Embarking on the Camino Francés offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and personal challenge. This journey, part of the larger Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes, weaves through some of the most stunning landscapes and captivating towns of Spain. Whether you’re a seasoned pilgrim or a first-timer, choosing the right starting point can significantly enhance your experience. We often get asked ‘Where are the best starting points for the Camino Francés‘. Below, we highlight some of the best places to begin your adventure.
Camino Francés
The Camino Francés, also known as the French Way, is the most famous of all the Camino de Santiago routes. It is an ancient pilgrim path across the north of the Iberian Peninsula, the full Camino Francés begins near the gorgeous red and white town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and finishes in the holy city of Santiago de Compostela. The Last 100km of the Camino Francés is the most popular section of this route, which begins in Sarria and finishes in Santiago de Compostela. Below are the most popular starting locations for the Camino Francés, listed from those nearest to Santiago.
Sarria: The Final 100 Kilometres
Serving as the most popular starting point for the last 100km of the French way for those looking to complete the minimum distance required to receive the Compostela certificate. Sarria is a lovely town along the Camino Frances. Situated just over 100 kilometres from Santiago, it offers a manageable walk for pilgrims of all ages and abilities. There are many cafes and restaurants in Sarria so it’s a great place to socialize before your walk. There is beautiful street art dotted along the town and the narrow streets are decorated with flags and full of beautiful historic buildings. It’s a wonderful place to begin your Camino adventure.
Discover The Route:
- Walking the Camino Frances From Sarria to Santiago Last 100km.
- Easy Camino Frances from Sarria Last 100km in 10 days.
Ponferrada: The Castle Gateway
Ponferrada, home to the impressive medieval Templars Castle is a popular starting point on the Camino Francés. It’s located 200km/ 125 miles away from Santiago so is also a common starting point for those hoping to cycle the last 200km and receive their Compostela certificate in Santiago. While in Ponferrada, make sure to save some time to visit the Templars Castle. The 12th-century castle was constructed by Ferdinand II to protect pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago.
Discover The Routes:
- Cycling the Camino Frances From Ponferrada to Santiago.
- Walking the Camino Frances From Ponferrada to Santiago last 200km.
León: A Cultural Hub
A fantastic historic city León, is another favourite starting point on the Camino Francés is approximately 310km/ 190 miles from Santiago and is a city where culture, art, and history converge. Its Gothic cathedral and the modernist Casa de Botines by Gaudí are just the beginning of what’s on offer. Starting your pilgrimage in León means a journey through the heart of Castilian culture and the vast Meseta plateau. It’s a large province, bordering Galicia and Asturias, Palencia and Zamora. The city’s old town is a treasure trove of Roman and medieval history. A real highlight of León is its magnificent cathedral.
Discover The Route:
- Camino Francés From León to Santiago – customise using our route planner.
Burgos: A Gothic Masterpiece
About 490km/ 300 miles from Santiago, Burgos, is famous for its breathtaking Cathedral of Saint Mary. The city forms the principal crossway between north Spain and the Camino de Santiago, which goes through the whole city, parallel to the Arlanzón River. A city rich in history and architectural marvels, Burgos offers a more extended pilgrimage, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the Camino experience as you traverse the Meseta’s spiritual vastness.
Discover The Route:
- Camino Francés From Logrono to Burgos.
- Full Camino Francés From Burgos to Santiago – customise using our route planner.
Logroño: The Wine Capital
Approximately 640km/ 400 miles from Santiago, Logroño is the capital of the La Rioja wine region. This starting point is perfect for gastronomy enthusiasts, offering a blend of culinary delights and scenic walks through vineyards. The journey from Logroño is a feast for the senses, both culturally and naturally.
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- Camino Francés from Logroño to Burgos.
- Full Camino Francés From Logroño to Santiago – customise using our route planner.
Pamplona: Between Festivity and Tranquility
Known globally for its Running of the Bulls, Pamplona is around 750km/ 470 miles from Santiago. The city is famous worldwide for the San Fermín festival, from July 6 to 14, in which the running of the bulls or encierro is one of the main attractions. Starting your Camino here allows you to explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Navarre before transitioning into the peaceful, rolling hills of the Camino path, offering a unique blend of excitement and serenity.
Discover The Route:
- Camino Francés from Pamplona to Logroño.
- Full Camino Francés From Pamplona to Santiago – customise using our route planner.
Saint-Jean Pied-de-Port: The Traditional Starting Line
Saint-Jean Pied-de-Port, nearly 800km/ 500 miles from Santiago, is the quintessential starting point for the Camino Francés. Located in France, this medieval town marks the beginning of the traditional route over the Pyrenees. The town itself was founded in the 12th century after the original nearby town of Saint-Jean-le-Vieux was razed to the ground by Richard I of England. Embarking from here is a commitment to the full Camino experience, offering stunning landscapes and a deep sense of connection with the history and spirit of the pilgrimage.
Discover The Route:
The Camino Francés offers a variety of starting points to cater to every pilgrim’s desires and capabilities. Whether you’re seeking a short journey from Sarria to fulfil the pilgrimage’s minimum requirement or a comprehensive experience starting from Saint-Jean Pied-de-Port, each starting point has its unique charm and challenges. Remember, the Camino is not just about the destination but the journey itself—the landscapes you’ll see, the people you’ll meet, and the personal growth you’ll experience.
For more information about the Camino Francés or any other Camino de Santiago routes or to book your Camino trip, contact us. Buen Camino!
