Chapter 3 - The Final Steps to Galicia

Experience and Expertise

Your two bilingual guides are either Spanish or year-round residents of Spain. This is our home and we love to share it with you!

* Check What’s Included for specifics.

Fabulous Food

With all your meals included (B,L,D), except for two dinners and one lunch, your only job is to enjoy the trail! Weather permitting, our gourmet picnics showcase the freshest of local flavors.

Unique Accommodations

Charming restored B&B’s and 3-4 star hotels that offer the best in hospitality, comfort, and location.

Semi-Independent Tour

You choose! Walk alone, knowing that we’ve got your back, or enjoy the company of others and your knowledgeable guides.

Van supported

No need to carry a heavy pack – let us do the lifting while you do the walking.

Expect to have a wonderful time!

Each journey is designed to highlight the stunning beauty of the Spanish landscape, while offering a true sense of the soul and magic of its people and culture. We love to share this magnificent country and want you to feel a part of it – for us it is more than just a trip, it is our home.

Day 1

Carrión de los Condes

Accommodations: Carrión de los Condes (D)

We meet the group in the afternoon in Burgos for our transfer to the town of Carrión de los Condes, which for centuries belonged to the Kingdom of León. We have a short Orientation Meeting followed up by a short walk around this medieval town, with a visit to the 12th century Church of Santa María del Camino. We then return to our hotel where you can enjoy the cloisters before a nice dinner to celebrate the beginning of Chapter 3!

Day 2

Carrión de los Condes to Calzadilla de la Cueza

Accommodations: Carrión de los Condes (B, L, D)

Distance: 17 km / 11 mi

With boots on, we get back on the trail and begin our journey towards Santiago. Today we walk on part of the Vía Aquitana or Roman road, more than 2,000 years old! We end the day in the small village of Calzada de la Cueza, where we re-group and return to our hotel for the evening.

Day 3

Calzadilla de la Cueza to Sahagún

Accommodations: Sahagún (B, L, D)

Distance: 22 km / 14 mi

Today we walk through Terradillos de los Templarios, once a stronghold for the Knights Templar, and where you are technically mid-way between St. Jean and Santiago! You also cross into the Leon Province with its flat plains and adobe villages. We finish in Sahagún, whose name is derived from Saint Facundo, who was martyred here. His remains lie in the 17th century Church of San Juan.

Day 4

Sahagún to El Burgo Ranero

Accommodations: Sahagún (B. L, D)

Distance: 18 km / 11 mi

This morning we walk out the door and continue our walk, crossing a historic stone bridge, Puente Canto, over the Cea River. We pass through small villages and end the day in El Burgo Ranero before we head to our accommodations for the evening.

Day 5

El Burgo Ranero to Villamoros de Mansilla

Accommodations: León (B, L, D)

Distance: 23 km / 14 mi

Today you make your way past Mansilla de las Mulas. This town, located on the edge of the River Esla, which has welcomed pilgrims for centuries, is protected by its 12th century medieval wall.

Day 6

Villamoros de Mansilla to León

Accommodations: León (B, L, D)

Distance: 14 km / 9 mi

After breakfast, we continue our journey to reach León. Here, we will visit the magnificent Gothic Cathedral, whose stained-glass windows have led people to say that it is made more of glass than stone, as well as the Basilica of San Isidoro.

Day 7

León to Villar de Mazarife

Accommodations: León (B, L)

Distance: 21 km / 13 mi

Leaving León, we cross the San Marcos Bridge over the Bernesga River. Make sure to have a look at the Sanctuary of the Virgin’s facade in Virgen del Camino, exceptional with its 13 sculptures of the Apostles & the Virgin. To reach Villar we will be crossing the paramo leonés. Páramo means “bleak plateau or high moor, which is the typical terrain of this area.

Day 8

Villar de Mazarife to Santibáñez de Valdeiglesias

Accommodations: Astorga (B, L, D)

Distance: 20 km / 12 mi

After breakfast, we pass through some small villages and then cross the magnificent bridge into Hospital de Órbigo. Built in the 13th century, this bridge is one of the bestpreserved medieval bridges in Spain. We walk on a bit farther and finish the day in Santibáñez de Valdeiglesias before heading to Astorga for a good night’s rest.

