Part 1 of the Camino Francés
Climb the Pyrenees from France into Spain and walk 290 kilometers through Navarra's vineyards, historic Pamplona, and Romanesque villages to a private tour of Burgos Cathedral, all with luggage transport and support along the way on Andaspain Walking Adventures' Part 1 of the Camino Francés.
"My dream to walk every inch of the Camino again, after my first adventure 16 years ago, has just become a wonderful & treasured reality, thanks to Andaspain! Already contemplating a return visit next year, to celebrate my 80th birthday..."
Overview of Part 1 of the Camino Francés
History of the Camino Francés
The Camino Francés, also known as the French Way, is one of the most famous traditional pilgrimage routes in Spain. For over a thousand years, pilgrims have taken this profound and transformative journey to the shrine of Saint James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
About your tour
This tour is unique in that it is part of a larger series, offering flexibility for participants. In total, there are four parts: the full Every Inch tour – from France to Santiago, Part 1 – France to Burgos, Part 2 – Burgos to León and Part 3 – León to Santiago. You can choose to walk one or more of these sections. You can even return year after year until you complete the entire Camino route.
Join us for Part 1 of the Camino Francés, which takes you from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France to Burgos, Spain. Over 14 days, you will walk approximately 290 kilometers (180 miles) through some of the toughest, yet most rewarding terrain the Camino has to offer.
You will start your journey in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a charming French town with cobbled streets and medieval architecture nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees mountains. From here you will bravely scale the Pyrenees and cross into Spain. Prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring views of lush green valleys, rugged peaks, and alpine landscapes that await you. The ascent will present both challenges and rewards, allowing you to forge a deep connection with yourself and the natural world.
As you descend from the Pyrenees, the Camino leads you through the rolling hills of the Navarra region. Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of vineyards, sunflower fields, and idyllic villages that dot the landscape. This section abounds with historical and cultural treasures waiting to be discovered. The medieval town of Pamplona, famous for the Running of the Bulls, welcomes pilgrims with its well-preserved city walls and vibrant atmosphere. Other notable places include Puente la Reina, known for its magnificent Romanesque bridge, and Estella, which boasts beautiful Gothic and Romanesque architecture. Finally, we will end our journey in Burgos, where we will take a private tour of the Burgos Cathedral, one of the most important religious buildings in Spain.
From the starting point in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to the ending point in Burgos, we take care of all luggage handling and transportation. We also have a support vehicle available throughout the day, which allows you access to a small bag of essentials.
Join us for Part 1 of the Camino Francés tour
This tour attracts a diverse group of pilgrims from around the world, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and community. Sharing experiences, stories, and meals with fellow pilgrims along the way creates lasting friendships and memories. These meaningful connections, along with the natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage are just a few of the reasons why you should join us for Part 1 of the Camino Francés.
Day 1: Shuttle from Pamplona to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Distance: 5 km / 3.1 mi
Tour Start
You will meet your Andaspain guide(s) and trip companions in the heart of Pamplona. We then drive together to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port for a welcome meeting. Afterwards, we waste no time and start our journey with a short 5 km warmup to Huntto. We then shuttle back to our hotel and have a celebratory welcome dinner.
Shuttle: 80 km / 50 mi
Walk: 5 km / 3.1 mi
Overnight: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Walk from Huntto to Roncesvalles
Distance: 24.2 km / 15 mi
After yesterday’s warmup, we hope that you are feeling ready to tackle the most challenging day of the Camino. Today, you will scale the Napoleon Pass, climbing more than 1,100 meters (3,700 feet). Your hard work will be rewarded by spectacular views and a great sense of accomplishment. We will be there every step of the way to encourage you with food, snacks, and water. We cross the border into Spain and walk to our hotel, a converted monastery in the small village of Roncesvalles.
Overnight: Roncesvalles
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Walk from Roncesvalles to Zubiri
Distance: 21.9 km / 13.6 mi
Today, we walk right out of our hotel and onto the trail. We pass through the village of Burguete, one of Hemingway’s regular haunts. On today’s walk, you will get to enjoy traditional Navarran architecture, including many red-shuttered windows. Once in the woods, You might even be lucky enough to see setas, or wild mushrooms.
We finish our walk in Zubiri. Here, you will get to see the bridge where Martin Sheen fell in the river during the movie The Way. and shuttle ahead to our hotel in Pamplona, a city famous for their delicious tapas.
Overnight: Pamplona
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Walk from Zubiri to Pamplona
Distance: 20.9 km / 13 mi
After breakfast, we shuttle back to Zubiri to begin our walk. Today, we go through some gentler terrain than the first few days. We walk right up to our hotel in Pamplona, where we enjoy a second night’s stay. You are free to eat where you want tonight. We encourage you to check out our recommendations and try the amazing tapas in Pamplona.
