Camino Francés
The French Way
The iconic route of the Camino de Santiago
This is the most internationally recognised itinerary with the best historical tradition, where most of the medieval pilgrimage routes converge. A great social, cultural, and religious phenomenon that welcomed over the centuries great kings, princesses, nobles, Templars, knights, the poor, and devout individuals from all of Christendom to kneel before the tomb of the Apostle James.
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All the information about the French Way
The French Way is the route of the Camino de Santiago par excellence.
The French Way is the route of the Camino de Santiago par excellence. It is the most internationally recognized itinerary and with the greatest historical tradition, where most of the medieval pilgrimage routes converge.. A road that is characterized not only by its contrasts and variety of landscapes, but also by its impressive wealth of monuments. A great social, cultural and religious phenomenon that welcomed over the centuries great kings, princesses, nobles, Templars, knights, poor and devotees from all over Christendom to kneel at the tomb of the Apostle St. James.
If you decide to do the French route, you will enjoy the green mountains of Navarre, the vineyards of La Rioja, the immense oceans of cereal fields of the Castilian steppe and the green valley of El Bierzo to end up immersing yourself in the most authentic and rural Galicia until you reach Santiago de Compostela. A route that will also give you the chance to visit impressive monuments, castles, bridges, as well as important Jacobean cities that were marked forever with the signs of the pilgrim.
There is a lot to see on the French Camino de Santiago
- Royal Collegiate Church of Roncesvalles
- Romanesque Bridge of Puente La Reina
- Monastery of Santa María la Real in Najera
- Burgos Cathedral
- Church of San Martín de Fromista
- Cathedral of Leon
- Episcopal Palace of Astorga
- Templar Castle of Ponferrada
- Ethnographic group of O Cebreiro
- Benedictine Monastery of Samos
- Ruins of the ancient village of Portomarin
- Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
Where to start the French route?
Nowadays, the starting point of the French Way can be considered both Saint Jean Pied de Port and Roncesvalles, so both options are perfect if you want to do this complete route.
Saint Jean Pied de Port, situated on the border with France, is the second most popular starting point for pilgrims. It’s worth adding an extra day to your trip to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Pyrenees and cross the border in the footsteps of Napoleon Bonaparte himself. The main difficulty of this first stage is the slopes; we will accumulate no less than 1,258 meters of positive slope and 485 meters of negative slope, so it is necessary to have a good physical condition or take the variant by Valcarlos.
In Spanish territory, 24 kilometers from Saint Jean Pied de Port, we find the small village of Roncesvalles (Orreaga). It is one of the great landmarks of the Camino de Santiago and the starting point most used by pilgrims who make this French Camino de Santiago in its entirety. A magical town where time seems to have stopped, which preserves intact the pilgrim spirit and a deep magnetism.
From Logroño to Santiago de Compostela, you will travel a distance of just over 600 kilometers, for which you will need approximately 27 days. The stages of the French Route from the capital of La Rioja are characterized by plains surrounded by fields of crops and famous vineyards, with a notable orographic change in the Montes de Oca, already in the vicinity of Burgos.
From Burgos, you will embark on a pilgrimage for 22 days, covering a total of 488 kilometers until you reach Santiago de Compostela. This stretch is one of the most authentic, still preserving the purest essence of the Jacobean route. It’s a path for reflection that invites you to lose yourself in the vast plains of cereal fields and solitary landscapes of the Castilian steppe.
León is the perfect city to start the French Way if you have 15 days, in which you will cover 308 kilometers. It is a fascinating journey through beautiful landscapes such as the Montes de León and the green valley of El Bierzo. With each step, you will discover small medieval villages, Templar castles, imposing monuments, and cathedrals, until you get into the most authentic rural Galicia.
The small and unique village of O Cebreiro, on the border of Galicia and Castilla y León, is one of the favorite places for pilgrims to start the French Way. From here, you can cover the entire Galician section of this Jacobean route in just 9 days, adding up to a total of 150 kilometers until you reach the Cathedral of Santiago.
