Via De La Plata Walking Guide Login

the Free Guide to the Vía de la Plata

3 hours ago Today the Vía de la Plata is a popular alternative to the Camino Francés for people looking for solitude and a more authentic Camino experience (with its accompanying difficulties). About the guide I started writing this guide after I can back from walking the Vía de la Plata from Seville to Santiago via Astorga in the winter of 2009, and ...

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The Via de la Plata - a detailed guide & walking stages

6 hours ago

• Day 1. Seville – Guillena, 23 km* Day 1. Seville – Guillena, 23 km* Time – 4h45min.Walking on the road – 3 kmWalking on asphalt – 10 kmAscent – 158 mDescent – 124 mDifficulty level – 2 out of 5 *All daily distances are from albergue to albergue. Elevation profile Day 1 Seville – Guillena The walk starts from the cathedral in Seville, there are a couple of yellow arrows and a shell at the corner of Avenida de la Conctitución and Calle García de Vinuesa. To our surprise it was quite easy and quick to walk out of the city, it took us about 30 min. and we didn’t go through any industrial or residential areas of the city. Most of the day the route went through the fields but there was an unpleasant walking on the road for about 3 km after Santiponce. Santiponce is the only town on the way, it’s about 9 km from Seville and it’s worth stopping here and visiting the famous Roman ruins; the Roman Therms and the Roman Amphitheatre. The Amphitheater, by the way, was featured in season 7 of Game of Thrones as the Dragonpit. Unfortunately, we couldn’t visit them because it was closed on Monday. For more information on the ruins of Italica and opening hours visit .  If you want to visit both ruins I’d suggest to go first to the Roman Theatre and from there to the Therms as you can walk through the Archaeological park and exit on the other side of it right on the Camino. If you want to stop for lunch Santiponce is the only place on the way, don’t forget to refill your water there will be nowhere to do it till Guillena. Highlights Stunning Gothic cathedral of SevilleTriana district in SevilleThe Roman ruins of Italica, Santiponce Challenges 3 km of walking on the road after SantiponceNo places to stop or to refill water between Santiponce and Guillena, for 13 km Guillena A small town with good infrastructure though we were here on Sunday and everything was closed. Albergue Luz del Camino The Public albergue costs the same we came across the private one first, the lady in charge was very nice and friendly so we decided to stay here. The albergue is nice, clean and comfortable. They try to give pilgrims more privacy we got a dormitory only for us though there were beds available in the other dorms. Price 10€  per person, 12€ with breakfast. Kitchen – yesHot shower – yesWi-fi – yesPower sockets in the room – yesBlankets – yesWashing machine – yesExtra – washing lines, terrace A typical scenery on the Via de la Plata; fields, olive tree plantations, and a gravel road
• Day 2. Guillena – Castilblanco de los Arroyos, 18 km Day 2. Guillena – Castilblanco de los Arroyos, 18 km Time – 4h12min.Walking on the road – 0 km but the last 3 km are on the footpath next to the roadWalking on asphalt – 2 kmAscent – 386 mDescent – 91 mDifficulty level – 2 out of 5 Elevation profile Day 2 Guillena – Castilbalnco de los Arroyos We didn’t pay for breakfast in the albergue we stopped on the way at one of the locals bars S.C.A. Kibarpe, next to the supermarket Dia, they have good coffee and sandwiches, we paid 5 Euro for both. It was a relatively short and easy walking day with a slight ascend about 386 m throughout the day. In the beginning, you walk through Guillena town till the bridge, then cross the bridge after that turn right, away from the road, there will be a Camino sign. The route through the town is not marked very well, here and there you see an arrow but it’s not difficult you basically just follow the main street from the albergue all the way out. At about 3 km after crossing the road you get to a very muddy path through the olive tree plantations. At about 8 km a beautiful forest substitutes the plantations. There are no villages on the way no places to stop for coffee or food. At 10 km there is a place to refill water you won’t miss it there is a big sign on the righthand side. The last 3 km before Castilblanco are on the footpath along the road. Highlights Walking through the forest and the fieldsCastilblanco – a cozy white town with a nice church and many starks around it.Communal dinner at the albergue Challenges A very muddy and slippery path between 3 km and 5 kmNothing between Guillena and Castilblanco Castilblanco de los Arroyos A nice small town several bars and restaurants on the main street and a beautiful church with many storks’ nests on the roof. Albergue de peregrinos de Castilblanco Located at the entrance to the town, next to the petrol station. The albergue is nice but quite small, there are only 18 beds and two bathrooms. People who arrived later had to stay in a private albergue. Price – donation. The Italian couple that was volunteering there made a communal dinner (3,5€ per person), it was great to sit at the same table with other pilgrims and get to know each other right at the beginning of the Camino. Kitchen – yesHot shower – yesWi-fi – yesPower sockets in the room – yesBlankets – yesWashing machine – noExtra – washing lines, terrace, communal dinner – 3,5 Euro
• Day 3. Castilblanco de los Arroyos – Almadén de la Plata, 28,7 km Day 3. Castilblanco de los Arroyos – Almadén de la Plata, 28,7 km Time – 6h.Walking on the road – 16,5 kmWalking on asphalt – 16,5 kmAscent – 649 mDescent – 521 mDifficulty level – 3 out of 5 Elevation profile Day 3 Castilblanco de los Arroyos – Almadén de la Plata I’d suggest making sure you have enough water before you leave Castilblanco as well as to take some snacks with and to have breakfast in the town before you leave. There is literally nothing on the way; no place to refill water, no place to buy food till you reach Almadén de la Plata. It was quite a long day of walking. The first part was on the road after an hour or so it got quite monotonous but it wasn’t as bad as we thought, the road was not very busy. The second part, after 16,5 km, is through Natural Park Sierra Norte. The scenery in the park is beautiful; green hills, trees, many flowers (in spring) and a couple of smallish rivers. Unfortunately, we couldn’t really enjoy the scenery as it was raining non stop