Camino Primitivo Cycling Tour

Camino Primitivo Cycling Tour

Camino Primitivo Cycling Tour

Prices

From $950USD

Difficulty

Self-guided

Hotels

Start Your Booking

Highlights

Spend 11 exciting days cycling an ancient pilgrim trail through Andalusia and Galicia

Enjoy exhilarating cycling routes through the gorgeous landscapes of “Green Spain.”

Cycle peaceful villages, green pastures, enchanting woods and rolling hills, soaking in the serene settings.

Get acquainted with the unique styles and flavours of Northern Spain’s Andalusia and Galicia regions.

Celebrate your achievements as you reach Santiago de Compostela, proudly collecting your Compostelana (certificate).

This 11-day self-guided cycling holiday in Northern Spain invites you to gear up and experience one of the paths of the Camino de Santiago as you pedal the Camino Primitivo from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela.

Steeped in over a millennium of rich and fascinating history, the ancient pilgrim's trail of the Camino de Santiago is a remarkable network of over 800 kilometres of scenic trails, a section of which is called the Camino Primitivo. At a sprawling distance of 370 kilometres, the Camino Primitivo is the result of one of Europe's most impressive historical migrations. It was first embarked upon by the Asturian King Alfonso II, who set out on his pilgrimage in the year 829.

Cycling the ancient trail, you'll make your way through serene villages adorned with traditional architecture. Enjoy warm Spanish hospitality and cultural immersion at every stop along the way, delighting in regional gastronomy, including artisan cheeses, fresh garden produce, and free-range meats.

The heart of "Green Spain" is yours to discover as you pedal the lush landscapes of Northern Spain's Andalusia and Galicia regions. Green pastures, enchanting woods, and rolling hills are all fixtures of the cycling route that toggles between moderate and challenging sections.

This unforgettable cycling holiday allows you to experience the magic of this ancient journey at your own pace. With two wheels beneath you and your gaze fixed on Santiago de Compostela, you'll cruise through some of Spain's most beautiful natural landscapes.

Challenge yourself on your own personal pilgrimage. Book the Camino Primitivo Cycling Tour today!

Camino Primitivo Cycling Tour

Day 1 Arrive

Your highly anticipated journey on the Camino Primitivo begins today in Oviedo! Check into your accommodations before exploring the town's charming historical center, home to many cafes and restaurants.

While in the center of town, be sure to visit the Oviedo Cathedral, an exquisite gothic masterpiece fashioned in Pre-Romanesque and Baroque architecture dedicated to San Salvador.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Oviedo
Distance
None
Meals
Breakfast

Day 2 Cycle to Grado

In the morning you start cycling at San Salvador's Cathedral in Oviedo following the Jacobean copper shells through narrow lanes in the city centre, then out into the green Asturian countryside. Tarmac lanes, old footpaths and country roads take us past quiet villages and through hilly countryside If you have rented a bike, it will be delivered to your hotel in Oviedo.

Overnight Location: Hotel in Oviedo

Distance
25km, 630m of ascent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 3 Cycle to Tineo

Today's route begins with a challenge: 350 m ascent to get our of Grado and another 200 m before you arrive in Cornellana and San Salvador Monastery (11th century). From here you follow a more doable route along tarmac roads and narrow interior lanes (with a gradual ascend). On the way is welcoming Salas, where you can visit the Museum of Prerromanic Art located in the old castle. Both tracks end in Tineo, a historically significant town on the Camino. Accommodation at a 4-star historical hotel in the centre of town.

Overnight Location: Hotel in Tineo

Distance
45km, 1450m of ascent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 4 Roman Ruins and the Monastery of Obona

The day kicks off with a captivating visit to a Romanesque church and the Monastery of Obona, both partly in ruins and centuries ago, formed the site of an important cultural and intellectual center.

Numerous picturesque chapels and churches dot the path as you cycle up to the Lavadoiro Pass (812 metres/2664 feet), setting you up for a final descent to Pola de Allande, a lovely small town brimming with tantalizing Asturian flavours.

Check into your accommodations, and head out to experience the taste of Asturias in one of the town's authentic restaurants, serving fabulous regional cuisine.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Pola de Allande
Distance
28–32km, 475m of ascent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 5 Challenging Ride to Puerto del Palo Pass and Lake Grandas

Prepare to feel the burn! The endorphins will be flowing today as you climb 625 metres to reach the Puerto del Pal (1146 metres/3759feet) flanked by green woods to the north and rugged mountains to the south. A pleasant descent quickly follows this challenging section as you sail down to beautiful Lake Grandas.

