Camino Francés

Shadows of Atapuerca: Dappled Deer and Ancient Ridges

Experience the steep ascent of the Sierra de Atapuerca on the Camino Francés, featuring panoramic views of Spain's central plateau and the distant silhouette of Burgos. This section offers a mix of ancient history, wildlife sightings, and the unique camaraderie of the pilgrim trail.

Over the Montañas and Thru the Wood

From steep climbs and pollen allergies to fresh empanadas in a village of 18 people. This is the wild, wonderful journey through Spain's Montes de Oca.

The Storm Roared but We Slept Soundly

From a stormy sanctuary in Grañón to the mysterious opium fields of Spain, join us on a rain-soaked trek toward Villafranca Montes de Oca. Discover the Bronze Age history of the poppy on the Camino de Santiago.

The Tomb was the Excuse: A Camino Lesson in the Vineyards of La Rioja

Discover how a local grape farmer’s skeptical take on the Camino de Santiago reveals the trail’s true history. Join us for a walk through La Rioja's vineyards to learn why the "tomb as an excuse" fueled a Golden Age of pilgrimage.

From Jerusalem to the Vineyard: The Knights of the Hospital

Discover the journey of the Knights Hospitallers from the Holy Land to the Camino de Santiago and explore the ruins of the 12th-century San Juan de Acre hospital in Navarrete. Learn how this historic site was reborn to serve modern pilgrims on their pilgrimage through Spain.

What Happened to James the Great

From the New Testament to Spanish epic: tracing the life and martyrdom of St. James. Learn why this “Thunderboy” has 1000 years of history on the Camino.

The Porcelain Rule: Navigating Water (and Wine) on the Camino

Discover the unique rituals of the Camino de Santiago, from mastering "Agua Potable" to the legendary free wine fountain at Bodegas Irache. A firsthand account of staying hydrated, DIY gear hacks, and the historic "liquid encouragement" offered to pilgrims in Ayegui.

The Queen’s Bridge and the Roman Road

Leaving Puente la Reina, pilgrims cross the "Bridge of the Queen" and walk the rare, ancient pavers of a 2nd-century Roman road. Experience the history of the Camino Francés through the golden grain fields of Navarra, ending with a communal meal in the historic town of Estella.

Beyond Forgiveness

From a clumsy tumble off Forgiveness Ridge to a sweltering night in Puente la Reina, this stage of the Camino Francés is a lesson in adaptation. Witness the landscape shift into the Mediterranean, discover the charm of Navarra’s villages, and learn why you should never pay for a "cool" hotel room before feeling the AC.

The Song of Roland: He Blowd his Brains out his Ears

Walking the Camino Francés? Learn about the Battle of Roncevaux Pass and the Song of Roland. A blend of history, humor, and hiking through the beech forests of the Pyrenees.

Mountain Portal: Launching the Camino from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

Step off the bus and into history at Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Explore the Roman roots, medieval battles, and the essential Pilgrims’ Office as we begin the Camino Francés.

First Touch: Starting the Camino at the Tower of Saint James in Paris

Does the Camino de Santiago start in Paris? Explore the history of the Tour Saint-Jacques, the four medieval pilgrim routes of France, and the beginning of a month-long trek.