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Cycling in Spain
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Burgos to Ponferrada Cycling along the Camino
Galicia
Spain
This Cycling Holiday explores the second section of the Camino Frances / French Way by Bike, the most traditional of all the pilgrim routes to Santiago de Compostela and the best known internationally. The route, which was established in the late 11th century reaching the tomb of St James the Great, crosses the North of the Iberian Peninsula, through the Basque Country, Navarra, La Rioja, Castilla y Leon and Galicia regions of Spain. Nowadays, cycling on the Camino has become an incredibly popular way of enjoying this once-in-a-lifetime journey to Santiago de Compostela.
Starting from Burgos, medieval city and home of a UNESCO World Heritage cathedral, this section of the French Way by Bike offers some of the best historical and cultural vestiges of the whole Camino Frances. It passes through Leon and the vast Castilian Plateau (Approx. alt. 900m) before reaching another medieval bastion – the buzzing city of Ponferrada. The mostly flat and gentle terrain makes it accessible to any cyclist with an average level of fitness.
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Rates include*:
Accommodations in hotels and guesthouses. All breakfasts and 2 dinners. Luggage transferred from hotel to hotel. Bike rental and breakdown insurance, Detailed Cycling Notes. Map.
| | 2019 | 7 day cycling trip, MAP | 7d / 6n | €850 | $1020 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Transfer and Other Charges:
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2019
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Single supplement
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€
150
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$180
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2019
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Upgrade to 4* accommodation, dbl, pp
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€
40
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$50
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2019
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Upgrade to 4* accommodation, single
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€
75
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$90
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2019
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Upgrade to 5* accommodation, dbl, pp
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€
155
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$185
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2019
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Upgrade to 5* accommodation, single
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€
220
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$265
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2019
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Extra night, dbl, pp ~ Please inquire
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€
0
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$0
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In: Fly into Santander or Madrid and take bus to Burgos (2 hr)
Out: Take bus from Ponferrada to Santiago (2 hrs) or Madrid (4.5 hrs0
Rates do not include:
Lunches, drinks. Some dinners. Airport transfers. Insurance
Sample Itinerary - Subject to changes
Day 1: Burgos
Burgos still preserves important vestiges of its medieval splendour and the city boasts a masterpiece of Spanish Gothic architecture: the Cathedral of Burgos (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Aside from a visit to the historic quarter, you can take an interesting walk along the banks of the Duero and Arlanza rivers.
Day 2: Burgos to Fromista
All day long, you will notice the influence of the Camino de Santiago as there is not a single village we cross that does not have obvious references to it.
By bike: approximately 73 kms. / Ascent: 650 m / Descent: 550 m
Day 3: Fromista to Sahagun
During this stage, we have a good understanding of the popular meaning “Castilla es ancha” (castilla is wide). Crop fields give patches of beautiful color to the agricultural landscape all year round. The first half of the day is mainly flat and it gets a bit more undulating on the second half to Sahagun.
By bike: approximately 67 kms. / Ascent: 150 m / Descent: 80 m
Day 4: Sahagun to Leon
Today we cycle through the colorful Castilian meseta or plateau. The landscape here seems endless as we pass over the flat terrain of the area, affording great views over the surrounding agricultural area. We finish the day in the vibrant city of Leon.
By bike: approximately 67 kms. / Ascent: 200 m / Descent: 200 m
Day 5: Leon to Astorga
This is probably one of the flattest cycling days of the entire Camino Frances, but as we are on a high plateau, it still offers some great views and you will see Astorga down in the valley long before reaching it! In Astorga, take some time to visit the Episcopal palace, the cathedral, and the old city walls.
By bike: approximately 44 kms. / Ascent: 500 m / Descent: 200 m
Day 6: Astorga to Ponferrada
The last day of this section is definitely the most difficult, but also, the most rewarding one! We can enjoy spectacular views as we climb up to 1500m above sea level to reach the famous Cruz del Hierro (the Iron Cross). The natural scenery and towns with rich history make this the best way to finish the section, before reaching Ponferrada: a city with a lively, and very pretty, medieval center.
