Camino de Santiago 5 Stages León-Santiago
Camino de Santiago 5 Stages León-Santiago
bike type
Gravel, MTB
Duration
5 Stages
Profile
Sport
Distance and slope
334 km / +5800 m
Trip Summary
The Camino de Santiago in 5 stages is an exciting experience that allows you to travel one of the most famous pilgrimage routes in the world.
El the Camino de Santiago It is probably the most famous route in the world. Walking its paths takes us to a medieval past, to a past linked to culture and the Christian faith, but also takes us to a past of communion between citizens from all over the world.
Doing it in 5 stages from the city of León will take you directly to the final sections of the route, traveling through deep Galicia.
Date and availability
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Trip description
The road to Santiago, Among many other things, it has served to unite people since time immemorial and that is why completing the Camino is an experience that you will remember for the rest of your life. Traveling its roads and trails with our bicycle is the best way to travel back in time and enjoy the culture that overflows the road.
Its countless towns and villages, with its churches and hermitages, will be the small trophies that we will accumulate as the days go by and, while we discover ancient paths and soak up the pilgrim culture, the path will test us in different scenarios to reward us later with beautiful postcards that will remain engraved in our memories.
La pilgrim's credential He will be the witness of our journey and will be our traveling companion until we reach the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
The Camino de Santiago is not just a bicycle route, it is traveling, and that is why at Bikefriendly we want you to enjoy it with your group on a tailor-made trip. With two accommodation options during the route, you can choose between hostels/hotels and charming hotels/houses. Different starting points and days of pedaling.
The only thing you will have to think about is having your camera on hand to be able to immortalize a trip that people from all over the world have been making for centuries. Are you willing to be a Bikefriendly pilgrim?
*We organize the Camino de Santiago tailored for groups of 6 people or more, both by bike and trekking. Tell us what type of trip you want and we will take care of the rest.
Itinerary
Arrival to León
Arrival to León
The adventure of Camino de Santiago by mountain bike Starts at Leon, one of the most emblematic cities of French WayUpon arrival, you will check in to the accommodation and collect your belongings. pilgrim's credential, an essential document to seal each stage until reaching Santiago de Compostela.
This first day is perfect for Prepare the bicycle and cycling gearReview the materials and enjoy the Jacobean atmosphere that permeates the entire city. León is one of the most inspiring places to begin the Camino de Santiago. Camino de Santiago by MTB, thanks to its combination of heritage, history and its role as a key point on the Camino.
Among its must-sees are the impressive Leon Cathedral, a jewel of Spanish Gothic architecture; the Humid neighborhoodideal for tapas and experiencing the local essence; and the constant presence of the yellow arrows, which mark the path we will follow from tomorrow.
Tomorrow the real adventure begins: the Camino by bike…
And with it, an experience that will stay with us forever.
León - Rabanal del Camino
Distance
70 km
Elevation
+830m
León - Rabanal del Camino
The first day of the Camino de Santiago by mountain bike It begins by leaving Leon, following the yellow arrows that mark the route of French WayThe stage takes us along a gradually ascending terrain until we reach the Maragateria, one of the most authentic and traditional regions of the province of León.
The first few kilometers run along comfortable tracks and rural roads that connect small towns such as La Virgen del Camino, Villadangos del Páramo y Orbigo Hospital, where its historic medieval bridge stands out, one of the icons of the Camino.
After reaching AstorgaAt this key point on the French Way, the route begins a steady climb. We cycle through forests, mountain villages, and increasingly open landscapes, moving towards the natural environment that will lead us to Rabanal del Camino, a small Maragato village that preserves the purest essence of pilgrimage.
This stage is perfect for getting into a rhythm: it combines rolling sections, historical heritage, Jacobean culture, and a finale in the mountains. An ideal first taste for those tackling the Camino. Camino de Santiago by MTB and they seek to experience it authentically.
