French Way Camino de Santiago E-Bike Tour

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: Departure

All 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.

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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)