What are the main stages of the French Way?
The French Way is the most popular route of the Camino de Santiago and has several key stages that stand out for both their beauty and historical and cultural significance. These stages are essential for those who want to experience the best of this pilgrimage route:
- Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Roncesvalles (24 km): This is the starting stage, which crosses the impressive Pyrenees and marks the beginning of the journey in Spanish lands.
- Pamplona to Puente la Reina (23.9 km): Known for the famous city of Pamplona, it offers a route full of history and the opportunity to visit the Church of the Crucifix in Puente la Reina.
- Logroño to Nájera (29 km): It enters the wine region of La Rioja, with vineyards accompanying the pilgrim for much of the stage.
- Burgos to Hornillos del Camino (21 km): This stage is notable for passing by the Burgos Cathedral, a gem of Spanish Gothic architecture.
- León to Hospital de Órbigo (32 km): León is one of the largest and most significant cities on the French Way, with its Gothic cathedral and the historic Parador de San Marcos.
- O Cebreiro to Triacastela (17.8 km via San Xil or 25 km via Samos): After ascending to O Cebreiro, one of the most challenging and rewarding points, with panoramic views and the famous village with its pallozas, there is a beautiful stage with two alternatives.
- Sarria to Portomarín (22 km): Sarria is the most popular starting point for those looking to cover the last 100 km and earn the Compostela.
- Palas de Rei to Arzúa (29 km): In this stage, the Camino crosses typical rural landscapes of Galicia, with forests, rivers, and picturesque villages. Halfway, there is Melide, where one can taste some of the best octopus in Galicia.
- Arzúa to Santiago de Compostela (40 km): The final stretch of the French Way culminates at Monte do Gozo and then reaches the Obradoiro square and the iconic Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, the ultimate destination for all pilgrims.
