How many kilometres is stage 3?

The stage from Poladura de la Tercia to Pajares is about 13 km according to our track.

How long does this stage take?

About 3 h 47 min at a moderate pace (13 km and +414 m). This estimate excludes breaks; with rests, photos and meals, add 1-2 hours.

How much elevation does this stage have?

It gains about +414 m of ascent and −649 m of descent, calculated on the real profile of the stage.

Is this stage difficult?

We rate it as hard difficulty, with about 32 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 Pajares?

We list 2 pilgrim hostels in the corridor of this stage (with phone and website when available). You can also book a hotel or guesthouse in Pajares.

Stage 3 of 6 · Camino de San Salvador

Poladura de la Tercia → Pajares

León · Asturias

Updated on August 16, 2026

Distance: 13 km
Time: 3 h 47 min
Ascent: +414 m
Descent: −649 m
Difficulty: Hard

Where to sleep in Pajares

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Where to get your credential stamped

Places on this stage that usually stamp the pilgrim's credential. Remember: over the last 100 km you need two stamps a day.

Albergue de Peregrinos de Poladura de la Tercia
San Miguel / Albergue Pajares

Points based on the hostels and parish churches along this stretch (OpenStreetMap data). We can't guarantee that each one stamps at all times: opening hours and availability change. Many bars, cafés and town halls also stamp.

Don't have the credential yet? See where to get one →

The queen stage: two passes above 1,500 m, utter solitude, and the most beautiful scenery on the whole route.

Where to sleep in Pajares

On the Camino, pilgrim hostels (municipal, parish and private) are the cheapest option, and many cannot be booked: you arrive and check in in order of arrival. The links below search for hotels and guesthouses, for those who prefer to secure a bed in advance.

Hotels and guesthouses ↗

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🌦 Weather at the destination

Next 5 days in Pajares, to decide whether to push on or stop.

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🛡 Travel insurance for the Camino

Insurance with medical assistance, baggage cover and cancellation protects you against the unexpected: an injury, a mishap or a stage you can't walk. IATI specialises in travel and offers cover valid for the Camino de Santiago.

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Hostels on this stage

Albergue de Peregrinos de Poladura de la TerciaPublic+34 639231443 +34 626143010 View on Google Maps 📍
San Miguel / Albergue PajaresView on Google Maps 📍

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 3?: The stage from Poladura de la Tercia to Pajares is about 13 km according to our track.
How long does this stage take?: About 3 h 47 min at a moderate pace (13 km and +414 m). This estimate excludes breaks; with rests, photos and meals, add 1-2 hours.
How much elevation does this stage have?: It gains about +414 m of ascent and −649 m of descent, calculated on the real profile of the stage.
Is this stage difficult?: We rate it as hard difficulty, with about 32 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 Pajares?: We list 2 pilgrim hostels in the corridor of this stage (with phone and website when available). You can also book a hotel or guesthouse in Pajares.

Xacobeo 2027

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Poladura de la Tercia → Pajares

Elevation profile

Stage map

Where to get your credential stamped

Hostels on this stage

Frequently asked questions about this stage

Planning the Camino de San Salvador?