Cycling stages

The Camino de Santiago by bicycle

Itineraries for the French Way by bike

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Cycling stages
Camino de Santiago en bicicleta

Camino de Santiago en bicicleta

The Camino de Santiago by bike

At least one in ten pilgrims of the Camino de Santiago who reach Plaza del Obradoiro do so on two wheels. Each of these bicigrinos (cycling pilgrims), as they are popularly known, presents different characteristics depending on their age, strength, weight, type of bike, etc … For this reason, it is extremely difficult to categorize the journeys.

Choosing doing the Camino de Santiago by bike is very interesting alternative for those pilgrims who want to travel long distances, but not want to give up everything imbibe the infinite attractions that hides the pilgrimage route. The bike also gives us more possibilities for luggage if walking pilgrimage thanks to the possibility of installing saddle bags and baskets in which distribute weight normally get along in the backpack.

However if we choose to make the Santiago Way bike and become a bicigrino, we need to know some basics of maintenance, in addition to not forget certain multipurpose tools, flanges, pump or patches to fix flat tires, something that is essential for get ahead. We should not think on the other hand to go on a bicycle we save all the effort to make the Camino de Santiago walk, as it remains intense physical exercise, having to face significant increases in certain fearsome stages. Therefore we must always keep an eye on our physical and mental state, hidratándonos, heating and stretching after each stage to avoid injury.

The pilgrim who choose to do the Camino de Santiago by bike is not free from the hazardous weather, so that essential elements such as rain coat must be added other specific of this transport, as covers for the mud. On the other hand, one of the great advantages you will find the pilgrim on the bike is its adaptability and can even install trailers or transport chairs for children if the situation requires.

Finally, if you've already decided before leaving home you must plan how you want to transport your bike, as there are multiple options, depending on whether you want to travel to the starting point of the Camino de Santiago by bike or prefer to send and collect it there , making you really more comfortable ride. If you choose this second option, you should know that there are a variety of services with very competitive prices that keep you from headaches, such as running out of room and deniegen you to upload your bike on the train or bus.

Camino Santiago en bici

Camino Santiago en bici

The stages of the Camino de Santiago by bike

In Vive el Camino we present you a structure divided into 15 stages starting in Saint Jean Pied de Port and finishing in Santiago. The average kilometres for each day are just over 52, although this figure may be misleading. Each day has been rated according to its difficulty and related distance, for this reason, the first stage consists of only 26 km. It is the shortest of all, but the steep Pyrenean slopes faced by the pilgrims will leave many squirming over the handlebars, while others may even have to dismount to reach Roncesvalles. By contrast, the stage linking Burgos to Carrión de los Condes consists of 86 kilometres. During which there are hardly any slopes, so riders can pedal away without a problem.

Similarly, and although many pilgrims choose to remain on asphalt, this guide is intended for those following the Original Way, while it is true that sometimes, due to unavoidable difficulties, exceptions are made and directions are provided to continue on the road.

Of course, this section is intended to serve as a reference. It can be changed at the whim of each cyclist. Those who arrive at the finish with strength can continue some kilometres and, those who falter before arriving should not feel forced to finish. They are likely to find a hostel or alternative accommodation before the end of the scheduled journey.

Index of stages by bike

1.Saint Jean Pied de Port, Roncesvalles (26 kilometres)

Minimum height: 233 meters

Maximum height: 1480 meters

Difficulty: Very high

It is possible to cover this stage by passing through the town of Valcarlos. The journey is a little longer, but easier and without having to leave the tarmac. Either way, and although you will end up suffering, with good weather conditions the route through the Cize ports is recommended. For more information, see the section titled ” bike ” stage 1.

2. Roncesvalles, Pamplona (48 km)

Minimum height: 962 meters

Maximum height: 449 meters

Difficulty: Very high

Despite descending more than 500 meters from beginning to end, the first stretch of this stage is tremendously complicated. It is the perfect example of a leg breaking stretch, in which steep slopes are interspersed with hell like climbs and with hardly any areas on flat terrain. In some parts the bad ground makes the task even more difficult, but nothing that a mountain bike can’t handle. The descent from the peak of Arre to Zubiri should be done on the road because it is extremely dangerous. The second half is considerably easier. For lovers of cycling, the route passes through Villava, the birthplace of Miguel Indurain, five-time champion of the Tour de France.

