French Way Camino de Santiago E-Bike Tour
Spain Bike Tours
The last portion of the Camino Francés through Galicia from León to Santiago by Electric Bike
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length8 days
- Prices from€1883 Rates
Overview
This incredible tour by electric bike follows the final stretch of the French Way of the Camino de Santiago. The entire French Way is five hundred miles, beginning in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France. Ancient pilgrims would cross the Pyrenees and drop down into Spain to continue their journey.
You join the route in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Leon, Spain. Though it is not easy - no pilgrimage ever is - you can enjoy this journey on an electric bike, allowing you to focus not on the difficulty level, but on a more enriching experience. Non-electric touring bikes are also available for those who want the challenge.
The allure of the Camino draws you in, beginning with the awe-inspiring cathedral in Leon and culminating in the holy city of Santiago de Compostela - believed to be the final resting place of St. James.
Your route is a tapestry woven with historical monuments, picturesque villages, and breathtaking landscapes. From rugged mountains to verdant valleys, this physical and spiritual immersion deepens with every mile pedaled and each day conquered.
Looking for another Camino? Take a look at our other options here.
Highlights
- UNESCO World Heritage Site, León
- Cathedral of León
- Episcopal Palace of Astorga
- Scenic Bierzo Valley
- Lush and verdant Galicia
- Santiago de Compostela
- Cultural immersion
- Transformative journey
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Itinerary
Day 1: León
Day 2: León - Astorga, 33 mi. (53 km)
Day 3: Astorga - Ponferrada, 37 mi. (59 km)
Day 4: Ponferrada - Las Herrerias, 27 mi. (43 km)
Day 5: Las Herrerias - Sarria, 31 mi. (49 km)
Day 6: Sarria - Arzúa, 47 mi. (75 km)
Day 7: Arzúa - Santiago de Compostela, 24 mi. (39 km)
Day 8: DepartureAll distances provided are approximate. Unforeseen factors, such as weather conditions, may necessitate changes to the itinerary before or during your holiday. Temporary deviations or detours might be required along the route and may not be reflected on your maps or route descriptions. Please follow the locally posted directions for guidance.
Day 1: León
The city of León is situated along the Camino de Santiago, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dominating the cityscape, the cathedral is a masterpiece of French Gothic classical architecture in Spain and the beginning of your journey ahead.Sample accommodations:
- Standard: 4* Hotel Real Colegiata San Isidoro
- Premium: Parador de León
Day 2: León - Astorga, 33 mi. (53 km)
The pilgrimage begins as you cycle from León through charming villages and picturesque countryside en route to Astorga. The Episcopal Palace, designed by Gaudí, is a marvel to behold. Often referred to as "Palacio de Gaudí," it is a remarkable blend of architectural styles, combining neo-Gothic, neo-Renaissance, and modernist elements. It serves as a museum and houses various exhibits that provide insight into the history of Astorga and the region.Sample accommodation:
- Standard: 4* Hotel Via de la Plata
- Premium: Superior room 4* Hotel Via de la Plata
Day 3: Astorga - Ponferrada, 37 mi. (59 km)
Your route takes you through the scenic Bierzo Valley, characterized by rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages. The landscape combines lush greenery and cultivated fields, providing cyclists with a visually pleasing ride. The terrain on this route varies from moderate to slightly challenging. While there are some uphill sections, you are rewarded with breathtaking views and the satisfaction of conquering the climbs.Your day's destination, Ponferrada, has a rich history. The most iconic landmark here is the Templar Castle (Castillo de los Templarios), a testament to the Templar Knights' presence in the region. The castle's architecture and history make it a must-visit site in Ponferrada.
Sample accommodations:
- Standard: 4* Hotel Temple Ponferrada
- Premium: Finca Vivaldi Hotel Nature & Spa
Day 4: Ponferrada - Las Herrerias, 27 mi. (43 km)
The route from Ponferrada to Las Herrerias is a challenging yet exhilarating segment of the Camino de Santiago, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Galician mountains. You will be surrounded by dense forests, winding paths, and the serenity of the wilderness. The solitude of the mountains and the serene surroundings provide an excellent opportunity for introspection and spiritual reflection. Many pilgrims find this part of the journey particularly meditative and meaningful.Sample accommodation:
- Standard: 4* Hotel Paraiso del Bierzo
- Premium: Superior room 4* Hotel Paraiso del Bierzo
Day 5: Las Herrerias - Sarria, 31 mi. (49 km)
After the challenging climbs of the previous day, today offers a descent from the Galician mountains. The change in terrain provides a welcome change of pace, and you can relax and enjoy the ride. As you descend, you will be surrounded by the beauty of the Galician countryside. Rolling hills, meadows, and fields create a picturesque backdrop characteristic of this region.Your destination is the vibrant town of Sarria, marking the 100-kilometer milestone on the Camino, making it a crucial milestone for those aiming to complete the pilgrimage.
