Included: 7-day or 17-day cycling tour with 5/15 days of cycling along a section of Camino Frances or full Camino Frances, depending on the chosen itinerary Carefully chosen 2-3* hotels or equivalent Breakfasts Trip notes Mountain bike BH Over-X 27V (e-bike rental available at an additional cost) Bike insurance Repair kit 24/7 Customer service Holiday pack — pilgrim passport, luggage tag, route notes or guidebook if you have requested a hard copy (this will be waiting for you at your first accommodation) Pre-departure meeting (a week or two before the departure, online meeting) Not included: Transportation to the starting point E-bike rental Luggage transfers Lunches, dinners, and drinks Travel and medical insurance — recommended

How fit do I need to be?

Cycling the Camino de Santiago requires great fitness and stamina. You’ll be cycling between 15 and 45 miles (25-70 km) per day, sometimes on long and steep climbs. Keep in mind that 7-day options include 5 consecutive cycling days, while the 17-day option involves 15, making it much more strenuous. Expect varying terrain, with some sections being uneven, unpaved, or on loose ground. This trip is ideal for those who cycle regularly, and it’s even better if you have experience of riding on uneven/unpaved terrain. If you’re joining this cycling tour, we expect you to be fit and healthy, ready to take on an achievable challenge! Mountain bikes are included in the price of the tour, e-bikes are available at an additional cost upon checkout.

What about the terrain?

The route follows the Camino Frances as closely as possible. You’ll be riding on different surfaces including back roads, forest tracks, and footpaths. There are occasional sections along the Camino that are loose and rocky, which you can either ride or hop onto the road for some faster riding. The trail can get narrow and once in Galicia, you’ll encounter corredoiras, beautiful ancient cobbled lanes that can get a bit rough at times. Although most of the Camino is leisurely, there are still a few substantial climbs with frequent ups and downs along the way. There is an option of renting electric bikes, which is what we recommend to anyone who’d like a little boost up some of those hills!

What do I need to bring?

Here’s what you’ll need: Comfortable, season-appropriate riding or athletic clothing, preferably moisture wicking or synthetic material Padded shorts Peaked helmet Sneakers or sport shoes Breathable outside layer or jacket Sunglasses Water bottle or hydration bladder Daypack Biking gloves are optional but recommended Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, etc.) Mountain bike is included in the price of the tour, but you can bring your own if you prefer. Bring comfortable clothes appropriate for the season and for different weather conditions. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

What does a self-guided tour entail?

By going on a self-guided tour, you’re able to cycle at your own pace and enjoy the journey without worrying about the logistics of it all. The guiding company who put this all together is Follow the Camino. They’ve been leading pilgrims along their journey since 2007 and they were the first ever operator to organize tours along Camino de Santiago. There are many perks of choosing a self-guided tour. Apart from not having to adjust to the group, you’ll have the accommodation, breakfasts and route instructions sorted. You’ll be staying in carefully-selected 2-3* hotels and guesthouses and there’s no need to print out anything upon checking-in—your guides booked and arranged everything for you, all you have to do is show your I.D. This is a hassle-free trip so if you want to focus on enjoying your cycling pilgrimage in the Spanish bucolic countryside, these self-guided tours are the perfect match.

When will I receive information about my accommodation and route?

Your guides will send you a pre-departure pack by post. The pack contains your pilgrim passport, luggage tag, route notes or guidebook if you’ve requested a hard copy. In case there are certain complications with receiving the pre-departure pack, it will wait for you at your first accommodation. You’ll have to download the route notes and vouchers yourself. The cycling route notes are here to assist you. We recommend that you always familiarize yourself with the daily journey ahead. You’ll also download the vouchers yourself. These vouchers contain all the information about your confirmed accommodation—there will be an address, their phone number, any special instructions on how to get there, and a small map. You will find a 24/7 support phone number on the bottom of each voucher. Keep in mind that there’s no need to print out the vouchers, as your reservations will be confirmed. Pricing is based on double occupancy. Still, a solo traveler can certainly sign up, but please note there will be an additional single supplement fee.

What about my luggage?