For more information, see the section “By bike” stages 2 and 3.

3. Pamplona- Estella (44 kilometres)

Minimum height: 397 meters

Maximum height: 780 meters

Difficulty: High

This stage is most notable for the ascent and descent of Alto del Perdon. The difficulty involved should be taken without haste. The heavy winds and loose ground complicate the climb. The descent is very dangerous and, it is therefore recommendable to use the road. The rest of the stage does not present great difficulties, although the arrival to Estella is somewhat complicated.

For more information, see the section on ‘ by bike’ of stages 4 and 5.

4. Estella –Logroño (49 kilometres)

Minimum height: 420 meters

Maximum height: 590 meters

Difficulty: High

A very comfortable stage with the exception of the ascent to Villamayor de Monjardín, short but demanding, and the section between Torres del Rio and Viana is sheer torture filled with steep descents which require good brakes. Many cyclists end up continuing this stretch on the road.

For more information, see the section “by bike” of stages 6 and 7.

5. Logroño -Santo Domingo (48 kilometres)

Minimum height: 390 meters

Maximum height: 715 meters

Difficulty: Medium

This stage runs through the valley of Ebro, an area where high winds are common. The ascent to the peak of San Anton is the most notable difficulty.

For more information, see the section” by bike” stages 8 and 9.

6. Santo Domingo de La Calzada- Burgos (75 kilometres)

Minimum height: 640 meters

Maximum height: 1165 meters

Difficulty: Very high

One of the most complicated stages due its length and the difficulty of the second half. The ride to Montes de Oca is comfortable, although, riders will face long slopes. Before arriving to Burgos they have to cross the Sierra of Atapuerca, which is complicated by irregular and stony terrain. The access to Burgos is through an industrial estate, which is dangerous because of heavy traffic.

For more information, see the section” by bike” stages 10, 11 and 12.

7. Burgos, Carrión de los Condes (86 kilometres)

Minimum height: 640 meters

Maximum height: 1165 meters

Difficulty: Medium-High

The longest stage but dominated by flat terrain. The only port, Mostelares is situated half way through the stage, just at the exit of Castrojeriz. It is worth taking things easy as the last part of the journey involves some demanding slopes. Now in Tierra de Campos, before arriving to Frómista, a pretty walk along the banks of the English Channel. For more information, see the section ” by bike ” stages 13,14 and 15.

8. Carrion de los Condes -Sahagún (39 kilometres)

Minimum height: 830 meters

Maximum height: 910 meters

Difficulty: Very Low

This transitional stage could be described as practically a rest. Pilgrims will have the opportunity to spend the day in Sahagun. Very short in distance and without any difficulties to face, the layout of the journey looks as flat as a plate. It is worth taking the opportunity to relax and recharge your batteries before confronting the second week of the Camino de Santiago.

For more information, see the section ” by bike ” stages 16 and 17.

9. Sahagún -León (57 kilometres)

Minimum height: 800 meters

Maximum height: 910 meters

Difficulty: low

After the break on the previous day, the pilgrims return to enjoy a smooth journey to relax their legs. The profile is very flat. The moors of Leon in summer can be torturous because of the high temperatures reached in the area. The variant, via Calzadilla de los Hermanillos is a couple of kilometres longer.

For more information, see the section” by bike ” stages 17 and 18.

10. León- Astorga (Kilometres)

Minimum height: 800 meters

Maximum height: 950 meters

Difficulty: Easy

Another very achievable stage both in terms of distance and profile. The terrain becomes flatter as the traveller approaches Astorga. Crossing the Bridge Paso Honroso by bike, despite the irregular stony ground, it is likely to become one of those moments that will be remembered for life.

For more information, see the section” by bike ” stages 19 and 20.