Rabanal del Camino - Villafranca del Bierzo
Distance
60 km
Elevation
+780m
Rabanal del Camino - Villafranca del Bierzo
The second day of Camino de Santiago by mountain bike It gives us one of the most emblematic and spectacular stages of French Way. From Rabanal del CaminoThe route ascends along trails and mountain tracks towards Foncebadon, a small enclave steeped in pilgrim history.
Shortly afterwards we reached one of the mythical points of the Camino: the Iron crossLocated at an altitude of over 1.500 meters, this spot, where pilgrims leave a stone as a symbol of liberation and good wishes, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It is one of the most iconic sections for those who walk the Camino de Santiago. Camino de Santiago by MTB.
From here begins a long, technical, and exciting descent towards The holly y Molinaseca, two villages that preserve intact the traditional architecture of El Bierzo and that mark the beginning of the transition towards a greener and wetter landscape.
After crossing Ponferrada and its imposing Templar castle, the road continues through vineyards and orchards until reaching Villafranca del Bierzo, known as the Prelude to GaliciaThis historic town is a perfect destination for recovery: its pilgrim atmosphere, its heritage and its natural beauty make the end of the stage an ideal closing.
An intense, varied and symbolic day, perfect for those looking to experience life to the fullest. Camino de Santiago by bicycle.
Villafranca del Bierzo - Triacastela
Distance
55 km
Elevation
+1500m
Villafranca del Bierzo - Triacastela
La Stage 3 of the Camino de Santiago by mountain bike It marks one of the most intense and exciting moments of French Way. From Villafranca del BierzoThe route then winds through green valleys and traditional villages on the way to one of the great milestones of the pilgrimage: the ascent to Or Cebreiro, gateway to Galicia.
It begins with a gradual stretch through vineyards and the landscapes of El Bierzo before tackling the demanding climb towards The Bean, La Laguna and finally Or Cebreiro, one of the most emblematic places on the Camino. Its panoramic views, traditional thatched houses (pallozas), and atmosphere steeped in spirituality make this spot an unforgettable experience for any cyclist traveling the Camino. Camino de Santiago by MTB.
From O Cebreiro, the route continues ascending to the Alto do PoioThe highest point of this stage, where the landscape opens up into vast mountain horizons typical of inland Galicia. From here begins a long and spectacular descent towards Triacastela, one of the most historic villages on the French Way, surrounded by forests, rivers and traditional paths.
It's a physically demanding day, but also one of the most rewarding of the entire itinerary: it combines mountains, nature, culture, and some of the most powerful symbols of the Camino de Santiago by bike.
Triacastela - Palas de Rei
Distance
71 km
Elevation
+ 1500m
Triacastela - Palas de Rei
La Stage 4 of the Camino de Santiago by mountain bike It leads us from Triacastela to Rei's shovelsA day that combines centuries-old forests, traditional trails and some of the greenest and most emblematic landscapes of French Way.
From Triacastela, the route continues through the beautiful valley that leads to Sarria, one of the best-known towns on the Camino and a common starting point for many pilgrims. The paths in this area allow you to enjoy cycling in its purest form: wooded tracks, stone walls, small Galician villages, and a natural environment that defines the essence of the Camino. Camino de Santiago by MTB.
After Sarria, the route continues towards the Belesar reservoir and ascends to Portomarin, another of the mythical enclaves of the Camino. Its fortified church, rebuilt stone by stone after the old town was flooded, marks one of the cultural highlights of the day.
From Portomarín, the route alternates between rolling sections and steady climbs that pass through rural villages and typical Galician agricultural landscapes. The terrain is varied, enjoyable, and perfect for those who love mountain biking in natural settings.
Finally, we reached Rei's shovelsA town with a long Jacobean tradition and a strategic point on the French Way. Its pilgrim atmosphere, its gastronomy, and its history make this end of a stage an ideal place to rest before facing the final approach to Santiago.
A green, authentic and very complete stage, showcasing the deepest Galicia and bringing us ever closer to the ultimate goal of Camino de Santiago by bicycle.
