For those who are short on time, but still want to experience the beauty of the Camino, you can walk the last 100KM and still receive your certificate of completion, or Compostela.
The route begins in Sarria and finishes in Santiago de Compostela, traversing the hilly landscapes of Galicia. Reward your efforts in Santiago de Compostela, the heart and hub of all pilgrimages on the Way of St James
St Jean Pied de Port
Walking up to Orisson
Walking in the Pyrenees
View over the Pyrenees
Camino Frances Pyrenees Forest Forest
Camino Lunch Ham and Cheese Sandwich
Sign with kms to Santiago
Misty landscape in the Pyrenees
Dirt track on the way to Pamplona
Camino Frances Pamplona Cathedral
Puente la Reina Queens Bridge
Church of Santa Maria de Eunate - Photographs provided by the Tourist Marketing Service
La Rioja Vineyards
View up to Villamayor de Monjardin
Fuente del Vino Irache
Shady spot for a picnic under a bridge
Walking in the countryside of La Rioja
Camino Shell and Arrows
Open countryside on the Camino Frances
Bridge entering Logrono
Cathedral Santiago
Cathedral Santiago
Medieval Bridge
Medieval Bridge
Portomarin Church
Portomarin Church
Pilgrims on the Camino
Pilgrims on the Camino
Celtic Ruins - Castro de Castromaior
Celtic Ruins - Castro de Castromaior
Pulpo Melide
Pulpo Melide
Quiet stretch through fields Last 100kms
Quiet stretch through fields Last 100kms
Group shot on the Camino
Group shot on the Camino
Forest walk Last 100kms
Forest walk Last 100kms
Mount of Joy
Mount of Joy
Pilgrim Statues at the Mount of Joy
Pilgrim Statues at the Mount of Joy
Looking up at the Cathedral in Santiago
Looking up at the Cathedral in Santiago
Camino Frances Highlights - 2 Week Tour of the Best of the Camino
15 days
14 nights
769.8km
Moderate walk
Carefully Selected 2 to 3 stars accommodations
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Popular Time
Good Time
Off Season
Not Possible
From
€2195
FREE This trip creates 0.445 tonne(s) of CO2, we offset it for free
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Trip Highlights
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Your first stop on the Camino Frances is the quaint French town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port – the traditional starting point of the Camino Frances. Before you set off through the Pyrenees, explore this scenic gem and soak in the excitement of the town as pilgrims flock to start their pilgrimage.
Logrono
Logrono is the capital city of La Rioja. However it owes its prominence in the region to the Camino de Santiago which has passed through its cobbled streets since the Middle Ages. The Puente de Piedra is the oldest bridge crossing the river Ebo into Logrono and is still used today by pilgrims. Sampling the local wine when here is a must do but also is trying some of the local dishes in one of the many bars and restaurants you will discover as you wander the historic centre where you will also encounter the Cathedral of Santa María la Redonda where there is a painting of the Christ on the Cross by Michelangelo.
Santiago de Compostela
Just before arriving to Santiago you will pass the Mount of Joy, here take time to get a stamp at the small church but also go over to your left to visit the Pilgrim Statues pointing at the city. It is here that you will get your first glimpse as the Cathedral in the distance. There are few feelings like the one of arriving to Praza do Obradoiro in front of the Catedral de Santiago de Compostela after your long pilgrimage. Once in the city, you can explore the bustling medieval streets, filled with market stalls, restaurants, bars and buskers, as well as the many interesting museums and Alameda Park for a relaxing stroll if you haven’t had enough of walking!
Itinerary
Day 1
St Jean Pied de Port
(Arrival)
You’ll be booked into a hotel in the heart of the small town. The rooms are en-suite.
Day 2 24km
St Jean Pied de Port
to
Roncesvalles
This first day is considered the most difficult as the Camino crosses the Pyrenees. The ‘Camino Napoleon’ kicks off with a steep climb, on through orchards and past country houses and then, later, through Alpine-style meadows, before weaving its way alongside leafy beech woods towards the Spanish border and the descent into Roncesvalles. The Valcarlos Camino mainly follows the road which runs through the valley alongside the River Nive or River Valcarlos. Don’t miss the Collegiate Church in Roncesvalles.
