French Way by bike from Ponferrada

Your first day as a bicigrino is off to a great start! We hope you had a good rest yesterday because today’s day is a tough one, especially in its final stretch.

We set off from Ponferrada following the same indications as the pilgrims on foot, as the route is perfectly cyclable. We will cross the green valley of El Bierzo through regional roads, dirt tracks and paths. If you prefer, you can also go by road taking the LE-713 to Villafranca del Bierzo, where you can make a stop, and then take the N-VI and the NA-006 to Las Herrerías.

From the Herrerías it’s time to climb up the sprockets because the big part of the day begins. No reward without effort! This will undoubtedly be the hardest ascent of the whole route, so it’s lucky you got the first day. You should pay attention, as there are different signs for pedestrians and cyclists, although if you are experienced you can go the original way.

We recommend you to do the route on asphalt, first taking the CV-125 until you reach the Laguna de Castilla and then go the last 900 meters uphill on an asphalt road until you reach the unique village of O Cebreiro.

O Cebreiro is a place of incalculable ethnographic, natural and cultural value. It has several restored examples of the traditional palloza, a characteristic construction of the mountains of Lugo in which livestock and families shared a house. In addition, it is essential to visit the church of Santa María la Real de O Cebreiro, the oldest church on the Jacobean route, in pre-Romanesque style from the 9th century, still in operation. During your stay in O Cebreiro, you will live a magical Celtic experience and disconnection, which will recharge your batteries to continue with what will surely be one of the best memories of your Camino.