Camino de Santiago by Bike: Complete Guide for Bicigrinos

The Camino de Santiago by bike

Every year more pilgrims choose to cycle the Camino de Santiago. These so-called bicigrinos now account for roughly 20% of those who collect the Compostela. If you are considering pedalling to Santiago, this guide will help you plan your trip from start to finish.

Best routes for cyclists

Not every Camino route is equally bike-friendly:

• Camino Francés: The most popular, with good infrastructure. Some narrow footpaths require dismounting, but overall very cyclable.
• Vía de la Plata: Flatter and quieter, ideal for cyclists who prefer open terrain.
• Camino Portugués (coastal): A mix of tarmac and dirt tracks with spectacular scenery.
• Camino del Norte: Very demanding due to steep climbs. Only recommended for experienced cyclists.

Essential gear

Your bike needs to handle mixed surfaces:

• Bike: Gravel, touring or mountain bike with a rear rack. Avoid pure road bikes.
• Panniers: Better than a backpack. Distribute weight in rear panniers (15 kg maximum total).
• Tools: Puncture repair kit, spare inner tube, multi-tool, portable pump.
• Helmet: Compulsory by law on roads outside urban areas in Spain.
• Lights: Front and rear, essential for tunnels and cloudy days in Galicia.

Daily distances and planning

An average bicigrino covers between 60 and 80 km per day, completing the Camino Francés from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in about two weeks. To earn the Compostela by bike you must ride at least the last 200 km, which means starting from Ponferrada or León. Check our guide to the last 100 km for a detailed look at the final stretch.

A realistic plan for the last 200 km:

• Day 1: Ponferrada – O Cebreiro (52 km)
• Day 2: O Cebreiro – Sarria (42 km)
• Day 3: Sarria – Palas de Rei (47 km)
• Day 4: Palas de Rei – Santiago (68 km)

Rules and credential

Bicigrinos have the same obligations as walking pilgrims:

• Pilgrim credential: You need at least two stamps per day over the last 200 km.
• Priority: Walking pilgrims always have right of way on narrow paths. Signal your approach and pass carefully.
• Public hostels: Cyclists enter after walkers, from 20:00 if beds remain.
• Road rules: On highways, standard Spanish traffic regulations apply. Ride on the right-hand shoulder.

Resting in Palas de Rei

After the tough climb to O Cebreiro and the mountain stages through Lugo province, Palas de Rei is the perfect overnight stop before the final stretch to Santiago. At Casa Andaina you can store your bike safely, wash your clothes and rest in a comfortable rural house with a fully equipped kitchen to prepare a proper recovery dinner. If you need an airport transfer or luggage transport, Taxi Castro operates from Palas de Rei.

Final tips for bicigrinos

• Train beforehand: At least 4 weeks riding with loaded panniers.

• Start early: Leave before walking pilgrims to avoid overtaking on narrow sections.

• Be respectful: The Camino belongs to everyone. Slow down when passing walkers.

• Enjoy it: Do not turn the Camino into a time trial. Stop in the villages, chat with people, live the experience.

Cycling the Camino is an extraordinary way to cover hundreds of kilometres of history, nature and human connection. Prepare well and let the route surprise you.