Mansilla de las Mulas to León

The 18.5 km stage from Mansilla de las Mulas to León is a transition day that takes the pilgrim from the heart of the Meseta to one of Spain's most magnificent cities. The path is mostly flat and, for the most part, urban.

The route starts in Mansilla and, after passing through the small village of Villamoros de Mansilla, arrives at Puente Villarente, with its medieval origin bridge over the Porma River. From here on, the landscape becomes increasingly industrial and suburban. The path passes through Arcahueja and Valdelafuente, and the pilgrim must keep a close eye on the yellow arrows to avoid getting lost in the network of roads and industrial areas that announce the approach of the capital.

This final stretch, known as the "León's dry season", can be monotonous and hard due to the asphalt. However, the growing anticipation of arriving at a city so rich in history and art alleviates the walk.

The entrance to León is made through the Puente Castro neighborhood, crossing the Torío River. The path leads the pilgrim directly into the heart of the city. The effort of approaching is forgotten when arriving at the old town and facing the majesty of the Santa María de Regla Cathedral, known as the "Pulchra Leonina", one of the world's greatest Gothic works, famous for its over 1,800 square meters of medieval stained glass. But León is much more: the Basilica of San Isidoro (the "Sixth Century Chapel" of Romanesque), Gaudí's Casa Botines and the lively tapeo life of the Barrio Húmedo make this city an indispensable stop.