Luggage transfers are not included in the price of this tour. Your guide can help you find the best solution and organize transfers. Here is some general advice: The luggage transfer is usually limited to 1 bag per person with a maximum weight of 15 kg per bag. Boots or smaller bags attached to the main bag count as an extra bag and will be charged accordingly. Always write your trip reference and your mobile phone number on your bag.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: It’s possible to arrange self-guided tours for both solo travelers as well as large groups. Pricing is based on double occupancy. Still, a solo traveler can certainly sign up, but please note there will be an additional single supplement fee. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting to the starting point

Your adventure starts in either in Roncevalles, Burgos or Ponferrada, depending on the itinerary. To get to Roncevalles, most people fly to Paris, take a train to St-Jean-Pied-de-Port, and then take a 30-minute taxi ride. To get to Burgos, most people fly to Madrid and then take a direct train or bus ride to get there. Alternatively, you can fly to Bilbao. To get to Ponferrada, most people fly to Saintiago de Campostela and then take a train or a bus ride to Ponferrada. Alternatively, you can fly to Madrid and take a train ride to Ponferrada. Once you get to the starting point, find your accommodation. Your bike will wait you there.

Safety measures along Camino Frances, Spain

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection . To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible , simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner ! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

CAMINO FRANCES | SPAIN

Camino Frances by Bike: Self-Guided Adventure

5.00 ()

Bike in front of the St James cathedral in Santiago de Campostela.

Cyclists posing for a photo in front of a church, during their Camino Frances cycling tour.

Spanish countryside along the Camino Frances route.

Gothic cathedral in Burgos, Spain—one of the stops curing the Camino Frances bike tour.

Cyclist riding along Camino Frances in the Spanish countryside, with farm animals following him.

Cyclist riding near Pamplona, along Camino Frances.

Gothic cathedral in the Spanish city of Leon.

Camino Frances direction sign in O Cebriero.

Bike in Pamplona, one of the stops during the Camino Frances bike tour.

Countryside near Ponferrada, seen during the Camino Frances cycling tour.

Rolling hills around Villafranca del Bierzo.

Cyclist in Roncevalles, the starting poin of the famous Camino Frances.

Square in the historic core of Santo Domingo de la Clazada.

St James cathedral in Santiago de Campostela.

Vedute of Estella, one of the stops along the Camino Frances.

From $860 ()

Duration

7-17 days

Season

April through October

Self-guided tour

Includes bike, accommodation, route notes, and 24-hour support

Accommodation

Standard: 2 & 3-star hotels along the way

Book a call

Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Reviews
Things to know

The dream of completing the legendary Camino de Santiago, especially its most famous variant, Camino Frances, has captivated millions for over a millennium. As a crew of local trip planners, we’ve devised the ultimate self-guided cycling experience along the Camino Frances. Cycling not only cuts the time but also lets bike lovers leave their mark on this storied trail just the way they like it. All the logistics will be taken care of in advance, saving you weeks of prep work. Take your pick: cross a week-long stretch of the pilgrimage or blaze through the entire Camino Frances in just 17 days. Pedal along the rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, visit medieval towns and cities, and get a feel for Spanish culture. Become part of a tradition that’s stood the test of time. The Camino is calling—are you going to answer?

Adventure highlights

Make your dream come true

Camino has captivated people for centuries—leave your mark on this ancient pilgrimage
Self-guided & pedal-powered tour

Camino Frances at your own pace on a cycling tour—shorten your journey & discover millennium-old history
Save time on research and preparation

Accommodation, route instructions, bike and 24/7 support are included

Download itineraries

Available itineraries

Self-Guided Camino Frances by Bike: Roncesvalles to Burgos

Get ready for a 7-day cycling adventure along the first section of the Camino Frances, from Roncesvalles to Burgos. Explore historic landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and charming towns. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and hearty breakfasts. Cycle through vineyards, wheat fields, and countryside, experiencing the rich culture and history of the Camino. End your journey in Burgos, where medieval splendor awaits. Choose your pace and immerse yourself in this unique pedal-powered pilgrimage experience.

