Camino & Pilgrimages
9 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Flights
available
10.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
Let the expansive Castilian Meseta welcome you to one of the most reflective and serene stretches of the Camino Frances. As you journey from the historic city of Burgos to the majestic Leon, the landscape opens into long horizons and gentle plains, offering space for contemplation and a steady walking rhythm. This stage of the French Way invites pilgrims to move at the natural pace of the land, discovering villages steeped in tradition and encountering architectural treasures such as the hilltop castle of Castrojeriz or the beautifully preserved Romanesque Church of San Martin. The quiet roads, traditional towns, and rich heritage of this region create a thoughtful chapter in your wider Camino de Santiago journey.
TERRAIN
This walking route from Burgos to Leon follows the heart of the Camino Frances across the vast Meseta Plateau. The terrain is mostly flat to gently undulating, with long, open stretches along well-marked dirt paths, farm tracks, and quiet rural lanes. Walkers experience wide horizons, expansive skies, and a peaceful rhythm through traditional villages and farmland. While less hilly than earlier stages, the openness of the land, and its exposure to natural elements, offers a reflective and contemplative part of the wider Camino de Santiago journey.
Arrive in Burgos and settle into your accommodation before exploring this historic city. From the Church of San Lesmes and the Arco de San Sebastian to the iconic Gothic Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city offers a meaningful introduction to this stage of the Camino.
YOUR ACCOMMODATION
To reflect the spirit of the Pilgrimage, we carefully select welcoming, simple accommodation along the route. We offer stays in hotels and guest houses. While these stays may not offer the same level of luxury as our classic Headwater holidays, they provide genuine hospitality and a warm, friendly atmosphere.
You will enjoy private rooms and private bathrooms wherever possible, ensuring a restful night after a full day of walking the Camino Frances. On the rare occasions when this cannot be arranged, we will let you know in advance.
Most of the properties we work with are small and family-run, and availability varies depending on how early you book. Full details of your stays will be provided closer to your departure date.
After a short transfer to Rabe de las Calzadas, you will begin your day's walk through the heart of the Meseta. Along the way, you will pass through the historic village of Hornillos del Camino, an historic village that has long served as a key resting point for pilgrims crossing the plateau. Continue in the direction of Castrojeriz.
Leaving Castrojeriz, the path guides you through fields of wheat and stretches of poppies, with broad views characteristic of the Castilian plain. Romanesque architecture, a hallmark of the region's rich history, lines your path as you cross the Pisuerga River via the Puente Fitero and follow the tranquil towpath of the Canal de Castilla into Fromista, to the remarkable Romanesque Church of San Martin.
Surrounded by endless wheat fields in what's often called the 'breadbasket of Spain', you will make your way to the historic town of Carrion de los Condes. Once there, don't miss the impressive San Zoilo Monastery, a 10th century site that reflects the deep spiritual and architectural heritage of the Camino.
Today, you will follow the historic Calzada de los Peregrinos, the Pilgrims' Road, towards Terradillos de los Templarios. Silence, peace, and solitude will accompany your journey, with the highlight of the day being Calzadilla de la Cueza, a village known for its traditional houses built from sun dried mud bricks.
Continue your Camino from Terradillos de los Templarios, crossing the peaceful Meseta as you pass through the quiet villages of Moratinos and San Nicolas del Real Camino. Follow the gentle country paths into Sahagun, often regarded as the 'Heart of the Camino Frances,' recognised for its rich Mudejar architecture and long pilgrim traditions.
Continue your Camino from Sahagun to El Burgo Ranero with a peaceful and easy stage along the flat Meseta landscape of Castilla y Leon. The route follows straight paths lined with poplar trees, offering open views and a steady pace. Services are available in small villages along the way, and the day ends in El Burgo Ranero, a quiet stop known for its welcoming atmosphere.
Today, the peaceful, bucolic landscapes of the Canada de las Merinas, once an ancient transhumance route known as 'the flow of the sheep', will guide you on your way to Mansilla de las Mulas. Once there, take time to explore and reflect in the town's rich history through its well preserved ruins, including sections of the medieval city walls, defensive towers, and the impressive eastern gate.
As you approach Leon, the quiet landscapes of the Meseta gradually give way to the life of the city. Once in Leon, you may wish to visit its majestic Gothic Cathedral, the Church of San Isidoro - once a royal pantheon and the historic Hostal de San Marcos. Then, unwind with a well earned rest in the lively Plaza Mayor. Enjoy the rest of your day exploring the city.
Leave Leon and onward travels.
Enjoy the rest of your day exploring the town, and consider booking an extra night before heading home.
These tour prices are per person, based on two people sharing.
Single supplement from £241.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
From London to Madrid
Arrival in Burgos
Departure from León
Return to London.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into your destination.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices fluctuate significantly and can change rapidly. At Headwater, we offer competitively priced flights with built-in flight protection for your peace of mind. For more details, please click here.
Camino & Pilgrimages
9 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
Flights
available
10.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