Sample accommodation:
- Standard: 4* Hotel Alfonso IX
- Premium: Superior room 4* Hotel Alfonso IX
Day 6: Sarria - Arzúa, 47 mi. (75 km)
The landscape on this stretch is characterized by the lush and verdant countryside that Galicia is known for. Rolling hills, meadows, and fields create a soothing and picturesque backdrop as you pedal along the path. You will cycle through several charming Galician villages and hamlets, each with its unique character and atmosphere. These villages often have traditional stone houses, narrow streets, and local cafes where you can take a break and refuel.Arzúa is a town known for its cheese production. Arzúa-Ulloa cheese is a local specialty that you will find throughout the town's markets and shops.
Sample accommodation:
- Standard: 4* Hotel Pazo Santa Maria
- Premium: Superior room 4* Hotel Pazo Santa Maria
Day 7: Arzúa - Santiago de Compostela, 24 mi. (39 km)
The final leg of your journey from Arzúa to Santiago de Compostela is a culmination of your pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago. This stretch carries a sense of achievement as you approach your ultimate destination. The path winds through picturesque Galician villages and hamlets, each contributing to the unique tapestry of the Camino experience. These villages often hold centuries of history and tradition, offering a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage.Monte do Gozo is a significant landmark on this route, translating to "Mount of Joy". This hill offers a panoramic view of Santiago de Compostela and its iconic cathedral spires. Arriving here means your journey is almost complete. As you descend from Monte do Gozo, the grand Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela comes into view. Its awe-inspiring spires stand tall, marking the end of your pilgrimage.
Sample accommodations:
- Standard: 4* Compostela Hotel
- Premium: 5* Parador de Compostela
Day 8: Departure
You will depart from Santiago de Compostela carrying memories of a transformative journey along the Camino de Santiago.Hiking, multi-adventure, adventure cruising? View all our active vacations, specials, and news.
Map
Hotels & Bikes
During this tour, you can choose your level of accommodations, standard or premium. Don’t let the ‘standard’ designation mislead you, however! Hotels in this category are typically lovely 4-star establishments, such as the Hotel Temple Ponferrada. Located in the center of Ponferrada and next to the Temple Park, the interiors feature the textures of the medieval era; stone walls, arches, suits of armor and wall paintings.
The premium lodgings are 5-star hotels or upgraded rooms within the 4-star establishments. An example of a premium hotel is the Hotel Via de la Plata Spa. Opened to the public in 2011, this gorgeous luxury hotel offers high-end amenities and contemporary design within the stone architecture of a Franciscan monastery.
Bicycles
Electric Bicycle
KTM Macina
- Bosch motor
- 500 Wh battery
- Aluminum Frame
- Front suspension
- Shimano Deore gearing
- 9 speeds
- Schwalbe Energizer tires
- Shimano Piston brakes
- Platform pedals
- Rear rack
Cube Acid
- Bosch Motor
- 500 Wh battery (frame design)
- Aluminum frame
- Front suspension
- Shimano gearing
- 9 speeds
- Schwalbe Tough Tom tires
- Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
- Platform pedals
- Weight: 21.8 kg
Accessories
- Helmet
- Rear rack and pannier
- Bike tool kit for quick repairs (pump. inner tubes)
- Water bottle
- Lights
- Locks
- GPS Garmin (on self-guided tours)
Touring Bicycle
Kross Trans 5.0
- Aluminum touring frame (available in men's and women's frame)
- Front suspension
- Shimano Tourney and Deore gearing
- 24 speeds
- Schwalbe Silento tires
- Shimano disc brakes
- Selle Royal saddle
- Platform pedals
- Rear rack
- Weight 17. 5 kg
Accessories:
- Helmet
- Rear rack and pannier
- Bike tool kit for quick repairs (pump. inner tubes)
- Water bottle
- Lights
- Locks
- GPS Garmin (on self-guided tours)
Trail Bicycle
Trek X- Caliber 7
- Aluminum frame
- Front suspension
- Shimano Acera and Shimano Alivio gearing
- 18 speeds
- Bontrager tires
- Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
- Bontrager Arvada saddle
- Platform pedals
- Rear rack
- Weight 13.97 kg
Specialized Women's Pitch Comp 27.5
- Aluminum frame
- Front suspension
- Shimano TX800 gearing
- 24 speeds
- Ground Control sport tire (27.5)
- Radius mechanical disc brakes
- Myth sport saddle
- Specialized dirt pedals
- Rear rack
Accessories
- Helmet
- Rear rack and pannier
- Bike tool kit for quick repairs (pump. inner tubes)
- Water bottle
- Lights
- Locks
- GPS Garmin (on self-guided tour)
Inclusions
What’s Included
Self-Guided
- Accommodation for 7 nights in chosen hotel category (standard or premium)
- Breakfast
- Arrival transfer from León Airport (air travel details are needed to confirm)
- Departure transfer (only on official tour end date) to Compostela Airport. Transfers on any other day will incur a supplement
- Luggage transfer (Due to prohibitive fuel costs, the cost of this transfer is calculated per piece weighing no more than 20 kg total. You are permitted one suitcase per person. Even a small piece of luggage is considered extra. Please pack accordingly!)
