Camino - Burgos to Leon

Make your own way to the first hotel in Burgos then set out to explore the city’s many attractions, starting with its impressive Gothic cathedral.

The first stage of this Camino takes you into the rural Meseta landscape through vast fields of wheat, barley and oats. It's a peaceful walk via Tardajos to Hornillos. In the afternoon, a short transfer at 3pm (included) takes you to your accommodation in Isar.

Distance 22.3km/14mi

A morning transfer (at 8.30am, included) will take you back to Hornillos to continue your Camino. Today's walk continues on the plain, with a couple of small hills along the way. Pass by wheat fields to Hontanas and the ruins of the Convent of San Antón. Finally along a flat stretch will see you arriving at the pretty village of Castrojeriz.

Distance 21km/13.2mi

Today's walk is through a quiet, open landscape. Leaving Castrojeriz, the path leads uphill to the Alto de Mostelares, from where you will descend towards the river Piserga, the natural border of two typically Castilian provinces, Burgos and Palencia. Continue and from Itero de la Vega you follow the Canal de Castilla into the historic town of Frómista.

Distance 26km/16.3mi

This stage takes you along quiet, flat trails bordering crop fields and through small towns such as Población de Campos, Revenga de Campos and Villalcázar de Sirga. Later you reach Carrión de los Condes, a heritage jewel with important monuments including the Church of Santa María del Camino and the monastery San Zoilo, now a hotel. Overnight in Carrion.

Distance 19km/11.8mi

This stage is quite short, allowing you more time in Carrion de los Condes. The Camino opens onto a rural environment on today's straight stretch. Weather permitting, enjoy the silhouette of the Cantabrian Mountains in the distance. Cross the Cañada Real Leonesa, sometimes sharing the path with flocks of sheep, and make your way to the small village of Calzadilla de la Cueza.

Distance 17km/10.6mi

From Calzadilla de la Cueza the first couple of kilometres are uphill. Continue through the towns of Lédigos, Terradillo de Templarios and Moratinos, before arriving at Sahagún. The Church of San Lorenzo dating from the 12th and 13th centuries and built in the Mudéjar style is interesting. You will have two nights here.

Distance 23km/14.4mi

You will leave Sahagún by crossing the bridge over the river Cea. On arrival at Calzada del Coto the Camino divides into two paths. Follow the path to the left through Bercianos del Camino to reach El Burgo Ranero. In the afternoon, a transfer at 3pm (included) will take you back to Sahagún and your hotel.

Distance 18km/11.2mi

This morning you transfer back to El Burgo Ranero (at 8.30am, included) to continue your walk. This stage leads you to Mansilla de las Mulas, not far from León. The route is a little more demanding than the previous days, as you head into the hills on a gradual, continuous ascent. There are very few villages along the way. Mansilla is where the two branches of the walk reunite.

Distance 19km/11.8mi

Cross the bridge over the river Esla to leave Mansilla, and then the river Porma at Villarente. From the Alto del Portillo there are great views to the city of León, dominated by its cathedral. A short and steep descent will lead you into the city centre.

Leon is one of the most historic towns of the Camino and in Spain. There is evidence of Roman occupation as well as the Moors; however it was the Knights Templar who built the castles and fortifications in the Middle Ages. Ensure you take 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 in Leon.

Distance 18.6km/11.6mi

Trip concludes after breakfast. Own onward arrangements or continue the walk to Santiago. We can assist with booking extra nights if you'd like to stay longer.