By bike: approximately 54 kms. / Ascent: 1000 m / Descent: 1150 m
Day 7: Ponferrada. End of the Camino
After breakfast we bid you farewell
Meeting:
Burgos
Airport:
Santander, Madrid
Train station:
Burgos
Transfer:
Santander
Distance:
2 hrs 15 min.
In: Fly into Santander or Madrid and take bus to Burgos (2 hr)
Out: Take bus from Ponferrada to Santiago (2 hrs) or Madrid (4.5 hrs0
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Tack:
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Horses:
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--
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Pace:
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305 km (190 miles)
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Level:
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(2
to
3
out of 5) Moderate
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
16 riders
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Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.Note: EU nationals are onl. more
Burgos area
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Month
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Average High Temperature (°F)
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44
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47
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54
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57
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67
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73
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81
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81
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74
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63
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51
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45
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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31
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31
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34
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37
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42
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48
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52
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52
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48
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42
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36
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32
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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7
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9
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12
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14
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18
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23
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27
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27
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23
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17
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11
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7
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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-1
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0
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1
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3
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6
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9
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11
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11
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9
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6
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2
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0
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Average Precipitation (days of rain)
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8
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7
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6
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8
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9
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5
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3
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3
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5
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7
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8
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8
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
The French Way in its entirety stretches from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Santiago de Compostela, and is divided into eight sections. Some of the most popular cities along the route include Pamplona, Leon, and Sarria. All sections of the Camino Frances stretch across the northern region of Spain, creating very seasonal weather.
Summer
Like most countries in the Western Hemisphere, Spain in summer can be very warm. In fact, from June to August the temperatures in this region average at around 27°C (80°F). The sun is shining for a majority of the days every month. However, in Sarria in particular, there is a higher chance of rain.
Fall
When the season turns to fall, the temperature on the Camino shifts as well. Temperatures cool to around 23°C (73°F) in September, 18°C (64°F) in October, and 13°C (55°F) in November. As the temperatures drop, there is also a higher chance of rain along the route. Like before, in Sarria specifically, there are more predicted rainy days than sunny days.
Winter
As winter hits the region, the temperatures drop drastically. Averaging around 9°C (48°F) or 10°C (50°F), the weather in the northern region of Spain is typically rainier.
Spring
In March, April and May, the temperatures slowly get warmer. With temperatures increasing from 13°C (55°F) in March to 18°C (64°F) in May, the days still have a tendency to be half rainy and half sunny.
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
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Our accommodations are selected based on a number of criteria, including location, comfort, services, price and character.
Please note, in case of non-availability of the below mentioned Hotels on the requested dates, similar ones will be used.
The hotels that we normally use are as follows:
Burgos - Hotel Forum Evolucion
Hotel Forum Evolución is a modern hotel. It has a wine-themed décor. It has 19 rooms, including single, double and family rooms. The air-conditioned rooms are soundproofed and have a desk, a TV and a private bathroom with hairdryer and free toiletries. Services such as a 24-hour reception and free Wi-Fi are available.
Fromista – Hotel San Martin
Located just next to the church of St. Martin of Tours, hotel San Martin has a family atmosphere and offers 19 rooms (1 suite, 1 for disabled people and 17 double), all of them equipped with ensuite bathroom, TV, Free WiFi, Phone and Individual heating.
Sahagun - Hotel Vista Flor Puerta De Sahagun
This hotel offers a gym and air-conditioned rooms with a flat-screen TV. The 91 spacious rooms all feature tiled floors and modern décor. Each has a safe and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries. There is also an outdoor pool (OPEN 15 JULY) and free Wi-Fi in public areas.