Overnight: Pamplona
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Walk from Pamplona to Puente la Reina
Distance: 23.8 km / 14.8 mi
We walk right out of our hotel in central Pamplona and climb up to the famous Alto del Perdón. We will check in with you before the big climb and meet you at the top to make sure you get a great photo.
Afterwards, we head to our destination of Puente la Reina, a quaint yet historically significant town. Despite its small size, Puente la Reina once played a pivotal role as a center for the revered Knights Templar, a Catholic military order with a noble mission. Founded in 1119, the Knights Templar dedicated themselves to safeguarding Christian pilgrims embarking on sacred voyages to the Holy Lands. Originating in Jerusalem, this order consisted of nine French knights who pledged vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Along the Camino, the enduring legacy of the Knights Templar manifests itself through remarkable monuments and functional edifices that continue to serve their purpose. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Church of Saint Mary of Eunate, believed to have been constructed by the Knights Templar in the 12th century.
Overnight: Puente la Reina
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: Walk from Puente la Reina to Estella
Distance: 21.9 km / 13.6 mi
Today, we begin by crossing the famous Romanesque bridge over the Arga River. Queen Doña Mayor, the founder of Puente la Reina, ordered the construction of this bridge in the 11th century to facilitate the passage of pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. Today, you will become a part of this rich history as you say goodbye to Puente la Reina and set your sights on Estella.
Our path will lead us straight to our lodging in Estella. This town boasts a captivating history intertwined with the Knights Templar and is renowned for its architectural marvels. Among these treasures is the Church of San Pedro de la Rúa, an exquisite example of Romanesque architecture featuring a breathtaking cloister and intricate façade. Additionally, the town boasts the impressive Palace of the Kings of Navarre, initially constructed as a fortress in the 12th century and subsequently transformed into a regal residence. Estella also hosts a collection of intriguing museums waiting to be explored.
Overnight: Estella
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Walk from Estella to Los Arcos
Distance: 21.5 km / 13.4 mi
Today, we will have a treat in store as we stop by the famous Irache Wine Fountain, located about 6 km outside of Estella. This fountain was built in 1991 by the nearby Bodegas Irache winery to dispense free wine to passing pilgrims and visitors. Fill up your cup or water bottle and enjoy this tasty beverage as you walk.
Upon reaching Los Arcos, we will shuttle ahead to our hotel in Logroño, where we’ll stay for two nights. Logroño is a city rich in history dating back to the Roman period. It also boasts a reputation for its vibrant tapas bars, serving an enticing array of delectable small dishes and snacks paired with its world-famous wines.
Overnight: Logroño
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Walk from Los Arcos to Logroño
Distance: 27.8 km / 17.3 mi
After breakfast, we shuttle back to Los Arcos to begin our walk. Today is a longer walk passing through the serene fields of the Ebro valley. Quaint little villages await you as well as panoramic views of the valley as you enter Logroño.
Tonight, we encourage you to seize the opportunity to discover Logroño, a city steeped in historical and architectural treasures. Among our personal favorites is the Cathedral of Santa Maria de la Redonda, a splendid edifice constructed in the 16th century. Its exquisite baroque facade and magnificent stained-glass windows make it an absolute must-see!
Overnight: Logroño
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Walk from Logroño to Nájera
Distance: 29 km / 18 mi
While today is another long day, you will spend it going through historic towns and a natural reservoir teeming with wildlife. The walking is relatively easy today, with very gentle ups and downs.
We’ll wrap up our journey in Nájera and then head to our hotel in Santo Domingo de la Calzada. This town derives its name from Saint Dominic of the Causeway, a 12th-century saint who dedicated his life to building roads and bridges to assist pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. You will have two nights to explore this iconic Camino town.
You can have dinner at our casa rural or choose to wander around town. One dish that you should be on the lookout for is this town’s traditional chicken dish, known as pollo de la calzada. We will recommend the best places to go.
Overnight: Santo Domingo de la Calzada
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10: Walk from Nájera to Santo Domingo de la Calzada
Distance: 21.3 km / 13.2 mi
We’ll start our day by returning to the historic town of Nájera. Today’s highlight includes a visit to the renowned Monastery of Santa María la Real, an architectural marvel dating back to the 11th century, commissioned by King Garcia Sanchez III of Navarre. This monastery boasts exquisite Gothic design, intricate carvings, and an enriching museum housing a valuable collection of medieval art and artifacts. Notably, it is celebrated for the remarkable woodwork adorning the church’s choir.