Arrive in the town of Roncesvalles, check into your accommodation, and collect your mountain bike. With its collegiate church, old monastery and chapel of Santiago, Roncesvalles has a strong link to the Camino de Santiago. It is also one of the major spots of all the routes to the tomb of St James as this is where all pilgrims gather to to start their journey to Santiago de Compostela via the French Way. Set at the foothills of the Pyrenees, this peaceful place seems to exist because of, and for, the Camino. Explore the town before going back to your accommodation and taking some rest for the adventure ahead.
Enjoy breakfast and get ready for cycling! Leaving the Pyrenees behind us, today you will cycle toward Pamplona through the undulating terrain of the Basque Country via woodlands and hilly cultivated lands. Once you reach Zubiri, a transfer will take you to the capital city of the region of Navarra – Pamplona. Explore its bustling streets and grab something to eat, before heading to your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 27 miles (43 km)
After breakfast, it’s time for another day of cycling. As soon as you leave Pamplona, you’ll notice a drastic change in landscape: sunflowers and wheat fields surround you as you pass el Alto del Perdon, before heading down to Puente de la Reina, where the French and Aragonese Ways to Santiago meet. The second half of the day sees another progression in landscapes as red earth crop fields, charming villages and vineyards begin to appear. Reach Estella and settle into your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 28 miles (45 km)
Today is another beautiful day, cycling through vineyards and red earth crop fields. You’ll also pass by a few famous landmarks of the Camino such as the Monasterio of Irache and its bodega, and the steep climb up to Villamayor de Monjardin. Shade also decreases as you get closer and closer to Logrono, capital city of world-known wine producing region of La Rioja. On this day, a transfer will pick you up in Los Arcos and drop you off in Logrono.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 31 miles (50 km)
Yet another great cycling day, along red earth tracks and through the countryside of La Rioja. As the day goes on, notice vines starting to disappear and are replaced by more wheat fields as you approach Santo Domingo de la Calzada, another great milestone on the Camino de Santiago. This day can be seen as challenging as there are many ups and downs all day long and little shade.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 31 miles (50 km)
The day is spent through hilly crop fields, crossing a few quiet villages before getting back to civilization in Burgos. This can be a demanding day as the length is challenging and because of the ascent/descent – but the final destination in Burgos is well worth it!

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 43 km (70 km)
After breakfast, explore Burgos. The city still preserves important vestiges of its medieval splendor. The city, which was the capital of the unified kingdom of Castilla-Leon for five centuries, boasts a masterpiece of Spanish Gothic architecture; the Cathedral of Burgos (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Apart from a visit to the historic quarter, you can take quite an interesting walk along the banks of the Duero and Arlanza rivers. Discover the delicious and varied local cuisine in one of the city’s restaurants. Today is the end of the adventure if you’re doing only the first section of the Camino.

Meals: Breakfast

Self-Guided Camino Frances by Bike: Burgos to Ponferrada

Embark on a 7-day cycling tour along the second section of the Camino Frances, from Burgos to Ponferrada. Explore historic landmarks such as the Cathedral of Burgos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pedal through charming villages like Fromista and Sahagun, experiencing the influence of the Camino de Santiago at every turn. Marvel at the vibrant city of Leon and visit iconic sites like the Episcopal palace in Astorga. Experience a challenging climb to the famous Cruz del Hierro before reaching Ponferrada's medieval center. Immerse yourself in this unforgettable pilgrimage experience, discovering the heart of Spain along the way.

Arrive in the city of Burgos, check into your accommodation, and collect your mountain bike. Burgos, which was the capital of the unified kingdom of Castilla-Leon for five centuries, boasts a masterpiece of Spanish Gothic architecture; the Cathedral of Burgos (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Apart from a visit to the historic quarter, you can take quite an interesting walk along the banks of the Duero and Arlanza rivers. Discover the delicious and varied local cuisine in one of the city’s restaurants.
Enjoy your breakfast and get ready for cycling! All day long, you will notice the influence of the Camino de Santiago as there is not a single village you’ll cross that does not have obvious references to it. Upon reaching Fromista, settle into your accommodation and explore the town.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 41 miles (66 km)
During this stage, you’ll get a good understanding of the popular meaning “Castilla es ancha” (castilla is wide). Crop fields give patches of beautiful color to the agricultural landscape all year round. The first half of the day is mainly flat and it gets a bit more undulating on the second half to Sahagun.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 36 miles (58 km)
Today, you’ll cycle through the colorful Castilian meseta (lit. plateau). The landscape here seems endless as you pass over the flat terrain of the area, affording great views over the surrounding agricultural areas. Finish the day in the vibrant city of Leon.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 34 miles (55 km)
This is probably one of the flattest cycling days of the entire Camino Frances, since you are on a high plateau, it still offers some great views and you will see Astorga down in the valley long before reaching it! In Astorga, take some time to visit the Episcopal palace, the cathedral, and the old city walls.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 32 miles (52 km)
The last day of this section is definitely the most difficult, but also, the most rewarding one! You’ll be able to enjoy spectacular views as you climb high above sea level to reach the famous Cruz del Hierro (the Iron Cross). The natural scenery and towns with rich history make this the best way to finish the section, before reaching Ponferrada: a city with a lively, and very pretty, medieval center.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 32 miles (52 km)
After breakfast, explore Ponferrada. Discover the delicious and varied local cuisine in one of the town’s restaurants. Today is the end of the adventure if you’re doing only the second section of the Camino.

