French Way Camino de Santiago E-Bike Tour
Spain Bike Tours
The last portion of the Camino Francés through Galicia from León to Santiago by Electric Bike
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length8 days
- Prices from€1883 Rates
Overview
This incredible tour by electric bike follows the final stretch of the French Way of the Camino de Santiago. The entire French Way is five hundred miles, beginning in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France. Ancient pilgrims would cross the Pyrenees and drop down into Spain to continue their journey.
You join the route in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Leon, Spain. Though it is not easy - no pilgrimage ever is - you can enjoy this journey on an electric bike, allowing you to focus not on the difficulty level, but on a more enriching experience. Non-electric touring bikes are also available for those who want the challenge.
The allure of the Camino draws you in, beginning with the awe-inspiring cathedral in Leon and culminating in the holy city of Santiago de Compostela - believed to be the final resting place of St. James.
Your route is a tapestry woven with historical monuments, picturesque villages, and breathtaking landscapes. From rugged mountains to verdant valleys, this physical and spiritual immersion deepens with every mile pedaled and each day conquered.
Looking for another Camino? Take a look at our other options here.
Highlights
- UNESCO World Heritage Site, León
- Cathedral of León
- Episcopal Palace of Astorga
- Scenic Bierzo Valley
- Lush and verdant Galicia
- Santiago de Compostela
- Cultural immersion
- Transformative journey
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Itinerary
Day 1: León
Day 2: León - Astorga, 33 mi. (53 km)
Day 3: Astorga - Ponferrada, 37 mi. (59 km)
Day 4: Ponferrada - Las Herrerias, 27 mi. (43 km)
Day 5: Las Herrerias - Sarria, 31 mi. (49 km)
Day 6: Sarria - Arzúa, 47 mi. (75 km)
Day 7: Arzúa - Santiago de Compostela, 24 mi. (39 km)
Day 8: DepartureAll distances provided are approximate. Unforeseen factors, such as weather conditions, may necessitate changes to the itinerary before or during your holiday. Temporary deviations or detours might be required along the route and may not be reflected on your maps or route descriptions. Please follow the locally posted directions for guidance.
Day 1: León
The city of León is situated along the Camino de Santiago, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dominating the cityscape, the cathedral is a masterpiece of French Gothic classical architecture in Spain and the beginning of your journey ahead.Sample accommodations:
- Standard: 4* Hotel Real Colegiata San Isidoro
- Premium: Parador de León
Day 2: León - Astorga, 33 mi. (53 km)
The pilgrimage begins as you cycle from León through charming villages and picturesque countryside en route to Astorga. The Episcopal Palace, designed by Gaudí, is a marvel to behold. Often referred to as "Palacio de Gaudí," it is a remarkable blend of architectural styles, combining neo-Gothic, neo-Renaissance, and modernist elements. It serves as a museum and houses various exhibits that provide insight into the history of Astorga and the region.Sample accommodation:
- Standard: 4* Hotel Via de la Plata
- Premium: Superior room 4* Hotel Via de la Plata
Day 3: Astorga - Ponferrada, 37 mi. (59 km)
Your route takes you through the scenic Bierzo Valley, characterized by rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages. The landscape combines lush greenery and cultivated fields, providing cyclists with a visually pleasing ride. The terrain on this route varies from moderate to slightly challenging. While there are some uphill sections, you are rewarded with breathtaking views and the satisfaction of conquering the climbs.Your day's destination, Ponferrada, has a rich history. The most iconic landmark here is the Templar Castle (Castillo de los Templarios), a testament to the Templar Knights' presence in the region. The castle's architecture and history make it a must-visit site in Ponferrada.
Sample accommodations:
- Standard: 4* Hotel Temple Ponferrada
- Premium: Finca Vivaldi Hotel Nature & Spa
Day 4: Ponferrada - Las Herrerias, 27 mi. (43 km)
The route from Ponferrada to Las Herrerias is a challenging yet exhilarating segment of the Camino de Santiago, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Galician mountains. You will be surrounded by dense forests, winding paths, and the serenity of the wilderness. The solitude of the mountains and the serene surroundings provide an excellent opportunity for introspection and spiritual reflection. Many pilgrims find this part of the journey particularly meditative and meaningful.Sample accommodation:
- Standard: 4* Hotel Paraiso del Bierzo
- Premium: Superior room 4* Hotel Paraiso del Bierzo
Day 5: Las Herrerias - Sarria, 31 mi. (49 km)
After the challenging climbs of the previous day, today offers a descent from the Galician mountains. The change in terrain provides a welcome change of pace, and you can relax and enjoy the ride. As you descend, you will be surrounded by the beauty of the Galician countryside. Rolling hills, meadows, and fields create a picturesque backdrop characteristic of this region.Your destination is the vibrant town of Sarria, marking the 100-kilometer milestone on the Camino, making it a crucial milestone for those aiming to complete the pilgrimage.