Palas de Rei- Santiago de Compostela
Distance
69 km
Elevation
+1190m
Palas de Rei- Santiago de Compostela
La Stage 5 of the Camino de Santiago by mountain bike This brings us closer to the main goal of the trip: Santiago de CompostelaIt's an exciting, very dynamic day with a pilgrim atmosphere that increases kilometer by kilometer.
From Rei's shovelsthe layout of French Way It leads into a series of trails through native forests, small Galician villages, and charming rural landscapes. We soon reach MelideFamous for its gastronomy and historic crossroads, where many pilgrims stop to enjoy the local atmosphere.
After that, the route continues towards Arzúa...traveling along shaded paths, medieval bridges, and trails ideal for mountain biking. It is part of the Camino de Santiago by MTB especially beautiful for its combination of nature, culture and Jacobean tradition.
From Arzúa begins the final approach towards Or PedrouzoThe last rest stop before embarking on the final kilometers to Santiago. The excitement grows as we approach the holy city, sharing the path with pilgrims from all over the world.
Finally, after reaching the summit of Monte do Gozo, the long-awaited silhouette of the towers of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, one of the most intense and symbolic moments for any cyclist who has completed the Camino de Santiago by bicycle.
A vibrant stage, full of history and sensations, perfect to culminate this great MTB adventure.
After arriving at the Plaza del Obradoiro and the exciting moment of contemplating the Cathedral of Santiago de CompostelaThere is still one last symbolic gesture that is an essential part of the Jacobean experience.
With the pilgrim's credential that you have been getting stamped at each stage of the Camino —in hostels, bars, churches or local establishments— you must go to the Pilgrim Office, located very close to the cathedral.
There you can request the Compostela, the official document that certifies that you have completed the the Camino de SantiagoReceiving it is the perfect ending to this cycling adventure: a historical, cultural and emotional recognition that puts the finishing touch on a journey full of effort, camaraderie and unforgettable moments.
Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela
After the excitement of obtaining the Compostela And after a well-deserved rest in Santiago, it's time to bring this adventure to a close. After enjoying the breakfast at the hotelEach traveler will begin their journey back home, filled with memories, experiences, and the satisfaction of having completed the Camino de Santiago by bicycle.
It's a day of farewells, of gratitude, and of that mixture of calm and pride that lingers for days afterward for those who have cycled to the Plaza del Obradoiro. A perfect ending to a unique experience that, as many pilgrims say, doesn't end here… because the Camino always continues.
Advantages of booking your event with BikeFriendly
Culture
El the Camino de Santiago It is not just a pilgrimage route, but a journey through the history, spirituality and culture of Spain. Along its paths - whether it be the French Way, the Northern Way, the Silver Way or the Portuguese Way— you will immerse yourself in a unique mix of Medieval architecture, local traditions and gastronomy that make this experience unforgettable.
The Camino is permeated with a strong spiritual and community sense. Each pilgrim lives his own experience, but the ritual of collecting the Compostela at the Pilgrim's Office Arriving in Santiago de Compostela is an important milestone. Also notable are the pilgrim masses and the famous ceremony of the botafumeiro in the Cathedral of Santiago.
Weather
El the Camino de Santiago It passes through different regions of Spain, each with its own climate. The experience of cycling along the Camino can vary greatly depending on the time of year, so it is important to choose well when you travel.
Spring (March - June):
One of the best times to do the Camino by bike. Mild temperatures, green and flowery landscapes, and fewer crowds than in summer. There may be occasional rain, especially in Galicia.
Summer (July - August):
Long, sunny days, ideal for cycling, but with very high temperatures in the Castilian Plateau (Burgos, Leon, Zamora, Salamanca), where they can overcome the 35°CIn Galicia, the heat is more moderate, but the French and Portuguese Ways can be more crowded.
Autumn (September - November):
Pleasant temperatures and fewer pilgrims on the route. In October and November, rainfall increases in the north, especially in Galicia and the Camino del Norte. The autumn landscapes are spectacular.