The stages are characterized by their shady paths, which wind through centuries-old forests, small villages, and green pastures that showcase the idiosyncrasy and unique culture of the inhabitants of this Autonomous Community.
The town of Sarria is the busiest place for pilgrims wishing to make the last stretch of the French Way. From this point, you will walk the last 100 kilometers of the French Way, the minimum distance to obtain the Compostela. You will only need one week to complete it.
Sarria is loved and hated in equal parts, and it is from here that the number of pilgrims increases considerably in the summer months. You will find all kinds of services, including accommodation, laundries, bars, restaurants, as well as shops and souvenir shops. In short, the atmosphere you will find in these stages is much livelier than in any other part of the French Way.
This is the perfect route for those who are doing the Camino de Santiago for the first time. It is ideal for meeting people and enjoying the beautiful landscapes of the Galician countryside.
Map of French Way
The way of Saint James: French Way Stages
History of the French way
We briefly review the origins of the Camino de Santiago. We are situated in the years 41 and 44 after Christ. After the death of St. James the Apostle, his remains were taken by boat from Jerusalem to Iria Flavia, in Galicia. Much later, in the year 812, a very important discovery was made: the tomb of the Apostle.
The news spread like wildfire throughout Europe; the remains of the Apostle rested in a place called the “Field of Stars,” known as Compostela. An event that became a symbol of Christianity in the face of the Muslim occupation of the time. Throughout the 11th century, the influx of pilgrims intensified, and the kings began an important organizational work to facilitate the transit and safety of the pilgrims.
In 1135, it appears in the Codex Calixtinus, an authentic medieval guide of the pilgrimage to Santiago. It describes the French Way through 16 stages, from the Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela, and informs walkers of the services they will find along the route: fountains, food, sanctuaries, hospitals, local customs.
Time of decadence
In the last centuries of the Middle Ages, pilgrimages to Santiago de Compostela experienced a great decline. The European wars, the Black Death, and the Schism in the Christian world in 1378 caused the number of walkers to decrease considerably.
From the 16th century onwards, the number of pilgrims continued to decrease until it practically disappeared after the disentailment of Mendizábal, which led to the extinction of the hospitality that had been practiced until then.
Resurgence
From the middle of the 20th century onwards, different initiatives began to emerge aimed at recovering the Way from oblivion. Thanks to a new interest from administrations, the Pope’s visits to Santiago in the 80s, the emergence of multiple associations and brotherhoods, and the declaration of World Heritage in 1987, the Camino de Santiago rose from decadence to become the most important pilgrimage in the Western world.
We cannot forget the figure of one of the great promoters of the revival of modern pilgrimages on the French route, the parish priest of O Cebreiro, Elías Valiña. At the end of the 70s, Elías began to mark the French Camino de Santiago with yellow arrows, the current symbol of the Jacobean route. An anecdote about the parish priest in the Pyrenees became very famous. After the Guardia Civil stopped him with a pot of yellow paint in his hand drawing the striking arrows, they asked him what he was doing. His answer was “Preparing a great invasion from France,” with which he became a visionary.
Frequently asked questions about 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.
The French Way of Santiago is the most popular and traveled route of the Camino, but its difficulty level can vary depending on the section and the pilgrim’s preparation. While the total route covers approximately 768 kilometers from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France to Santiago de Compostela, it is divided into stages that allow the journey to be adapted to each person’s abilities. Here are the main factors that determine its difficulty:
- Elevations and terrain: The early stages, particularly the crossing of the Pyrenees from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Roncesvalles, are among the most challenging, with significant elevation changes and mountainous terrain. However, other sections, such as the Meseta of Castile, are much flatter and more accessible.