11. Astorga – Ponferrada (54 kilometres)

Minimum height: 500 meters

Maximum height: 1504 meters

Difficulty: High

The end of the moor. The route passes through the infinite flat terrain to the highest point on the whole French Way in Spain and, all in the blink of an eye. The legs suffer once again during the climb. Lactic acid makes a re appearance. The descent is really dangerous. To not descend on the road would be completely irresponsible. A great deal of caution is required on the descent from El Acebo to Molinaseca. A monument at the foot of the Camino reminds travellers of one of the latest victims, a pilgrim German.

During the climb, there are sections with road markings, where it is also advisable to continue on the asphalt.

For more information, see the section ” by bike ” stages 21 and 22.

12. Ponferrada -O Cebreiro (50 kilometres)

Minimum height: 460 meters

Maximum height: 1320 meters

Difficulty: Very High

Along with the baptism of fire in the Pyrenees of Navarre, this day is truly the queen of stages of the Camino de Santiago. The mountain is at its finest. The climb to O Cebreiro is not without its difficulties, it can be completed on the traditional path, but to leave Las Herrerías, the last village before the ascend, there are several signs painted on the asphalt to direct cyclists. The arrival to Galicia compensates the suffering. Except for the arrival to Villafranca, with the odd slope, the first section of the stage is peaceful. It is worth reserving strength for the last few kilometres.

For more information, see the section ” by bike ” stages 23 and 24.

13. O Cebreiro – Sarria (40 kilometres)

Minimum height: 450 meters

Maximum height: 1330 meters

Difficulty: Medium

There is a steep slope to crown the peak of Poio. From this point the descent begins. The arrival to Triacastela is complicated due to stony slopes. From this village there are two possibilities to get to Sarria. The original one runs through San Xil, somewhat shorter but also with a demanding section. The other variant passes through Samos, the location of the famous monastery.

For more information, see the section” by bike ” stages 25 and 26/27

14. Sarria – Palas de Rei (40 kilometres)

Minimum height: 360 meters

Maximum height: 730 meters

Difficulty: Medium

This stage can only be described as short but treacherous. The first stretch is smooth but can become complicated in times of rain because the ground can become muddy and, to unimaginable levels in rural Galicia. Towards the end of the placid descent to Portomarín the most complicated and demanding stretch of the stage begins, on uneven ground and with considerable slopes.

For more information, see the section ” by bike ” stages 28 and 29.

15. Palas de Rei -Santiago (69 kilometres)

Minimum height: 290 meters

Maximum height: 560 meters

Difficulty: Medium- High

The last day’s march and, the point at which energy levels begin to falter but having Santiago a stone’s throw away encourages you to make one last effort. The climb to Arzúa has complicated slopes comparable to the legendary climb to Monte do Gozo. The distance is considerable. Also bear in mind that some areas may be very muddy.

For more information, see the section ” by bike ” stages 30, 31 and 32.

Activity

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Recent activity
Sin avatar
Andrés Sánchez 13/09/20 00:43:37
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Hola,
Soy de Barcelona, estoy preparando el viaje en bici desde Roncesvalles para el próximo mes de Noviembre sobre el 9. Alguien se apunta?
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Gaby Sampayo 15/03/19 16:14:45
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HOLA,,SOY DE ARGENTINA,,TENGO PENSADO ARRANCAR EL DIA 6 DE MAYO DESDE PONFERRADA,,SI ALGUIEN SE QUIERE SUMAR,,PARA PEDALEAR ACOMPAÑADA MEJOR,,
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Carlos Zarate 17/09/2020 04:38:35
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hola soy Carlos , justo te agarro la pandemia , que solucion le encontraste ?
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Manel Guzmán 08/03/19 07:22:37
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Buenas,
El próximo dia 4 de julio saldré de Roncesvalles EN BICICLETA hasta, en principio, Compostela (puede que siga a Fisterra). YA hice el mismo camino hace tres años, pero lo hice demasiado rápido y no lo saboreé lo suficiente. Este año quiero hacerlo en etapas mucho más relajadas (60-70 km) y dedicarle una quincena. Si alguien en aquellas fechas está en camino puede contactar conmigo para cualquier tipo de ayuda. Mi idea es hacerlo "solo pero acompañado",si alguien se suma me gustaría que, aun yendo juntos, existan espacios de concentración y introspección personal. Estoy pensando en llevar un Tarp de 4x4 para poder dormir algún dia, si se tercia, en el campo. En fin, busco y ofrezco compañía pero a la vez pido "tranquilidad".
Saludos
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jhon doe 08/05/2019 21:35:26
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Hola ! Soy Cristina Yo también lo quiero hacer como tú en bici bueno en mountain bike pero no coincidimos en fecha yo salgo de Pamplona el 27 de julio y quiero hacerlo en diez días, y voy sola una pena no coincidir en fechas ?
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Sin avatar
Manel Guzmán 11/03/2019 07:01:08
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Si, Lourdes, cierto. Pero es por la "mentalidad ciclista"; las etapas como objetivo. Por eso este año no quiero simplemente recorrer las etapas.