Day 9

Santibáñez de Valdeiglesias to Murias de Rechivaldo

Accommodations: Astorga (B, D)

Distance: 16 km / 10 mi

Today you continue walking along the meseta, famous for wheat and grain – the breadbasket of Spain. We pass through Astorga, a Roman settlement that guarded precious mines and is now home to Antonio Gaudí’s Bishops’ Palace, where you can visit the Museum of Los Caminos. Also, be sure to sample some of Astorga’s chocolate, before finishing the day in Murias de Rechivaldo.

Day 10

Murias de Rechivaldo to Foncebadón

Accommodations: Rabanal del Camino (B, L, D)

Distance: 25 km / 16 mi

This morning, we take a detour and visit Castrillo Polvazares, an extraordinary town located within the comarca de la Maragatería (county of merchants that pulled donkey drawn carriages). Next, heading toward Rabanal del Camino, we’ll pass the “Ecce Homo” Chapel.

Day 11

Foncebadón to Molinaseca

Accommodations: Ponferrada (B, L, D)

Distance: 20 km / 12 mi

Today we ascend toward the Iron Cross, where pilgrims leave a stone to ask for protection while on their journey. We later arrive at one of the highest points on the Camino (1504 meters!), where we make an easy descent towards El Acebo. Get your camera ready as this portion has breathtaking views! In Molinaseca, we cross over the Romanesque bridge to enter the town. Fancy a dip in the river’s natural swimming pool?

Day 12

Molinaseca to Cacabelos

Accommodations: Ponferrada (B, L, D)

Distance: 17 km / 11 mi

This morning we continue to Ponferrada, derived from the Latin “Pons Ferrata” or Iron Bridge, built over the river to allow the safe crossing of pilgrims. Upon our arrival, we can enjoy the Knights Templars castle located in the enchanting old quarter. On our way out of Ponferrada, we pass through the town of Compostilla, with its unique industrial history. We end today’s walk in Cacabelos and the vineyards of this up-and-coming wine region.

Day 13

Cacabelos to Trabadelo

Accommodations: Villafranca del Bierzo (B, L, D)

Distance: 17 km / 11 mi

We continue our journey from Cacabelos, passing through the town of Villafranca del Bierzo, where we can visit the 12th century Romanesque church dedicated to Santiago. We push further along the trail, inching closer to Galicia and O Cebreiro. We return to our accommodations for the evening and a good night’s rest to write the last page of Chapter 3 tomorrow morning.

Day 14

Trabadelo to O Cebreiro

Accommodations: Tour End (B, L)

Distance: 19 km / 12 mi

Have an extra coffee at breakfast, as today we walk up to O Cebreiro! After a gentle walk along the Valcarce River Valley, we start to make our way up to the magical mountaintop village of O Cebreiro, where we take in the wonderful 360° panoramic views. Afterwards, we shuttle you to Santiago, where your Chapter 3 Camino officially ends.

*Please note: This itinerary is subject to slight modifications due to hotel availability, weather, festivals, and other occurences.

2 Guides

Our greatest resource! We know Spain, because it is our home. Both of your guides are experienced professionals that are either Spanish or live in Spain year round – no hired out summer help! Having 2 guides means that we will be there to look out for your well-being, comfort, and safety. When specified, local art historians will join us to provide deeper insights into the specific monument or museum we visit.

*Groups of up to 6 people will be accompanied by one guide. Groups of 7 to 10 people will have one guide and one minibus driver, while groups of 11 or more will be accompanied by two guides and one minibus driver.

Limited Group Sizes

Fresco Tours are in small groups to ensure that you receive the individual attention that you deserve. In order to treat each of our clients with a personal touch, we limit our group size to a maximum of 16 participants, with a minimum of 4 participants required. We also recognize that each person’s Camino is their own personal experience and if you wish, we encourage you to walk on your own – with the assurance that we will be there for you!

Accommodations

Fresco Tours selects a combination of 3-4 star hotels and B&B’s that offer the best in hospitality, comfort and location. All rooms have in-suite bathrooms. Tour prices are based on double occupancy.

All Meals

Food speaks volumes about a culture and we love to eat! On walking days, when possible, we prepare gourmet picnics using the freshest local ingredients and tastiest recipes of the region. Dinners are celebrated in restaurants chosen not only for their menu, but also their atmosphere and service. Except for two dinners and one lunch, all your breakfasts, lunches and dinners are included. We are proud to cater to vegetarians and those with food allergies as well.