- Climate: The weather can greatly impact the difficulty. In summer, the heat in the Meseta can be exhausting, while in spring and autumn, rain and mud can complicate the journey. In winter, some mountainous stages can be tougher due to snow.
- Duration: The duration of the Camino is another factor. Completing the full route can take between 30 and 35 days, requiring good physical stamina. However, many pilgrims choose to walk only the final stages, especially from Sarria, covering the last 100 kilometers in about 5 days.
Based on the pilgrim’s experience, we can recommend the following sections:
- For experienced pilgrims: They will find a challenge in mountainous stages like the Pyrenees or the ascent to O Cebreiro, but will be rewarded with breathtaking scenery.
- For beginners: While the full Camino may be demanding, it’s possible to walk only more accessible sections, such as the last 100 kilometers from Sarria, without facing major difficulties.
The French Camino de Santiago is one of the longest routes of the Camino, spanning around 768 km and typically divided into 33 stages. Therefore, with this division, it takes 33 days to complete the Camino de Santiago starting from Saint Jean A-Pied-De Port (France) on foot.
Each stage represents the distance you cover in a day, from the starting point of the stage to the endpoint, where you’ll spend the night. The stages can vary in distance and difficulty, and it’s important to remember that they can be adjusted according to your pace and physical condition. Some pilgrims choose to break up longer or more challenging stages, while others may extend the shorter, easier ones. It all depends on finding a place to stay.
The French Way of the Camino de Santiago begins in Spain at Roncesvalles (Navarra), coming from Saint Jean Pied de Port.
However, there is also another starting point after crossing the Somport Pass, in Candanchú (Huesca), known as the French Way through Aragón or the Aragonese Way. This route merges with the French Way from Roncesvalles in Puente la Reina (Navarra).
The French Way of the Camino de Santiago begins in France at Saint Jean Pied de Port, one stage before Roncesvalles and before entering Spain. It can also start at Somport, another entry point from France that connects with the Aragonese Way, which in turn links up with the French Way at Puente La Reina.
Another option is to start from any French city, as they will eventually connect with either Saint Jean Pied de Port or Somport.
Along its approximately 768 kilometers, the French Way is divided into the following 33 stages:
- Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port – Roncesvalles (24 km)
- Roncesvalles – Zubiri (21.4 km)
- Zubiri – Pamplona (20.4 km)
- Pamplona – Puente la Reina (23.9 km)
- Puente la Reina – Estella (21.6 km)
- Estella – Los Arcos (21.3 km)
- Los Arcos – Logroño (27.6 km)
- Logroño – Nájera (29 km)
- Nájera – Santo Domingo de la Calzada (20.7 km)
- Santo Domingo de la Calzada – Belorado (22 km)
- Belorado – San Juan de Ortega (23.9 km)
- San Juan de Ortega – Burgos (25.8 km)
- Burgos – Hornillos del Camino (21 km)
- Hornillos del Camino – Castrojeriz (19.9 km)
- Castrojeriz – Frómista (24.7 km)
- Frómista – Carrión de los Condes (18.8 km)
- Carrión de los Condes – Terradillos de los Templarios (26.3 km)
- Terradillos de los Templarios – Bercianos del Real Camino (23.2 km)
- Bercianos del Real Camino – Mansilla de las Mulas (26.3 km)
- Mansilla de las Mulas – León (18.5 km)
- León – Villadangos de Páramo (20.4 km)
- Villadangos de Páramo – Astorga (27.9 km)
- Astorga – Rabanal del Camino (20.2 km)
- Rabanal del Camino – Molinaseca (24.7 km)
- Molinaseca – Villafranca del Bierzo (31.9 km)
- Villafranca del Bierzo – O Cebreiro (27.8 km)
- O Cebreiro – Triacastela (20.8 km)
- Triacastela – Sarria (17.9 km / 25 km via Samos)
- Sarria – Portomarín (22 km)
- Portomarín – Palas de Rei (25 km)
- Palas de Rei – Arzúa (29 km)
- Arzúa – Pedrouzo (19 km)
- Pedrouzo – Santiago de Compostela (19 km)
This division can be adjusted according to individual preferences and possibilities, always keeping in mind the need for a place to stay overnight.