- Electric bicycle rental (equipped with helmet, water bottle, a tool kit for quick repairs, rear rack, & pannier bag)
- Pre-loaded GPS or GPS tracks
- Tour presentation, bike fitting, & route descriptions & maps
- Accommodation for 7 nights in chosen hotel category
- Breakfast
- Arrival transfer from San Sebastian (air travel details are needed to confirm)
- Departure transfer (only on official tour end date) to Compostela Airport. Transfers on any other day will incur a supplement
- Luggage transfer (due to prohibitive fuel costs, the cost of this transfer is calculated per piece. You are permitted one suitcase per person. Even a small piece of luggage is considered extra. Please pack accordingly!)
- Electric bicycle rental (equipped with helmet, water bottle, a tool kit for quick repairs, rear rack, & pannier bag)
- Cycling guide
- Van support with minimum of 8 people
- Accommodation for 7 nights in premium hotel category
- Breakfast
- Some beverages with supplemental meal packages
- Arrival transfer from San Sebastian (air travel details are needed to confirm)
- Departure transfer (only on official tour end date) to Compostela Airport. Transfers on any other day will incur a supplement
- Luggage transfer (due to prohibitive fuel costs, the cost of this transfer is calculated per piece. You are permitted one suitcase per person. Even a small piece of luggage is considered extra. Please pack accordingly!)
- Electric bicycle rental (equipped with helmet, water bottle, a tool kit for quick repairs, rear rack, & pannier bag)
- Cycling guide
- Van support
Guided
Premium Guided
What’s Not Included
Self-Guided
- Lunches
- Dinners (available with supplement; see pricing)
- Beverages with beverage packages
- Cycling guide
- Van support
- Extra luggage (subject to a fee of €100 to €200 depending on number of pieces)
- Lunches & dinners (available with supplement, see pricing)
- Beverages with beverage package
- Van support (included with a minimum number of 8 participants
- Lunches & dinners (available with supplement, see pricing)
Guided
Premium Guided
Dates & Pricing
Dates
Self-guided
Daily arrivals possibleGuided
Confirmed dates: September 18, 2024
Group bookings are confirmed with a minimum of 4 people on any day. If your group has fewer than 4 members, you can join a pre-confirmed group.
