to Melide traversing Sierra de Ligonde. This bike tour is characterized by its undulating paths. In Melide, indulging in 'pulpo a feira,' a celebrated local octopus dish is highly recommended.
Stage 5
Melide - Santiago de Compostela
55 km
Leaving Melide, cycle amidst serene woods and pastoral landscapes towards Arzúa which serves as another prominent stopping point for walkers going towards the Cathedral. Before advancing to Santiago de Compostela, you might want to try famous cheeses in Arzúa.
Congratulations!
Frequently asked questions
Q
How should I do the Camino de Santiago: walking or biking?
Both walking and biking are valid ways to experience the Camino de Santiago, though they offer different experiences. Walking the Camino allows for more interaction with fellow pilgrims, fostering a sense of community and reflection. On the other hand, biking the Camino enables you to cover more ground each day, though you'll likely have fewer opportunities for socializing along the way. Consider what type of experience you're seeking and choose accordingly.
Remember that you need to realize at least 200km with bike in order to get your "Compostella" certificate.
Q
Can I complete the Camino de Santiago on an eBike?
Yes, you can tackle the Camino de Santiago on an eBike. Rental services are available, offering electric bikes complete with all necessary gear like helmets, panniers, and repair kits. Additionally, delivery and pickup services can accommodate you at various points along the route.
Q
What support is available for eBike Pilgrims?
While on your journey, you can access technical and mechanical support to ensure smooth travel. With professional assistance available, you'll feel secure and supported throughout your entire pilgrimage.
Q
Can I combine walking and bike rental on the Camino de Santiago?
Yes, you can definitely combine walking and bike rental on the Camino de Santiago. We can provide everything you need to make this possible. Just let us know your preferences and we will arrange the necessary equipment, including bikes, helmets, and any other gear you might need. Our flexible services ensure that you can enjoy your pilgrimage in the way that suits you best. Contact us for more details and to customize your trip.
Q
Are there eBike routes in Galicia apart from the Camino?
Certainly! If you’re interested in exploring Galicia without following the traditional Camino, guided eBike tours are also available. You can test out an electric bike or simply enjoy different scenic routes throughout the region.
Tips
"Our family had an unforgettable experience with Welcome Camino! It was the perfect way to explore northern Spain and truly embrace the magic of the Camino de Santiago."
Carmen & Cristobal