Saludos
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Sin avatar
Vicente Macias Berrocoso 23/09/18 12:00:29
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sabria alguien que alla echo el camino portuges por la costa desde isla cristina donde enpieza el camino y algun mapa de caminos,y si hay alberges gracias
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Vicente Macias Berrocoso 02/09/18 11:57:50
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ya hice dos caminos,el añoi que biene sera el tercero desde ayamonte a finisterre quien se anima o a santiago sera para primeos de junio prefiero conpañera solo deporete y disfrutar
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Daniel Cortés Izquierdo
Daniel Cortés Izquierdo 16/09/2019 09:03:17
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Hola buenos días. Soy Daniel de Barcelona (Badalona). Yo voy a hacer el Camino de Santiago desde Montserrat también para primeros de Junio del año próximo.
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Sin avatar
Evenca 05/07/18 12:24:39
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Hola peregrinos! somos dos amigas que tenemos previsto empezar el camino a Santiago en bici la última semana de agosto. Si alguien se siquiera unir...bienvenido será!
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Ricardo Marchand
Ricardo Marchand 10/07/2020 19:49:16
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Hola Bicigrinas! Mi primer camino frances en mtb empieza el 2 de setiembre. buen camino
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Jordina Vidal Núñez 27/06/2019 17:19:51
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Hola, a mi me gustaría hacerlo si me puedo apuntar con alguien!! Como lo tenéis organizado?
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Aaron Videla 29/06/18 22:24:30
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Hola gente!
Hace unos años que vengo diciendo que algún día haré el Camino de Santiago y lo haré en bici. El año ha llegado y la verdad es que no estoy preparado, mi estado físico para la bici se abrevia en que cada pedaleo es un derroche de todos los excesos que te ofrecen los cuarenta y pico y según mis cálculos lo que saldría de mi en la primera etapa es el ticket para volverme a Madrid. Por eso pienso que de aquí a septiembre, es un buen rango de tiempo para que mi cuerpo y mente y espíritu recuerden que en sus tiempos mozos no había desafío que no intentara.
Me gustaría iniciar el contacto con personas que estén pensando en hacer la ruta para ir compartiendo ideas y quien sabe, en una de esas, realizarlo juntos. Un saludo y feliz verano
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Ricardo Marchand
Ricardo Marchand 10/07/2020 19:54:55
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Hola Aaron! Mi camino frances en mtb empieza el 2 setiembre en Roncesvalle. Cuento con 15 dias para llegar a Santiago. Nos seguimos hablando. Saludos desde Uruguay
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Dani Ramos Garcia 16/06/18 17:29:19
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Me gustaria hacer la ruta pero voy a un ritmo normalito. Asi que seguro que necesito bastantes dias. Soy de barcelona. Si alguien se anima a acompañarme seguro que me apetece mas. Dani
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Daniel Cortés Izquierdo
Daniel Cortés Izquierdo 16/09/2019 09:10:06
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Hola buenos días. Soy Daniel de Barcelona,bueno Badalona y me estoy preparando para irme a hacer el Camino de Santiago desde Montserrat hasta Santiago de Compostela y luego hasta Finisterre. Tengo pensado de hacerlo para primeros de Junio del año próximo.
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Sin avatar
Ra Sd 02/09/2019 22:56:46
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hola has empezado ya ,lo estaba mirando asi por encima y estaria interesado
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Carlos Mateo Perez 23/04/18 22:22:55
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Hola a todos!! Yo lo quiero hacer en bici y voy solo. Mi idea es empezar en Roncesvalles el 2 de agosto y llegar a Santiago el día 11. Tengo que ir a buen ritmo porque sino no me da tiempo. Si alguien se apunta es bienvenido!!
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Sin avatar
Daniel Casas Deu 09/05/2018 22:31:18
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Hola, pues yo también me apunto. Te paso mi correodcasasd@gmail.com y estamos CV en contacto.