Sample accommodation:
- Standard: 4* Hotel Alfonso IX
- Premium: Superior room 4* Hotel Alfonso IX
Day 6: Sarria - Arzúa, 47 mi. (75 km)
The landscape on this stretch is characterized by the lush and verdant countryside that Galicia is known for. Rolling hills, meadows, and fields create a soothing and picturesque backdrop as you pedal along the path. You will cycle through several charming Galician villages and hamlets, each with its unique character and atmosphere. These villages often have traditional stone houses, narrow streets, and local cafes where you can take a break and refuel.Arzúa is a town known for its cheese production. Arzúa-Ulloa cheese is a local specialty that you will find throughout the town's markets and shops.
Sample accommodation:
- Standard: 4* Hotel Pazo Santa Maria
- Premium: Superior room 4* Hotel Pazo Santa Maria
Day 7: Arzúa - Santiago de Compostela, 24 mi. (39 km)
The final leg of your journey from Arzúa to Santiago de Compostela is a culmination of your pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago. This stretch carries a sense of achievement as you approach your ultimate destination. The path winds through picturesque Galician villages and hamlets, each contributing to the unique tapestry of the Camino experience. These villages often hold centuries of history and tradition, offering a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage.Monte do Gozo is a significant landmark on this route, translating to "Mount of Joy". This hill offers a panoramic view of Santiago de Compostela and its iconic cathedral spires. Arriving here means your journey is almost complete. As you descend from Monte do Gozo, the grand Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela comes into view. Its awe-inspiring spires stand tall, marking the end of your pilgrimage.
Sample accommodations:
- Standard: 4* Compostela Hotel
- Premium: 5* Parador de Compostela
Day 8: Departure
You will depart from Santiago de Compostela carrying memories of a transformative journey along the Camino de Santiago.Hiking, multi-adventure, adventure cruising? View all our active vacations, specials, and news.
Map
Hotels & Bikes
During this tour, you can choose your level of accommodations, standard or premium. Don’t let the ‘standard’ designation mislead you, however! Hotels in this category are typically lovely 4-star establishments, such as the Hotel Temple Ponferrada. Located in the center of Ponferrada and next to the Temple Park, the interiors feature the textures of the medieval era; stone walls, arches, suits of armor and wall paintings.
The premium lodgings are 5-star hotels or upgraded rooms within the 4-star establishments. An example of a premium hotel is the Hotel Via de la Plata Spa. Opened to the public in 2011, this gorgeous luxury hotel offers high-end amenities and contemporary design within the stone architecture of a Franciscan monastery.
Bicycles
Electric Bicycle
KTM Macina
- Bosch motor
- 500 Wh battery
- Aluminum Frame
- Front suspension
- Shimano Deore gearing
- 9 speeds
- Schwalbe Energizer tires
- Shimano Piston brakes
- Platform pedals
- Rear rack
Cube Acid
- Bosch Motor
- 500 Wh battery (frame design)
- Aluminum frame
- Front suspension
- Shimano gearing
- 9 speeds
- Schwalbe Tough Tom tires
- Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
- Platform pedals
- Weight: 21.8 kg
Accessories
- Helmet
- Rear rack and pannier
- Bike tool kit for quick repairs (pump. inner tubes)
- Water bottle
- Lights
- Locks
- GPS Garmin (on self-guided tours)
Touring Bicycle
Kross Trans 5.0
- Aluminum touring frame (available in men's and women's frame)
- Front suspension
- Shimano Tourney and Deore gearing
- 24 speeds
- Schwalbe Silento tires
- Shimano disc brakes
- Selle Royal saddle
- Platform pedals
- Rear rack
- Weight 17. 5 kg
Accessories:
- Helmet
- Rear rack and pannier
- Bike tool kit for quick repairs (pump. inner tubes)
- Water bottle
- Lights
- Locks
- GPS Garmin (on self-guided tours)
Trail Bicycle
Trek X- Caliber 7
- Aluminum frame
- Front suspension
- Shimano Acera and Shimano Alivio gearing
- 18 speeds
- Bontrager tires
- Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
- Bontrager Arvada saddle
- Platform pedals
- Rear rack
- Weight 13.97 kg
Specialized Women's Pitch Comp 27.5
- Aluminum frame
- Front suspension
- Shimano TX800 gearing
- 24 speeds
- Ground Control sport tire (27.5)
- Radius mechanical disc brakes
- Myth sport saddle
- Specialized dirt pedals
- Rear rack
Accessories
- Helmet
- Rear rack and pannier
- Bike tool kit for quick repairs (pump. inner tubes)
- Water bottle
- Lights
- Locks
- GPS Garmin (on self-guided tour)
Inclusions
What’s Included
Self-Guided
- Accommodation for 7 nights in chosen hotel category (standard or premium)
- Breakfast
- Arrival transfer from León Airport (air travel details are needed to confirm)
- Departure transfer (only on official tour end date) to Compostela Airport. Transfers on any other day will incur a supplement
- Luggage transfer (Due to prohibitive fuel costs, the cost of this transfer is calculated per piece weighing no more than 20 kg total. You are permitted one suitcase per person. Even a small piece of luggage is considered extra. Please pack accordingly!)
