The French Way - Following Tradition 1 Week Cycling Trip 10 Days / 9 nights
The perfect trip for those with a little more time. Starting in the Capital of Castilla Leon, this trip offers a perfect blend of beautiful scenery, historical sites and enough time to fully disconnect from our daily routine. Let yourself be absorbed in the daily rhythm of cycling, meeting people along the way and taking in the Spanish culture.
The French Way - 10Day Trip
From Leรณn to Santiago de Compostela Day 1 Madrid to Leรณn
Arrival at Madrid airport and transfer via high speed train to Leรณn, your starting point and home for the first night.
Day 2 Leรณn
A day to prepare for your cycling adventure. Pick-up your bicycle, buy some snacks and other provisions for the days ahead. Once you are all set, take the time to explore this wonderful city, once the ancient capital of Spain.
Day 3 Leรณn - Astorga 60 km (37 miles)
The terrain after leaving the city of Leon is mainly a gentle downhill all the way to Astorga. Passing the legendary and impressive medieval bridge in Hospital de Orbigo along the way. Astorga also holds some of the most important Roman ruins in the area and a fascinating cathedral.
The French Way - 10 Day Trip
Day 4 Astorga - Ponferrada 53 km (33 miles)
Today, things start to get more serious, as the entire morning is a gradual ascension to the Cruz de Hierro (the Iron cross), an emblematic place along the Camino Frances. Adding a stone at the foot of this cross has become an important camino ritual with many pilgrims over the centuries. A beautiful long downhill awaits on the other side.
Day 5 Ponferrada - Viduedo 60 km (37 miles)
We start by passing a series of villages located in the heart of the Bierzo valley as we admire the size of the neighbouring mountains that surround us. The day ends with a steep 8km climb to Ocebreiro. This village looks, feels, and to a certain extent, is, completely Celtic. A very popular place along the Camino de Santiago.
Day 6 Viduedo - Portomarin 52 km (32 miles)
A great day as you’ll spend most of it in the quiet countryside, discovering the peacefulness of rural Galicia. You’ll end with a long downhill into Portomarin, situated along the banks of the Mino.
The French Way - 10 Day Trip Day 7 Portomarin - Arzua 53 km (33 miles)
Today takes you through Melide, a village that has become a culinary turning point for Spain. It has made Pulpo Gallego legendary throughout the country. A simple recipe of octopus, potatoes and paprika but when prepared just right, lights up your taste buds!
Day 8 Arzua - Santiago de Compostela 43 KM (27 miles)
A shorter distance in cycling today in order to take full advantage of the city’s sites. There is tons to see and do, on top of enjoying the fulfillment of reaching your destination!
Day 9 & 10 Santiago to Madrid
Enjoy a full day in Santiago de Compostela. The following morning, return via high speed train to Madrid.
HAVE EXTRA TIME?
Consider extending your trip by a day or two to fully enjoy the city or even take a day trip to Finistere, once believed to be the ‘end of the world’. Ask us for details.
2015 PRICING - Per person, based on double occupancy, in Euros.
3 Star hotels -1,395€ (2,235$ US) Solo traveler supplement - 375€ (525 US) 1 & 2 star hotels- 1,195€ (1,675 US) Solo traveler supplement - 245€ (355 US)
Booking Conditions OUR PRICES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING;
- En suite Private room & Bathroom - Luggage transfers - High Speed Train Tickets from Madrid to Leon - High Speed Train Tickets from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid - Bicycle rental for duration of trip with pannier pack - All breakfasts (only in 3 star level accommodations) - Access To 24 Hour Help Line - Personalized Electronic Guidebook For Each Participant Which Includes: - Camino trail map with GPS locations of your lodges - Daily route notes, elevation profiles and itinerary overview - Informative notes and videos of sites of interest - Restaurant reviews and suggestions - Essential services locator (banks, pharmacies, water, etc) - Food menu translator - Common Spanish phrasebook - Tips for how to prepare & train for the Camino - First Aid & Emergency situation tips
OUR PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE;
- Personal Expenses - Meals outside of breakfast - Museum entrances and paid visits - Potential taxi services to shorten days - Travel Insurance - Flights
Some of our preferred Lodging ASTORGA - CASA DE TEPA
An 18th century home transformed into a beautiful small hotel. Inner courtyard with a garden & chairs to unwind in.
LEON - HOTEL PARIS SPA
Modern rooms with comfortable beds. Ideal central location next to the Cathedral. The small spa is a nice bonus.
POUSADA PORTOMARIN
A large modern hotel with all the latest amenities, ideally located on the Camino Frances in the heart of town.
ARZUA - PAZO DE SEDOR
A lovely manor home from the 17th century, with beautiful and relaxing grounds, located on the outskirts of town.
SANTIAGO - HOTEL ALTAIR
Modern rooms in an ancient home. Located on the edge of the historical center, where it is much quieter and tranquil.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Our preferred lodges have been carefully selected for their location, comfort, charm and consistent friendly service. They are subject to availability. Should one of our preferred lodges not be available, we will provide you with one of the same standard & price.
Our Services
PERSONALIZED ITINERARY
We tailor all of our trips specifically to your needs, ensuring you get the trip you want.
PERSONAL ‘GUIDE’
Our Electronic Guide offers you directions, tips and advice every step of your journey.
FREEDOM
Select where you want to stop, where and what to eat, experience it your Way.
LODGING VARIETY
Understanding your needs and expectations. Our team scopes out the best for all budgets.
LUGGAGE TRANSFER
We ensure your bags are waiting for you at your destination at the end of your day.
TOP SERVICE
Our staff is here for you from start to finish. Dedicated to make this is a trip of a lifetime.
Give yourself the best of both worlds: -Flexibility of traveling on your own -Security & Support of a guided trip
Rayo Active Travel Inc, 113 Tuscany Way NW, Calgary, AB, T3L 2A4
www.rayotravel.com