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Sin avatar
Gonzalo Emanuel Moreira Villarruel 14/03/18 10:12:26
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Buenas a todos, yo lo quiero hacer a principios de Julio en bici, voy desde Fuerteventura. Tengo bastante información y algunas guías interesantes, os dejo mi correo por si queréis contactar y si alguien se apunta a hacerlo en la misma temporada bienvenido sera
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Sin avatar
Gonzalo Emanuel Moreira Villarruel 14/03/2018 10:13:35
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Me olvidé de dejar el correo vaya cabecitaargenzas@gmail.com
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Aaron Vazquez Vazquez Vazquez 26/10/17 18:54:28
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Saludos, planeo hacer el camino desde Saint Jean Pied de Port hasta santiago de compostela. Empezando por finales de mayo. Que es necesario llevar, que servicios son ofrecidos y que tan pesado seria? Planeo hacerlo en bicicleta. Mi correo electronico esAaround@live.com y si alguien pudiera aclarar mis dudas se lo agradeceria mucho!
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Mamen 27/10/2017 23:03:58
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Ohhh yo tambien lo quiero hacer a finales de mayo en bicicleta, estoy como tu pero de youtube saque mucha informacion util
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Liseth
Liseth 27/10/2017 14:55:33
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En YouTube y en el internet hay muchos consejos que te pueden ser de ayuda. Saludos
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babymillion 10/08/17 00:21:39
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hola,
si llegamos a Sarriá en coche con las bicis, como volvemos a Sarriá con ellas, una vez alcanzado Santiago de Compostela?. Gracias,
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Sin avatar
Jose Marquez 06/08/17 01:02:14
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Hola, quiero hacer el camino en el puente del 12 de Octubre, en 4-5 etapas en bici. Quería ver opciones y si hay alguien que lo haga también en esas fechas... Gracias!
1 2
Sin avatar
Los Forraboinas Bike Astorga 11/09/2017 00:42:28
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Hola,yo voy a hacer el camino el 15 de este mes,saldremos desde astorga y lo vamos a hacer en 4 etapas!astorga-villafranca del bierzo,villafranca-triacastela,triacastela-palas del rey,palas del rey-santiago
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Sin avatar
babymillion 09/08/2017 23:57:42
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hola, yo quiero ir con mi hijo durante la semana del puente de octubre. Aun nos falta conocer muchos detalles, por ejemplo, si en esas fechas puede embarrarse mucho el camino...
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Jose Antonio Albert Ricote
Jose Antonio Albert Ricote 24/07/17 13:33:37
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Hola estamos pensando hacer el camino francés mi hija y yo, queríamos ver las mejores opciones...?
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Sin avatar
Titoyayo 24/07/2017 23:13:30
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Cuándo, cuantos días? Sin estos mínimos datos poco podremos aconsejarte
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CLAUDIA GOYCOA 12/06/17 00:49:33
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hola! queria averiguar la complejidad del camino desde santiago de compostela a fixterra
1 0
Sin avatar
Jime María 28/03/17 03:07:34
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Hola, estoy organizando mi viaje en bici y quisiera saber si es muy complejo desviarme de Sahagun por el camino hacia calzadilla de los Hermanillos y terminar en masilla de mulas. Me gustan los caminos mas aventureros y desolados. Vale la pena?
Por otra parte también tengo la duda de salir de la virgen del camino hacia villar de Mazarite y villavante, y terminar en Hospital de Orbigo.
saludos y muchas gracias por sus consejos
Jimena
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Mari Arias
Mari Arias 07/08/16 00:28:56
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... aunque también puedes improvisar y cada día hacer lo que consideres más adecuado y adaptado a tu estado de ánimo y/o fuerzas
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