The Four Best Options To Cycle On The Camino De Santiago

The Camino De Santiago, or way of St James, is a world-renowned route for pilgrims from many walks of life. Some do it for the prestige it affords, some do it for the companionship of likeminded souls, while some do it as they are truly devout believers. While walking the Camino is a good way to be alone with your thoughts, it’s just as enjoyable to experience on top of a bicycle.

There are several routes to consider, depending on your preferences but all require basic bicycle maintenance knowledge such as how to change a tire and repair a puncture. Most of the routes are fully suitable for bicyclists, but in crowded areas, walking will be required. This is especially true in areas with narrow steps or congested streets. Alternatives to these with bicycling options will be well-marked.

  • Camino Finisterre to Muxía

The Camino Fisterra to Muxía route is a three-day cycling tour which traverses from inland Santiago de Compostela along to the coastline of the West of Galicia. The sparkling Atlantic Ocean and beaches beckon, and the numerous fishing villages which dot the region give way to truly beautiful coast scenery.  The opportunity to enjoy a seafood meal is one you shouldn’t turn down, nor is the chance to take a dip in the cooling waters. This route will require a medium level of fitness.

The route is done over three days and four nights, with the opportunity to climb Mount Aro and enjoy its all-encompassing views of the valleys. While you can claim a pilgrimage certificate in Finisterre and end your bicycle pilgrimage early, you can also claim a Muxíana certificate in Muxía. The trip to Muxía is recommended for the chance to visit the sanctuary at Costa da Morte, and the chance to mingle with locals and learn some of the more interesting legends the region is known for.

  • Camino Via de la Plata

The Via de la Plata is a truly worthwhile bicycle adventure route for those who are fit. It starts in Sevilla and traverses 1068km, through the regions of Andalucía, Extremadura, Castilla and finally ending in Galicia. This route takes 21 days to complete, and with the added length of time bicycling, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the ever-changing scenery. From Roman cities like Mérida, to red earth tracks and remote mountain trails, there’s plenty to keep your eyes captivated.

  • Camino Francés

The Camino Francés is the most popular route for pilgrims to take and is perhaps the best-known route out of the man paths available. It is well-suited for both cyclists and walkers and has the best network of services along the way. Starting in Ponferrada, which will give you a route of 200km, is more than enough to get your Compostela certificate, but if you want, you can also cycle from Pamplona, which will avoid the Pyrenees. The Pamplona route covers 659km and takes around 14 days to complete.

  • Camino del Norte

The coast of Northern Spain in Bilbao is the starting point of the Camino del Norte, and this route traverses from Basque Country into Asturias and Galicia, with the ending point being in the region of the Atlantic Ocean. From coastal scenery, the view gives way after reaching the historical town of Ribadeo, to head into the mainland and it’s lush, natural beauty. The route will take 18 days in total if you leave from Bilbao, or ten if you leave from Gijon instead, leaving you with more time to play at Indian online casinos.

These four routes are some of the best choices around for those wanting to embark on the Camino De Santiago on a bicycle. As always, ensure you have the right know-how for tackling any kinds of problems you may encounter on the road such as bicycle punctures. A final word of advice is that a sturdy backpack, sleeping bag, and large water bottle are must-bring items.