Part 2 of the Camino Francés
Walk the glorious Meseta from Burgos to León on a fully supported Camino journey through sweeping landscapes, historic villages, and centuries of pilgrimage tradition.
"This is our second Camino with AndaSpain. Both were incredible experiences."
Overview of Part 2 of the Camino Francés
History of the Camino Francés
The Camino Francés is an iconic pilgrimage route woven into the tapestry of Spain’s history. 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 Part 2 of the Camino Francés
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.
We invite you to join us for Part 2 of the Camino Francés – Burgos to León, which links two important cities over 10 days and 170 km (105 miles). Under the expanse of endless skies, you’ll tread through patchwork fields, venturing toward the expansive horizons of the highland plateau. This segment of the Camino, aptly named The Glorious Meseta, offers mostly flat terrain, making it one of the most accessible sections of this revered pilgrimage.
What your tour includes
You will start your journey with a welcome tour of the Burgos Cathedral. As one of Spain’s paramount religious edifices, the cathedral boasts intricate carvings, resplendent stained-glass windows, and a captivating museum adorned with medieval art and artifacts. From here, your path leads you across the sun-soaked plains of Spain, where, contrary to common belief, rain is a rare visitor. Along the way, you will encounter the ancient sanctuary of San Antón, the venerable Castrojeriz Castle, and a wealth of other historical monuments.
This section of the Camino is very well marked and follows mainly paths joining villages, and some secondary roads. Although this is the easiest section of the Camino Francés with mostly flat walking, we still recommend a reasonable level of fitness. The daily distances that we walk correspond to the typical etapas, or stages of the Camino.
From the starting point in Burgos to the ending point in León, 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.
The glorious meseta beckons pilgrims seeking connection – with the land, fellow travelers, and themselves. This integral segment of the Camino Francés attracts a diverse community, fostering camaraderie that transcends borders. As you share tales, experiences, and meals, friendships will flourish, and memories will forever be etched in your heart. Amidst breathtaking natural vistas, profound history, and rich heritage, you’ll find countless reasons to join us for Part 2 of the Camino Francés.
Join us for Part 2 of the Camino Francés tour
Whether you seek spiritual connection, cultural immersion, or a physical challenge, this fully supported walking tour along the Camino Francés promises a seamless and unforgettable journey. Join us on this once-in-a-lifetime transformative experience and become part of the Camino’s enduring legacy.
Day 1: Arrive in Burgos
Distance: Tour Start
Tour Start
You will meet your Andaspain guide(s) at our hotel in Burgos’ city center, where you will have a welcome meeting. Afterwards, you will gather with others in the group for an exclusive 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 welcome dinner at our favorite restaurant in the old town center of Burgos. There, you will get to know your fellow pilgrims, some who are walking the whole Camino Francés and others who have finished the first part of the Camino and will be leaving tomorrow.
Overnight: Burgos
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Walk from Burgos to Hornillos del Camino
Distance: 21 km / 13 mi
This morning, we walk right out of the big city of Burgos to the small town of Hornillos del Camino.
Following our walk today, we’ll be transported to our cozy two-night accommodation in Castrojeriz. This picturesque town is renowned for its commanding hilltop castle, which served as a crucial bastion along the Camino de Santiago during the Middle Ages. This fortress played a pivotal role in safeguarding pilgrims and the surrounding area from potential dangers. The panoramic vistas from the castle alone make the ascent worthwhile, and we encourage you to seize the opportunity to explore this exceptional landmark during your leisure time. If you are in the mood to relax, you can get a massage from our hotel’s masseur.
Overnight: Castrojeriz
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Walk from Hornillos del Camino to Castrojeriz
Distance: 20 km / 12.5 mi
Today, we embark on a captivating journey, passing by the majestic ruins of the ancient Monastery of San Antón. Built in the 12th century by the Knights of St. Anthony, this remarkable sanctuary served as a hospital for pilgrims under the devoted care of the Hospital Brothers.
Historically, the monastery played an integral role in treating ergotism, a fungal disease that often afflicted weary pilgrims. The Hospital Brothers were expert in alleviating these symptoms and providing compassionate care to those affected.
As we delve into the annals of this historic monument, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the Knights of St. Anthony and their remarkable contributions to the well-being of pilgrims. The monastery’s architectural wonders, a fusion of Romanesque and Gothic elements, are sure to leave you in awe.
Overnight: Castrojeriz
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Walk from Castrojeriz to Frómista
Distance: 25 km / 15.5 mi
We walk right out of our hotel and make the climb to the Alto de Mostelares (914 meters of altitude) vista point. Here, you can enjoy 360-degree views of a stunning section of the Meseta.