NOTE: If you would like to walk at a more relaxed pace, we can arrange an alternative route (though not as rewarding) that splits this walking day into two stages (12km and 14km), staying overnight in the village of Valcarlos. Here you will be staying in a two-star hotel. This route through Valcarols is not the usual Camino itinerary and the walk is not as rewarding as it follows the main road.
IMPORTANT: The Napoleon Route over the Pyrenees is closed for Pilgrims from the 1st November until the 31st March. Pilgrims need to use the alternative route via Valcarlos if they are travelling within these dates. Travelling on the Napoleon Route at this time is forbidden and all pilgrims going over the Pyrenees and having to be rescued before that time will be fined €5,000.
Day 3 21km
Roncesvalles
to
Zubiri
The Camino crosses two beautiful mountain passes and continues on through beech and oak woods and meadows before coming to Espinal, where the panoramic views of the countryside, with the Pyrenees in the background, are a sight to behold. The River Arga runs alongside this part of the Camino and continues its course all the way to Larrasoana.
Day 4 21km
Zubiri
to
Pamplona
The Camino runs along the River Arga, at the foot of a group of hills covered in beech, oak and Scots pine. As we approach Pamplona, the landscape shows more signs of civilisation, with its reforested conifers and farmlands.
Day 5 23km
Pamplona
to
Puente de la Reina
When leaving Pamplona behind, you are also leaving behind the Atlantic area of Navarra. From here onwards, the landscape will be dominated by cereal crops, Holm oaks and Mediterranean brushwood. The Pamplona basin is left behind too when you cross the “Alto del Perdon”.
Day 6 22km
Puente de la Reina
to
Estella
The Camino to Estella is very uneven and quite agricultural. Small towns and villages are dotted amongst cereal fields, vineyards and olive trees.
Day 7 22km
Estella
to
Los Arcos
Today you go through the Rioja area of Navarra. Enjoy the olive trees, cereal fields and, most importantly, the vineyards. From Villamayor do Monjardin to Los Arcos, you will cover 12km without coming across a single village.
Day 8 28km
Los Arcos
to
Logrono
Today we leave Navarra and journey into Rioja. Expect a pleasant hike into undulating countryside. On this route you will pass the stunning ruins of Clavijo castle. Finally we come to the town of Logrono, strategically situated on the border between Alava and Navarra.
Day 9 495km
Logrono
to
Sarria
Today you will travel from Logrono stopping in Leon for lunch and an hour sightseeing before continuing on your way to Sarria where you will start to complete the last 100kms of the Camino de Santiago.
Day 10 22km
Sarria
to
Portomarín
Expect a peaceful walk in shady oak woods and pretty villages on quiet country roads. The village of Barbadelo (580m) has a beautiful Romanesque church that is worth a visit. The next significant village is Ferreiros. When you arrive in Portomarin (550m) you can relax on one of the numerous terraces of the main plaza.
Day 11 24km
Portomarín
to
Palas de Rei
From the village, the Camino crosses the river Minho and climbs steadily uphill. On your way, you’ll be crossing Gonzar and passing the Romanesque Church of Santa María, Castromaior. The calm of the Galician Cemetery in Ligonde on a sunny day is a rest in itself. In Eirexe, the Romanesque portal of the church is a beauty, featuring a sculpture of Daniel and animals, as well as a statue of Santiago de Peregrino. You will then arrive in Palas de Rei (565m).
Day 12 29km
Palas de Rei
to
Arzua
Today, the Camino continues slightly downhill, passing the village of Casanova and the charming village of Leboreiro. At Melide (454m), stop in one of the many restaurants to try some local specialities. Later today, the Camino will follow a forest track and cross several streams bringing you to the village of Boente with its church of Santiago. Then, you’ll encounter the medieval village of Ribadiso, and finally Arzua (389m). This small town has two churches that you can visit, Santa María and La Magdalena.
