Camino - Leon to Santiago in 15 Days

Begin your journey in the historic town of Leon, a testament to the rich history of Old Castile. Explore the grandeur of the Cathedral of Leon, a masterpiece of the 13th Century, and the Collegiate Church of San Isidoro, home to an impressive collection of early manuscripts. Don't miss the chance to walk along the ancient Town Walls, a blend of Roman and medieval architecture. Spend the night in Leon, soaking in the city's timeless charm.

Depart from Leon and journey through the town to Virgen del Camino, a site of legendary apparitions. Traverse the exposed Paramo desert and pass through quaint villages before reaching Villadangos del Paramo, a town of Roman origin. Visit the Parish Church, home to an 18th Century image of the Apostle Santiago. Continue to Villar de Mazarife for an overnight stay.

Start early today for a steady climb to Rabanal Del Camino. Pass through the village of Astorga and follow the tree-lined pavements to the River Jerga. Continue through the village of Santa Catalina de Somoza and onto El Ganso. As you ascend the Los Montes de Leon, the landscape transforms into a dense forest of oak trees, heather, and conifers. End the day in Rabanal Del Camino, a charming mountain village.

Today's journey takes you through a variety of plant species as you ascend to the famous Mount Irago. Marvel at the Iron Cross and the Hermitage of Santiago by the mountain pass. Descend into the Ponferrada Valley, passing through a quaint village before arriving in Molinaseca, known for its slate roofs and wooden balconies.

Your final day in the El Bierzo area promises both beauty and challenge. Pass through woodlands of chestnuts, conifers, oaks, heather, and bracken. Traverse the narrow valley of the River Valcarce before tackling the challenging ascent of O Cebreiro, nestled between the ranges of Los Ancares and La Sierra Do Courel.

Before leaving Sarria, take the time to visit the Church of the convent of La Magdalena. Walk over the Lugo Plateau, passing through hamlets dotted along areas of cultivated land and woodlands. The day's walk is relatively easy until your descent, crossing the Dam of Portomarin where you can see ruins of the ancient flooded village. Arrive in the town of Portomarin for your accommodation.

The route today takes you through fragrant brooms. Along the path, you'll pass charming hamlets and calvaries. Over this stage, you'll pass through Ventas de Naron, over the gentle Sierra de Ligonde, then downhill through Previsa, Lameiros, and Ligonde, where you'll find a church dedicated to the apostle St James.