all the time we were in the park. Highlights Natural Park Sierra Norte Challenges Walking on the road for the first 16,5 kmNo place to stop for food or water for 28 kmSteep but not long ascent just before Almadén de la Plata Almadén de la Plata This town is smaller than Castilblanco, it has a couple of restaurants and shops, a square with a church and a Jamon factory. Albergue Casa Clara We were planning to stay in the municipal one and even went there but didn’t like the location too much it’s far from the shops and restaurants so we went back to the private albergue that has a restaurant and located on the main square, near the supermarket, and right on the Camino. Price 12€ pp. per bed or 20 Euro with Menu del Dia (complete lunch). The public albergue costs 10 Euro so not a big difference. Casa Clara is a small albergue with only two rooms with 4 beds each more like a shared apartment than the albergue. Facilities Kitchen – yes but very few utensils for cookingHot shower – yesWi-fi – yesPower sockets in the room – yesBlankets – yesWashing machine – yes, free of chargeExtra – washing lines Sierra Norte Natural Park, a patch of a green forest on the Via de la Plata.
• Day 4. Almaden de la Plata – Monesterio, 35 km Day 4. Almaden de la Plata – Monesterio, 35 km Time – 7h45min.Walking on the road – 2 km short bit here and there on the last 8 kmWalking on the asphalt – 4 km through the towns and a little bit along the roadAscent – 850 mDescent – 575 mDifficulty level – 4 out of 5 it was a long walking day Elevation profile Day 4 Almadén de la Plata – Monesterio Option! If you think walking 35 km in one day is too much you can always split this day into two; walk 13,5 km to Real de la Jara and the next day 21 km to Monasterio. A second long day in a raw, most pilgrims we started with walked 13 km and stayed in Real de la Jara, many people split this day into two. At the beginning of the day, we continued walking through Natural Park Sierra Norte with beautiful scenery and many smallish ups and downs. Luckily, today there are two stops on the route so you can put down your backpack and sit down, drink coffee, eat something and refill your water. At Real de la Jara you leave the region of Andalusia and enter Extremadura. The last 8 km are next to the road mostly on the footpath crossing the road here and there. Highlights A beautiful walk through the countryside and forestThe castle in El Real de la Jara Challenges A long walking day, 35 km and it did feel long and tiring. Monesterio Don’t be confused by the name, the actual monastery is 5 km outside the town you won’t see it unless you walk there or take a taxi. The town itself is quite big compared to most towns on the Via de la Plata. Albergue Las Moreras We stayed in the municipal albergue Las Moreras, it’s located a bit away from the town center but close to the supermarket and a couple of bars/restaurants. The rooms are small, only two beds which is great we had our own room. There is a bathroom for every two rooms which is another great thing as you don’t have to share one shower/toilet with 10 other people. Fellow pilgrims stayed in albergue Parroquial de Monesterio and really liked it as well, it looks like both albergues in Monesterio are great, both charge 10€ pp. Kitchen – yesHot shower – yesWi-fi – yesPower sockets in the room – yesBlankets – yesWashing machine – yes, 3 EuroExtra – dryer – 4 Euro, washing lines, TV, fireplace Ruins of a castle just outside El Real de la Jarra on the border between Andalusia and Extremadura
• Day 5. Monesterio – Fuente de Cantos, 20,6 km Day 5. Monesterio – Fuente de Cantos, 20,6 km Time – 4h20min.Walking on the road – 0 kmWalking on the asphalt – 2 km through the townsAscent – 291 mDescent – 432 mDifficulty level – 2 out of 5 Elevation profile Day 5 Monesterio – Fuente de Cantos We started the day quite late, it took us about 10 min. to walk out of the town, at the exit there is a restaurant that opens at 7 am, they have coffee or hot chocolate with churros for 1,5 Euro. Make sure to have enough water with there will be nothing on the way. The walk was easy and nice with light ups and downs, through a very quiet countryside with olive tree plantations, wheat fields, cows, sheep, etc. far from the road and any other disturbing noises. Highlights Very peaceful area with no people, cars, houses only fields and nature. Challenges Nothing on the way for 20 km you have to carry enough water with for the whole day. Fuente de Cantos A cozy little white town with a small square and a church on it and narrow cobblestone streets. Hotel El Zaguán de la Plata An amazing old house with several rooms, a lovely garden, a swimming pool, and an awesome shower – one of our favorite places on the Camino. Price 15€ per person for private, 12€ per bed in a dormitory. Kitchen – yesHot shower – yesWi-fi – yesPower sockets in the room – yesBlankets – yesWashing machine – yes, 2 EuroExtra – dryer – 3 Euro, washing lines, swimming pool, garden
• Day 6. Fuente de Cantos – Zafra, 24,7 km Day 6. Fuente de Cantos – Zafra, 24,7 km Time – 5h15min.Walking on the road – 0 kmWalking on the asphalt – last 4 km to ZafraAscent – 212 mDescent – 288 mDifficulty level – 2 out of 5 Elevation profile Day 6 Fuente de Cantos – Zafra It was an easy walking day through the countryside most of the time make sure to have enough water with from 6 km to 20 km there is nothing on the way except a shelter at 15 km where you can stop and rest, drink water or eat something. Highlights Peaceful scenery; olive tree plantations, vineyards, pasture fields, etc. The historical center of Zafra; Plaza Grande, Plaza Chica, Convento de Santa Clara. If you’ve happened to be here on weekend definitely go to one of the squares and drink a glass of wine or beer, there are many restaurants and bars here, on weekends they are full of locals, it has a great holiday vibe. Challenges 14 km in the middle of the day with nothing on the way Zafra It’s more of a city place, much bigger than other stops on the way. The historical part of Zafra is really nice; cobblestone streets, two beautiful squares, a cathedral, a fortress, and several smallish parks. Albergue Vicente Van Gogh It’s the only albergue in the city (there was another one Albergue Convento de San Francisco but it was closed in 2018), the place is nice and spacious, it´s located close to the historical center, shops, restaurants and right on the Camino. Price 12€ pp. including breakfast. The owner was a bit obsessed with everything being the way he wants or used to but it´s manageable. Breakfast wasn´t amazing we stopped on the way for a proper coffee with a Tostada. Kitchen – yesHot shower – yesWi-fi – yesPower sockets in the room – yesBlankets – yesWashing machine – yes, 2 EuroExtra – dryer – 3 Euro, washing lines, terrace Alya in the wheat fields, the dominating scenery on the Via de la Plata in Extremadura
