Origin
Destination
Distance
26.80 km
Duration
6.00 h
Difficulty
Media
Descent
890 m
Stage of the Camino
Stage Description
This 26.8-kilometer stage is one of the most symbolic and spectacular parts of the French Way. It begins with a short ascent from Foncebadón to Iron Cross, the highest point on the Camino (1,500 m), where pilgrims fulfill the tradition of placing a stone brought from their place of origin. After this mystical moment, it passes through the small village of Manjarín. From here, a steep and technically demanding descent of almost 20 kilometers begins, testing the knees and skill of walkers. The mountain landscape gives way to the fertile El Bierzo region. The route passes picturesque villages such as El Acebo and Molinaseca, with its beautiful Roman bridge, before arriving in Ponferrada, capital of Bierzo, dominated by its imposing Templar Castle.
The journey from Foncebadón to Ponferrada is one of the most complete and memorable. Just 2 km into it, you reach one of the most magical and symbolic points on the entire route: the Iron Cross. On top of a pile of stones deposited by millions of pilgrims over the centuries, stands a simple wooden post crowned with an iron cross. Here, tradition invites you to leave a stone, symbolizing letting go of a burden, and reflection.
From the Iron Cross (1,505m), the path descends slightly into Manjarín, a peculiar refuge that keeps the Templar spirit alive. From here, one of the longest and most feared descents on the Camino begins. Almost 1,000 meters of negative descent over 15 km, on a rocky and steep path, especially in the stretch to El Acebo. The views of the Bierzo valley are spectacular, but the descent requires maximum caution.
El Acebo, with its stone houses and pizarra balconies, is the first town of the Bierzo and an enchanting place for a break. The descent eases up until reaching Molinaseca, another of the most beautiful towns on the Camino. Its Roman bridge over the Meruelo River and its well-cared-for architecture make it a must-visit stop.
The last kilometers to Ponferrada are a pleasant flat walk. The entrance to Bierzo's capital is marked by the grandeur of its Templar Castle, one of Spain's most impressive medieval fortresses. A visit to the castle and the Encina Basilica is the perfect finale to an unforgettable stage.
From the Iron Cross (1,505m), the path descends slightly into Manjarín, a peculiar refuge that keeps the Templar spirit alive. From here, one of the longest and most feared descents on the Camino begins. Almost 1,000 meters of negative descent over 15 km, on a rocky and steep path, especially in the stretch to El Acebo. The views of the Bierzo valley are spectacular, but the descent requires maximum caution.
El Acebo, with its stone houses and pizarra balconies, is the first town of the Bierzo and an enchanting place for a break. The descent eases up until reaching Molinaseca, another of the most beautiful towns on the Camino. Its Roman bridge over the Meruelo River and its well-cared-for architecture make it a must-visit stop.
The last kilometers to Ponferrada are a pleasant flat walk. The entrance to Bierzo's capital is marked by the grandeur of its Templar Castle, one of Spain's most impressive medieval fortresses. A visit to the castle and the Encina Basilica is the perfect finale to an unforgettable stage.
Last updated: 12/08/2025
Where to Sleep
Accommodations in this Stage
Find the perfect place for your rest in Foncebadón o Ponferrada.
Hostal-Restaurante y tienda El Trasgu de Foncebadón
Albergue Alea
Albergue Domus Dei Foncebadon
Albergue de Peregrinos San Nicolás de Flue
Hostal Nirvana
AC Hotel Ponferrada
Albergue Casa Chelo
Albergue El Convento de Foncebadón
Hostal Restaurante "Convento de Foncebadon"
Hostal Rio Selmo
Hotel Ponferrada Plaza
Hotel Restaurante El Ancla
Albergue Monte Irago
El Castillo
Hostal Virgen De La Encina
Hotel Aroi Bierzo Plaza
Hotel Ciudad de Ponferrada, Ascend Hotel Collection
Hostal Albergue La Posada del Druida
Hostal Restaurante Monteclaro
Hotel Aroi Ponferrada
Albergue de peregrino Cruz de fierro
Hostal Restaurante San Miguel
Hotel Alda Centro Ponferrada
AS HOTEL Ponferrada
Hotel Novo
Hotel Temple Ponferrada
Jaen Apartment
La Pelegrina
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