Premium guided
Groups can request the upgradePlease Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
2024
Self-Guided
Min. 1 participantGuided*
Min. 4 participantsPremium Guided**
Min. 4 participantsLow season
November 1 to March 25$ 3126 £ 1648 $ 2,829 € 1883 kr 288665 ₪ 7673 ¥ 317507 Mex$ 35096 NZ$ 3440 NOK 22456 zł 8305 S$ 2792 kr 22361 $ 2,066 $ 4009 £ 2113 $ 3,629 € 2415 kr 370221 ₪ 9840 ¥ 407212 Mex$ 45012 NZ$ 4412 NOK 28801 zł 10651 S$ 3580 kr 28679 $ 2,650 $ 5669 £ 2988 $ 5,131 € 3415 kr 523522 ₪ 13915 ¥ 575830 Mex$ 63650 NZ$ 6238 NOK 40727 zł 15061 S$ 5063 kr 40554 $ 3,747 Regular season
March 26 to June 25 & September 26 to October 31$ 3258 £ 1718 $ 2,949 € 1963 kr 300929 ₪ 7999 ¥ 330997 Mex$ 36587 NZ$ 3586 NOK 23410 zł 8657 S$ 2910 kr 23311 $ 2,154 $ 4141 £ 2183 $ 3,749 € 2495 kr 382485 ₪ 10166 ¥ 420702 Mex$ 46503 NZ$ 4558 NOK 29755 zł 11004 S$ 3699 kr 29629 $ 2,738 $ 5801 £ 3058 $ 5,251 € 3495 kr 535786 ₪ 14241 ¥ 589319 Mex$ 65141 NZ$ 6385 NOK 41681 zł 15414 S$ 5181 kr 41504 $ 3,835 High season
September 1 to September 25$ 3358 £ 1770 $ 3,040 € 2023 kr 310127 ₪ 8243 ¥ 341114 Mex$ 37705 NZ$ 3696 NOK 24126 zł 8922 S$ 2999 kr 24024 $ 2,220 $ 4241 £ 2236 $ 3,839 € 2555 kr 391684 ₪ 10411 ¥ 430819 Mex$ 47621 NZ$ 4667 NOK 30470 zł 11268 S$ 3788 kr 30342 $ 2,804 $ 5901 £ 3111 $ 5,341 € 3555 kr 544984 ₪ 14486 ¥ 599437 Mex$ 66259 NZ$ 6494 NOK 42396 zł 15679 S$ 5270 kr 42217 $ 3,901 Summer season
June 26 to August 31$ 3458 £ 1823 $ 3,130 € 2083 kr 319326 ₪ 8488 ¥ 351231 Mex$ 38824 NZ$ 3805 NOK 24841 zł 9187 S$ 3088 kr 24736 $ 2,286 $ 4341 £ 2288 $ 3,929 € 2615 kr 400882 ₪ 10655 ¥ 440936 Mex$ 48739 NZ$ 4777 NOK 31186 zł 11533 S$ 3877 kr 31054 $ 2,870 $ 6001 £ 3163 $ 5,432 € 3615 kr 554182 ₪ 14730 ¥ 609554 Mex$ 67378 NZ$ 6604 NOK 43112 zł 15943 S$ 5359 kr 42929 $ 3,967 Solo traveler supplement (in addition to single supplement) Single supplement Standard accommodations Premium accommodations Low season $ 647 £ 341 $ 586 € 390 kr 59787 ₪ 1589 ¥ 65761 Mex$ 7269 NZ$ 712 NOK 4651 zł 1720 S$ 578 kr 4631 $ 428 $ 1062 £ 560 $ 962 € 640 kr 98113 ₪ 2608 ¥ 107915 Mex$ 11929 NZ$ 1169 NOK 7633 zł 2823 S$ 949 kr 7600 $ 702 Regular season $ 697 £ 368 $ 631 € 420 kr 64386 ₪ 1711 ¥ 70820 Mex$ 7828 NZ$ 767 NOK 5009 zł 1852 S$ 623 kr 4988 $ 461 $ 1112 £ 586 $ 1,007 € 670 kr 102712 ₪ 2730 ¥ 112974 Mex$ 12488 NZ$ 1224 NOK 7990 zł 2955 S$ 993 kr 7956 $ 735 High season $ 747 £ 394 $ 676 € 450 kr 68985 ₪ 1834 ¥ 75878 Mex$ 8387 NZ$ 822 NOK 5367 zł 1985 S$ 667 kr 5344 $ 494 $ 1162 £ 613 $ 1,052 € 700 kr 107311 ₪ 2852 ¥ 118033 Mex$ 13047 NZ$ 1279 NOK 8348 zł 3087 S$ 1038 kr 8313 $ 768 Summer season $ 797 £ 420 $ 721 € 480 kr 73584 ₪ 1956 ¥ 80937 Mex$ 8946 NZ$ 877 NOK 5724 zł 2117 S$ 712 kr 5700 $ 527 $ 1212 £ 639 $ 1,097 € 730 kr 111910 ₪ 2975 ¥ 123091 Mex$ 13606 NZ$ 1334 NOK 8706 zł 3220 S$ 1082 kr 8669 $ 801 Extra Options
Hotel Upgrade
Self-guided Guided Premium guided Premium hotel upgrade $ 1079 £ 569 $ 977 € 650 kr 99646 ₪ 2649 ¥ 109602 Mex$ 12115 NZ$ 1187 NOK 7752 zł 2867 S$ 964 kr 7719 $ 713 $ 1079 £ 569 $ 977 € 650 kr 99646 ₪ 2649 ¥ 109602 Mex$ 12115 NZ$ 1187 NOK 7752 zł 2867 S$ 964 kr 7719 $ 713 Included Meal Packages
Self-guided Guided Premium guided Dinner package (6 dinners) $ 498 £ 263 $ 451 € 300 kr 45990 ₪ 1222 ¥ 50585 Mex$ 5592 NZ$ 548 NOK 3578 zł 1323 S$ 445 kr 3563 $ 329 $ 498 £ 263 $ 451 € 300 kr 45990 ₪ 1222 ¥ 50585 Mex$ 5592 NZ$ 548 NOK 3578 zł 1323 S$ 445 kr 3563 $ 329 $ 913 £ 481 $ 826 € 550 kr 84315 ₪ 2241 ¥ 92740 Mex$ 10251 NZ$ 1005 NOK 6559 zł 2426 S$ 815 kr 6531 $ 604 Lunch & dinner package (6 lunches & 6 dinners) Not available $ 1079 £ 569 $ 977 € 650 kr 99646 ₪ 2649 ¥ 109602 Mex$ 12115 NZ$ 1187 NOK 7752 zł 2867 S$ 964 kr 7719 $ 713 $ 1411 £ 744 $ 1,277 € 850 kr 130306 ₪ 3463 ¥ 143325 Mex$ 15843 NZ$ 1553 NOK 10137 zł 3749 S$ 1260 kr 10094 $ 933 Bike options & discounts