• Day 7. Zafra – Villafranca de los Barros, 20,5 km Day 7. Zafra – Villafranca de los Barros, 20,5 km Time – 4h20min.Walking on the road – 400 mWalking on asphalt – 8 km; first 7 km from Zafra and last 1 km toAscent – 246 mDescent – 339 mDifficulty level – 1 out of 5 a short and easy walking day Elevation profile Day 7 Zafra – Villafranca de los Barros It was an easy walking day except the very beginning, the route through Zafra is not marked very well, everybody got a bit lost (we left first and stopped at a bar for breakfast and could see other fellow pilgrims wandering around in search of yellow arrows), in the end, we had to ask locals. We followed the arrows to the Plaza Grande and then lost them, the same happened to everybody. I’d suggest once you’re on the Square ask around will point you the right way. You walk out of the town following Calle San Francisco you can find it on the map. The rest of the day was very similar to the previous two walking days. After 4,5 km there is a small town where you can stop for coffee, it’s the only stop on the route. Highlights Cathedral and cobblestone streets of Los Santos de MaimonaOlive tree plantations and vineyards Challenges Nothing on the way for 15 km between Los Santos de Maimona and Villafranca de los Barros, make sure to carry enough water with the route goes through the fields with no shadow. Villafranca de los Barros A typical town with the main square a couple of churches and many restaurants and bars. We were here on Sunday everything was closed even restaurants didn’t serve food between 4 pm and 8.30 pm because kitchens are closed at this time of the day. Albergue Las Caballeras It’s right at the entrance to the town, most of the other pilgrims walked on to Albergue Carmen (10€ pp.), we paid 12€ per person per bed. Tip! If you’re a couple ask for a double bed there is one on the upper floor you get more privacy. Kitchen – yesHot shower – yesWi-fi – yesPower sockets in the room – yesBlankets – yesWashing machine – yes, 2 EuroExtra – washing lines, breakfast – 3 Euro, coffee 1 Euro
• Day 8. Villafranca de los Barros – Torremejía, 27,5 km Day 8. Villafranca de los Barros – Torremejía, 27,5 km Time – 5h24min.Walking on the road – 0 mWalking on the asphalt – 3 km in the townsAscent – 105 mDescent – 221 mDifficulty level – 3 out of 5, a long walking day with no places to stop for food or water Elevation profile Day 8 Villafranca de los Barros – Torremejía Note! There is a town Almendralejo about half way with a couple of hotels but it’s 4 km off the route in order to get there and then back on the Camino you’ll have to walk 8 km extra. The walk wasn’t difficult but it’s quite long we’d strongly recommend starting walking early in order to skip the midday heat. We walked the Via de la Plata at the end of April and it was already quite hot after 10 am. Make sure you have enough water to last you the whole day there will be no place to refill it. The scenery was very similar to the previous days; vineyards, olive trees, fields and not much else. Highlights Beautiful sunrise on the way out of the town (if start early enough).Vineyards and olive tree plantations, to be honest after a couple of days this scenery started to get quite monotonous. Challenges Quite long distance with no places to stop or to refill water on the way. Torremejía Another small white town with a couple of hotels, one albergue, restaurants, and supermarkets. Albergue Rojo Plata The only budget place to stay in the town, nice place with several rooms with bunk beds but only one shower/toilet for men and one for women so if it’s full you’ll have to wait in the queue. Price 12€ per bed or 22€ including lunch or dinner and breakfast. The location is quite good, on the route, close to the supermarket and restaurants. Kitchen – yesHot shower – yesWi-fi – yesPower sockets in the room – yesBlankets – yesWashing machine – noExtra – AC, breakfast – 3 Euro, washing lines
• Day 9. Torremejía – Merida, 15,6 km Day 9. Torremejía – Merida, 15,6 km Time – 3h10min.Walking on the road – 2 kmWalking on the asphalt – 5 kmAscend – 79 mDescend – 175 mDifficulty level – 1 out of 5, short and easy walking day Elevation profile Day 9 Torremejía – Mérida To walk out of the town you can go left from the albergue and follow the gravel road for a little bit or go right towards the restaurant and follow the road, both routes join after about 500 m. It wasn’t the most beautiful walking day, the first half was along the road, sometimes on the road, the second half past some sort of industrial area or factories. And again nowhere to stop on the way we’d recommend to have breakfast in Torremejía and carry enough water. Highlights The Roman bridge at the entrance to MeridaSeveral Roman ruins in Merida; aqueduct Los Milagros, Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre, Circo Romano, Alcazaba. Challenges at the beginning of the day 2 km of walking on the road out of 7 km of walking next to the road. Merida It’s a World Heritage city with several impressive Roman sights. If you have time I’d suggest stopping here for 2 days if not try to start walking early in the morning in order to have more time to explore the city. We stayed for 2 nights here; the first night at the municipal albergue Molino de Pancaliente and the second is a guest house. Merida seems to be quite a popular place to start the Camino there are more pilgrims here than in the previous towns on the way. It’s another reason to start earlier to get a spot in the albergue, there are only 16 beds and it’s the only budget accommodation in the city. Like in any other public albergue you can stay here only for one night. Albergue de peregrinos Molino de Pancaliente It’s the cheapest albergue we got on the whole way (except the donation one) and it was quite basic, the only albergue we stayed on this route that didn’t have wi-fi, blankets, and anything in the kitchen. Price 8€. Kitchen – no, only microwave & fridgeHot shower – yesWi-fi – noPower sockets in the room – yesBlankets – noWashing machine – yes, 3 EuroExtra – washing lines, dryer – 2 Euro, breakfast – 3 Euro We finished the Via de la Plata in Mérida where we stayed for 2 days in order to have time to explore the Roman ruins. From here we went to Portugal where we spent two weeks walking . We’re planning to finish this Camino route next year and walk from Mérida all the way to Santiago de Compostela and from there continue . Campbell on the Puente Romano, an old Roman bridge at the entrance to Mérida Vía de la Plata route planning resources Learn more about the Camino de Santiago | |How much does it cost to walk the Camino | |How to plan the Camino walk? | |Learn about the history of the Camino | | .post-title::after{content: " on: The Via de la Plata – a detailed guide & walking stages"} Sign me up for the newsletter!