Meals: Breakfast

Self-Guided Camino Frances by Bike: Ponferrada to Santiago de Compostela

Experience a 7-day cycling adventure through the final section of the Camino Frances, from Ponferrada to Santiago de Compostela. Explore picturesque landscapes and historic landmarks of northern Spain. Pedal through charming towns like Villafranca del Bierzo and Sarria, immersing yourself in the rich culture of Galicia. Challenge yourself with steep ascents and rolling hills on your way to Santiago de Compostela. Conclude your journey with a visit to the magnificent historic center before bidding farewell to this unforgettable pilgrimage experience.

Arrive in the town of Ponferrada, check into your accommodation, and collect your mountain bike. You will be pre-booked into a traditional hotel in the heart of the town. Explore the town before going back to your accommodation and taking some rest for the adventure ahead.
After breakfast, get ready for cycling! Today, you will cross the region of Bierzo, a sunken plain nestled within a ring of mountains. It is a fertile land, whose mild climate allows the cultivation of many types of fruit and vegetables. In Villafranca, don’t miss the garden of the “Iglesia de Santiago.”

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 16 miles (25 km)
Prepare for a challenging day with a big ascent. You will pass through the narrow valley of the river Valcace before tackling the ascent of O Cebreiro. Situated between the ranges of “Los Ancares” and “La Sierra do Courel,” this stage involves a steep climb in the course of only a few kilometers.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 17 miles (28 km)
As you continue across the undulating terrain of the Galician mountains, the route offers more stunning sights and historical buildings. Finally, reach Sarria, where all pilgrims traveling by any means seem to know each other!

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 24 miles (39 km)
This penultimate day of the third section and of the entire Camino Frances starts with an ascent up through oak woods, passing by the Romanesque Church of Barbedelo, before cycling over the Belesar Dam in Portomarin. Continuing on the Camino Way to Melide is not too difficult—despite the typical Galician ups and downs!

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 38 miles (61 km)
This is probably the most exciting cycling day of the whole Camino, as today you’ll finally reach Santiago de Compostela! Before that, you will have to cycle the rolling hills of Galicia. The most exhilarating part of today will probably be on reaching El Monte de Gozo (Mount of Joy), where you can see the cathedral in the distance for the first time, before arriving into Santiago de Compostela!

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 33 miles (53 km)
After breakfast, your Camino Frances cycling tour will have come to an end. If you wish to stay in the area, we recommend that you take your time and visit the magnificent historic center or explore some other nearby locations.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 32 miles (52 km)

Self-Guided Camino Frances by Bike: Full Route

Want to cross the entire Camino Frances on your bike? Get ready for this 17-day cycling odyssey along the entire Camino Frances, from Roncesvalles to Santiago de Compostela. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of landscapes and cultures as you pedal through historic towns and picturesque countryside. Experience the camaraderie of fellow pilgrims and the profound sense of achievement as you reach Santiago de Compostela. Throughout your journey, enjoy comfortable accommodation and hearty breakfasts, allowing you to focus solely on the transformative experience of this ancient pilgrimage route.

