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
- Book This Trip
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, 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 León 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
- 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
- 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
- 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. 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
- 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
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. Please feel free to inquire about available dates.
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$ 3184 £ 1660 $ 2,864 € 1883 kr 289063 ₪ 7766 ¥ 310451 Mex$ 36280 NZ$ 3426 NOK 22449 kr 21829 $ 2,108 $ 4083 £ 2129 $ 3,673 € 2415 kr 370731 ₪ 9960 ¥ 398161 Mex$ 46530 NZ$ 4393 NOK 28791 kr 27997 $ 2,704 $ 5774 £ 3011 $ 5,194 € 3415 kr 524243 ₪ 14084 ¥ 563032 Mex$ 65797 NZ$ 6213 NOK 40713 kr 39590 $ 3,823 Regular season
March 26 to June 25 & September 26 to October 31$ 3319 £ 1731 $ 2,985 € 1963 kr 301344 ₪ 8096 ¥ 323640 Mex$ 37821 NZ$ 3571 NOK 23402 kr 22757 $ 2,198 $ 4219 £ 2200 $ 3,795 € 2495 kr 383012 ₪ 10290 ¥ 411351 Mex$ 48072 NZ$ 4539 NOK 29745 kr 28924 $ 2,793 $ 5910 £ 3082 $ 5,315 € 3495 kr 536524 ₪ 14414 ¥ 576221 Mex$ 67339 NZ$ 6358 NOK 41666 kr 40517 $ 3,913 High season
September 1 to September 25$ 3421 £ 1784 $ 3,077 € 2023 kr 310555 ₪ 8343 ¥ 333532 Mex$ 38978 NZ$ 3680 NOK 24118 kr 23452 $ 2,265 $ 4320 £ 2253 $ 3,886 € 2555 kr 392223 ₪ 10537 ¥ 421243 Mex$ 49228 NZ$ 4648 NOK 30460 kr 29620 $ 2,860 $ 6011 £ 3134 $ 5,407 € 3555 kr 545735 ₪ 14661 ¥ 586113 Mex$ 68495 NZ$ 6467 NOK 42382 kr 41213 $ 3,980 Summer season
June 26 to August 31$ 3522 £ 1837 $ 3,168 € 2083 kr 319765 ₪ 8591 ¥ 343425 Mex$ 40134 NZ$ 3789 NOK 24833 kr 24148 $ 2,332 $ 4422 £ 2306 $ 3,977 € 2615 kr 401434 ₪ 10785 ¥ 431135 Mex$ 50384 NZ$ 4757 NOK 31175 kr 30315 $ 2,928 $ 6113 £ 3187 $ 5,498 € 3615 kr 554946 ₪ 14909 ¥ 596006 Mex$ 69651 NZ$ 6577 NOK 43097 kr 41908 $ 4,047 Solo traveler supplement (in addition to single supplement) Single supplement Standard accommodations Premium accommodations Low season $ 659 £ 344 $ 593 € 390 kr 59870 ₪ 1608 ¥ 64299 Mex$ 7514 NZ$ 710 NOK 4649 kr 4521 $ 437 $ 1082 £ 564 $ 973 € 640 kr 98248 ₪ 2639 ¥ 105517 Mex$ 12331 NZ$ 1164 NOK 7630 kr 7419 $ 717 Regular season $ 710 £ 370 $ 639 € 420 kr 64475 ₪ 1732 ¥ 69245 Mex$ 8092 NZ$ 764 NOK 5007 kr 4869 $ 470 $ 1133 £ 591 $ 1,019 € 670 kr 102853 ₪ 2763 ¥ 110463 Mex$ 12909 NZ$ 1219 NOK 7988 kr 7767 $ 750 High season $ 761 £ 397 $ 684 € 450 kr 69080 ₪ 1856 ¥ 74192 Mex$ 8670 NZ$ 819 NOK 5365 kr 5217 $ 504 $ 1184 £ 617 $ 1,065 € 700 kr 107458 ₪ 2887 ¥ 115409 Mex$ 13487 NZ$ 1273 NOK 8345 kr 8115 $ 784 Summer season $ 812 £ 423 $ 730 € 480 kr 73686 ₪ 1980 ¥ 79138 Mex$ 9248 NZ$ 873 NOK 5722 kr 5565 $ 537 $ 1234 £ 644 $ 1,110 € 730 kr 112064 ₪ 3011 ¥ 120355 Mex$ 14065 NZ$ 1328 NOK 8703 kr 8463 $ 817 Extra Options
Hotel Upgrade
Self-guided Guided Premium guided Premium hotel upgrade $ 1099 £ 573 $ 989 € 650 kr 99783 ₪ 2681 ¥ 107166 Mex$ 12524 NZ$ 1183 NOK 7749 kr 7535 $ 728 $ 1099 £ 573 $ 989 € 650 kr 99783 ₪ 2681 ¥ 107166 Mex$ 12524 NZ$ 1183 NOK 7749 kr 7535 $ 728 Included Meal Packages
Self-guided Guided Premium guided Dinner package (6 dinners) $ 507 £ 265 $ 456 € 300 kr 46054 ₪ 1237 ¥ 49461 Mex$ 5780 NZ$ 546 NOK 3577 kr 3478 $ 336 $ 507 £ 265 $ 456 € 300 kr 46054 ₪ 1237 ¥ 49461 Mex$ 5780 NZ$ 546 NOK 3577 kr 3478 $ 336 $ 930 £ 485 $ 836 € 550 kr 84432 ₪ 2268 ¥ 90679 Mex$ 10597 NZ$ 1001 NOK 6557 kr 6376 $ 616 Lunch & dinner package (6 lunches & 6 dinners) Not available $ 1099 £ 573 $ 989 € 650 kr 99783 ₪ 2681 ¥ 107166 Mex$ 12524 NZ$ 1183 NOK 7749 kr 7535 $ 728 $ 1437 £ 749 $ 1,293 € 850 kr 130485 ₪ 3506 ¥ 140140 Mex$ 16377 NZ$ 1546 NOK 10133 kr 9854 $ 952 Bike options & discounts
Electric bike $ 507 £ 265 $ 456 € 300 kr 46054 ₪ 1237 ¥ 49461 Mex$ 5780 NZ$ 546 NOK 3577 kr 3478 $ 336 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 $ 51 £ 26 $ 46 € 30 kr 4605 ₪ 124 ¥ 4946 Mex$ 578 NZ$ 55 NOK 358 kr 348 $ 34 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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