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$ 3130 £ 1653 $ 2,832 € 1883 kr 288881 ₪ 7717 ¥ 322511 Mex$ 34739 NZ$ 3439 NOK 22447 zł 8271 S$ 2805 kr 22491 $ 2,070 $ 4014 £ 2120 $ 3,632 € 2415 kr 370497 ₪ 9898 ¥ 413630 Mex$ 44554 NZ$ 4411 NOK 28789 zł 10608 S$ 3597 kr 28845 $ 2,655 $ 5677 £ 2998 $ 5,136 € 3415 kr 523912 ₪ 13996 ¥ 584905 Mex$ 63003 NZ$ 6237 NOK 40710 zł 15001 S$ 5087 kr 40789 $ 3,755 Regular season
March 26 to June 25 & September 26 to October 31$ 3263 £ 1723 $ 2,952 € 1963 kr 301154 ₪ 8045 ¥ 336213 Mex$ 36215 NZ$ 3585 NOK 23401 zł 8623 S$ 2924 kr 23446 $ 2,158 $ 4147 £ 2190 $ 3,752 € 2495 kr 382771 ₪ 10225 ¥ 427332 Mex$ 46030 NZ$ 4557 NOK 29743 zł 10960 S$ 3716 kr 29801 $ 2,743 $ 5810 £ 3068 $ 5,256 € 3495 kr 536186 ₪ 14324 ¥ 598607 Mex$ 64479 NZ$ 6383 NOK 41664 zł 15352 S$ 5206 kr 41745 $ 3,843 High season
September 1 to September 25$ 3363 £ 1776 $ 3,042 € 2023 kr 310359 ₪ 8291 ¥ 346490 Mex$ 37322 NZ$ 3695 NOK 24116 zł 8886 S$ 3013 kr 24163 $ 2,224 $ 4247 £ 2243 $ 3,842 € 2555 kr 391975 ₪ 10471 ¥ 437609 Mex$ 47137 NZ$ 4667 NOK 30458 zł 11223 S$ 3806 kr 30517 $ 2,809 $ 5909 £ 3121 $ 5,346 € 3555 kr 545390 ₪ 14570 ¥ 608884 Mex$ 65586 NZ$ 6493 NOK 42379 zł 15616 S$ 5295 kr 42461 $ 3,908 Summer season
June 26 to August 31$ 3463 £ 1829 $ 3,133 € 2083 kr 319564 ₪ 8537 ¥ 356767 Mex$ 38429 NZ$ 3805 NOK 24831 zł 9150 S$ 3103 kr 24880 $ 2,290 $ 4347 £ 2296 $ 3,933 € 2615 kr 401180 ₪ 10717 ¥ 447885 Mex$ 48244 NZ$ 4776 NOK 31173 zł 11487 S$ 3895 kr 31234 $ 2,875 $ 6009 £ 3173 $ 5,436 € 3615 kr 554595 ₪ 14816 ¥ 619160 Mex$ 66693 NZ$ 6603 NOK 43094 zł 15880 S$ 5385 kr 43178 $ 3,974 Solo traveler supplement (in addition to single supplement) Single supplement Standard accommodations Premium accommodations Low season $ 648 £ 342 $ 587 € 390 kr 59832 ₪ 1598 ¥ 66797 Mex$ 7195 NZ$ 712 NOK 4649 zł 1713 S$ 581 kr 4658 $ 429 $ 1064 £ 562 $ 962 € 640 kr 98186 ₪ 2623 ¥ 109616 Mex$ 11807 NZ$ 1169 NOK 7629 zł 2811 S$ 953 kr 7644 $ 704 Regular season $ 698 £ 369 $ 632 € 420 kr 64434 ₪ 1721 ¥ 71936 Mex$ 7749 NZ$ 767 NOK 5007 zł 1845 S$ 626 kr 5017 $ 462 $ 1114 £ 588 $ 1,008 € 670 kr 102788 ₪ 2746 ¥ 114754 Mex$ 12361 NZ$ 1224 NOK 7987 zł 2943 S$ 998 kr 8003 $ 737 High season $ 748 £ 395 $ 677 € 450 kr 69037 ₪ 1844 ¥ 77074 Mex$ 8302 NZ$ 822 NOK 5364 zł 1977 S$ 670 kr 5375 $ 495 $ 1164 £ 615 $ 1,053 € 700 kr 107391 ₪ 2869 ¥ 119893 Mex$ 12914 NZ$ 1279 NOK 8345 zł 3075 S$ 1043 kr 8361 $ 770 Summer season $ 798 £ 421 $ 722 € 480 kr 73639 ₪ 1967 ¥ 82212 Mex$ 8855 NZ$ 877 NOK 5722 zł 2108 S$ 715 kr 5733 $ 528 $ 1213 £ 641 $ 1,098 € 730 kr 111993 ₪ 2992 ¥ 125031 Mex$ 13468 NZ$ 1333 NOK 8702 zł 3207 S$ 1087 kr 8719 $ 803 Extra Options
Hotel Upgrade
Self-guided Guided Premium guided Premium hotel upgrade $ 1080 £ 571 $ 978 € 650 kr 99720 ₪ 2664 ¥ 111329 Mex$ 11992 NZ$ 1187 NOK 7749 zł 2855 S$ 968 kr 7764 $ 715 $ 1080 £ 571 $ 978 € 650 kr 99720 ₪ 2664 ¥ 111329 Mex$ 11992 NZ$ 1187 NOK 7749 zł 2855 S$ 968 kr 7764 $ 715 Included Meal Packages
Self-guided Guided Premium guided Dinner package (6 dinners) $ 499 £ 263 $ 451 € 300 kr 46025 ₪ 1230 ¥ 51383 Mex$ 5535 NZ$ 548 NOK 3576 zł 1318 S$ 447 kr 3583 $ 330 $ 499 £ 263 $ 451 € 300 kr 46025 ₪ 1230 ¥ 51383 Mex$ 5535 NZ$ 548 NOK 3576 zł 1318 S$ 447 kr 3583 $ 330 $ 914 £ 483 $ 827 € 550 kr 84378 ₪ 2254 ¥ 94201 Mex$ 10147 NZ$ 1005 NOK 6557 zł 2416 S$ 819 kr 6569 $ 605 Lunch & dinner package (6 lunches & 6 dinners) Not available $ 1080 £ 571 $ 978 € 650 kr 99720 ₪ 2664 ¥ 111329 Mex$ 11992 NZ$ 1187 NOK 7749 zł 2855 S$ 968 kr 7764 $ 715 $ 1413 £ 746 $ 1,278 € 850 kr 130403 ₪ 3484 ¥ 145584 Mex$ 15682 NZ$ 1552 NOK 10133 zł 3734 S$ 1266 kr 10153 $ 935 Bike options & discounts
Electric bike $ 499 £ 263 $ 451 € 300 kr 46025 ₪ 1230 ¥ 51383 Mex$ 5535 NZ$ 548 NOK 3576 zł 1318 S$ 447 kr 3583 $ 330 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 4602 ₪ 123 ¥ 5138 Mex$ 553 NZ$ 55 NOK 358 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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