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Stage of the Camino

The Bath of Astorga

From La Bañeza To Astorga

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Origin

La Bañeza

Destination

Astorga

Distance

24.50 km

Duration

6.13 h

Difficulty

Media

Ascent

100 m

Stage of the Camino

Stage Description

This is the final stage of the Via de la Plata as an independent route. The profile is a gentle but continuous ascent that takes the pilgrim from the plain to the city of Astorga. The landscape becomes increasingly undulating, anticipating the proximity of the León Mountains. Arrival in Astorga is a moment of great symbolism, as here the Via de la Plata converges with the Camino Francés. The city, with its impressive Cathedral and Gaudí's Episcopal Palace, is one of the major monumental jewels along the Way of St James.
The stage that connects La Bañeza with Astorga is the crowning glory of the Via de la Plata. It's a day of great significance, as it marks the union with the Camino Francés, the Jacobean route par excellence. The profile of the stage is a gentle but constant ascent, which prepares the pilgrim for the change in landscape that lies ahead. The road winds its way through undulating terrain, traversing a landscape of transition between the plain and the mountains. Arrival in Astorga is a climax moment. This bimillennial city, ancient Asturica Augusta, is a monumental treasure. The pilgrim is received by the imposing Cathedral of Santa María and, just beside it, the magical Episcopal Palace, one of the few works by Antoni Gaudí outside Catalonia. The ensemble is breathtakingly beautiful. Additionally, Astorga boasts a rich Roman heritage, walls, a chocolate museum, and exceptional cuisine, with the maragato stew as its star dish. It's an obligatory stop, a place to celebrate the end of the Via de la Plata and the start of the shared adventure on the Camino Francés.

Last updated: 12/08/2025

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