- Electric bicycle rental (equipped with helmet, water bottle, a tool kit for quick repairs, rear rack, & pannier bag)
- Pre-loaded GPS or GPS tracks
- Tour presentation, bike fitting, & route descriptions & maps
- Accommodation for 7 nights in chosen hotel category
- Breakfast
- Arrival transfer from San Sebastian (air travel details are needed to confirm)
- Departure transfer (only on official tour end date) to Compostela Airport. Transfers on any other day will incur a supplement
- Luggage transfer (due to prohibitive fuel costs, the cost of this transfer is calculated per piece. You are permitted one suitcase per person. Even a small piece of luggage is considered extra. Please pack accordingly!)
- Electric bicycle rental (equipped with helmet, water bottle, a tool kit for quick repairs, rear rack, & pannier bag)
- Cycling guide
- Van support with minimum of 8 people
- Accommodation for 7 nights in premium hotel category
- Breakfast
- Some beverages with supplemental meal packages
- Arrival transfer from San Sebastian (air travel details are needed to confirm)
- Departure transfer (only on official tour end date) to Compostela Airport. Transfers on any other day will incur a supplement
- Luggage transfer (due to prohibitive fuel costs, the cost of this transfer is calculated per piece. You are permitted one suitcase per person. Even a small piece of luggage is considered extra. Please pack accordingly!)
- Electric bicycle rental (equipped with helmet, water bottle, a tool kit for quick repairs, rear rack, & pannier bag)
- Cycling guide
- Van support
Guided
Premium Guided
What’s Not Included
Self-Guided
- Lunches
- Dinners (available with supplement; see pricing)
- Beverages with beverage packages
- Cycling guide
- Van support
- Extra luggage (subject to a fee of €100 to €200 depending on number of pieces)
- Lunches & dinners (available with supplement, see pricing)
- Beverages with beverage package
- Van support (included with a minimum number of 8 participants
- Lunches & dinners (available with supplement, see pricing)
Guided
Premium Guided
Dates & Pricing
Dates
Self-guided
Daily arrivals possibleGuided
Confirmed dates: September 18, 2024
Group bookings are confirmed with a minimum of 4 people on any day. If your group has fewer than 4 members, you can join a pre-confirmed group.
