Origin
Destination
Distance
20.40 km
Duration
5.25 h
Difficulty
Easy
Ascent
211 m
Descent
100 m
Stage of the Camino
Stage Description
This stage is one of the most symbolic and spectacular parts of the French Way. It begins with an ascent to Iron Cross, the highest point on the route, where pilgrims leave a stone. Following this mystical moment, it descends steeply and technically demanding, testing knees. The mountain landscape gives way to El Bierzo's fertile plain. The route passes through picturesque villages such as El Acebo and Molinaseca before arriving at Ponferrada, the capital of Bierzo, dominated by its imposing Templar Castle.
This stage is one of the most symbolic and spectacular on the French Way. It begins with an ascent to Iron Cross, the highest point of the Way, where pilgrims place a stone. Following this mystical moment, it descends steeply and technically demanding, testing knees. The mountain landscape yields to the fertile El Bierzo region. The route passes through picturesque villages such as El Acebo and Molinaseca before arriving at Ponferrada, the capital of Bierzo, dominated by its imposing Templar Castle.
Last updated: 16/08/2026
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