After our walk, you will have time explore the town of Frómista. This town is renowned for its two significant churches: San Martín de Tours and San Pedro. The Church of San Martín de Tours dates back to the 11th century and stands out as a brilliant example of Romanesque architecture. It is particularly notable for its intricately designed nave, arches, and columns, which showcase the craftsmanship of the era.
Meanwhile, the Church of San Pedro, also referred to as the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria la Mayor, also hails from the 11th century and displays a captivating blend of architectural styles. Its grand façade, adorned with sculptures, opens the way to an interior of exceptional beauty, featuring slender columns and ribbed vaults.
Overnight: Frómista
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: Walk from Frómista to Carrión de los Condes
Distance: 19.3 km / 12 mi
We walk right out of the hotel in Frómista to our next one in Carrión de los Condes. This section is known for its flat terrain characterized by expansive fields and open landscapes.
In the evening, you are free to visit the Monastery of Santa Clara and the Romanesque church of Santa María del Camino. We also recommend that you attend the evening prayers, or vespers, from the local nuns of the Order of St. Augustine. If you are lucky, you might even be treated to their renowned musical talent.
Overnight: Carrión de los Condes
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Walk from Carrión de los Condes to Ledigos
Distance: 22 km / 13.7 mi
Today, you will enjoy a picturesque stretch along ancient Roman roads. This route takes you through vast fields, charming villages, and serene countryside landscapes. At the end of the day, we shuttle back to our hotel, where you will be free for dinner.
Overnight: Carrión de los Condes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: Walk from Ledigos to Sahagún
Distance: 15 km / 9.3 mi
You can relax a bit on today’s short walk. Together, we will have a special lunch in a small village where you get to experience the food and culture of the local people. This area is famous for its lamb dish served with potatoes. Later, we cross the half way point of the Camino Francés at the Virgin del Puente hermitage! After finishing our walk, we shuttle to our cozy albergue in Ledigos.
Overnight: Ledigos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8: Walk from Sahagún to Reliegos
Distance: 31.3 km / 19.5 mi
After yesterday’s restful day, we hope you are prepared for the longest segment on the Camino. But, there’s no need to fear as this section is especially flat and rewarding, with beautiful vistas as you follow the Roman roads that lead to León.
As there are very few places to stop for lunch, we will provide you with a complimentary to-go lunch. At the end of the day, we shuttle ahead to León where we will stay for 2 nights. There, you can book a massage or relax in the pool.
Overnight: León
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9: Walk from Reliegos to León
Distance: 24.3 km / 15 mi
Congratulations! Today, we reach our final destination, the important city of León. We celebrate together over lunch in the famous Barrio Húmedo and wish buen Camimo to the members of the group who are continuing on from here.
Overnight: León
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10: Rest Day León
Distance: Tour End
Tour End
In the afternoon of your last day, we will take a private guided tour of the Santa María de León Cathedral. This magnificent gothic-style Cathedral boasts one of the largest collections of medieval stained glass in the world and has a fascinating history. Finally, it’s time to say good-bye to our Camino family. We thank you for joining us on this journey. We hope that you will leave with a great sense of accomplishment, new lifelong friendships, and many treasured memories. We look forward to seeing you back on the Camino someday.
Extra nights on request.
Meals: Breakfast
What’s included on your tour
- 9 nights’ accommodation
- All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 1 dinner, 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)
- Guided private tours of the cathedrals in Burgos and León
- 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 (160 EUR/person/guide is suggested)
- Additional activities not outlined in the What’s Included section
Highlights of Part 2 of the Camino Francés
- Experience the unique and exceptional feeling of being a pilgrim on one of Europe’s oldest pilgrimage routes, the Camino de Santiago.
- Form meaningful connections with fellow pilgrims while walking through Spain’s highland plateau.
- Experience exclusive tours of two of Spain’s most important religious sites, the Burgos and León cathedrals.
- Indulge in amazing food, such as specialty lamb and pork dishes, wild mushrooms and trout
Facts about your tour
- Trip Duration: 10 days / 9 nights
- Walking Distance: 170 km / 106 mi
- Departure City: Burgos
- Arrival City: León
- 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 2 of the Camino Francés?
Part 2 of the Camino Francés is considered one of the easier tours on the Camino. While it boasts some of the longest-distance days, the terrain is mostly flat. Having said that, we still recommend 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. If you’re traveling during peak season or heading to a popular destination like Santiago de Compostela, we recommend booking in advance. 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?
In Spain’s highland plateau, winters are cold and summers can be very hot. To avoid these extremes, we plan to walk this tour during late spring, early summer.
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 longer 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.