One final challenge of the day has you cycling the last 4 kilometres to your accommodations in Grandas, home to yet another beautiful Romanesque church and an ethnographic museum.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Grandas
Distance
39km, 700m of ascent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 6 Cycle the Alto del Acebo Pass and Enter Galicia

Another challenging start awaits you today, as you begin the route with a climb of 475 metres to the Alto del Acebo Pass (1030 metres/3379 feet) before a smooth sail into Fonsagrada.

You can opt to visit the villages of San Martin and Santa Eulalia de Oscos, famous for their dark slate architecture, or bypass these villages and continue to Galicia.

The section concludes across a pleasant patchwork of lovely Galician hamlets.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Fonsagrada
Distance
32km, 1050m of ascent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 7 Cycle Beautiful Galician Countryside

Today’s route is lengthy but not particularly challenging. You’ll enjoy several downhill sections and only a few brief ascents, allowing you the opportunity to admire the beauty of the Galician countryside.

You’ll pass several pazos and casas grandes today, well-preserved country homes on sprawling estates adorned in traditional architecture and built of wood and stone.

The route leads you to Lugo, where several fascinating historic landmarks are ideal for exploring on foot. While in town, check out the Roman baths, natural hot springs on the banks of the River Miño.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Lugo
Distance
60km, 650m of ascent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 8 Explore Lugo and Join the French Way

Explore Lugo at your leisure this morning, checking out its major monuments and perhaps a little retail therapy before jumping back in the saddle for a brief but pleasant ride.

On this section, the Camino Primitivo merges with the well-known French Way as you make your way to Palas de Rei. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to stay overnight in one of the impressive casas grandes that you’ve been admiring from the roadside in recent days.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Palas de Rei
Distance
26km, 800m of ascent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 9 The Castle of Pambre, Coto, and Arzúa

This morning can be enjoyed at your leisure, as there’s no rush to hit the road due to a short route today.

You’ll enjoy a pleasant ride past the Castle of Pambre and onto Coto. Once in Coto, you’ll suddenly find yourself in the company of several other determined pilgrims. With sights set on Santiago, the excitement in the air will be palpable as your final stretch to Santiago de Compostela is just around the corner.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Arzúa
Distance
29km, 400m of ascent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 10 Final Stretch to Santiago de Compostela

Alongside other wide-eyed pilgrims, you’ll enjoy the electric atmosphere that rises as you make your way towards the St. James Cathedral, where your epic journey on bike concludes.

Collect your Compostelana (certificate of completion) from the Pilgrim’s office before heading to your accommodations in the charming town center of Santiago.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Santiago
Distance
40km, 310m of ascent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 11 Depart

You came, you saw, and you conquered the Camino Primitivo—well done!

After breakfast, your epic cycling journey comes to an end. Check-out of your accommodations and depart.

Overnight Location
None
Distance
None
Meals
Breakfast

The Camino Primitivo Cycling Tour Price and Dates

This self-guided cycling tour in Spain is always run as a private tour for your group and the price per person depends on the number of people staying in one room, as well as the season.

Prices below are per person.

Departures from April 10th to May 31st:

  • Price per person staying in a single room: $1,395USD
  • Price per person sharing a double/twin room: $975USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $950USD

Departures from June 1st to July 31st:

  • Price per person staying in a single room: $1,450USD
  • Price per person sharing a double/twin room: $995USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $975USD

Departures from August 1st to 31st:

  • Price per person staying in a single room: $1,475USD
  • Price per person sharing a double/twin room: $1,025USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $975USD

Departures from September 1st to October 25th:

  • Price per person staying in a single room: $1,450USD
  • Price per person sharing a double/twin room: $995USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $975USD
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Accommodation on the Camino Primitivo Cycling Tour

This tour is based on 2-star and 4-star hotels. The hotels offer comfortable private rooms with ensuite bathrooms and either modern or basic amenities. Rooms are double or triple occupancy, and single travelers will pay a supplement.

In some cases, accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
You can pay a supplement to have a single room, please check Dates and Prices, where all the single supplements are included in the final prices.

Hotel Campoamor in Oviedo

Enjoy the historical sights of Oviedo, like the famous Oviedo Cathedral, just a short 5-minute walk from this relaxed hotel.

Night 2

Hotel in Grado

Grado, an old fishing town built on a lagoon, consists of canals, delectable restaurants, impressive architecture, and a sandy beach.

Hotel Palacio de Meras in Tineo

Located centrally in Tineo, this hotel is set on the sight of a former palace built in 1525 and boasts marvellous architectural design.