Δ This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. . Robbyn Macdonald Sunday 31st of October 2021 Thank you so much, really valuable advice. I was considering starting VdlP mid February next year, I know it’s probably not ideal but I have a window from then to walk it from Seville to Santiago. I’ve done a lot of full Camino’s so distance isn’t a problem, I’m just concerned starting mid Feb alone, that maybe I won’t find accommodation open all the way, won’t find anyone to walk with some days and maybe the weather will be very unpleasant. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much in advance. Robb Macdonald Stingy Nomads Monday 1st of November 2021 Hello, Robbyn. Thank you for the comment. To be honest, February is not the best month for walking the Via de la Plata. We know some people that walked this Camino in February and had a lot of rain some parts of the route were flooded they had to do longer loops and go around. Some albergues close for off-season between December and March but some stay open. You'll have to do some thorough planning before starting the walk. I guess you'll have to stay in hotels and pensions more which might be even better in winter (warmer and more comfortable). There are never many people on the route even in the peak season you're right about walking alone most of the days. Good luck! Bernie Molloy Friday 2nd of April 2021 Hi,planning to do the via de la plata( my first Camino) in Sept 22,so any further info(apart from the great information above) up to then,would be appreciated.Thanks Stingy Nomads Friday 2nd of April 2021 Hi, Bernie! We have a lot of posts on the Camino de Santiago where you can find more info on the packing, cost, etc. The only extra info I can add is that September isn't the best month for walking the Via de la Plata, at least not the Andalusia/Extremadura part of it. It's the hottest month in these regions, it gets to 40-45C considering long distances between towns and villages you'll have to carry at least 4-5L of water with you every day. We walked it in April and it already was getting quite hot. Our friend (ultra-marathon runner) tried to walk it in July and had to stop after a week due to constant dehydration. I'd suggest choosing a different month or a different route especially if it's your first long-distance walk (I'm not sure if your first Camino means you've never done a 1000km walk before). Any other Camino is totally fine to walk in September but not the Via. Buen Camino! The Lonesome Drifter Wednesday 20th of January 2021 Hi. Great information, thank you! I have a question, I would prefer to wild camp, rather than pay to stay in Alberges, did you see many people camping or if not, are there places that are suitable? Finally, what would you expect to find in the Albergues. Washing facilities? Cooking facilities? Or are they usually just a room to get your head down? Thanks again. Stingy Nomads Thursday 21st of January 2021 Hello! We didn't see or meet anybody camping on the Via de la Plata. And I don't think there are many places that are suitable for wild camping as far as I know wild camping is illegal in many Spanish provinces. The route goes through private fields and farms most of the time you can always wait until it gets dark and pitch your tent then and break it down before the sunset if you really want to wild camp. The main problem with the Via is that there is nothing in between just filed, no places to refill water or to buy food until you reach the next town at the end of every stage. Someday we had to carry 3l of water each to make sure we have enough until we finished. If you do wild camping you'll have to carry a lot of water for drinking and cooking and enough food with you every day. As for albergues they have good facilities; hot shower, kitchen, wi-fi, etc. You can find out more about albergues and their facilities in its post at the end of each stage I give a detailed description of the albergues we stayed and their facilities. Buen Camino! Bob Winters Monday 4th of January 2021 When did you actually walk the Via de la Plata? I see that this article was written in 2020. I’m wondering if there could be an increase in the amount of infrastructure between then and now. We have walked several different Caminos and the Rota Vicentina. The Rota had little in the way of services between towns but there was usually “something” somewhere between day’s start and day’s end. I find your blog very comprehensive, useful and entertaining. Thank you for that. Stingy Nomads Monday 4th of January 2021 Hello, Bob! Thank you for the comment! We walked the Rota Vicentina both the Historical Way and the Fishermen's Trail in May 2019, one week after we walked the Via de la Plata. I don't think with the current situation there are any chances that the infrastructure on the Via would increase, I'd rather expect fewer accommodation options than in 2019 as some private albergues and hotels wouldn't survive being empty for many months. Buen Camino! Scott Moyse Wednesday 5th of August 2020 Great post! Thanks for giving so much information. I'm walking from England to Morocco in September and I'll be heavily using this guide to help me get to down to Seville! Stingy Nomads Thursday 6th of August 2020 Hi, Scott! Thank you for the comment! I hope our post will be helpful for planning your amazing journey! Good luck and Buen Camino! This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. .#content{display:block;} img#mv-trellis-img-39::before{padding-top:101.33333333333%; }img#mv-trellis-img-39{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-40::before{padding-top:66.40625%; }img#mv-trellis-img-40{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-41::before{padding-top:66.764705882353%; }img#mv-trellis-img-41{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-42::before{padding-top:40.201005025126%; }img#mv-trellis-img-42{display:block;}

