Camino - Leon to Santiago Rambler

Leon is one of the most historic towns of Old Castile, a large province bordered by Galicia, Asturias, Palencia and Zamora. There is evidence of Roman occupation as well as the Moors; however it was the knights of Templar who built the castles and fortifications in the middle Ages. Ensure you take the time to visit the old city. One of Leon’s glories is without doubt the Cathedral. Constructed from the 13th Century for a period of 200 years the Collegiate Church of San Isidoro houses an impressive collection of early manuscripts. The Town Walls are of Roman and medieval construction. Overnight Leon.

Leaving Leon, the route takes you right through town and its outskirts until you reach Virgen del Camino, where legend states that the Virgin appeared in front of a shepherd in 1506 and asked him to build a shrine. Take the left fork to the hamlet of Oncina de la Valdoncina and your accommodation. Ascent 120m/descent -110m

This section is quite exposed as you cross the Paramo (desert). Walk on peaceful country roads among pastures and farmland, via the small village of Chozas de Abajo to Villar de Mazarife. Ascent 100m/descent -90m

The countryside is very agreeable as you make your way to Puente de Orbigo and your overnight town of Hospital de Orbigo. The Puente is one of the longest and best preserved medieval bridges in Spain and dates from the 13th century and is famous for a jousting tournament that took place here in 1434. Ascent 150m/descent -140m

As you walk by the Santo Toribio stone cross near San Justo de la Vega you will see Astorga in the distant valley. Astorga is at the crossroads of the Spanish Camino and the Roman Silver Road, and is known for its medieval, walled Old Town and Gaudi's Bishop's Palace. We recommend enjoying a late afternoon drink in the main square with the locals. Ascent 220m/descent -160m

Leaving Astorga you cross the river Jerga, arriving at Murias de Rechivaldo before ascending to Santa Catalina. You can take the pilgrim track or detour via the village of Castrillo de Polvazares, a Maragato village with stone houses. Own dinner arrangements this evening. Ascent 160m/descent -80m

The walk today leads to El Ganso from where the landscape changes to dense oak trees, heather and conifers as you start your ascent of "Montes de Leon”, reaching Rabanal del Camino (at 1200m), a charming mountain village with a tradition of caring for pilgrims on their way up to Cruz de Ferro. Ascent 180m/descent -120m