Premium guided
Groups can request the upgradePlease Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
2024
Self-Guided
Min. 1 participantGuided*
Min. 4 participantsPremium Guided**
Min. 4 participantsLow season
November 1 to March 25$ 3144 £ 1644 $ 2,808 € 1883 kr 288691 ₪ 7867 ¥ 325338 Mex$ 35303 NZ$ 3458 NOK 22662 zł 8300 S$ 2800 kr 22470 $ 2,056 $ 4032 £ 2108 $ 3,602 € 2415 kr 370254 ₪ 10090 ¥ 417255 Mex$ 45277 NZ$ 4434 NOK 29065 zł 10645 S$ 3591 kr 28818 $ 2,638 $ 5701 £ 2981 $ 5,093 € 3415 kr 523568 ₪ 14267 ¥ 590031 Mex$ 64026 NZ$ 6271 NOK 41100 zł 15053 S$ 5078 kr 40751 $ 3,730 Regular season
March 26 to June 25 & September 26 to October 31$ 3277 £ 1714 $ 2,928 € 1963 kr 300956 ₪ 8201 ¥ 339160 Mex$ 36803 NZ$ 3604 NOK 23625 zł 8653 S$ 2919 kr 23424 $ 2,144 $ 4165 £ 2178 $ 3,721 € 2495 kr 382519 ₪ 10424 ¥ 431077 Mex$ 46777 NZ$ 4581 NOK 30028 zł 10998 S$ 3710 kr 29773 $ 2,725 $ 5835 £ 3051 $ 5,213 € 3495 kr 535834 ₪ 14602 ¥ 603853 Mex$ 65526 NZ$ 6417 NOK 42063 zł 15405 S$ 5197 kr 41706 $ 3,817 High season
September 1 to September 25$ 3377 £ 1766 $ 3,017 € 2023 kr 310155 ₪ 8452 ¥ 349526 Mex$ 37928 NZ$ 3715 NOK 24347 zł 8917 S$ 3008 kr 24140 $ 2,209 $ 4265 £ 2231 $ 3,811 € 2555 kr 391718 ₪ 10675 ¥ 441443 Mex$ 47902 NZ$ 4691 NOK 30750 zł 11262 S$ 3799 kr 30489 $ 2,790 $ 5935 £ 3104 $ 5,302 € 3555 kr 545032 ₪ 14852 ¥ 614219 Mex$ 66650 NZ$ 6528 NOK 42785 zł 15670 S$ 5286 kr 42422 $ 3,883 Summer season
June 26 to August 31$ 3477 £ 1819 $ 3,107 € 2083 kr 319354 ₪ 8703 ¥ 359893 Mex$ 39053 NZ$ 3825 NOK 25069 zł 9182 S$ 3097 kr 24856 $ 2,275 $ 4366 £ 2283 $ 3,900 € 2615 kr 400917 ₪ 10925 ¥ 451810 Mex$ 49027 NZ$ 4802 NOK 31472 zł 11527 S$ 3888 kr 31205 $ 2,856 $ 6035 £ 3156 $ 5,392 € 3615 kr 554231 ₪ 15103 ¥ 624586 Mex$ 67775 NZ$ 6638 NOK 43507 zł 15934 S$ 5375 kr 43137 $ 3,948 Solo traveler supplement (in addition to single supplement) Single supplement Standard accommodations Premium accommodations Low season $ 651 £ 340 $ 582 € 390 kr 59793 ₪ 1629 ¥ 67383 Mex$ 7312 NZ$ 716 NOK 4694 zł 1719 S$ 580 kr 4654 $ 426 $ 1068 £ 559 $ 955 € 640 kr 98121 ₪ 2674 ¥ 110577 Mex$ 11999 NZ$ 1175 NOK 7703 zł 2821 S$ 952 kr 7637 $ 699 Regular season $ 701 £ 367 $ 626 € 420 kr 64392 ₪ 1755 ¥ 72566 Mex$ 7874 NZ$ 771 NOK 5055 zł 1851 S$ 625 kr 5012 $ 459 $ 1119 £ 585 $ 999 € 670 kr 102721 ₪ 2799 ¥ 115760 Mex$ 12561 NZ$ 1230 NOK 8064 zł 2953 S$ 996 kr 7995 $ 732 High season $ 751 £ 393 $ 671 € 450 kr 68991 ₪ 1880 ¥ 77749 Mex$ 8437 NZ$ 826 NOK 5416 zł 1984 S$ 669 kr 5370 $ 491 $ 1169 £ 611 $ 1,044 € 700 kr 107320 ₪ 2925 ¥ 120943 Mex$ 13124 NZ$ 1285 NOK 8425 zł 3085 S$ 1041 kr 8353 $ 764 Summer season $ 801 £ 419 $ 716 € 480 kr 73591 ₪ 2005 ¥ 82933 Mex$ 8999 NZ$ 881 NOK 5777 zł 2116 S$ 714 kr 5728 $ 524 $ 1219 £ 637 $ 1,089 € 730 kr 111919 ₪ 3050 ¥ 126127 Mex$ 13686 NZ$ 1340 NOK 8786 zł 3218 S$ 1085 kr 8711 $ 797 Extra Options
Hotel Upgrade
Self-guided Guided Premium guided Premium hotel upgrade $ 1085 £ 567 $ 969 € 650 kr 99654 ₪ 2716 ¥ 112305 Mex$ 12186 NZ$ 1194 NOK 7823 zł 2865 S$ 967 kr 7756 $ 710 $ 1085 £ 567 $ 969 € 650 kr 99654 ₪ 2716 ¥ 112305 Mex$ 12186 NZ$ 1194 NOK 7823 zł 2865 S$ 967 kr 7756 $ 710 Included Meal Packages
Self-guided Guided Premium guided Dinner package (6 dinners) $ 501 £ 262 $ 447 € 300 kr 45994 ₪ 1253 ¥ 51833 Mex$ 5625 NZ$ 551 NOK 3611 zł 1322 S$ 446 kr 3580 $ 328 $ 501 £ 262 $ 447 € 300 kr 45994 ₪ 1253 ¥ 51833 Mex$ 5625 NZ$ 551 NOK 3611 zł 1322 S$ 446 kr 3580 $ 328 $ 918 £ 480 $ 820 € 550 kr 84323 ₪ 2298 ¥ 95027 Mex$ 10312 NZ$ 1010 NOK 6619 zł 2424 S$ 818 kr 6563 $ 601 Lunch & dinner package (6 lunches & 6 dinners) Not available $ 1085 £ 567 $ 969 € 650 kr 99654 ₪ 2716 ¥ 112305 Mex$ 12186 NZ$ 1194 NOK 7823 zł 2865 S$ 967 kr 7756 $ 710 $ 1419 £ 742 $ 1,268 € 850 kr 130317 ₪ 3551 ¥ 146860 Mex$ 15936 NZ$ 1561 NOK 10230 zł 3747 S$ 1264 kr 10143 $ 928 Bike options & discounts