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Vía de la Plata Guide and Stages A Santiago Voy

9 hours ago

• Stage 1Sevilla - Guillena (14.16 miles / 22.8 km) Stage 1Sevilla - Guillena (14.16 miles / 22.8 km) This stage is characterized by being flat and pleasant. It's not only free of obstacles, but also full of gorgeous locations. Starting the Way of Saint James in one of the most beautiful cities in Spain will serve as motivation and it will make you live the Camino in a way you could have never imagined. Before leaving, go discover the beauty of Seville and enjoyr its delicacies. The places of interest do not end in the old Hispalis, but you can continue enjoying them in towns such as Santiponce or Guillena, the end of the stage.
• Stage 2Guillena - Castilblanco de los Arroyos (11.3 miles / 18.2 km) Stage 2Guillena - Castilblanco de los Arroyos (11.3 miles / 18.2 km) This stage does not involve obstacles or slopes. In addition, it is quite short, so it is a good start to the Camino. Take advantage of this type of stage to enjoy the landscapes and the unique gastronomy: gazpacho, salmorejo, migas, aceitadas, tortas sobás... There are a zillion delicacies that you can try on this route.
• Stage 3Castilblanco de los Arroyos - Almadén de la Plata (17.8 miles / 28.8 km) Stage 3Castilblanco de los Arroyos - Almadén de la Plata (17.8 miles / 28.8 km) This area has wide pastures (dehesas) and fields dedicated to cattle industry. You will pass through charming places, including the Berrocales Natural Park. Given the high quality of the stock, we recommend you to try the Iberian meats, if you can.
• Stage 4Almadén de la Plata - Monesterio (21.3 miles / 34.4 km) Stage 4Almadén de la Plata - Monesterio (21.3 miles / 34.4 km) This is where the Extremaduran path begins, leaving behind the beautiful community of Andalusia. This is a long stage, with almost 22 miles. Here you will cross pastures and agricultural and cattle fields. At the end of the stage, there is a slope. Get ready for it by eating well: pork meat is the specialty of the area you're in.
• Stage 5Monesterio - Fuente de Cantos (13.1 miles / 21.2 km) Stage 5Monesterio - Fuente de Cantos (13.1 miles / 21.2 km) In this stage there is a descent until you reach the Bodión stream. Although the presence of water softens the temperatures, don't neglect the weather conditions: always walk hydrated and wear sunscreen. This stage, like many others on this route, has long parts without shade and extreme temperatures.
• Stage 6Fuente de Cantos - Zafra (15.2 miles / 24.6 km) Stage 6Fuente de Cantos - Zafra (15.2 miles / 24.6 km) In this stage you won't find steep slopes. It runs between streams, so the landscape is pleasant and natural and the temperatures cool thanks to its humidity. Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to see Zafra, a city in Extremadura worth discovering.
• Stage 7Zafra - Villafranca de los Barros (11.9 miles / 19.2 km) Stage 7Zafra - Villafranca de los Barros (11.9 miles / 19.2 km) This stage is simple: it is short, with less than 20 km and without inclinations or obstacles. The arrival town is Villafranca de los Barros, a charming location popularly known as the "City of Music". When wandering around this town you will surely have the opportunity to listen to live music on the streets while you enjoy the beauty of its architecture. This short stage can be extended, by convering 10.5 more miles until reaching Almendralejo. Being flat and short, you can extend it or you can stop to rest and visit Villafranca de los Barros and leave Almendralejo for the next day.
• Stage 8Villafranca de los Barros - Torremejía (16.7 miles / 27 km) Stage 8Villafranca de los Barros - Torremejía (16.7 miles / 27 km) On this day, you will go to Almendralejo, where we recommend you to visit the Church of the Heart of Mary and the Convent of Santa Clara. This stage is long. However, it is flat and without obstacles, so it does not harbor difficulties.
• Stage 9Torremejía - Mérida (9.9 miles/16 km) Stage 9Torremejía - Mérida (9.9 miles/16 km) In this stage you can enjoy this historical area, rich in architectural remains from the Roman Empire. Do not hesitate to visit the many monuments of Mérida: the Roman Theater, the Amphitheater and the Temple of Diana, among others. Being a short stage, we recommend that you take time to visit this city, a cultural heritage site. From Mérida
• Stage 10Mérida - Alcuéscar (22.6 miles / 36.4 km) Stage 10Mérida - Alcuéscar (22.6 miles / 36.4 km) After resting during the previous stage, you will have to be ready for this one, with more than 21 miles awaiting. In this stage, you will pass through the Natural Park of Cornalvo and numerous Roman archaeological remains, such as the Roman reservoir of Proserpina. In this stage you will go from Badajoz to Cáceres, the finish line being the town of Alcuéscar. Stop to visit its hermitages and the Church of Santa Lucía del Trampal.
• Stage 11Alcuéscar - Cáceres (20.3 miles / 38.2 km) Stage 11Alcuéscar - Cáceres (20.3 miles / 38.2 km) On the 11th day another long stage awaits, and it can be divided into two parts. You can choose to spend the night in Aldea del Cano (after the 9th mile) or in Valdesalor (after the 15th mile). If you want to complete it, you can spend the night in Cáceres after a 23-mile hike. Although the stage is long, it is flat and pleasant. If you choose to divide it into two parts, do not hesitate to spend some time visiting the city of Cáceres. From Cáceres
• Stage 12Cáceres - Embalse de Alcántara (20.7 miles / 33.4 km) Stage 12Cáceres - Embalse de Alcántara (20.7 miles / 33.4 km) Depending on where you stopped in the previous stage, you will leave Cáceres or Casar de Cáceres. When you change the starting point, the point of arrival also changes: you can stop at the Embalse de Alcántara or at Cañaveral.
• Stage 13Embalse de Alcántara - Grimaldo (13 miles / 20.9 km) Stage 13Embalse de Alcántara - Grimaldo (13 miles / 20.9 km) This stage is not as long as the previous ones. The road has a rise and a fall, but they are not too pronounced or long. The roads are somewhat mountainous and the terrain is muddy.
