Origin
Destination
Distance
26.80 km
Duration
6.00 h
Difficulty
Moderate
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.
AC Hotel Ponferrada by Marriott
Hotel Aroi Ponferrada
Hotel Ciudad de Ponferrada, Ascend Hotel Collection
Hotel Temple Ponferrada
Jaen Apartment
Convento de Foncebadon
El Tiempo Recobrado - Hotel de relax en El Bierzo
Hotel Alda Centro Ponferrada
Hotel Aroi Bierzo Plaza
Hotel El Castillo
Hotel Novo
Hotel Ponferrada Plaza
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