How many kilometres is stage 1?

The stage from Ponferrada to Las Médulas is about 26 km according to our track.

How long does this stage take?

About 7 h 13 min at a moderate pace (26 km and +611 m). This estimate excludes breaks; with rests, photos and meals, add 1-2 hours.

How much elevation does this stage have?

It gains about +611 m of ascent and −494 m of descent, calculated on the real profile of the stage.

Is this stage difficult?

We rate it as hard difficulty, with about 24 m of ascent per kilometre. It is an estimate based on elevation; heat, rain or the surface can make it harder.

Where to sleep at the end of the stage, in Las Médulas?

We list 3 pilgrim hostels in the corridor of this stage (with phone and website when available). You can also book a hotel or guesthouse in Las Médulas.

Is there water, a pharmacy and an ATM along the way?

On the stage we found 13 water fountains, 10 pharmacies and 16 ATMs (OpenStreetMap data; do confirm opening times).

Stage 1 of 12 · Camino de Invierno

Ponferrada → Las Médulas

León

Distance: 26 km
Time: 7 h 13 min
Ascent: +611 m
Descent: −494 m
Difficulty: Hard

Next stage2

Castaños centenarios, el castillo templario de Cornatel y las minas romanas de Las Médulas.

Elevation profile

Ascent

+611 m

Descent

−494 m

Altitude

459–792 m

Stage map

Services on the stage:💧 13 water fountains✚ 10 pharmacies🏧 16 ATMs(OpenStreetMap data; check opening times)

Use two fingers to move the map; Ctrl + scroll to zoom.

What to see on this stage

Monuments and points of interest near the Camino for your rest (data from OpenStreetMap).

CastleCastillo de Ponferrada
MonasteryConvento de la Purísima Concepción
CastleCastillo Viejo
MuseumMuseo del Bierzo
MuseumMuseo de la Radio
MuseumMuseo del Ferrocarril
RuinsCastro de Borrés
RuinsLas Médulas

Hostels on this stage

Hostal San Miguel I
Hostal San Miguel II
Hostal La Madrileña

Hostel data © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). It does not include beds or price, which are not always in the source; check with the hostel. Is one missing or wrong? Write to us.

Frequently asked questions about this stage

How many kilometres is stage 1?: The stage from Ponferrada to Las Médulas is about 26 km according to our track.
How long does this stage take?: About 7 h 13 min at a moderate pace (26 km and +611 m). This estimate excludes breaks; with rests, photos and meals, add 1-2 hours.
How much elevation does this stage have?: It gains about +611 m of ascent and −494 m of descent, calculated on the real profile of the stage.
Is this stage difficult?: We rate it as hard difficulty, with about 24 m of ascent per kilometre. It is an estimate based on elevation; heat, rain or the surface can make it harder.
Where to sleep at the end of the stage, in Las Médulas?: We list 3 pilgrim hostels in the corridor of this stage (with phone and website when available). You can also book a hotel or guesthouse in Las Médulas.
Is there water, a pharmacy and an ATM along the way?: On the stage we found 13 water fountains, 10 pharmacies and 16 ATMs (OpenStreetMap data; do confirm opening times).