Arrive in the town of Roncesvalles, check into your accommodation, and collect your mountain bike. With its collegiate church, old monastery and chapel of Santiago, Roncesvalles has a strong link to the Camino de Santiago. It is also one of the major spots of all the routes to the tomb of St James as this is where all pilgrims gather to to start their journey to Santiago de Compostela via the French Way. Set at the foothills of the Pyrenees, this peaceful place seems to exist because of, and for, the Camino. Explore the town before going back to your accommodation and taking some rest for the adventure ahead.
Enjoy breakfast and get ready for cycling! Leaving the Pyrenees behind us, today you will cycle toward Pamplona through the undulating terrain of the Basque Country via woodlands and hilly cultivated lands. Once you reach Zubiri, a transfer will take you to the capital city of the region of Navarra – Pamplona. Explore its bustling streets and grab something to eat, before heading to your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 27 miles (43 km)
After breakfast, it’s time for another day of cycling. As soon as you leave Pamplona, you’ll notice a drastic change in landscape: sunflowers and wheat fields surround you as you pass el Alto del Perdon, before heading down to Puente de la Reina, where the French and Aragonese Ways to Santiago meet. The second half of the day sees another progression in landscapes as red earth crop fields, charming villages and vineyards begin to appear. Reach Estella and settle into your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 28 miles (45 km)
Today is another beautiful day, cycling through vineyards and red earth crop fields. You’ll also pass by a few famous landmarks of the Camino such as the Monasterio of Irache and its bodega, and the steep climb up to Villamayor de Monjardin. Shade also decreases as you get closer and closer to Logrono, capital city of world-known wine producing region of La Rioja. On this day, a transfer will pick you up in Los Arcos and drop you off in Logrono.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 31 miles (50 km)
Yet another great cycling day, along red earth tracks and through the countryside of La Rioja. As the day goes on, notice vines starting to disappear and are replaced by more wheat fields as you approach Santo Domingo de la Calzada, another great milestone on the Camino de Santiago. This day can be seen as challenging as there are many ups and downs all day long and little shade.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 31 miles (50 km)
The day is spent through hilly crop fields, crossing a few quiet villages before getting back to civilization in Burgos. This can be a demanding day as the length is challenging and because of the ascent/descent – but the final destination in Burgos is well worth it!

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 43 km (70 km)
Enjoy your breakfast and get ready for cycling! All day long, you will notice the influence of the Camino de Santiago as there is not a single village you’ll cross that does not have obvious references to it. Upon reaching Fromista, settle into your accommodation and explore the town.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 41 miles (66 km)
During this stage, you’ll get a good understanding of the popular meaning “Castilla es ancha” (castilla is wide). Crop fields give patches of beautiful colour to the agricultural landscape all year round. The first half of the day is mainly flat and it gets a bit more undulating on the second half to Sahagun.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 36 miles (58 km)
Today, you’ll cycle through the colourful Castilian meseta (lit. plateau). The landscape here seems endless as you pass over the flat terrain of the area, affording great views over the surrounding agricultural areas. Finish the day in the vibrant city of Leon.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 34 miles (55 km)
This is probably one of the flattest cycling days of the entire Camino Frances, since you are on a high plateau, it still offers some great views and you will see Astorga down in the valley long before reaching it! In Astorga, take some time to visit the Episcopal palace, the cathedral, and the old city walls.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 32 miles (52 km)
The last day of this section is definitely the most difficult, but also, the most rewarding one! You’ll be able to enjoy spectacular views as you climb high above sea level to reach the famous Cruz del Hierro (the Iron Cross). The natural scenery and towns with rich history make this the best way to finish the section, before reaching Ponferrada: a city with a lively, and very pretty, medieval centre.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 32 miles (52 km)
After breakfast, get ready for cycling! Today, you will cross the region of Bierzo, a sunken plain nestled within a ring of mountains. It is a fertile land, whose mild climate allows the cultivation of many types of fruit and vegetables. In Villafranca, don’t miss the garden of the “Iglesia de Santiago.”

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 16 miles (25 km)
Prepare for a challenging day with a big ascent. You will pass through the narrow valley of the river Valcace before tackling the ascent of O Cebreiro. Situated between the ranges of “Los Ancares” and “La Sierra do Courel,” this stage involves a steep climb in the course of only a few kilometers.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 17 miles (28 km)
As you continue across the undulating terrain of the Galician mountains, the route offers more stunning sights and historical buildings. Finally, reach Sarria, where all pilgrims travelling by any means seem to know each other!

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 24 miles (39 km)
This penultimate day of Camino Frances starts with an ascent up through oak woods, passing by the Romanesque Church of Barbedelo, before cycling over the Belesar Dam in Portomarin. Continuing on the Camino Way to Melide is not too difficult—despite the typical Galician ups and downs!

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 38 miles (61 km)
This is probably the most exciting day cycling day of the whole Camino, as today you’ll finally reach Santiago de Compostela! Before that, you will have to cycle the rolling hills of Galicia. The most exhilarating part of today will probably be on reaching El Monte de Gozo (Mount of Joy), where you can see the cathedral in the distance for the first time, before arriving into Santiago de Compostela!

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 33 miles (53 km)
After breakfast, your Camino Frances cycling tour will have come to an end. If you wish to stay in the area, we recommend that you take your time and visit the magnificent historic centre or exploring some other nearby locations.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 32 miles (52 km)

Camino Frances by Bike: Self-Guided Adventure

Adventure Brochure

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If you have questions or need help with planning a trip, schedule a call with one of our adventure experts.