Among these stages, the main or most notable ones for pilgrims are:
- Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Roncesvalles (24 km): This is the initial stage, crossing the impressive Pyrenees and marking the beginning of the journey in Spanish lands.
- Pamplona to Puente la Reina (23.9 km): Known for the famous city of Pamplona, this stage offers a route rich in history and the opportunity to visit the Crucifix Church in Puente la Reina.
- Logroño to Nájera (29 km): This stage enters the wine region of La Rioja, with vineyards accompanying the pilgrim for much of the way.
- 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 of San Marcos.
- O Cebreiro to Triacastela (17.8 km via San Xil or 25 km via Samos): After the ascent to O Cebreiro, one of the most challenging and rewarding points, with panoramic views and the famous village with its pallozas a beautiful stage with two alternatives presents itself.
- Sarria to Portomarín (22 km): Sarria is the most popular starting point for those looking to cover the last 100 km and obtain 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 through, you reach Melide, where you can taste some of the best octopus in Galicia.
- Arzúa to Santiago de Compostela (40 km): The final stretch of the French Way culminates in reaching Monte do Gozo and then arriving at the Plaza del Obradoiro and the iconic Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the ultimate goal for all pilgrims.
Throughout all the routes and stages of the Camino de Santiago, there is abundant beauty, nature, and heritage. However, these come amidst dozens of kilometers, with some sections and stages being easier to traverse and others more challenging. The latter are often characterized by significant elevation changes and, at times, long uphill stretches.
Below, we’ll inform you about the most talked-about stages and climbs due to their physical demands on the French Way. For many, these are considered some of the toughest stages of the Camino de Santiago.
- Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port – Collado Lepoeder
The start of the French Way at the border of France and Spain includes one of the most discussed ascents among pilgrims. The stage between Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and Roncesvalles has a pivotal point: the legendary Collado Lepoeder. Over a distance of about 20 km, the elevation rises from 150 meters to around 1,450 meters, making it one of the famous tough climbs for those starting the Camino here. This official route, known as the “Napoleon Route,” is a challenging but beautiful segment, with an alternative path through Valcarlos that is shorter and less strenuous. Any pilgrim taking on this stage must opt for the Valcarlos route if walking between November and March due to extreme snow conditions—be warned, there’s even a fine.
- Cizur Menor – Alto del Perdón
Moving along the French route, in the fourth stage, we encounter another climb frequently mentioned by the pilgrim community: the ascent to Alto del Perdón. Between Cizur Menor and this iconic spot, with its famous Jacobean sculpture ensemble, there’s an 8.5 km stretch where the elevation rises by about 300 meters.
Stages within the Meseta (from Burgos to León)
These stages are not physically difficult in terms of elevation but can be mentally challenging due to their long, flat stretches and exposure to the sun.
- Hospital – O Cebreiro
As you enter Galicia via this French route, you arrive at perhaps the most mythical place on this journey: the O Cebreiro mountain. This point marks the end of the 27th stage of the French Way from its start in Spain, and for some, it is the most demanding stage and one of the toughest climbs of the Camino. In fact, it is considered the “Queen Stage,” as it features the highest ascent of the French route. After covering 27.8 km—a considerable distance—pilgrims must tackle a final uphill stretch: about 600 meters over 8 km. But the sublime landscapes, the entrance into Galicia, and the “hyper-photographed” monument make the climb worthwhile. Moreover, the final arrival in the bucolic and legendary village of O Cebreiro, with its Santa María la Real church and historic pallozas, will be the best reward.
