Stage Nájera to Santo Domingo de la Calzada

The route between Nájera and Santo Domingo de la Calzada is an enjoyable journey with a relatively gentle profile, ideal for recovering strength. Along its 20.7 km, the pilgrim passes through a changing landscape where the characteristic vineyards of La Rioja Alta yield to vast fields of cereal, a precursor to the Castile plain that approaches.

The route begins by leaving Nájera and, after a gentle ascent, enters agricultural terrain with well-marked paths. The first important town on the way is Azofra, a locality with a strong Jacobean tradition offering all necessary services for pilgrims. Beyond Azofra, the path continues along comfortable and well-signposted tracks.

Before arriving in Santo Domingo de la Calzada, the Camino passes through the outskirts of Cirueña, a town that has experienced significant urban development around a golf course, generating an unusual contrast with traditional rural surroundings.

The arrival at Santo Domingo de la Calzada is a special moment. The city is one of the places with the greatest history and legend on the French Way. Its origin is intimately linked to the figure of Domingo García, who dedicated his life to building bridges, hospitals, and roads to facilitate pilgrims' passage. His masterpiece is the Cathedral, which not only stands out for its architecture but also houses a live rooster and hen in its interior, recalling the famous miracle. A visit to the cathedral and a stroll through its well-preserved old town are essential.