Camino & Eclipse 2026: From León to Ponferrada : Leon - Ponferrada

Group Booking G8881F

Thank you for your inquiry about our “Eclipse – August 12th, 2026: Medieval & Roman Heritage of León” experience.
This is a guaranteed self-guided departure, carefully crafted to align with a rare and breathtaking event: the solar eclipse on August 12th, 2026, which will be perfectly visible from León.
Due to the uniqueness of the eclipse, many accommodations in the area are already fully booked, so this is a truly special opportunity to combine two unforgettable experiences: walking the Camino de Santiago and witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event in one of Spain’s most historic cities.

Your trip includes:

• Hand-picked accommodation in a private room with private bathroom
• Luggage transfer while walking (one bag per person, 20kg max; optional opt-out
• Online pre-departure briefing with one of our Camino experts
• Downloadable detailed walking notes or guidebook
• Downloadable hotel vouchers with location maps
• Access to our exclusive Camino app
• Pilgrim passport
• 24/7 support service during your trip
• Free carbon offset contribution to certified UN-approved environmental projects — 100% covered by Follow the Camino

Stages

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Day 1 - 2 Arrival in Leon

You will be staying in a traditional hotel. From the many historical sights to visit during the day to the nightlife in the bars and restaurants as the sun goes down, this city provides experiences for all ages and interests. Two standout attractions are the Cathedral with its magnificent Gothic sculptures and stained glass windows, and the Basilica of San Isidoro.

Hotel My Palace - Leon

11 Aug - 13 Aug

Breakfast

Day 3 Leon to Villar de mazarife - 20.95km / 13.02miles

Leaving Leon, the urban area continues almost as far as the site of Virgen del Camino (about 7km outside Leon), where a local shepherd once sighted the Virgin Mary. The area is now marked by a number of statues depicting the historical scene. From this point, the route becomes more interesting as you follow the historical Camino along the Plateau of Leon.

Tio Pepe - Villar de mazarife

13 Aug - 14 Aug

Breakfast

Day 4 Villar de mazarife to Astorga - 31.66km / 19.67miles

You pass the famous ‘Puente de Orbigo’ and leave behind the Plateau of Leon. The Leon Mountains can be seen up ahead and the end of this stage will bring you to Astorga, the capital of the ancient region of Maragateria. Not to miss in Astorga: the Episcopal Palace, the cathedral, and the city walls.

Gaudi - Astorga

14 Aug - 15 Aug

Breakfast

Day 5 Astorga to Rabanal de camino - 19.8km / 12.3miles

We are now deep in the Maragateria region as we gradually make our way up to the foothills of the Leon Mountains. This part of the countryside is characterised by broom, oak, and conifer plantations. Your destination is the mountain town of Rabanal Del Camino.

La Posada de Gaspar - Rabanal de camino

15 Aug - 16 Aug

Breakfast

Day 6 Rabanal de camino to Ponferrada - 31.48km / 19.56miles

Today is one of the most rewarding days along the French Way. Enjoy the beautiful broom and heather surroundings as you ascent to Mount Irago. Witness the ‘Iron Cross’ on the mountain pass before making your way downwards to the wealthy area of Bierzo. If you would like to walk at a more relaxed pace, we can arrange to split this section into two days (24km on the first day, 8km on the second day). Accommodation is in a superb chalet hotel in Molinaseca.

El Castillo Ponferrada - Ponferrada

16 Aug - 17 Aug

Breakfast