Support Vehicle

Your walks will be accompanied by a support vehicle that will be there to provide you assistance when the route permits. When groups are more than 10, in addition to the 2 guides, there will be a minibus & driver to care to your needs. The possibility of shorter routes and pick-up options will be explained on a daily basis.

Luggage Transfer

Your luggage will be transported between hotels. You do the walking, we’ll do the lifting!

Special Event Tickets

Wine tastings, garden tours, concerts, etc. as outlined in the itinerary.

Additional Services

We are here to help! Need assistance with hotels prior to or after your trip? Questions about what to wear? Need a taxi while on the trail?

Based in Spain, we’re here to ensure your trip runs as smoothly as possible – we’re available to assist.

* Please note that additional services are subject to the following conditions:
Hotel reservations/Private transfers may be cancelled without penalty up to 1 week before arrival.
Extra luggage may be cancelled without penalty up to 7 days before arrival.

Ground Transportation

All ground transportation between the designated starting and finishing point of your Fresco Tour is provided. We will help facilitate information for your travel arrangements prior to and after the tour start and finish.

Not Included

Airfare to and from Spain, airport taxes / departure fees, visas, gratuities or tips, items of personal nature – laundry, phone, luggage surplus charges, medical expenses, bar, etc.

Prior to / After your Fresco Tour: Should your vacation to Spain be for more than a few days prior to or after your Fresco Tour, perhaps you would be interested in a Spain-taineous Custom Tour and personalized private itinerary. Let us know and we’ll create an itinerary tailored to your personal style and needs.

General FAQ for all tours

Getting There & Back

How do I get to the Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour starting point?

Carrión de los Condes, Spain, is the official starting point of the Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour, although we will meet you in Burgos and shuttle you there. Burgos can be reached via train or bus. Traveling from either Madrid, Barcelona, or Bilbao, one can choose between the train or the bus. For a sample of prices and timetables, please see: 

RENFE Train – Madrid to Burgos

ALSA Bus – Madrid to Burgos

How can I purchase my bus or train tickets beforehand?

Train tickets can be purchased online through RENFE. Some routes cannot be purchased until 3-4 weeks prior to departure – please be patient. Please note that the site tends to run slowly on weekends due to heavy demand.

If you would like information on trains in Spain (different types of fares, security, food on board, etc.), Trainline is a wonderful resource. You can also buy your tickets on this site if you find the RENFE site to be confusing (just remember that tickets are not available until 3-4 weeks before departure).

Bus tickets can be purchased on ALSA.

How do I get from Santiago de Compostela (where we will shuttle you to, at the end of the tour) to Madrid and other cities? 

There are several fast trains a day between Santiago and Madrid (approximately 3-4 hours). Traveling by train is the most convenient way, especially if you are planning to do some sightseeing in Madrid, as it takes you straight to the city center. If you are looking to fly, there are multiple domestic flights a day between Santiago and Madrid, as well as other major Spanish cities.

How do I get from Madrid Airport to the city center? 

You can easily find taxis as you exit the terminal. It takes around 25-30 minutes to get to the city center (or the Atocha or Chamartin train stations) and the price is around €35.

On the Road

What is the weather like on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

Fresco Tours Chapter 3 Tour covers 245 km of the Camino Frances, starting where our Chapter 2 Tour finishes. Here we enjoy a more temperate climate, and it is generally cooler than other parts of the Camino de Santiago and Spain in the summer. 

Visit these links for current and average monthly temperatures of Burgos.

What is a typical day like on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

After breakfast, we lace up and start moving. After walking for a couple of hours, we do a checkpoint to make sure that everything is OK. Then, we continue along the Camino for another 1-2 hours, before indulging in a complete gourmet picnic prepared with the freshest local ingredients. On some days, we walk 1-2 more hours after lunch to burn off dessert.

In the afternoon, we go to our hotels, where we take a shower, have a siesta, and just relax! We finish our day with a glass of tinto and a feast of the local gastronomy. We then retire for the night and get ready to do it again! On some afternoons, we have planned excursions, such as a visit to an ancient monastery or perhaps a massage!

Does the group stop for breaks on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

The great thing about the Camino is that it is very well-marked, and we encourage people to walk at a pace that is comfortable for them – this is not a race! We like to stop with our guests for a coffee or cerveza along the way, to enjoy the journey and take everything in!