• Stage 14Grimaldo - Carcaboso (19.1 miles / 30.8 km) Stage 14Grimaldo - Carcaboso (19.1 miles / 30.8 km) In this stage, you have the option of passing through Riolobos or skiping it. The detour to Riolobos adds some miles to a quite long stage. It is also optional to pass through Galisteo, although you would miss its historic wall. We recommend you to make your decision according to your strength and according to the interest in visiting these locations. In any case, the end of this stage is in Carcaboso
• Stage 15Carcaboso - Aldeanueva del Camino (23.9 miles / 38.6 km) Stage 15Carcaboso - Aldeanueva del Camino (23.9 miles / 38.6 km) This long stage is also divisible in two shorter stages. You will have the opportunity to pass through the Roman arch of Cáparra, famous for its historical value and its good state of preservation.
• Stage 16 Aldeanueva del Camino - La Calzada de Béjar (13.7 miles / 22.2 km)) Stage 16 Aldeanueva del Camino - La Calzada de Béjar (13.7 miles / 22.2 km)) This stage is the end of the route along the Community of Extremadura. The town Puerto de Béjar will be the first stop in Castille and León. From there you will continue, until you reach La Calzada de Béjar to spend the night. This stage has a slight rise to Puerto de Béjar, followed by a descent.
• Stage 17La Calzada de Béjar - Fuenterroble de Salvatierra (12.5 miles / 20.2 km) Stage 17La Calzada de Béjar - Fuenterroble de Salvatierra (12.5 miles / 20.2 km) With so many long stages, these 12-mile stages are an opportunity to rest and appreciate the landscape and the places you visit. We recommend you to stop and taste the cuisine of Castille and León. In this stage you will easily find public services.
• Stage 18Fuenterroble de Salvatierra - San Pedro de Rozados (17.7 miles / 28.6 km) Stage 18Fuenterroble de Salvatierra - San Pedro de Rozados (17.7 miles / 28.6 km) This stage is characterized by its rise towards Pico de la Dueña, which is almost 4,000 meters above sea level. The climb is not as pronounced as it may seem, since the starting point is almost 3,000 feet above sea level. Then, you will encounter a descend to the stream Mendigos, although you can take a detour that passes through Pedrosillo de los Aires and Monterrubio de la Sierra.
• Stage 19San Pedro de Rozados - Salamanca (14 miles / 23 km) Stage 19San Pedro de Rozados - Salamanca (14 miles / 23 km) This stage passes through natural areas: forests and pastures mostly. As you walk, you'll begin to see the city of Salamanca in the distance - a beautiful vision that makes the Camino much more bearable. Thanks to this short stage, you can visit Salamanca calmly. Take your time and discover both to its streets and its gastronomy. Some especially noteworthy places are its Plaza Mayor, the Old Cathedral and the New Cathedral, the San Esteban Convent, the Casa de las Conchas, La Clerecía, etc. From Salamanca
• Stage 20Salamanca - El Cubo de la Tierra del Vino (22.6 miles / 36.4 km) Stage 20Salamanca - El Cubo de la Tierra del Vino (22.6 miles / 36.4 km) We recommend that you get supplies before starting this stage, since it is long and does not have too many public services in the intermediate locations. This is again a rather long stage, very frequent on this path to Santiago. This stage is flat and runs near the highway, practically parallel to the road N-630. The finish line of this stage is El Cubo de la Tierra del Vino. In case you were wondering, the habitants of this place are called "cubinos" and "cubinas".
• Stage 21El Cubo de la Tierra del Vino - Zamora (19.7 miles / 31.8 km) Stage 21El Cubo de la Tierra del Vino - Zamora (19.7 miles / 31.8 km) From this wine town you will move to Zamora in a long and declining stage. Zamora is one of those cities that deserve a more dedicated visit. You can visit its Castle, its Cathedral, the Cordon Palace and many other points of interest on its streets, such as the Plaza de Viriato and its Plaza Mayor. It is also worthwhile to taste their specialties: their products with designation of origin, such as cheeses and wines; and its typical dishes.
• Stage 22Zamora - Montamarta (11.5 miles / 18.6 km) Stage 22Zamora - Montamarta (11.5 miles / 18.6 km) This area is known as the "land of bread", because of the quality and abundance of cereal fields. It is a short and straightforward stage, in which you can relax without thinking about detours or long kilometers. Taste its typical sweets: aceitadas, rebojos, mantecadas, orejas, bollos... All made with wheat flour, probably coming from the fields that you are seeing along these stages.
• Stage 23Montamarta - Granja de Moreruela (14.2 miles / 22.9 km) Stage 23Montamarta - Granja de Moreruela (14.2 miles / 22.9 km) This is a flat and pleasant stage. You will pass through the Ricobayo Reservoir. In this section there are 2 small shortcuts: if you do not want to go through Fontanillas de Castro or Riego del Camino, you can shorten the route and stop directly at Granja de Moreruela. The ruins of its monastery are some of the interesting monuments that you can see here. In this stage, the road forks: you can choose to follow the original route of the Vía de la Plata or deviate and continue along the Camino Sanabrés and the Camino Francés.
• Stage 24Granja de Moreruela - Benavente (16.9 miles / 27.2 km) Stage 24Granja de Moreruela - Benavente (16.9 miles / 27.2 km) This is another short and peaceful stage, without major obstacles. In addition, here you will have access to useful public services (hotels, accomodation, pharmacies, etc.), so this is a comfortable stage in many ways. You will continue walking by the N-630, until you turn to Benavente at the end of the section. In Benavente you can visit its many points of interest: the Church of Santa María de Azogue, the Church of San Juan del Mercado, the Hospital of Pilgrims of Mercy, the Torre del Caracol or the Castillo de la Mota, the Jardines de la Mota, the Jardines de la Rosaleda, etc.
• Stage 25Benavente - Alija del Infantado (13.6 miles / 21.9 km) Stage 25Benavente - Alija del Infantado (13.6 miles / 21.9 km) This is a short stage, which runs almost entirely on pavement. You will pass through towns such as Villabrázaro, Maire de Castroponce and Puente de la Vizana. There are not too many services along the way, but the stage is short, so it shouldn't be a problem.
