Choosing between Cycling the Camino de Santiago from Roncesvalles to Santiago in Spain and the Portuguese Camino from Coimbra offers two unforgettable journeys along Europe’s iconic pilgrimage routes. Each Camino brings its own challenges, landscapes, and cultural experiences, making them distinct and rewarding in unique ways. Here’s a look at the characteristics, difficulty levels, rest days, highlights, and cultural activities of each tour to help you decide which path best suits your journey.
Camino Francés (Spain)
The 15-day Cycling the Camino de Santiago route through Spain spans approximately 764 kilometers (474 miles) from Roncesvalles to Santiago de Compostela, and it’s perfect for those seeking a deep connection to Spain’s traditional pilgrimage experience. This Level 3.5 tour will appeal to intermediate to avid cyclists who enjoy longer days on varied terrain. If you only have a week to spare, you can start the tour mid-way in León, although be prepared – this shorter tour is rated a Level 4, thanks to the hilly terrain approaching and crossing Galícia.
The full tour opens with some of its hardest sections, as riders tackle the steep climbs of the Pyrenees near Roncesvalles. Additional challenging stretches occur in the rolling hills of the Rioja wine region and in Galicia, where lush, green landscapes and undulating terrain add to the excitement and physical challenge. Cyclists will find two rest days on this journey, one in Burgos and another in León, allowing for relaxation and exploration of these culturally rich cities.
Cultural highlights of the Spanish Camino include historic towns, Gothic cathedrals, monasteries, and renowned wine regions. In Burgos, travelers can tour the famous Gothic cathedral, while in León, they can explore architectural wonders like the León Cathedral and the Basilica of San Isidoro. Along the way, cyclists can savor traditional Spanish cuisine, from tapas and seafood to regional wines, and enjoy the hospitality of quaint villages and vibrant cities alike. The tour ends with a grand arrival at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a monumental reward for completing this historic pilgrimage.
Portuguese Camino (Portugal)
The 12-day Cycling the Portuguese Camino tour offers a slightly shorter and gentler experience, spanning 345 kilometers (214 miles) from Coimbra, Portugal, to Santiago, Spain. This Level 2.5 tour provides a softer introduction to the Camino, making it an excellent choice for cyclists of all levels who prefer a mix of culture, coastal views, and Camino spirit without intense climbs, which is not to say the terrain isn’t varied. The 8-day version, which begins in Porto, is rated a Level 3, thanks to the hilly and long second to last day.
This tour has a more moderate pace, with most sections featuring gentle terrain and scenic routes. The most challenging part is near the Minho River crossing into Spain, where riders will face a few rolling hills, but these sections are manageable and balanced by the peaceful stretches that follow. Riders enjoy one rest day in Porto, Portugal, where they can dive into local culture and take in views of the Douro River, or explore historic neighborhoods and visit the famed port wine cellars.
Cultural highlights of the Portuguese Camino include charming Portuguese villages, vineyards, and coastal scenery. Starting in Coimbra, one of Portugal’s oldest university towns, cyclists will experience the city’s historic architecture and lively student atmosphere. The journey continues through scenic paths along Portugal’s coast, with stops in delightful towns like Porto, where riders can enjoy Portuguese cuisine and wine, explore colorful streets, and visit the city’s many museums and markets. Crossing into Spain, the route offers a peaceful countryside atmosphere, concluding with a triumphant arrival in Santiago de Compostela.
Which Camino to Choose?
The Spanish Camino Francés is ideal for cyclists looking for a complete physical and cultural challenge, as well as a sense of accomplishment in conquering iconic climbs and covering long distances. Its blend of historical sites, Spanish cuisine, and medieval architecture provides an immersive, traditional Camino experience that resonates with the spirit of the pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, the Portuguese Camino offers a more relaxed, coastal experience suited for cyclists interested in savoring Portugal’s quieter charms. The coastal views, charming towns, and welcoming communities create a balance of adventure and relaxation, making it perfect for those who want to connect with Camino culture at a gentler pace.
Both routes allow cyclists to explore Europe’s history, share in the camaraderie of the Camino, and celebrate their journey in Santiago. Whether you’re drawn to Spain’s challenging climbs or Portugal’s scenic coastlines, each Camino invites you to embark on an unforgettable adventure, discovering the landscape, culture, and spirit that make the Camino a pilgrimage of a lifetime.