Part 1
Road trips and city of León
Road trips and city of León
Day 1 - Road trip from Santiago de Compostela to León
Time of the year: End of May
O Cebreiro is a historic mountain village located in the Lugo province of Galicia, at the entrance to the region along the Camino de Santiago. Sitting at 1,300 meters, it's one of the most emblematic and spiritual stops on the French Way (Camino Francés) of the pilgrimage.
For many walking the Camino, O Cebreiro marks the first village in Galicia—symbolizing a milestone on their spiritual journey.
Overview from O Cebreiro
O Cebreiro preserves "pallozas", pre-Roman thatched stone houses with Celtic origins. These unique buildings show how locals lived for centuries in the harsh mountain climate.
The village of Villafranca del Bierzo it’s a major stop on the Camino de Santiago (French Way) and is often called the "Little Compostela" for its spiritual and architectural richness.
The village of Peñalba de Santiago surrounded by rugged peaks and deep forests, it’s widely considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain and is a symbol of peace, spirituality, and ancient heritage. Peñalba sits in the heart of the Valle del Silencio, named for its deep connection with early Christian monasticism and the legendary hermit San Genadio, who sought divine quiet in these hills.
The road trip from Ponferrada to Peñalba de Santiago passes through some idyllic landscapes following the route LE-CV-192/21
The village is a living museum of traditional slate-roofed stone houses with wooden balconies, perfectly integrated into the mountainous landscape. Peñalba de Santiago offers an unforgettable experience of sacred calm, architectural wonder, and natural harmony. It's a must for those seeking spiritual heritage, off-grid beauty, or simply a place that feels like it’s from another era.
Peñalba de Santiago offers an unforgettable experience of sacred calm, architectural wonder, and natural harmony. It's a must for those seeking spiritual heritage, off-grid beauty, or simply a place that feels like it’s from another era.
The city of Astorga, a city with a rich medieval legacy due to it's location at the crossroads of the Pilgrim's Road to Santiago de Compostela and the Ruta de la Plata (Roman Silver Route ). With a rich Roman legacy and stunning modernist architecture, it offers a unique mix of cultures, eras, and flavors.
Gaudí Palace: One of only three buildings by Antoni Gaudí outside Catalonia, the Episcopal Palace of Astorga looks like a fairytale castle and now houses the Camino Museum.
Day 2 - city break in the city of León
Time of the year: end of May
León was the capital of the kingdom in the Middle Ages, a historic place on the El Camino de Santiago. The city invites to dwell around and spend the day going from a tapas bar to another. León is renowned for its lively Barrio Húmedo, where every drink comes with a free tapa—making it a top destination for foodies and night owls. The prices are more affordable than in the bigger spanish cities.
snapshot of history
León is a city where medieval grandeur meets modern vitality. With its majestic cathedral, Roman roots, pilgrim-friendly atmosphere, and unbeatable gastronomy, León is a must-stop on the Camino and a standout in Spanish heritage.
the map of the Iberian Peninsula with the recognisable mountain areas: in the north the Picos de Europe and in the north east the Pyrenees
Day 3 - Road trip from León to the National Park Picos de Europa & Stroll in regional Park Montaña de Riaño
Time of the year: End of May
Distance: ca. 8,50 km
Altitude loss / gain: +510 m / -510 m
Lowest point: ca. 1100 m
Highest point: ca. 1600 m
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Difficulty: 🟥🟥
Parking:
free parking: here
the valley of Riaño
first glimpses of Pico Gilbo; altitude 1679 m
the last kilometer towards the peak is not recommended for those with fear of heights
Village Posada de Valdeón, which is app. 8,5 km away from the village Cain de Valdeón, the end destination of the famous Ruta del Cares "Divine Gorge", probably the most popular stroll in the Picos de Europa. The hike is described in the Part 3.
the first view of the Picos de Europe
main square
rain shortly came after, allowing the local legends to meet for a drink at the local bar
Portilla de la Reina is a peaceful mountain village nestled in the province of León, in the heart of the Montaña de Riaño and near the Picos de Europa National Park. Surrounded by towering peaks and alpine meadows, it serves as a scenic base for wildlife, hiking, and quiet mountain living. Located at over 1,200 meters above sea level, the village is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, glacial valleys, and craggy peaks—perfect for lovers of wild nature.
road trip further to Cosgaya
the rain came hard and strong bringing also hailstrom (pieces of ice). The entire horizont became within minutes completely white.
Liébana region
last updated: July 2025