• Stage 26Alija del Infantado - La Bañeza (13.7 miles / 22.1 km) Stage 26Alija del Infantado - La Bañeza (13.7 miles / 22.1 km) You continue the route by the Jamuz river flow. This is a short stage, on soily paths easily to walk through. You will pass through agricultural and floral fields.
• Stage 27La Bañeza - Astorga (15.2 miles / 24.5 km) Stage 27La Bañeza - Astorga (15.2 miles / 24.5 km) In this stage you will find some unevenness, but it won't prevent you from moving forward at a good pace. You will leave the river to walk almost parallel to the A-6 road. From the Roman bridge of Valimbre you will have the possibility of going west or east towards Celada de la Vega, the two roads being equally long. Once you have arrived in Astorga, visit the Episcopal Palace, the Cathedral of Santa María, the Medieval Wall, the Church of San Francisco or the Roman Gate. From this point, the Vía de la Plata merges with the end of the . You will find new pilgrims on the path, coming from the Camino Francés. To be exact, stage 27 corresponds to stage 23 of the French Way.
• Stage 28Astorga - Foncebadón (16 miles / 25.8 km) Stage 28Astorga - Foncebadón (16 miles / 25.8 km) You are in the core of an area known as the Country of the Maragatos. Here you will leave behind the flat areas to start climbing the mountains of León. The landscape also changes little by little, filling with green tones and cooler climates. Try the cocido maragato, one of the most typical specialties in the area.
• Stage 29Foncebadón - Ponferrada (16.6 miles / 26.8 km) Stage 29Foncebadón - Ponferrada (16.6 miles / 26.8 km) The passage from Foncebadón to Ponferrada is a considerable descent, from more than 4,200 feet above sea level to more than 900 feet. You will pass through towns such as Manjarín, El Acebo de San Miguel, Riego de Ambrós and Molinaseca. Once in Ponferrada, do not miss the Templarios Castle, the Basilica de la Encina or the Clock Tower.
• Stage 30Ponferrada - Vilafranca del Bierzo (16.6 miles / 24.2 km) Stage 30Ponferrada - Vilafranca del Bierzo (16.6 miles / 24.2 km) We cross the region of El Bierzo passing through Columbriados, Fuentesnuevas, Camponaraya and Cacabelos. This area is located in a basin, protected by mountains, which give it a peaceful microclimate. Try the gastronomy of El Bierzo: its fruits and vegetables, and its wines with designation of origin.
• Stage 31Villafranca del Bierzo - O Cebreiro (17.2 miles / 27.8 km) Stage 31Villafranca del Bierzo - O Cebreiro (17.2 miles / 27.8 km) This is the first stage you will complete in Galicia, reaching O Cebreiro, the first Galician town on the route. In the town of Las Herrerías (after thr 12th mile), you will began to climb until reaching 2,600 feet high of O Cebreiro. After this steep slope, you will love to enjoy the views of this place. In fact, many pilgrims claim that this is the best stage: the most beautiful of the Camino, with the special excitement you get when you enter Galicia. In addition, we recommend you to try the gastronomy: cheeses with designation of origin, chestnuts or Celtic pork.
• Stage 32O Cebreiro - Triacastela (12.9 miles / 20.8 km) Stage 32O Cebreiro - Triacastela (12.9 miles / 20.8 km) You are in the area of the Sierra de los Ancares. Although it is a mountainous area, there are no important slopes, except the ascent to Alto do Poio. It is a short stage, so you will not get too tired. Some typical dishes from here: the Ancares sweets, as well as their chestnuts.
• Stage 33Triacastela - Sarria (11.4 miles / 18.4 km) Stage 33Triacastela - Sarria (11.4 miles / 18.4 km) This stage coincides with the LU-633 road, so the terrain is easy for both walkers and cyclists. When being near the vehicles, you must circulate with caution. When you get to Sarria you will find yourself only 62.13 miles (100 km) away from Santiago de Compostela. This last stage is very popular, since the 62.13 miles (100 km) are the minimum distance to get the Compostela. Hence, many pilgrims start their way from here. You will find a good atmosphere and the opportunity to share your experience with pilgrims from other routes.
• Stage 34Sarria - Portomarín (13.7 miles / 22.2 km) Stage 34Sarria - Portomarín (13.7 miles / 22.2 km) This is a brief and easy stage. There is a good atmosphere, thanks to the many pilgrims coming from other routes. This makes this stage bearable and entertaining. Although there are some ups and downs, you will not have major problems to overcome it.
• Stage 35Portomarín - Palas de Rei (15.4 miles / 24.8 km) Stage 35Portomarín - Palas de Rei (15.4 miles / 24.8 km) This section runs through many areas on pavement, and it has many monuments and points of interest such as the Castromario sites, the Romanesque churches or crossroad in Os Lameiros. We recommend you to taste a good Galician bread, the polbo à feira or the lacón con grelos, some specialties of the area.
• Stage 36Palas de Rei - Arzúa (17.7 miles / 28.5 km) Stage 36Palas de Rei - Arzúa (17.7 miles / 28.5 km) When you enter the town of O Coto, you will start your path in the province of A Coruña, after leaving Lugo behind. You will pass through Melide, where we recommend you to take a break, at least to taste the octopus. If you have time, you can also visit the medieval bridge on the river Furelos, the Chapel of San Roque or the Church of Santa María de Melide.
• Stage 37Arzúa - Pedrouzo (11.9 miles/19.3 km) Stage 37Arzúa - Pedrouzo (11.9 miles/19.3 km) You only have two 12-mile stages to get to Santiago. These last two stages have several options. Depending on how eager you are to get to Santiago and how you plan to get there, you can choose to stay overnight in different places. A very common option is to stop in O Pedrouzo so that the next stage is equally long. You can also choose to extend this stage, staying overnight in Santa Irene or even in Monte de Gozo. This second option makes the last stage really short, arriving in Santiago in the morning to enjoy more of the Galician capital. Whatever you choose, this is an easy, flat stage without major obstacles.
• Stage 38Pedrouzo - Santiago de Compostela (12 miles / 19.4 km) Stage 38Pedrouzo - Santiago de Compostela (12 miles / 19.4 km)

