Itinerary:
Day 0
May 4th: Day in Logroño
Starting Point: Logroño, the capital of Spain's La Rioja region, is renowned for its vibrant wine culture and historic charm. It serves as a key stop on the Camino de Santiago, offering pilgrims a lively mix of traditional tapas bars, medieval architecture, and scenic river views. We will meet here on May 4th to prepare to start our trek together (or continue trekking if you decide to combine this stage with the previous stage). This stage is approximately 77 miles, averaging 11 miles per day.
Day 1
May 5th: Logroño to Navarette ( 13 km / 8 miles)
Terrain:
The Camino de Santiago route from Logroño to Navarrete offers a gentle, undulating terrain, with well-maintained paths that take you through vineyards and rolling hills characteristic of the La Rioja region. This 13 km stretch is easy to moderate, making it accessible for most pilgrims with a few gradual ascents and scenic views.
Highlights:
The key highlight is the arrival in Navarrete, a charming village with strong ties to the Camino, known for its medieval history and the impressive Church of the Assumption. Along the way, you'll pass through the beautiful Parque de la Grajera, where you can enjoy the reservoir and local wildlife. This stage is a serene and culturally rich experience, perfect for those on a self-guided or "Camino Contigo" journey.
Day 2
May 6th: Navarrete to Najera (16 km / 10 miles)
Terrain:
The Camino de Santiago route from Navarrete to Nájera spans approximately 16 km (10 miles) with a moderately easy terrain. The path features gentle rolling hills, vineyards, and rural landscapes typical of the La Rioja region. While there are a few uphill sections, most of the route is manageable, with well-marked trails that make it ideal for pilgrims of all levels.
Highlights:
Key highlights of this stage include passing through the beautiful vineyards of La Rioja and the ancient Roman bridge in the town of Ventosa. The final highlight is reaching the historic town of Nájera, a former royal residence with rich cultural heritage, including the Monastery of Santa María la Real, which houses royal tombs and stunning cloisters. This stage combines natural beauty with deep historical significance.
Day 3
May 7th: Najera to Santo Domingo de la Calzada (21 km / 13 miles)
Terrain:
The Camino de Santiago route from Nájera to Santo Domingo de la Calzada covers approximately 21 kilometers (13 miles) with a mostly flat terrain, making it a moderate walk for pilgrims. The path takes you through a mix of open farmlands, vineyards, and gentle hills, with wide, well-maintained trails that offer expansive views of the rural landscape.
Highlights:
The key highlight of this stage is arriving in Santo Domingo de la Calzada, a historic town famous for its deep connections to the Camino. Notable landmarks include the Cathedral of Santo Domingo, which houses the legendary chicken coop, tied to the miracle of the hanged pilgrim. Along the way, you’ll also enjoy scenic countryside and small villages, making it a memorable day whether you're on a self-guided pilgrimage or using "Camino Guiding" services.
Day 4
May 8th: Santo Domingo de la Calzada to Belorado (23 km / 14 miles)
Terrain: Mostly flat with some gentle undulations; the path alternates between dirt tracks and paved roads.
Highlights:
Granary Silos: Pass by modern agricultural landscapes and traditional granary silos, which contrast with the historic surroundings.
Redecilla del Camino: Stop at this small village to see its 12th-century baptismal font.
Belorado: Discover the historic center with its medieval square and remnants of ancient fortifications.
Day 5
May 9th: Belorado to Villafranca Montes de Oca (12 km / 7.5 miles)
Terrain: A relatively short and easy day, with a gentle ascent as you approach the Montes de Oca.
Highlights:
Tosantos: A tiny village known for its hermitage carved into the rock.
San Juan de Ortega: Optional detour to this small village, known for its Romanesque church and monastery.
Villafranca Montes de Oca: A historic stopover for pilgrims, nestled at the base of the Montes de Oca range, surrounded by oak and pine forests.
Day 6
May 10th: Villafranca Montes de Oca to Atapuerca (20 km / 12.5 miles)
Terrain: Challenging terrain with a steep ascent through the Montes de Oca, followed by a descent into the Atapuerca plain.
Highlights:
Montes de Oca: Walk through dense forests and over streams, a stretch that offers solitude and natural beauty.
San Juan de Ortega: This village is an important pilgrimage site with a Romanesque monastery.
Atapuerca: Explore the famous prehistoric site where ancient human remains were discovered, offering a glimpse into early human history.
Day 7
May 11th: Atapuerca to Burgos (20 km / 12.5 miles)
Terrain: Mix of rural paths, rocky terrain, and urban walking. The approach to Burgos involves some industrial areas before reaching the historic city center.
Highlights:
Matagrande: A small ascent leading to a plateau offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Orbaneja Riopico: A small village where the landscape starts transitioning from rural to urban.
Burgos: Arrive in the majestic city of Burgos, with its world-renowned Gothic Cathedral, the Monastery of Las Huelgas, and the historic atmosphere of its old town.
