Have you ever dreamed of traveling the Camino de Santiago on two wheels? You’re about to discover an unforgettable experience! In this article, we’ll explore the best bike routes on the Camino de Santiago, offering you valuable insights on how to plan your bike trip in one week—whether for just a few days or a full seven-day adventure. So, if you’re looking for exciting short routes and the chance to live a unique adventure on the Jacobean routes with your bike, this article is for you.
Pilgrims and “bikegrims” share the Camino in harmony
What’s it like to do the Camino by bike?
There’s a wide variety of short routes you can take by bike across the vast network of Jacobean paths. All of them stretch across countless kilometers of unique appeal—landscapes, heritage, gastronomy, and local culture—but each one carries the Camino’s spirit and blessings deeply engraved.
Some routes offer more advantages than others, depending on the services and accommodations available, and whether you seek solitude or new company. Also, it’s very important to consider your preferred time of year to pedal through this week-long adventure.
What to keep in mind when doing the Camino by bike?
Before setting off, make sure you’re physically prepared and have a suitable and well-checked bike to ensure everything runs smoothly. Bring the necessary tools and a basic spare kit to help you deal with potential bike issues along the way. As for your luggage, with panniers or front and saddle packs, you’ll be pedaling like a snail—with your house on your back.
Being well prepared and equipped is essential for a great experience
Don’t forget to bring safety gear, comfortable clothing suited to the weather conditions of each region you’ll pass through. Choosing the right route is also key to knowing which stages you’ll complete and being able to book your bike-friendly accommodations in advance. Ready to go?
I don’t have much time… What are the shortest bike routes?
Let’s get to the point: you need to decide which Camino route to do in one week, based on your interests and the type of weather you may encounter. This is an important choice, as the Camino de Santiago spans a diverse geography with climates that vary by season. In seven days you can cycle over 200 km and earn your Compostela.
That distance, ending in Santiago, is the requirement for the official cycling pilgrim certificate. However, if that’s not your goal and you’re just looking to enjoy the experience on two wheels, there are also intermediate sections that make for excellent short routes.
Camino Francés, the classic route
The Camino Francés is the most famous and traveled route. Stretching about 800 km from Roncesvalles, the best one-week option is to start from León, where you’ll pedal just over 300 km. We recommend doing this route in spring or early autumn to avoid the summer crowds.
Pilgrims cycling the Camino Francés
Another option is Roncesvalles to Burgos, slightly over 260 km—a less common section as it doesn’t reach Santiago, making it ideal for any season except winter, since it crosses mountainous and snowy areas.
Camino Portugués, Portuguese charm
The Camino Portugués is another excellent choice. This route starts in Lisbon and runs for over 600 km, being the second most popular option. Starting from Porto, you can choose between two variants: the historic route through the inland or the Atlantic path along the coast, both totaling around 250 km.
Another option is to do the initial section between Lisbon and Porto, a little over 370 km. An intense week during which Portugal will embrace you with the charm of its fados and you’ll get to explore its two main cities. All routes are doable and recommended year-round.
Camino del Norte, an unrivaled coastal setting
The Camino del Norte is famous for its stunning coastal scenery—one of the most attractive options for cyclists with over 800 km from Irún. The best week-long bike route starts in Gijón, offering 300 km ideal for summer, as the northern freshness helps with pedaling.
The landscapes on the Camino del Norte are breathtaking
We also recommend the first section between Irún and Santander, about 250 km of sea and mountains in one week. Many pilgrims remember this stretch for its ocean views, steep cliffs, and charming fishing villages.
Vía de la Plata, the winter option
The Vía de la Plata starts in Seville and connects with the Camino Francés in Astorga, though in Granja de Moreruela (Zamora), it becomes the Sanabrés Way, the best short bike route we recommend. Out of its 1000 km total, just over 370 km will take you through the landscapes of Lake Sanabria and the thermal waters and colorful carnivals of Ourense.
If you prefer the first few kilometers, you can cycle the stretch between Seville and Mérida in winter, enjoying its mild temperatures. It’s a bit over 200 km, taking you through Andalusia and Extremadura, rich in heritage and gastronomy.
Camino Inglés and Epilogue to Finisterre
Here’s a great idea: combining the two shortest routes, the Camino Inglés and the Epilogue to Finisterre, gives you an amazing proposal. Just over 200 km to discover the two shortest routes among all Jacobean ways, ideal for cycling at any time of year.
Reaching the End of the World by bike doesn’t sound bad
Starting in Ferrol, a city closely tied to the sea and the Atlantic Ocean, the route leads inland through the province of A Coruña, reaching Santiago after 114 km. From there, it heads back to the ocean and the feared Costa da Morte. After 90 km, you’ll arrive at the mythical Cape Finisterre—kilometer 0 of all Caminos.
Ready to live the two-wheeled adventure?
The Camino de Santiago by bike is a unique experience filled with adventure and challenges. These and other short bike routes offer exciting opportunities to explore beautiful landscapes and the rich culture of the Jacobean routes. If you plan everything properly and bring the right gear, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable journey.
So, get ready to cycle the Camino de Santiago and create unforgettable memories on this fascinating journey. Bicigrino, hop on your bike and start your exciting Camino de Santiago journey with us! Remember, the beauty of the Camino is waiting—don’t miss it!
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