We’ll make our way directly to our lodging in Santo Domingo de la Calzada. Later this afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the Cathedral of Santo Domingo de la Calzada, which serves as the resting place for Saint Dominic of the Causeway. This 12th-century Cathedral showcases a captivating blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture in its facade and boasts breathtaking stained-glass windows. Interestingly, it’s also inhabited by live chickens, a fact that holds a surprising story you won’t want to miss!
Overnight: Santo Domingo de la Calzada
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 11: Walk from Santo Domingo de la Calzada to Belorado
Distance: 22.4 km / 14 mi
Today, we continue to walk along country lanes before crossing into Castilla y León, the largest region in Spain. We will remain here for the majority of the Camino Francés before passing into Galicia.
We will arrive in Belorado for lunch. This area is known for its migas (fried bread crumbs) and pisto (a type of vegetable stew). We will recommend the best restaurants to try these dishes. At the conclusion of our walk, we will shuttle to our hotel.
Overnight: Villafranca Montes de Oca
Meals: Breakfast
Day 12: Walk from Belorado to San Juan de Ortega
Distance: 24.2 km / 15 mi
After breakfast, we shuttle back to Belorado and begin our walk. When we finish, we’ll head to Burgos, where we’ll spend the next two nights. Burgos, an esteemed city situated in Castilla y León, holds a prominent place on the Camino de Santiago. This city boasts a storied past that dates back to Roman times and is renowned for its exquisite architecture, cultural heritage, and picturesque setting. Wander through the enchanting streets and charming squares of Burgos’ historic district, where you’ll encounter stunning architectural gems at every turn. The city is also home to several iconic landmarks, including the Monastery of Las Huelgas, the Miraflores charterhouse, and the Burgos Castle.
For dinner, we recommend sampling the local dishes of lechazo (suckling lamb slow-roasted in a woodfired oven) and morcilla de Burgos (spiced-blood-and-rice sausage).
Overnight: Burgos
Meals: Breakfast
Day 13: Walk from San Juan de Ortega to Burgos
Distance: 26 km / 16 mi
This morning, we shuttle back to San Juan de Ortega to begin our walk. We will finish back in Burgos, where we take a guided, private tour of the Cathedral of Burgos. This stunning 13th-century Gothic cathedral is considered one of the most important religious buildings in Spain. The cathedral features intricate carvings, beautiful stained-glass windows, and a museum that houses a collection of medieval art and artifacts. The celebrations continue with a dinner at our favorite restaurant in the old town center of Burgos. As the evening comes to a close, it’s time to say good-bye to our Camino family. We hope that you walk away with a great sense of accomplishment, lifelong friendships, and many treasured memories.
Overnight: Burgos
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 14: Walk from Burgos to Hornillos del Camino
Distance: Tour End
Tour End
Today, after breakfast, your tour is officially over. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for experiencing this magical journey with us at Andaspain and we look forward to seeing you back on the Camino someday.
Extra nights available on request.
Meals: Breakfast
What’s included on your tour
- 13 nights’ accommodation
- All breakfasts, 4 lunches and 2 dinners, including wine and other drinks (While we guarantee the number of meals provided, the schedule outlined in the daily itinerary is subject to change based on restaurant availability, weather, and other factors)
- Pick up in Pamplona and transfer to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
- Guided private tour of the Cathedral of Burgos
- Water and snacks along the way
- Luggage transport (limited to one 23 kg / 50 lb piece of luggage per person)
- English and Spanish speaking guide(s)
- The Pilgrim’s Credencial, or Pilgrim’s Passport, and scallop shell
- Camino Francés Guide Book
What’s not included
- Travel to the start of your tour or from its end
- Meals and drinks not included in your tour
- Extra items purchased on your behalf by your Andaspain guide
- Guide gratuity (220 EUR/person/guide is suggested)
- Additional activities not outlined in the What’s Included section
Highlights of Part 1 of the Camino Francés
- Experience the changes in landscape, architecture, language, cuisine and climate as you move from the French Pyrenees into Navarra, La Rioja and Castile and León.
- Indulge in amazing food, such as great cheeses, local roasted peppers, fresh asparagus and of course, Rioja wine!
- Form meaningful connections with fellow pilgrims while walking the most rewarding section of the Camino Francés.
- Drink from the Irache Wine Fountain, a free fountain that dispenses wine to pilgrims along the trail.
- Culminate your pilgrimage in Burgos, where you will go on a private, guided tour of the Burgos Cathedral, one of the most important religious buildings in Spain.
