The best MTB trails around Vega De Valcarce

Located at the entrance to Triacastela, this wooden sculpture depicts a classic pilgrim with a staff, cloak, and hat. It's one of the most photographed spots on the Camino as it passes through this town. A work of local craftsmanship, it pays homage to the thousands of pilgrims who have passed through this historic Galician village, which was one of the first documented stops on the Camino de Santiago route. A good excuse to stop, stretch your legs, and take a symbolic photo before entering the town. From here, decide whether to continue along the San Xil route (shorter and more mountainous) or the Samos route (longer and with a monastery). Both routes are beautiful, but very different.

One of the highest points on the French Way of the Camino de Santiago, located between Triacastela and Fonfría, already in the province of Lugo. At 1,335 meters above sea level, this peak offers a natural viewpoint overlooking the Galician mountains. The area is often exposed to wind and changeable weather, even in summer, but the views and the feeling of having reached a milestone more than compensate. There's a hostel/bar right at the summit, useful as a stopping point for pilgrims and cyclists. Dress warmly before reaching the top: the temperature here can drop suddenly, even on sunny days. If you're on a mountain bike or e-bike, make sure you have good traction on descents and that your brakes are checked: the descent towards Fonfría is fast and winding. It's a good place to rest and refill your water or coffee before continuing.

This 12th-century Romanesque church is located in Ruitelán, a small village in the El Bierzo region of León, on the French Way of the Camino de Santiago. It's a simple yet characterful stone church with a north portal facing the pilgrims' route. This point marks the true beginning of the climb to O Cebreiro, one of the most demanding sections of the route for both hikers and cyclists. If you're on a mountain bike or e-bike, this is a good opportunity to take a short break before starting the ascent. The village offers shade, tranquility, and some basic amenities. From here, the incline becomes noticeable. If you're riding an e-bike, check the battery level before continuing. From Ruitelán to the summit, it's about 7 km with consistent inclines. The terrain alternates between asphalt and dirt tracks, so it's advisable to have tires with good grip, especially if it has rained. On clear days, the view from the village towards the valley is magnificent.

One of the oldest monasteries in the West, dating back to the 6th century and the heart of the Ribeira Sacra region of Lugo. Its large cloister is the largest in Spain, and the complex is impressive both for its size and its history linked to the Camino de Santiago. Arriving via the detour from the French Way is a gift: a peaceful stretch, with a river and picture-perfect vegetation. However, once you leave, you have to climb back… and your legs remember.

Pedrafita do Cebreiro: a legendary gateway to Galicia on the Camino de Santiago. Between pallozas, fog, and over 1,300 meters of altitude, the pass has been a test for pilgrims and cyclists for centuries. Cyclist's tip: climbing it is tough, but the reward is feeling like you're pedaling with one foot in history.

Remains of a 14th-century fortress that once stood watch over the Neira Valley. Although in ruins, it still retains the legendary air of the old Galician lineages. Cyclist's tip: the climb is demanding, but arriving and finding this solitary tower makes the journey seem twice as worthwhile.

Small and peaceful, it's famous for its cold springs, which have given the area its name and provided relief to pilgrims for centuries. Stone and slate houses and Galician tranquility. Cyclist tip: the climb is noticeable, but drinking from the spring here is heavenly.

The Church of Santiago dates back to the 12th century, the Puerta del Perdón (Door of Forgiveness), and is located next to the Cathedral of Santiago. They are the only ones that can grant the Jubilee, in this case it will be due to illness or accident that prevents you from continuing on to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.