Electric bike $ 501 £ 262 $ 447 € 300 kr 45994 ₪ 1253 ¥ 51833 Mex$ 5625 NZ$ 551 NOK 3611 zł 1322 S$ 446 kr 3580 $ 328 Extra nights
On request Departure transfer*
*Departure transfer on the official tour end day is included. The following is for prices for transfers requested on any other day.
2 people More than 2 people Porto city center to Porto airport, per group $ 50 £ 26 $ 45 € 30 kr 4599 ₪ 125 ¥ 5183 Mex$ 562 NZ$ 55 NOK 361 zł 132 S$ 45 kr 358 $ 33 Please ask. Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy–Moderate
This tour is rated moderate to difficult on a touring bike, but take heart! Electric bikes are included and will significantly decrease the difficulty level. The French Way encompasses a diversity of terrains. Commencing with level urban pathways in León, the route transitions to the undulating hills of Astorga and Ponferrada. As the path ascends to O Cebreiro, you will encounter some steep mountain climbs, which, although challenging, make the accomplishment more meaningful and are very doable on your electric bike. The final leg towards Santiago intertwines gentle ascents and descents.
Airport Info
The closest international airport to your tour start in León is León Airport (LEN) in Spain and to your tour end, Santiago de Compostela Airport (SCQ).
Local Travel
Arrival and departure airport transfers are included in your tour price. Certain restrictions apply.
Climate
Galicia has a maritime climate with some variations due to its diverse geography. The mountainous terrain in some areas of Galicia can lead to microclimates. Higher elevations may experience cooler temperatures and more rainfall.
Recommended
We recommend an electric bike for this journey.
Remarks
The Camino Francés, or the French Way, is among the most popular and frequently traveled paths on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. The portion of the route featured on this tour does not begin in France but features the point where the pilgrims would descend the French Pyrenees into Spain. Crossing the mountains, they would continue their route, eventually arriving in Santiago de Compostela.
Important to know
Airport transfers
Once your tour is confirmed, please send us your air travel details so that we can arrange your arrival transfer. Please note that departure transfers are included only on the official tour end day. Other transfer requests will incur a supplement.
Documents
Each traveler must ensure compliance with the country or countries you plan to visit. This includes and is not limited to passport validity, visa requirements and acquisition, blank passport pages required for your destination (s), etc.
US citizens: An excellent website to research the requirements of the Schengen Agreement and entry into other countries is travel.state.gov.
Non-EU and EU residents: Please research the requirements of your country of residence for international travel and your destination country or countries.
*Important note: Please check on the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) status as, once implemented, this will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.Tour types
Self-guided: You cycle independently without a guide or van support and are provided with maps, route descriptions, and pre-loaded GPS device or GPS tracks to upload to your device. Assistance is a phone call away.
Guided: You cycle in a group with a guide. If you have 8 or more in your group, a support vehicle is provided with no extra charge that will also serve as a luggage transfer vehicle.
Premium Guided: You cycle with a guide and support vehicle in a group. This version includes premium accommodations.Extra Stay
Just ask! We can assist you in arranging extra nights in any tour hotel.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Top Bike Tours Portugal.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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