Hotel Nueva Allandesa in Pola de Allande

Enjoy this charming riverside hotel in Pola de Allande that features homey rooms and modern amenities.

Hotel Las Grandas

This hotel is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and boasts lovely lake views.

Hostal Cantábrico in Fonsagrada

Get to know other pilgrims at this welcoming hostal in Fonsagrada that features mixed-gender dorms and a shared kitchen and dining area.

Hotel Paso de Orbán

Excellently located in the center of Lugo, this hotel is set inside the Roman Walls of the town, surrounded by the monumental quarter.

A Parada das Bestas Hotel in Palas de Rei

A Parada das Bestas Hotel welcomes all guests with its warm atmosphere in a picture-perfect rural setting, Guests can enjoy superb amenities like an outdoor pool and a charming restaurant.

Pazo de Santa María Hotel in Arzúa

This rustic hotel set in a beautiful stone building dates back to 1742 and is brimming with authentic charm.

A Tafona do Peregrino in Santiago de Compostela

Located near the famous food market of Santiago, this hotel is centrally located and affords guests the perfect base for exploring the city.

Hotels on Standard Tour

What’s included in the Camino Primitivo Cycling Tour?

Meals

10 breakfasts are included on this tour.

Accommodations

Accommodations for 10 nights are included.

Transportation during the Tour

This tour includes luggage transportation between hotels for the duration of the tour, according to the itinerary. Bike rental and airport transfers are not included but can be added as a supplement.

Also Included

  • Detailed route description in English, accompanied by maps
  • 24-hour telephone assistance
  • Detailed route notes and maps
  • Routes in digital format for mobile and GPS

Not included

  • Bikes rental
  • International flights
  • Airport transfers
  • Personal equipment (GPS/side bags)
  • Lunches and dinners or drinks and snacks not previously mentioned
  • Tourist taxes if applicable
  • Travel insurance

Optional Extras

  • Bike rental
  • Airport transfers
  • Activities and excursions
  • Single room supplements
  • Additional nights before or after tour

Frequenty Asked Questions about Camino Primitivo Cycling Tour

How hard is the Camino Primitivo Cycling Tour?

We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. The route contains some moderate hilly areas and those who are fit and cycle regularly will get the most out of this tour. Daily distances range from 25 to 60 kilometres and cyclists can expect extended climbs of up to 650 metres. You should be comfortable riding a bike and cycling these distances.

Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.

Are meals included on the Camino Primitivo Cycling Tour?

10 breakfasts are included on this tour.

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance, and your insurance should cover cycling. Get your Travel Insurance.

How do I get to Oviedo to start this tour?

If arriving at Asturias Airport (OVD), take the shuttle bus to Oviedo city center, which is about 45 minutes. There are bus connections to Oviedo from both cities if arriving at Santander Airport (SDR) or Bilbao Airport (BIO). Alternatively, you can book a private transfer as a supplement in advance or arrange your own private transfer from the airport.

Where does the Camino Primitivo Cycling Tour end?

The tour ends in Santiago de Compostela. If departing from Asturias Airport (OVD), Santander Airport (SDR), or Bilbao Airport (BIO), you can take a morning bus from Santiago to Oviedo, Santander, or Bilbao. The trip to Oviedo takes approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively you can book a private transfer as a supplement in advance or arrange your own private transfer to the airport.

Can I rent a bike?

Yes! You can rent a bike during the booking process.

What does the bike rental include?

Bike rental includes an electric, mountain bike, or hybrid bike, repair kit, pump and lock. Requests to add a map holder, 1 front pannier, and 1 rear pannier can be made in advance at no extra cost. Helmets are available on request at an extra cost of 5 EUR.

Can I bring my own bike?

Yes! You can bring your own bike (minimum 21 gears).

Do I need special vaccines to travel to Spain?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for Spain?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

When is the best time to travel to Spain for this tour?

The best time to travel to Spain for this cycling adventure is May, June, and September when the weather is pleasant and you’re less likely to encounter downpours and hordes of tourists. This tour is available from April to October.

Reviews

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Details of the local tour operator will be listed on your booking invoice. If you have questions about the local operator prior to booking, please click the “Ask a Question” button below.

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Prices

From $950USD

Difficulty

Self-guided

Hotels

Start Your Booking

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Rated 4.9 on Google Reviews

Tour Difficulty

We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. The route contains some moderate hilly areas and those who are fit and cycle regularly will get the most out of this tour. Daily distances range from 25 to 60 kilometres and cyclists can expect extended climbs of up to 650 metres. You should be comfortable riding a bike and cycling these distances.


Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

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