- Boente – Arzúa
To finish with the French Way, we can’t forget the infamous “leg-breaker,” which refers to the final stretch between Melide and Arzúa. From the church of Santiago de Boente, pilgrims face a series of three pairs of challenging descents and climbs. Like a rollercoaster, in this stretch of the last 100 km of the French Way, it’s essential to pay attention to your legs, ankles, and knees. The slopes are not very steep, but the final 8 km can be tough for those starting from Palas de Rei, making a massage in Arzúa a welcome relief.
Some stages of the French Way stand out for their natural beauty, historical richness, and cultural significance. Here is a selection of the most beautiful stages of the French Way:
- Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port – Roncesvalles
This stage, crossing the Pyrenees, is one of the most iconic on the French Way. It offers spectacular mountainous landscapes, with panoramic views and a physical challenge that makes it an unforgettable experience.
- Burgos – Hontanas
After leaving the city of Burgos behind, the path crosses the Castilian Plateau. Although it’s a long stage, the stark beauty of the wheat fields, the open skies, and the tranquility of the surroundings create an almost spiritual atmosphere.
- León – Hospital de Órbigo
Leaving the historic city of León, this stage combines the best of urban architecture with the serenity of the countryside. The Puente de Órbigo, one of the longest and best-preserved medieval bridges in Spain, is the highlight of this stage.
- Rabanal del Camino – Cruz de Ferro – Ponferrada
This stage is known for the climb to Cruz de Ferro, where pilgrims leave a stone as a symbol of their intentions or burdens. The stage continues with a descent towards Ponferrada, offering spectacular views of the León Mountains.
- Ponferrada – Villafranca del Bierzo
This stage offers a journey through the Bierzo region, famous for its vineyards and rolling landscapes. Villafranca del Bierzo is known as the “Little Compostela” for its historical richness and monuments.
- O Cebreiro – Triacastela
This stage is famous for its mountainous landscapes and mystical atmosphere. O Cebreiro, with its traditional architecture and impressive views, marks the beginning of the stage, which then descends through green valleys and forests to Triacastela.
- Triacastela – Sarria
This stage allows pilgrims to choose between two routes: a longer one passing through the Monastery of Samos, one of the oldest in Spain, and a shorter one through San Xil, offering a more direct route through the green Galician countryside.
- Sarria – Portomarín
As part of the last 100 kilometers of the Camino, this stage offers green Galician landscapes, small villages, and paths shaded by oaks and chestnut trees. The arrival in Portomarín, with its fortress church, is a highlight.
Choosing the most beautiful stage can be subjective and very personal, depending on the tastes and preferences of each pilgrim. However, one of the most highly rated stages, often highlighted for its natural, scenic, and historical beauty, is the one from O Cebreiro to Triacastela.
Some of the reasons it is considered the most beautiful include:
- Mystical Landscapes: O Cebreiro, a small mountain village, is known for its traditional “palloza” architecture and its almost magical atmosphere, especially when enveloped in mist. From here, the Camino winds through mountains and valleys, offering spectacular views of the Sierra de O Courel.
- Culture and Tradition: O Cebreiro is a place of great historical significance on the Camino. It is home to the Church of Santa María la Real, dating back to the 9th century, known for housing the legendary miracle of the Holy Grail. This village is also the entry point into Galicia, a region rich in Jacobean traditions and culture.
- Variety of Landscapes: As the path descends towards Triacastela, pilgrims transition from mountains to valleys, crossing lush forests, small streams, and charming Galician villages. The diversity of landscapes in a single stage is what makes it so special.
- Spiritual Experience: Many pilgrims describe this stage as one of the most spiritual on the Camino, thanks to its tranquility, natural beauty, and connection with ancient Galician traditions.
The total distance of the French Camino is approximately 768 km from Roncesvalles. It’s important to note that this distance can vary depending on the complementary or alternative routes a pilgrim might choose along the way. Another possible starting point for the French Camino is from Somport, known as the Aragonese Camino, which adds around 160 additional kilometers.
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