Leon - Real Colegiata San Isidoro
Hotel Real Colegiata San Isidoro is located in the 11th-century San Isidoro Colegiate complex, with its basilica, cloister and museum. Located in the historic center of León, it is 5 minutes’ walk from the Cathedral. The hotel has a 24-hour reception and a free WiFi zone.
All rooms feature stone walls and views of the Roman Wall or the cloister. They are heated and have a desk, wardrobe and flat-screen TV. The private bathroom comes with a hairdryer and free toiletries.
Astorga – Gaudi Hotel
GAUDI HOTEL was built in classical style in 1981, and was refurbished in 1996. The hotel was built with the idea of allowing guests to enjoy a warm, classical decor in wood. The hotel is located in a historic area where you can visit Roman ruins. The hotel can accommodate up to 75 guests. There are 35 rooms, including 27 doubles, 3 doubles with lounge, 4 triples and 1 single. The rooms have a view of the city’s historic area, with Antonio Gaud’s Episcopal Palace in the background. Each room has individual heating, international television, telephone, and full bathroom with hair dryer. Cots are available. WiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge.
Ponferrada - Bierzo Plaza
The Aroi Bierzo Plaza opened in 2009 and is in the heart of Ponferrada, by the town hall. Its attractive rooms all offer free Wi-Fi access and air conditioning. The hotel is set in a historic building with elegant arches. Most rooms have a balcony, and all are en suite.
Meals:
Breakfasts and 2 dinners are included. Breakfast are eaten at the hotels and evening meals in the restaurant’s hotel or a restaurant nearby. It is usually a set menu.
Special diets and dietary restrictions:
We can only request dietary requirements to our suppliers for the following diets:
– Diabetic - Suitable for reduced sugar, hyperglycemic, hypoglycemic and carbohydrate controlled meal requests.
– Gluten Intolerant/Celiac also known as low gliadin, non-tropical sprue, Celiac disease, low wheat, wheat free, gluten restricted diet. A Gluten Intolerant Meal eliminates all foods prepared with wheat, rye, barley and oats.
– Vegetarian (No meat – no fish). Nuts may be used as a protein substitute.
BIKES:
Mountain Bike BH Over-X 27V; Bike Breakdown Insurance; Repair kit.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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--
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Horses:
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--
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Pace:
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305 km (190 miles)
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Level:
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(2
to
3
out of 5) Moderate
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
16 riders
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Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Note: EU nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU Member State. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Passports held by EU nationals need only be valid upon entry to and exit from Spain. Possession of a return ticket, any length of validity on their document, sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit should not be imposed.
Passport Note
Spain is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.
Visas
Not required by nationals of EU countries regardless of purpose and/or length of stay; 2. not required by nationals of other countries referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days.
Visa Note
Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No/2 |
| Canadian |
No/2 |
| USA |
No/2 |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Burgos to Ponferrada Cycling along the Camino
Tour Code:
ZZ-BK-ESCAM02
7 days /
6 nights
~$0.00
Dates :
Available all Year
Level :
Difficulty Levels Explained
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1. |
Easy
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Easy pace and an average-to-sedentary level of fitness. You should be in good health and fit enough for full day of normal sightseeing and walking.
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2. |
Easy to Moderate
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An average level of fitness or some experience with the featured
activity is recommended.
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3. |
Moderate
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Requires you to have performed the featured activity regularly, with
some periods on challenging terrain. Activities are mandatory and
you may be traveling at high elevations. You need to be in good health and physical condition to enjoy these trips, with adequate muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance.
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4. |
Demanding
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You must be extremely physically fit and are expected to hike or
ride four to six hours over steep or more rugged terrain. |
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5. |
Strenuous
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Prolonged hiking/biking on moderate to difficult terrain (five to nine hours a day).
May include high altitude, rugged terrain etc.. |
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accommodation
Tack:
--
Horses:
--
Pace:
305 km (190 miles)
Airport:
Santander, Madrid
Location on Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
Download tour PDF 
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