Make your own way to the hotel in Leon. Your pilgrim passort and luggage tags will be at reception, and your rental bike and equipment will be delivered to the hotel lobby at 8pm. Founded in 884 AD, León has abundant gastronomic and architectural riches - take in a pre-dinner drink and snack at one of the many atmospheric bars located along the narrow streets of the Barrio Húmedo. The cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and don't miss the Basílica de San Isidoro de León museum. We can assist with booking extra nights before your trip on request.

Meals:  Nil

Today’s route takes you through the quintessential Castilian landscapes of holm oaks, golden wheat fields and gentle ups and downs. As the route closely follows the N120 highway it is an easy day to navigate. The landscape in the first half of the route is relatively dry but gets greener further west. You’ll cross fields full of diverse crops such as wheat, corn, hops and wine grapes. Wildlife isn’t a big feature of the first part of the trip, though you will see geckoes, birds of prey and a lot of dairy cows! The town of Astorga is at the crossroads of the Camino and the Ruta de la Plata (Silver Road), the Roman route used to transport ores and metals extracted from mines in the north to shipping ports in the south of the peninsula, and is known for its impressive architecture including the Gaudi-designed Episcopal Palace. Accumulated Ascent 340m l Descent 304m

Meals:  B,D

From Astorga, the Camino climbs gently until it meets the first mountain on the way. Once you've reached the top of Foncebadón and Cruz de Ferro, take it easy and enjoy the sweeping downhill ride and the gorgeous views as you head to Molinaseca and on to Ponferrada, located on the Sil River. The old town sits below an impressive Templar Castle, which is open daily (except Mondays Oct to Mar) in the late afternoon (entry fee applies). Accumulated Ascent: 988m l Descent: 1094m

Meals:  B,D

This is the most challenging day of the cycle. From Ponferrada there are a few ups and downs to Villafranca del Bierzo, an historical and artistic town that was established to give refuge and sanctuary to pilgrims before they undertook the most difficult part of their pilgrimage. The monastery cloister is a Renaissance jewel. From Villafranca you ascend gradually towards the mythical O Cebreiro pass, the most demanding peak along the western section of the Camino. With some effort (and perhaps a chocolate bar), you'll reach the stone built mountain village atop the pass (1330m). O Cebreiro has several surviving pallozas (thatch-roofed cottages) and a small church which may be the oldest church on the Spanish Camino. Accumulated Ascent: 1064m l Descent 332m

Meals:  B,D

From the pass it's downhill all the way to Sarria. The town of Sarria is located on a hilltop with a river on either side affording you great views of the region. After handing back your bike, take some time to wander the small centre with its bars and restaurants brimming with pilgrims.

Meals:  B,D

A change in pace today as you swap wheels for boots and walk amongst pilgrims enroute to Santiago. We recommend before leaving town that you take the time to visit the Church of the Convent of La Magdalena. Over the “Meseta Lucense”, the Lugo Plateau, you will pass through many hamlets dotted along areas of cultivated land, grazing pastures and woodlands and view the first “horreos”, typical raised grain silos. A relatively easy walk until your descent, crossing the Dam of Portomarin, where you can see ruins of the ancient flooded village, and on into the town for your accommodation.

Meals:  B,D

The route takes you through the brooms, with their magnificent fragrance. Along the path you will pass charming hamlets and calvaries. Over this stage you will pass through Ventas de Naron where you can fill your water bottles, over the gentle Sierra de Ligonde, then downhill through Previsa, Lameiros and Ligonde where you will find a church dedicated to the apostle St James. Emperor Charles V stayed here in the modest village of Ligonde, on the 24th of March 1520.

Meals:  B,D

A big day on the trail today. Walk this morning to Melide through the small towns of Coto and Leboreiro. Melide is one of the larger towns along the Galician section of the Camino Trail. The trail continues through terrain that becomes much easier as you walk through the villages of Carballal, San Xuilan do Camino and Lebereiro, and past Eucalyptus trees. Crossing over the River Seco on the Magdalena Bridge you will reach Furelos and continue on to Arzúa, in the province of La Coruña. Note: You can break this day into two days with an overnight in Melide. Must be requested at the time of booking. Additional cost applies.

Meals:  B,D

Today’s walk will bring you to the small town of Rua which has a population of only 50 people. The walk today is lovely, as you pass large green fields and rural landscapes.

Meals:  B,D

Today you will pass many ancient sites including monuments, chapels and bridges – all have a story to tell. Follow country lanes and forest paths through increasingly populated countryside. The last day on the trail is always a special one. Continue downhill to the city. Arriving in the fabled Santiago de Compostela there is plenty to see and do – or simply relax and celebrate the end of the journey. Dinner is not included tonight so you can try one of the many restaurants in town.

Meals:  B

Trip concludes after breakfast. Bask in the glory of completing your Camino and reflect on a truly memorable journey. Arrangements conclude after breakfast, or if you'd like to stay an extra night or two, or continue to Cape Finisterre on the Atlantic for a day trip, we can assist with reservations - please ask for our rates.

Meals:  B