Meet your guide

5.00

Follow the Camino

Follow the Camino has been leading the way since 2007 and was the first-ever tour operator to lead along Camino de Santiago. They’ve been making the Camino more accessible, enjoyable, and achievable for thousands of pilgrims and travelers from all around the world. Their focus is on respecting this ancestral pilgrimage, its spirit, and its values.

5.00 (3 reviews)

20th wedding anniversary trip

maarb0l (source: Tripadvisor)

My husband and I decided to do the Camino de Santiago in celebration of our 20th wedding anniversary and we could not have picked a better outfit to help us make a very special one.
We did not have a lot of time, so we decided to do the Camino on bikes. Follow el Camino were very accurate in describing what we should expect. The bikes that were delivered to our first hotel for us to use were perfectly sized and in great condition. They include the tools and spare parts necessary for the road and they came in handy. The accommodations were expertly picked, very comfortable and always close enough to the center of the action without being in the middle of it. We had a fantastic time. The only thing I would change for the next time is not to have such long rides each day to be able to spend more tine in each town.

cycling the camino

Joseph R (source: Tripadvisor)

A memorable trip cycling the camino. Everything was perfect- hotels were great, bikes were of good standard and luggage was collected and delivered on time. We only had to focus on the cycling. I would give ten stars if this was an option.

cycling the Spanish section of The Camino from Roncesvalles to Santiago

IanCunliffe (source: Tripadvisor)

All round excellent service from Follow the Camino. High quality bikes, reliable baggage transfers and generally outstanding hotels (only limited by a few of the overnight towns inevitably having less choice). The hotels at Roncesvalles, Pamplona, Burgos, Leon, Portomarin, Arzua, and Santiago were really excellent

Things to know

Included:
- - 7-day or 17-day cycling tour with 5/15 days of cycling along a section of Camino Frances or full Camino Frances, depending on the chosen itinerary
  - Carefully chosen 2-3* hotels or equivalent
  - Breakfasts
  - Trip notes
  - Mountain bike BH Over-X 27V (e-bike rental available at an additional cost)
  - Bike insurance
  - Repair kit
  - 24/7 Customer service
  - Holiday pack — pilgrim passport, luggage tag, route notes or guidebook if you have requested a hard copy (this will be waiting for you at your first accommodation)
  - Pre-departure meeting (a week or two before the departure, online meeting)
Not included:
- - Transportation to the starting point
  - E-bike rental
  - Luggage transfers
  - Lunches, dinners, and drinks
  - Travel and medical insurance — recommended
Cycling the Camino de Santiago requires great fitness and stamina. You’ll be cycling between 15 and 45 miles (25-70 km) per day, sometimes on long and steep climbs. Keep in mind that 7-day options include 5 consecutive cycling days, while the 17-day option involves 15, making it much more strenuous. Expect varying terrain, with some sections being uneven, unpaved, or on loose ground. This trip is ideal for those who cycle regularly, and it’s even better if you have experience of riding on uneven/unpaved terrain. If you’re joining this cycling tour, we expect you to be fit and healthy, ready to take on an achievable challenge!

Mountain bikes are included in the price of the tour, e-bikes are available at an additional cost upon checkout.
The route follows the Camino Frances as closely as possible. You’ll be riding on different surfaces including back roads, forest tracks, and footpaths. There are occasional sections along the Camino that are loose and rocky, which you can either ride or hop onto the road for some faster riding.

The trail can get narrow and once in Galicia, you’ll encounter corredoiras, beautiful ancient cobbled lanes that can get a bit rough at times. Although most of the Camino is leisurely, there are still a few substantial climbs with frequent ups and downs along the way. There is an option of renting electric bikes, which is what we recommend to anyone who’d like a little boost up some of those hills!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- - Comfortable, season-appropriate riding or athletic clothing, preferably moisture wicking or synthetic material
  - Padded shorts
  - Peaked helmet
  - Sneakers or sport shoes
  - Breathable outside layer or jacket
  - Sunglasses
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder
  - Daypack
  - Biking gloves are optional but recommended
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, etc.)
Mountain bike is included in the price of the tour, but you can bring your own if you prefer. Bring comfortable clothes appropriate for the season and for different weather conditions. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
By going on a self-guided tour, you’re able to cycle at your own pace and enjoy the journey without worrying about the logistics of it all. The guiding company who put this all together is Follow the Camino. They’ve been leading pilgrims along their journey since 2007 and they were the first ever operator to organize tours along Camino de Santiago.