What is the terrain like on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

On this part of the Camino, there are two significant climbs and one descent, combined with long stretches of flat ground. The trail itself is a combination of well-maintained compact dirt and stone footpaths, and small country roads.

What is the change in elevation on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

We will be walking from Carrión de los Condes to O Cebreiro, 245 km of the Camino de Santiago. For a map of the elevation gain and loss on this tour, please click here.

How many kilometers are walked each day on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

The number of kilometers scheduled for each day ranges from 14 to 25 km (8.5 to 15.5 miles). We have designed this tour to allow you to comfortably walk 245 km. However, the walks are accompanied by a support vehicle and options for less (or more!) km’s a day are possible. We can tailor the Camino to suit your needs!

Will I be able to do laundry on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

Some hotels offer laundry services on the premises or you can use local laundromats. We also recommend that you bring quick-drying clothes that you can handwash and dry overnight at the hotel if all else fails! 

Before You Go / Preparing

How do I purchase travel insurance?

Once you book your tour, we strongly advise you purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation / interruption. Even the best adventure deserves a backup plan! We suggest using TravelInsurance.com, which allows you to compare and assess top insurance provider policies and their different coverage plans. Keep in mind that some travel insurance policies must be purchased within a specific time frame – often within a few weeks of booking your tour.

*In accordance with Spanish law and for the duration of your tour with Fresco Tours, you are covered by a very basic insurance provided by Intermundial.

Do you recommend walking poles?

What type of shoes do I need to walk Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

Footwear is a very personal question – depending on how active you are and how much support you need. Since we will be walking the Camino de Santiago every day, comfort is key – you do not want to get blisters. You probably won’t need a full high-cut boot that covers your ankle (unless you need this support), but rather light trail walkers or even running shoes if you are used to walking. Keep in mind that there may be mud and water along the trail. Most importantly: Make sure that your shoes are well broken in!

What sort of conditioning do I need to undertake before Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

We encourage you to start walking before you arrive, so that you can enjoy your experience more fully. However, this is your vacation and not boot camp! During your walk, one of the two guides will be on the trail with the group to ensure that everyone is okay. Additionally, we have planned checkpoints along the way with our support van to offer you water, a change of shoes, or a much-needed break. In most cases, you will see the van at least every couple of hours.

General FAQ for all tours

Booking a Tour

Thank you for choosing to travel with Fresco Tours! We are very excited for you to join the ranks of our Happy Customers. If at any moment you should have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. Thank you again and we look forward to sharing memories of a lifetime with you.

Reservations and Payments

To join us on a Fresco Tour, please visit our Secure Online Reservation Form or download and print a PDF version of the Reservation Form, one for each participant. To guarantee your spot and reserve space on a tour, a 15% deposit per person is required and payment should be made via credit card (Visa or MasterCard only), bank transfer or via Wise transfer. The balance of your tour payment is due 60 days prior to the departure date. If the tour that you selected begins within 60 days of booking, final payment is due at that time. Failure to receive the remainder of your trip balance by the due date will be considered a cancellation.

Confirmation

Once Fresco Tours has received your registration form and tour deposit, we will send you an email with an invoice of payments received and your remaining balance, a copy of our Assumption of Risk / Liability Waiver Form and a link to your Guest Questionnaire. These last 2 items must be returned 60 days prior to the start of tour. In addition, we will send you a Confirmation Packet with information regarding suggestions on preparation, a packing and reading list and other tips to get you excited and prepared for your Fresco Tour.

Final Registration

Once we have received final payment, the signed Assumption of Risk / Liability Waiver Form and Guest Questionnaire, you will be sent a receipt and final details regarding your tour, including a detailed itinerary and the hotel contact list.

Single Supplement Fee

Due to the nature of the accommodations we use, there are a limited number of single rooms available. Requests for these rooms are based on availability. Please see the tour itinerary for the cost of this fee. In some cases, it may imply a room smaller in size than a standard double room. If you are traveling alone, and would like to share a room, we will do our best to match you with a same-gender roommate.

Cancellation / Refund Policies

All cancellations must be made in writing. No refunds will be issued due to late arrival, early departure, or any unused portion of a tour. The Assumption of Risk / Liability Waiver form must be signed and received 60 days prior to tour departure or the reservation will also be treated as a cancellation. We strongly recommend trip cancellation insurance to offset the chance you may need to cancel.

