French Way by bike from Roncesvalles

Frequently Asked Questions

• How many kilometres are cycled per day on the Camino de Santiago?

  Doing the Camino by bike allows the ‘bicigrino’ to cover more kilometres per day than a pilgrim on foot, easily double. The number of kilometres cycled per day depends on several factors:

  • physical capabilities of each person;
  • time available;
  • route and section chosen (technical difficulty of the terrain);
  • availability of accommodation.

  A priori, a pilgrim can cycle between 50 km and 100 km per stage. In flat stages, such as those of the Meseta, you can easily cover up to 100 km per day, although in stages with slopes, such as the arrival at Roncesvalles or O Cebreiro, it is perhaps more convenient to establish shorter stages.

• What are the most important towns on the French Way?

  The French Way of Santiago passes through a series of towns and cities rich in history, culture, and unique landscapes. Some of the most important towns and cities along the French Way are:

  • Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port (France): The starting point of the French Camino, this picturesque town at the foot of the Pyrenees is known for its cobbled streets and the impressive Santiago Gate.
  • Roncesvalles: After crossing the Pyrenees, Roncesvalles marks the entry into Spain. Its collegiate church and historical significance make it a key spiritual stop for pilgrims.
  • Pamplona: Famous for its San Fermín running of the bulls, Pamplona is a vibrant city with rich medieval heritage, highlighted by its cathedral and city walls.
  • Logroño: The capital of La Rioja, known for its wines and delicious gastronomy. Logroño is an excellent place to enjoy tapas on the famous Laurel Street.
  • Burgos: Burgos boasts one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Spain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its historic center is also a must-see on the Camino.
  • Carrión de los Condes: This small town in the province of Palencia stands out for its rich medieval history and Romanesque churches, offering a more intimate experience on the Camino.
  • León: With a majestic Gothic cathedral, the Convent of San Marcos, and vibrant urban life, León is one of the most important cities along the route, ideal for taking an extended break.
  • Astorga: This city features the Episcopal Palace designed by Gaudí and a beautiful cathedral, serving as a crossroads between the French Camino and the Via de la Plata.
  • Ponferrada: Famous for its Templar castle, Ponferrada is the gateway to the El Bierzo region and an important stop before tackling the mountains of Galicia.
  • O Cebreiro: This charming mountain village is one of the most iconic stops on the Camino, known for its traditional palloza houses and its connection to the Holy Grail.
  • Sarria: A starting point for many pilgrims who wish to complete the final 100 kilometers required to earn the Compostela. Sarria is an essential stop.
  • Portomarín: This town is notable for its unique history, having been relocated stone by stone after the construction of the Belesar reservoir. Its fortress-like church of San Nicolás and its location by the Miño River make it a special stop before reaching Santiago.

• What services are included in the Camino de Santiago by bike?

  The Camino de Santiago by bike includes the following services:

  • Accommodation
  • Dossier with information about the stages
  • Pilgrim's credential
  • On-the-road helpline
  • Travel insurance

  In addition, you can customize your trip by adding the following optional services:

  • Luggage transport between stages
  • Breakfast or half board
  • Extra night at the beginning or end of the stage
  • Bicycle rental

  Unlike the group trips, no guide or support vehicle is included between stages. However, you will have a 24-hour hotline where you can contact us in case of any problem or unforeseen event, which we will solve quickly.

• Can I bring my own bicycle for a trip on the Camino de Santiago?

  Yes, you can do the Camino with your own bike. The important thing is that it is in good condition before starting to avoid problems. Remember that you can also rent a bicycle with us (MTB, e-Bike, etc., with equipment included) which you will find directly at your first shelter, and we will indicate where to return it at the end of your journey.

• Where will I leave the bicycle each night at the accommodations?

  Do not worry, most accommodations on the Camino have secure spaces for bicycles. They are usually garages or enclosed areas with security measures. When we organize your trip, we ensure that each accommodation guarantees this service. Additionally, if it is an e-Bike and you need to charge it overnight, the accommodations will provide you with a power outlet and electricity.

• If I choose to use an electric bike, can I rely on sufficient battery life?

  The electric bike's battery is designed to provide ample autonomy, typically lasting around 80 km when using a moderate assistance level (level 2). However, the battery's performance may vary depending on the level of assistance required; more assistance will deplete the battery faster, and vice versa. To recharge the battery, you'll need to connect it to a power source using a special charger. The battery can either be charged while attached to the bike frame or removed and taken elsewhere for charging convenience.

• How many days does it take to ride the Camino Francés by bike from Roncesvalles?

  On this trip, 15 days and 14 nights: you arrive in Roncesvalles, ride 13 stages to Santiago, and the last day is for heading home. It is 749 km across Navarre, La Rioja, Castile and León and Galicia.

  Most stages are between 42 and 62 km, and there are three long ones: the ride into Burgos (72 km) and the two across the Meseta (86 and 96 km). If you want more time at the end, you can add an extra night in Santiago.

• Does the Camino Francés by bike from Roncesvalles qualify you for the Compostela?

  Yes, easily. It is 749 km to Santiago, far above the minimum of 200 km by bike that the Pilgrim's Office requires to obtain the Compostela.

  Get your pilgrim passport, which is included in the trip, stamped at least twice a day over the last 200 km (at accommodation, churches or bars along the Camino) and finish your journey at Santiago Cathedral.

• Why are there 86 km and 96 km stages on the Camino Francés by bike?

  Because they cross the Meseta, the flattest section of the whole Camino. From Burgos to Carrión de los Condes (86 km) you ride across Tierra de Campos on well-surfaced tracks and paved country roads, with no hard climbs: it tires the mind more than the legs.

  From Carrión to León (96 km) the profile is even easier, but there are long stretches without villages: set off with plenty of water and food and, in summer, well protected from the sun. Take care riding into León, where the streets have heavy traffic.

• Is it better to ride from Roncesvalles to Pamplona by road or on the original trail?

  If you are not very experienced technically, by road. The first stage follows the N-135, which has little traffic: there are a few short climbs as far as Zubiri, but the trend is downhill, and then the terrain gradually flattens out towards Pamplona.

  The original trail is hard, demands good technique and is full of pilgrims on foot, so if you choose it, take extra care. When you arrive, Pamplona awaits with its walled old town and its pintxos.

• Which is the most technical section of the Camino Francés by bike from Roncesvalles?

  The stretch from Torres del Río to Viana, on the Estella–Logroño stage: about 10 km of climbs, descents and abrupt changes of terrain. Before that, from Azqueta, the trail gets steeper and narrower; don't hesitate to get off the bike if you need to.

  The other demanding day is Santo Domingo de la Calzada–Burgos (72 km), with one of the toughest ramps of the route. There it is worth following the original trail through the Montes de Oca.

• What is the Irache Wine Fountain?

  It is a fountain on the Camino Francés that offers pilgrims free wine, and you will find it on the stage from Estella to Logroño, the day you leave Navarre and enter La Rioja. It is the first stop of the day and a must for a photo.

  A little further on is the Fuente de los Moros, another of the best-known fountains on the route. Take it easy: the most technical stretch of the day, between Torres del Río and Viana, comes afterwards.