Winter (December - February):
Only recommended for experienced and well-equipped cyclists. Intense cold in the Meseta and in the Pyrenees, with the possibility of snow in some sections. Some routes, such as the Camino Primitivo or the Camino de Invierno, may be more difficult due to adverse weather conditions.
Gastronomy
Each region of the Camino has its own culinary identity, so Cycling or walking is also a journey of flavorsIn the Basque Country, the pintxos and cod Biscayan style; in Navarre, the beans and lamb in chilindrón sauce; in Castile and Leon, the Burgos black pudding and roast lamb; and in Galicia, the Galician octopus, empanada and Santiago cake.
Land
Dirt tracks and rural roads
Much of the Camino runs through wide compact dirt tracks, ideal for cycling. They are comfortable and allow for smooth riding, although they can become slippery on rainy days.
Technical trails and rocky paths
Some sections present Loose stones, roots and uneven ground which may require greater technique and control over the bike. Examples of this are the climb to the Iron cross, the descent to Molinaseca or the arrival at Or Cebreiro on the French Way.
Secondary and paved roads
In several parts of the Camino, especially in the Castilian Plateau and GaliciaThere are secondary roads with little traffic. They are an alternative option for cyclists who prefer to avoid technical sections.
Demanding climbs and descents
Some sections of the Camino include long climbs and steep descents, such as the climb to O Cebreiro (French Way) or the unevenness of the Primitive WayThese sections can be demanding both physically and technically.
Included services
Accommodations
Accommodation in a shared room. Possibility of choosing an extra single room.
Bed and breakfast
Regimen of accommodation and breakfast. Possibility of choosing extra half board to include dinner.
Insurance
Travel assistance insurance.
Luggage Transfer
Luggage transportation between accommodations. One package per person is allowed, not exceeding 20 kg or measuring 80 x 50 x 30 cm. Otherwise an extra charge will be made.
Route itinerary
Tracks of the stages, so you can load them on your GPS device or App that you normally use.
Telephone assistance
Telephone assistance en route to help you in the event of any unforeseen event.
Pilgrim's Credential
Credential to seal each stage and be able to obtain the Compostela upon arriving in Santiago.
Not included
Not included
Any service not detailed in Included Services
Arrival at the meeting point and return home
Arrival at the meeting point in León and return home at the end of the trip in Santiago de Compostela.
Additional to hire
Bike rental
If you need a rental bike, ask us, we can help you arrange it with a local company
Cancellation insurance
If you think that something unforeseen may arise... you can take out cancellation insurance
Supplement for room for single use, or Half Board.
If you are traveling alone and want to have a single room, or want to add dinners, contract the supplement.
Extra night at the end of the trip
If you want to stay one more night before returning home, you can hire it.
Support vehicle
Support vehicle with mechanical service, supplies, possibility of changing clothes or getting on during the route.
Return to the starting point
Transfer from Santiago to the starting point of the route.
*Check our cancellation policy.
Gallery
Testimonials
The work being done by Bicycles Without Borders and Bikefriendly is commendable and makes me think there is still hope in the world.
I've seen firsthand that this project is real and not just a gimmick. The idea is truly brilliant, and it's helping many children and adolescents continue their education in a very meaningful way, as it's not a charity, but a means for the local population to develop.
The immersive experience in the country is complete, and traveling around the country by bike helps us feel fully integrated into the environment. In just one week, we've been able to understand and learn a lot about this country and its wonderful people, who are materially poor but spiritually rich.
I take my hat off to the work done by both the guide Sergio and the local team, which included Alpha, my lifelong friend and very professional, as well as Idi, Maurice, and Sidy.
I will definitely recommend this trip.
I recommend it, the routes exceeded my expectations! The hotels were good and the food was very good.
FAQs
I have allergies or intolerances. Can you adapt the menus?
How is Compostela obtained?
Can you offer more support services?
Can I carry a small backpack or bag in addition to the suitcase?
Do you have any doubt? Ask us!
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