Time	Price
Cancellations received 121 or more days prior to trip start	10% of trip price
Cancellations received 120 – 61 days prior to trip start	15% of trip price
Cancellations received 60 – 31 days prior to trip start	50% of trip price
Cancellations received 30 days or less prior to trip start	100% of trip price

Fresco Tours reserves the right to change, modify, or cancel a tour prior to departure for any reason, including lack of participants (tour minimum: 3 passengers) or acts of nature and/or circumstances beyond our control. In this case, any payments received will be refunded in full, and this will constitute full settlement. In this case, any payments received will be refunded in full, and this will constitute full settlement. Fresco Tours is not responsible for any additional expenses due to a canceled tour, such as the purchase of non-refundable airline tickets.

Fresco Tours reserves the right to accept, refuse, or decline any tour member’s participation at any time for any reason. In such a case, Fresco Tour’s liability is limited to the actual cost of the unused services.

Changing Tour Dates

If we are notified of a change to your scheduled tour date 6 months prior, you can apply your tour deposit to another departure date without penalty. This change can be up to 1 calendar year in advance and is subject to availability. Otherwise, the above Cancellation Fees will be applied.

As Spain-taneous Private Tours are custom built and created with specific dates in mind, any modifications will incur a 15% surcharge.

Insurance

In accordance with Spanish law and for the duration of your tour with Fresco Tours, you are covered by a basic insurance provided by Intermundial. We strongly advise the purchase of a more comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation / interruption. We suggest using Travelinsurance.com, which allows you to compare and assess top insurance provider policies and their different coverage plans. Keep in mind that some travel insurance policies must be purchased within a specific time frame—often within a few weeks of booking your tour.

Traveling Responsibly

Traveling sustainably is at the heart of Fresco Tours. We travel “slow,” walking the marked trails of the Camino de Santiago. This means no disruptions to natural habitats and a low carbon footprint. We always aim for the rich flavors of locally sourced food whenever possible. We have strong reliable relationships with our regional partners (accommodations, guides, bus drivers) – and we ourselves are a Spanish company! This means we have the local knowledge of Spanish culture (traditions, social norms, heritage) because it’s our home.

Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia

Experience and Expertise

Fabulous Food

Unique Accommodations

Semi-Independent Tour

Van supported

Expect to have a wonderful time!

Carrión de los Condes

Carrión de los Condes to Calzadilla de la Cueza

Calzadilla de la Cueza to Sahagún

Sahagún to El Burgo Ranero

El Burgo Ranero to Villamoros de Mansilla

Villamoros de Mansilla to León

León to Villar de Mazarife

Villar de Mazarife to Santibáñez de Valdeiglesias

Santibáñez de Valdeiglesias to Murias de Rechivaldo

Murias de Rechivaldo to Foncebadón

Foncebadón to Molinaseca

Molinaseca to Cacabelos

Cacabelos to Trabadelo

Trabadelo to O Cebreiro

2 Guides

Limited Group Sizes

Accommodations

All Meals

Support Vehicle

Luggage Transfer

Special Event Tickets

Additional Services

Ground Transportation

Not Included

Table of Contents

Getting There & Back

How do I get to the Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour starting point?

How can I purchase my bus or train tickets beforehand?

How do I get from Santiago de Compostela (where we will shuttle you to, at the end of the tour) to Madrid and other cities?

How do I get from Madrid Airport to the city center?

On the Road

What is the weather like on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

What is a typical day like on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

Does the group stop for breaks on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

What is the terrain like on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

What is the change in elevation on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

How many kilometers are walked each day on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

Will I be able to do laundry on Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

Before You Go / Preparing

How do I purchase travel insurance?

Do you recommend walking poles?

What type of shoes do I need to walk Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

What sort of conditioning do I need to undertake before Chapter 3 – The Final Steps to Galicia Tour?

Booking a Tour

Reservations and Payments

Confirmation

Final Registration

Single Supplement Fee

Cancellation / Refund Policies

Changing Tour Dates

Insurance

Traveling Responsibly

5595 €

The Latest Photos

Related tours

Camino de Santiago Tour

Chapter 1 : “The Beginning” Tour

Chapter 2 – Burgos and Beyond

How do I get from Santiago de Compostela (where we will shuttle you to, at the end of the tour) to Madrid and other cities? 

How do I get from Madrid Airport to the city center? 