Vineyards, Sunflowers and Authentic Villages
From Logrono to Burgos
The French Way is the most traditional of all the pilgrims' ways to Santiago and the best known internationally. The third section of the Camino Frances starts from Logrono in the heart of the famous Rioja region and finishes in medieval Burgos. This section is slightly flatter than the previous; it crosses the hilly province of Burgos, passing typical villages, vineyards and ruined castles.
Everyday, during the walk, you are guaranteed a high level of comfort and gastronomy. The Camino de Santiago is clearly marked with the “Scallop Shell” showing you the way. This walk can be physically demanding and requires a reasonable level of fitness. However, it’s a highly rewarding walk that includes numerous cultural highlights.
DAY 1 - Logrono
You will be pre-booked in a traditional hotel in the heart of the town. Logrono is a city rich in history and traditions that have been preserved since the Middle Ages.
DAY 2 – Logrono To Najera (8h, 29km, +260m -160m).
This first day is an easy stage through landscape dominated by vineyards. After 12km, you will pass Navarrete, a town build in the 12th century by the "Knights of the Holy Sepulchre". Here you will have a chance to stop for some refreshments and to visit the fabulous Baroque Church of "La Ascension". Finally, arriving in Najera in the afternoon, you can enjoy the panoramic views from this hill-top town.
DAY 3 – Najera to Santo Domingo de la Calzada (6h, 21km, +280m -130m)
Country roads dominate this stage, which runs through the Cantabrian mountain range to the north, and the La Demanda mountain range to the south. Enjoy a shorter walking day with great views. There is the possibility to visit the Monastery of "Valvanera" deep in the middle of the "Sierra de la Demanda". Later today, you will arrive in Santo Domingo de la Calzada; another great milestone on the road to Santiago.
DAY 4 – Santo Domingo de la Calzada to Belorado (7h15, 23km, +260m -130m)
After a brief walk through a wooded area, the Camino takes us through crop fields, interspersed with small brooks and oak woods. This landscape warns us of the approaching mountain range and, indeed, we can soon see the Oca mountains looming on the horizon. This afternoon, you will have the chance to relax in the lovely main square of Belorado. On the route, don't miss the Altarpiece in the 16t-century church of San Juan Bautista, in Granon.
DAY 5 – Belorado to St Juan de Ortega (7h15, 24km, +370m - 150m)
Until you get to Villafranca Montes de Oca (14km), this stage is similar to the previous one. However, as you go deeper into the woods, you will soon discover the beautiful Oca mountains. In St Juan de Ortega, have a look at the Gothic Mausoleum.
DAY 6 – St Juan de Ortega to Burgos (5h15, 26km, +150m - 250m)
After a quiet sojourn in the mountains you will make your way down into the valley of the Pico river. Here, the tranquil landscapes disappear, making way for the roads and buildings that characterise Burgos and its outskirts.
DAY 7 – Burgos, end of the walking holiday
After breakfast we bid you farewell. Burgos still preserves important vestiges of its medieval splendour. The city, which was the capital of the unified kingdom of Castilla-Leon for five centuries, boasts a masterpiece of Spanish Gothic architecture; the Cathedral of Burgos (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Aside from a visit to the historic quarter, you can take quite an interesting walk along the banks of the Duero and Arlanza rivers. Discover the delicious and varied local cuisine in one of the city's restaurants.