Day 13 18km
Arzua
to
Rua-O Pino
This shaded section of the Camino will pass through woods, along streams and through sleepy villages. Take your time and visit the chapel of Santa Irena, with its unique statues of Santiago. The rest of the way to Rua-O Pino is on a quiet country road. Rua (310m) is one of the less crowded stopping points before Santiago de Compostela
Day 14 21km
Rua-O Pino
to
Santiago de Compostela
You’re nearly there! The next stage will be Lavacolla where pilgrims traditionally washed in the river before reaching Santiago de Compostela. The tall eucalyptus trees line your way to Monte del Gozo (368m), or Mount of Joy. From here, you can see your goal – the Cathedral of Santiago! After a descent to the city (264m, population 80,000) you’ll be able to witness this UNESCO World Heritage Site up-close. Marvel at the architecture and relish the wonderful atmosphere in this cultural and spiritual mecca.
Section 1
St Jean Pied de Port
to
Roncesvalles
You’ll be booked into a hotel in the heart of the small town. The rooms are en-suite.
Section 2
Roncesvalles
to
Zubiri
This first day is considered the most difficult as the Camino crosses the Pyrenees. The ‘Camino Napoleon’ kicks off with a steep climb, on through orchards and past country houses and then, later, through Alpine-style meadows, before weaving its way alongside leafy beech woods towards the Spanish border and the descent into Roncesvalles. The Valcarlos Camino mainly follows the road which runs through the valley alongside the River Nive or River Valcarlos. Don’t miss the Collegiate Church in Roncesvalles.
NOTE: If you would like to walk at a more relaxed pace, we can arrange an alternative route (though not as rewarding) that splits this walking day into two stages (12km and 14km), staying overnight in the village of Valcarlos. Here you will be staying in a two-star hotel. This route through Valcarols is not the usual Camino itinerary and the walk is not as rewarding as it follows the main road.
IMPORTANT: The Napoleon Route over the Pyrenees is closed for Pilgrims from the 1st November until the 31st March. Pilgrims need to use the alternative route via Valcarlos if they are travelling within these dates. Travelling on the Napoleon Route at this time is forbidden and all pilgrims going over the Pyrenees and having to be rescued before that time will be fined €5,000.
Section 3
Zubiri
to
Pamplona
The Camino crosses two beautiful mountain passes and continues on through beech and oak woods and meadows before coming to Espinal, where the panoramic views of the countryside, with the Pyrenees in the background, are a sight to behold. The River Arga runs alongside this part of the Camino and continues its course all the way to Larrasoana.
Section 4
Pamplona
to
Puente de la Reina
The Camino runs along the River Arga, at the foot of a group of hills covered in beech, oak and Scots pine. As we approach Pamplona, the landscape shows more signs of civilisation, with its reforested conifers and farmlands.
Section 5
Puente de la Reina
to
Estella
When leaving Pamplona behind, you are also leaving behind the Atlantic area of Navarra. From here onwards, the landscape will be dominated by cereal crops, Holm oaks and Mediterranean brushwood. The Pamplona basin is left behind too when you cross the “Alto del Perdon”.
Section 6
Estella
to
Los Arcos
The Camino to Estella is very uneven and quite agricultural. Small towns and villages are dotted amongst cereal fields, vineyards and olive trees.
Section 7
Los Arcos
to
Logrono
Today you go through the Rioja area of Navarra. Enjoy the olive trees, cereal fields and, most importantly, the vineyards. From Villamayor do Monjardin to Los Arcos, you will cover 12km without coming across a single village.
Section 8
Logrono
to
Sarria
Today we leave Navarra and journey into Rioja. Expect a pleasant hike into undulating countryside. On this route you will pass the stunning ruins of Clavijo castle. Finally we come to the town of Logrono, strategically situated on the border between Alava and Navarra.