There are many perks of choosing a self-guided tour. Apart from not having to adjust to the group, you’ll have the accommodation, breakfasts and route instructions sorted. You’ll be staying in carefully-selected 2-3* hotels and guesthouses and there’s no need to print out anything upon checking-in—your guides booked and arranged everything for you, all you have to do is show your I.D.

This is a hassle-free trip so if you want to focus on enjoying your cycling pilgrimage in the
Spanish bucolic countryside, these self-guided tours are the perfect match.
Your guides will send you a pre-departure pack by post. The pack contains your pilgrim passport, luggage tag, route notes or guidebook if you’ve requested a hard copy. In case there are certain complications with receiving the pre-departure pack, it will wait for you at your first accommodation.

You’ll have to download the route notes and vouchers yourself. The cycling route notes are here to assist you. We recommend that you always familiarize yourself with the daily journey ahead. You’ll also download the vouchers yourself. These vouchers contain all the information about your confirmed accommodation—there will be an address, their phone number, any special instructions on how to get there, and a small map.

You will find a 24/7 support phone number on the bottom of each voucher. Keep in mind that there’s no need to print out the vouchers, as your reservations will be confirmed.

Pricing is based on double occupancy. Still, a solo traveler can certainly sign up, but please note there will be an additional single supplement fee.
Luggage transfers are not included in the price of this tour. Your guide can help you find the best solution and organize transfers. Here is some general advice:
- - The luggage transfer is usually limited to 1 bag per person with a maximum weight of 15 kg per bag.
  - Boots or smaller bags attached to the main bag count as an extra bag and will be charged accordingly.
  - Always write your trip reference and your mobile phone number on your bag.
Group sizes and prices:
- - It’s possible to arrange self-guided tours for both solo travelers as well as large groups.
  - Pricing is based on double occupancy. Still, a solo traveler can certainly sign up, but please note there will be an additional single supplement fee.
Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
Your adventure starts in either in Roncevalles, Burgos or Ponferrada, depending on the itinerary.

To get to Roncevalles, most people fly to Paris, take a train to St-Jean-Pied-de-Port, and then take a 30-minute taxi ride.

To get to Burgos, most people fly to Madrid and then take a direct train or bus ride to get there. Alternatively, you can fly to Bilbao.

To get to Ponferrada, most people fly to Saintiago de Campostela and then take a train or a bus ride to Ponferrada. Alternatively, you can fly to Madrid and take a train ride to Ponferrada.

Once you get to the starting point, find your accommodation. Your bike will wait you there.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
To secure your spot, a deposit in the amount of 30% is required at the time of booking. The remaining amount must be paid 90 calendar days prior to the trip departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies. If you cancel the booking…
- - If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to sixty (60) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client is entitled to a full refund minus the deposit.
  - For cancellations fifteen (15) to fifty-nine (59) calendar days in advance, Client is entitled to a refund in the amount of fifty percent (50%) of the total amount paid when Booking.
  - After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund. Any reimbursable expenses arising out of the Booking incurred by Guide prior to the date of cancellation (including but not limited to plane tickets, car rental payments, and lodging or transportation fees) are non-refundable as soon as they are incurred by the Guide.
Client can transfer their booking to a person who satisfies all the requirements, having first given the Guide reasonable notice in writing to do so before the departure date (such notice must be given more than 21 days prior to the date of departure). Client who transfers the Booking shall be jointly and severally liable with the transferee to the Guide for the payment of any balance due in respect of the holiday and for a substitution fee of €30.00 per person substituted, subject to a maximum of €120.00 per booking (or such other greater sum as may be authorized).

Please note that booking fees are non-refundable in all cases and will be deducted from the refund amount.
57hours partners with Redpoint Travel Protection, offering you a fully integrated program with a single point of contact for all your needs, from emergency services to travel assistance and protection claims. We highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive protection policy from Redpoint, which will protect you both before and during your travels. Before your departure, your investment is protected by the trip cancellation benefit. Once you depart, your policy provides coverage for trip interruption, medical assistance and rescue, baggage loss, trip delay, and more. Once you complete booking with 57hours, we'll create bespoke quote for you (and your group), making sure you're fully protected for the adventure ahead.