Facts about your tour
- Trip Duration: 14 days / 13 nights
- Walking Distance: 290 km / 180 mi
- Meeting Point: Pamplona
- Departure City: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
- Arrival City: Burgos
- Tour Availability: Guided group tour with fixed trip dates
- Accommodation: Excellent hotels, casas rurales, pazos and manor houses
- Transportation: Van or bus (depending on group size)
- Language: English
- Guides: English and Spanish-speaking Camino experts
- Walking Hours: 6-8 hours per day
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is Part 1 of the Camino Francés?
Part 1 of the Camino Francés is considered a medium-difficulty tour for its length and terrain. While it includes the most challenging section of the Camino, scaling the Pyrenees mountains, the rest of the tour takes you through pleasant rolling hills.
This tour will require a decent level of fitness and we encourage you to prepare by taking some long hikes beforehand. The distances we plan for you are the same as the typical stages of the Camino. As far as navigation is concerned, this part of the Camino is very well marked and follows mainly trails, paths between villages and some secondary roads.
Can I add extra nights to my trip?
Absolutely. Additional nights can be arranged before or after your trip. We’re happy to help, so just get in touch.
How flexible is the itinerary?
Your experience is our priority. Some activities are weather-dependent, and if conditions change (a planned picnic lunch, for example), we’ll arrange a comparable alternative, like a group lunch at a local restaurant. If you’d like to add activities to your itinerary, contact us and we’ll do our best to accommodate. For a fully tailored experience, we also offer private guided tours and self-guided tours.
What is the weather like?
This trip spans northern Spain and includes a varied climate that can be extreme in summer and winter. For this reason, we organize this walk during late spring and early summer. The beginning of the tour will be across Spain’s highland plateau, which you can expect to be quite dry and warm. As we near Santiago de Compostela, we enter into a mild oceanic climate with regular rainfall and moderate temperatures.
Who are your guides?
Every one of our qualified, bilingual guides started out as a pilgrim. Most of us spent years walking the Camino before we ever thought about leading others along it. That firsthand experience is at the heart of everything we do, and sharing it with you is what keeps us coming back.
What is the typical group size on guided tours?
Our guided group tours accommodate between 6 and 15 participants. The number of guides assigned depends on group size, and we aim for one guide per every 7 to 8 participants to ensure everyone gets the attention they deserve.
I want a shorter tour, what are my options?
This tour is unique in that you get to combine forces with other pilgrims walking different sections of the Camino Francés. You can choose to walk one or several of the following sections: Part 1: St. Jean Pied de Port to Burgos, Part 2: Burgos to León, Part 3: León to Santiago de Compostela, or the Last 100 km: Sarria to Santiago de Compostela. If you are feeling up to it, you can even sign up for the full 36-day, 791 km (491 miles) Camino Francés tour and complete the entire pilgrimage.
Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risk and Release
This document contains a complete release of liability. Read it carefully before agreeing below.
The undersigned understands and agrees that the travel to foreign countries including remote and underdeveloped areas and related activities that I have chosen to take and engage in with Andaspain LLC and its affiliates are potentially hazardous and dangerous activities and carry a significant risk of serious personal injury, death, or property damage. I also know that there are natural, mechanical and environmental conditions and risks which independently or in combination with my activities may cause property damage or severe or even fatal injuries to me or others.
In consideration of Andaspain LLC and affiliates agreeing to permit me to participate in the travel, hiking, sightseeing, walking and related activities and other good and valuable consideration, I agree that I am responsible for: (a) my safety while participating in activities undertaken with Andaspain LLC and its employees, and (b) providing, utilizing, and maintaining all equipment necessary for the safe enjoyment of my participation in such events and specifically acknowledge that the following persons or entities including Andaspain LLC, or its employees, agents, representatives and subcontractors or affiliates are not responsible for my safety.
By agreeing to this Acknowledgment and Assumption of Risk I acknowledge that I understand that any and all risk is expressly assumed by me, and all claims are expressly waived in advance. Additionally I understand completely and fully the terms and conditions and agree to be bound by them.
Andaspain LLC strongly encourages participants to purchase travel insurance including trip cancellation coverage.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
If you have to cancel your trip, we require the cancellation in writing. We will calculate the refund, where due, based on the day we receive your written cancellation.
The following charges will apply.
Cancellations received 121 or more days prior to trip start date: 10% of trip price
Cancellations received 120 – 91 days prior to trip start date: 15% of trip price
Cancellations received 90 – 61 days prior to trip start date: 50% of trip price
Cancellations received 60 days or less prior to trip start date: 100% of trip Price
Andaspain LLC reserves the right to cancel any of our trips due to insufficient participants – our minimum number of participants is four.
If Andaspain LLC has to cancel a trip for any reason, including insufficient number of participants, the full amount you paid to us will be refunded to you.