Section 9
Sarria
to
Portomarín
Today you will travel from Logrono stopping in Leon for lunch and an hour sightseeing before continuing on your way to Sarria where you will start to complete the last 100kms of the Camino de Santiago.
Section 10
Portomarín
to
Palas de Rei
Expect a peaceful walk in shady oak woods and pretty villages on quiet country roads. The village of Barbadelo (580m) has a beautiful Romanesque church that is worth a visit. The next significant village is Ferreiros. When you arrive in Portomarin (550m) you can relax on one of the numerous terraces of the main plaza.
Fly In
It is best to fly to France (Biarritz or Paris). Biarritz Airport with airlines – Ryanair, EasyJet or British Airways.
Starting Point
Option 1 Book Airport Transport with us Option 2 From Biarritz (2H) Step 1 – Shuttle bus to Bayonne train station Bayonne-Anglet-Biarritz Airport is located just 3 Km from Biarritz. However, it is a much better option to go to Bayonne train station (not Biarritz). Take the STAB line 6 to Bayonne train station (direct). The journey takes approx. 20 minutes and will cost €1.20. The bus stop is in front of the terminal. Alternatively, there is a taxi rank in front of the terminal; cost is €25-€30. Step 2 – Train to St-Jean-Pied-de-Port There are direct trains from Bayonne to Saint Jean Pied de Port at 18h13 (1h22 travel). From Paris (6H30) Take a train to St-Jean-Pied-de-Port Departs every day at 12.10, arrives at 18:30
Getting Home
Regular shuttle bus from Santiago city centre to Santiago Airport, takes 45mins.
Our Great Service
Included
Great mix of comfortable stay in 2-3* hotels or equivalent
Bed & Breakfast
Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel
Private transfer from Logrono to Sarria
24/7 Customer Service
Our Holiday/ Pilgrim Pack
Add-On
Premium Accommodation
Airport Pick-up
Additional Night
Dinners
Day Tours Available
Not Included
Flights/train
Insurance
Drinks/Lunch
“From start to finish, Follow the Camino organised our trip with great attention to detail, which left us with more time to enjoy our adventure... they’re the ultimate professionals! ” Read more. Andrea Smith, Journalist – Ireland
“Our charity Camino trip was made special by the great accommodation organised by Follow the Camino. This played a big part in everyone mixing so well and making it a very special Camino experience.” Read more. Ann Tracey, Fundraiser & Co-ordinator at Gary Kelly Cancer Support – Ireland.
"Thanks must go to Follow The Camino for facilitating a most wonderful experience.” Read more. Tim Begbie – Australia
“Follow The Camino did a fantastic job organising our fundraising trip to the Camino de Santiago. The organisation was of excellent quality and all of our 28 travellers had a great time...” Read more. Frances Black, Senator & CEO of The Rise Foundation – Ireland
“All went like clockwork, including the pick up at the airport, and the luggage drop to the various accommodations. Totally recommend the Follow The Camino crew.” Read more. John Dillon, Pilgrim – Ireland.
“A transformative two weeks for both of us - thanks to Follow the Camino.” Read more. Jamie and Flo McIvor – UK
“Our team leader Geraldine O’Callaghan was fantastic – pretty, bubbly, tireless – efficient and very kind. Arriving at the great cathedral of Santiago was an exhilarating, emotional finale to a completely mad week.” Read more. Joan Flynn, retired – Ireland
“Thank you for helping us plan our journey in Spain. What a wonderful time we had trekking through the countryside. The places we stayed were wonderful! We LOVED our trip!” Read more. Georgia Meckes – USA
“Thank you Umberto and the Follow the Camino crew. It was an absolute pleasure to have you make our arrangements, and support us so magnificently along the way, in our efforts to raise awareness for Well Ways. You are all fabulous!" Read more. Cheryl McInnes, Well Ways Mental Health Charity, Australia
15 days
14 nights
769.8km
