Exploring the Camino Francés: Self-Guided and Guided Trips to Suit Every Pilgrim
The Camino Francés, or the French Way, is the most popular and well-trodden route of all the Caminos. The pilgrimage trail starts at the trailhead in France at Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, and travels through France for just 26km. The whole walk is 780 kilometres (485 miles)and travels across northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela. Walkers or pilgrims pass through diverse landscapes, historic Spanish towns, and vibrant cities like Leon, experiencing the spiritual and cultural richness of the Camino. The camaraderie amongst the walkers is second to none. For walkers that are interested in a supported self-guided adventure, there are several options available, each catering to different preferences and fitness.
1. The Full Camino Francés: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Santiago de Compostela
For those seeking an end-to-end Camino pilgrimage experience, the full Camino Francés is the right pick. The trailhead is in the quiet and small town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. The Camino Way has you traverse the Pyrenees into Spain, and passing through regions such as Navarra, La Rioja, Castilla y León, and Galicia. The journey typically takes 36 to 40 days, with walks of about 25 kilometres (15 miles) per day.
Highlights:
- Crossing the Pyrenees from France to Spain
- Visiting historic cities like Pamplona, Burgos, León and Santiago de Compostela
- Exploring the vineyards of La Rioja
- Arriving at Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and the mass the following day
2. The Last 100 Kilometres on Camino Frances from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela
For those with limited time who wish to get the Pilgrims Passport and the stamps and wish to experience a small part of the Camino without walking the entire route, the last 100 kilometres from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela is a popular choice. This segment takes about 7 to 9 days, you must take a rest day in Santiago to soak up the atmosphere. The minimum distance required to receive the Compostela is 100km to get the official certificate of completion.
Highlights:
- Walking through the Galician countryside and eating octopus
- Visiting small, picturesque Spanish villages
- Finishing the pilgrimage at the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela and receiving the Compostela Pilgrimage certificate.
3. The Camino Frances from León to Santiago de Compostela
If you are after a slightly shorter version of the full Camino, starting in León is an excellent option. This route covers about 310 kilometres (193 miles) and can be completed in 17 to 21 days. It starts in the historic city of León, and traverses the diverse landscapes of Castilla y León and Galicia. The route offers a magnificent blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.
Highlights:
- Exploring the historic architecture of León, including its stunning cathedral
- Walking through the scenic Montes de León
- Experiencing the traditional Galician hospitality
- Arriving at Santiago de Compostela with a strong sense of achievement
4. The French Camino in sections
In many cases people choose to do the Camino in sections if they are pressed for time. The Camino Francés can be divided into six sections, each offering its unique landscape, cultural experiences, and challenges. Whether pilgrims choose to complete the entire route or tackle a section at a time, each part of the Camino Francés provides a rewarding experience, steeped in history, spirituality, and camaraderie.
Section 1. Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port via Pamplona to Logroño
Distance: 162 km (100 miles)
Duration: 8 days
Highlights:
- Crossing the Pyrenees
- The Roncesvalles Monastery
- Cirauqui, a small village with a Roman road
- Puente la Reina and its medieval bridge
- The lively city of Pamplona, famous for the Running of the Bulls
Section 2. Logroño to Burgos (Stage 3)
Distance: 120 km (75 miles)
Duration: 5-6 days
Highlights:
- The vineyards of La Rioja
- Santo Domingo de la Calzada with its cathedral
- The historic city of Burgos, home to the impressive Gothic cathedral
Section 3. Burgos to León (Stage 4)
Distance: 180 km (112 miles)
Duration: 7-9 days
Highlights:
- The vast Meseta, a high plateau known for its solitude and reflection
- The small towns of Frómista and Sahagún with their Romanesque churches
- Arrival in León, with its stunning cathedral and rich history
Section 4. León to Ponferrada (Stage 5)
Distance: 100 km (62 miles)
Duration: 4-5 days
Highlights:
- The beautiful village of Astorga with its Episcopal Palace designed by Gaudí
- The Cruz de Ferro (Iron Cross), a significant pilgrim monument
- Ponferrada, known for its Templar castle
Section 5. Ponferrada to Sarria (Stage 6)
Distance: 100 km (62 miles)
Duration: 4-5 days
Highlights:
- The region of El Bierzo, with its vineyards and orchards
- The village of O Cebreiro, famous for its unique stone houses and mountain views
- The descent into the lush landscapes of Galicia
Section 6. Sarria to Santiago de Compostela (Stage 7)
Distance: 115 km (71 miles)
Duration: 5-7 days
Highlights:
- The rolling green hills of Galicia
- The medieval town of Portomarín, known for its relocated church
- The final approach to Santiago de Compostela, culminating at the cathedral
Optional Section: Finisterre and Muxía
Distance: 90-120 km (56-75 miles) from Santiago de Compostela
Duration: 3-5 days
Highlights:
- Extending the pilgrimage to the coast, reaching the “end of the world” at Cape Finisterre
- The coastal beauty of Muxía and its Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Boat
5. Customise the French Camino and choose your own pace and length of walk.
For those who prefer flexibility, or have a shorter time period to work with then customising the Camino Francés allows you have your own bespoke itinerary. This way you can stay longer in towns and you are free to walk at your own pace.