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‎Via de la Plata Walking Guide on the App Store

4 hours ago Jan 13, 2019 . Download Via de la Plata Walking Guide and enjoy it on your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. ‎A guide for pilgrims on the Vía de la Plata from Seville to Santiago, including the branch to Astorga and the Camino to Finisterre and Muxía. Fully updated in 2018, this is the app version of the long-established Walking Guide to the Vía de la Plata.

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2020 edition: Walking Guide to the VIA DE LA PLATA and the

5 hours ago People often use the term Vía de la Plata to refer to the combination of these two routes. I started writing this guide after I came back from walking the Vía de la Plata from Seville to Santiago via Astorga in the winter of 2009, and finished the first edition after returning to walk the Camino Sanabrés in 2012.

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The Vía De La Plata - Home Page

8 hours ago The Vía De La Plata is 1000KM long (Sevilla to Santiago) and takes about 7 weeks to walk. I have only described the route as far as Granja de Moruela because I have yet to walk the remainder of the two routes after this point, although I have driven them in a hire car. I have attempted to walk this route many times and have failed each time.

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Walking Guide to the Vía de la Plata and the Camino

12 hours ago Aug 31, 2013 . Aug 31, 2013 . People often use the term Vía de la Plata to refer to the combination of these two routes. I started writing this guide after I came back from walking the Vía de la Plata from Seville to Santiago via Astorga in the winter of 2009, and finished the first edition after returning to walk the Camino Sanabrés in 2012.

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Camino de Santiago Guidebooks, Apps, and Maps

3 hours ago The Camino Francés 2022 Guide is currently shipping, with the rest of the collection available for preorder. The Portugués ships the first week of November, and the Norte the last week of November. The Vía de la Plata and Primitivo guides will ship in December. Wise Pilgrim Guidebooks, Maps, & Apps for the Camino de Santiago

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Via De La Plata Full Walk Galiwonders

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Via de la Plata — Camino de Santiago Apps

9 hours ago Via de la Plata Walking Guide . Apple App Store. Google Play Store Note: reviews are based on the iPhone app. From Seville to Santiago de Compostela — including the trail that heads straight to Astorga — where you could walk the remaining distance to Santiago de …

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Walking Guide to the VIA DE LA PLATA and the CAMINO

3 hours ago Gerald Kelly's Guide to the Via De La Plata is the best I've read. He provides very accurate information {important when your Walking 1000 Kilometers "600 Miles}. The distances are acccurate. Good discriptions of Hostels, Villages, Towns and Landmarks are included. Walking the Via De La Plata is easily visualized when reading this guide.

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Via de la Plata guide Camino de Santiago Forum

2 hours ago Oct 01, 2008 . Yes, the Via de la Plata is a wonderful, monumental walk. I started in 2006 and finished last year. Sevilla to Salamanca in 21 days, then Salamanca to SdeC in 19. A tough, challenging and wonderful experience. The guide by Bethan Davies and Benjamin Cole (see Amazon for example) is clear, interesting and very detailed.

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Vía de la Plata Guide - Download

2 hours ago A guide for pilgrims on the Vía de la Plata. The text of the guide was fully updated in 2019 and partially updated in 2021. This is the app version of the long-established Walking Guide to the Vía de la Plata by Gerald Kelly which has been published every year since 2012.

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2019 edition: Walking Guide to the VIA DE LA PLATA and the

7 hours ago It also covers the Caminos de Finisterre and Muxía, west of Santiago. I started writing this guide after I can back from walking the Vía de la Plata from Seville to Santiago via Astorga in the winter of 2009, and finished the first edition after returning to walk the Camino Sanabrés in 2012.

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‎Vía de la Plata Guide in de App Store

12 hours ago A guide for pilgrims on the Vía de la Plata. The text of the guide was fully updated in 2019 and partially updated in 2021. This is the app version of the long-established Walking Guide to the Vía de la Plata by Gerald Kelly which has been published every year since 2012.

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Walking Guide To The VIA DE LA PLATA And The CAMINO

5 hours ago May 29, 2019 . May 29, 2019 . If you are asking yourself whether enlisting the help of a professional service is secure, we can assure the Walking Guide To The VIA DE LA PLATA And The CAMINO SANABRES: From Seville To Santiago And Astorga|Mr Gerald Kelly customers that the rules, specified in the client policy, can protect you from unexpected requirements and improve the result of the Walking …

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Via de la Plata Complete 49-day Pilgrimage

10 hours ago The Via de la Plata is the longest Camino de Santiago route, starting in the gorgeous city of Seville. Following an ancient roman road and passing through several UNESCO world heritage sites, this epic 1000km Spanish walking holiday is a once in a lifetime adventure. Passing through wild countryside and buzzing cities alike, you will discover ...

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Camino Via de la Plata – the Nuts and Bolts – Lifeone big

3 hours ago Oct 19, 2016 . Oct 19, 2016 . I used Gerald Kelly’s – Walking Guide to the Via de la Plata and the Camino Sanabrés (Feb 2014). It was OK but I wouldn’t recommend it unless it has been comprehensively updated. Much of the content was out of date and many of the maps were seriously inaccurate – at times whole villages/towns were missing! ...

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