Electric bike $ 498 £ 263 $ 451 € 300 kr 45990 ₪ 1222 ¥ 50585 Mex$ 5592 NZ$ 548 NOK 3578 zł 1323 S$ 445 kr 3563 $ 329 Extra nights
On request Departure transfer*
*Departure transfer on the official tour end day is included. The following is for prices for transfers requested on any other day.
2 people More than 2 people Porto city center to Porto airport, per group $ 50 £ 26 $ 45 € 30 kr 4599 ₪ 122 ¥ 5059 Mex$ 559 NZ$ 55 NOK 358 zł 132 S$ 44 kr 356 $ 33 Please ask. Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy–Moderate
This tour is rated moderate to difficult on a touring bike, but take heart! Electric bikes are included and will significantly decrease the difficulty level. The French Way encompasses a diversity of terrains. Commencing with level urban pathways in León, the route transitions to the undulating hills of Astorga and Ponferrada. As the path ascends to O Cebreiro, you will encounter some steep mountain climbs, which, although challenging, make the accomplishment more meaningful and are very doable on your electric bike. The final leg towards Santiago intertwines gentle ascents and descents.
Airport Info
The closest international airport to your tour start in León is León Airport (LEN) in Spain and to your tour end, Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ).
Local Travel
Arrival and departure airport transfers are included in your tour price. Certain restrictions apply.
Climate
Galicia has a maritime climate with some variations due to its diverse geography. The mountainous terrain in some areas of Galicia can lead to microclimates. Higher elevations may experience cooler temperatures and more rainfall.
Recommended
We recommend an electric bike for this journey.
Remarks
The Camino Francés, or the French Way, is among the most popular and frequently traveled paths on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. The portion of the route featured on this tour does not begin in France but features the point where the pilgrims would descend the French Pyrenees into Spain. Crossing the mountains, they would continue their route, eventually arriving in Santiago de Compostela.
Important to know
Airport transfers
Once your tour is confirmed, please send us your air travel details so that we can arrange your arrival transfer. Please note that departure transfers are included only on the official tour end day. Other transfer requests will incur a supplement.
Documents
Each traveler must ensure compliance with the country or countries you plan to visit. This includes and is not limited to passport validity, visa requirements and acquisition, blank passport pages required for your destination (s), etc.
US citizens: An excellent website to research the requirements of the Schengen Agreement and entry into other countries is travel.state.gov.
Non-EU and EU residents: Please research the requirements of your country of residence for international travel and your destination country or countries.
*Important note: Please check on the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) status as, once implemented, this will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.Tour types
Self-guided: You cycle independently without a guide or van support and are provided with maps, route descriptions, and pre-loaded GPS device or GPS tracks to upload to your device. Assistance is a phone call away.
Guided: You cycle in a group with a guide. If you have 8 or more in your group, a support vehicle is provided with no extra charge that will also serve as a luggage transfer vehicle.
Premium Guided: You cycle with a guide and support vehicle in a group. This version includes premium accommodations.Extra Stay
Just ask! We can assist you in arranging extra nights in any tour hotel.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Top Bike Tours Portugal.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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