Welcome to León! Today you’ll arrive and settle into your accommodation. Depending on what time you get in, you might already have the chance to explore a little. León is a lively and welcoming city, full of charm and history, perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll or an evening of tapas in the buzzing old town.

Today is your day to soak in everything León has to offer. Take your time wandering its beautiful streets, step inside the awe-inspiring Cathedral to see its dazzling stained glass windows, and don’t miss the Basilica of San Isidoro, known for its ancient frescoes often compared to those of the Sistine Chapel. Be sure to sample some local delights too — cecina (cured beef) and a glass of El Bierzo wine are a must! But this isn’t just any day: it’s August 12th, 2026 eclipse day! León happens to be one of the best spots in all of Spain to witness this rare and breathtaking event. Make sure to plan ahead to find a good viewing point and don’t forget your eclipse glasses or whatever you’ve prepared to safely enjoy the show. For a few unforgettable minutes, the world around you will fall into darkness in the middle of the day, a once-in-a-lifetime moment, made even more special by experiencing it right on the Camino.

Leaving Leon, the urban area continues almost as far as the site of Virgen del Camino (about 7km outside Leon), where a local shepherd once sighted the Virgin Mary. The area is now marked by a number of statues depicting the historical scene. From this point, the route becomes more interesting as you follow the historical Camino along the Plateau of Leon.

You pass the famous ‘Puente de Orbigo’ and leave behind the Plateau of Leon. The Leon Mountains can be seen up ahead and the end of this stage will bring you to Astorga, the capital of the ancient region of Maragateria. Not to miss in Astorga: the Episcopal Palace, the cathedral, and the city walls.

We are now deep in the Maragateria region as we gradually make our way up to the foothills of the Leon Mountains. This part of the countryside is characterised by broom, oak, and conifer plantations. Your destination is the mountain town of Rabanal Del Camino.

Today is one of the most rewarding days along the French Way. Enjoy the beautiful broom and heather surroundings as you ascent to Mount Irago. Witness the ‘Iron Cross’ on the mountain pass before making your way downwards to the wealthy area of Bierzo. If you would like to walk at a more relaxed pace, we can arrange to split this section into two days (24km on the first day, 8km on the second day). Accommodation is in a superb chalet hotel in Molinaseca.

After breakfast we bid you farewell. While you are in Ponferrada, you should visit the town’s 16,000 square metre-Castillo de los Templarios, a castle built by the Knights Templar in the 12 Century. Las Médulas, ancient Roman gold mines listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are also only a few kilometres away from Ponferrada.