Cycling day trip from Ponferrada to Sarria

Get ready for an epic ride! This route takes you from Ponferrada, famous for its impressive Templar castle and lively old town, all the way to Sarria—the bustling gateway for Camino de Santiago pilgrims. You'll pedal just under 120 km with some serious ups and downs (over 3800 meters of climbing!), weaving through lush hills, tiny Galician hamlets, and pockets of wild beauty.

The scenery is classic green Spain, dotted with vineyards, chestnut trees, and sweeping valley views. Most of the route is on quiet roads and rustic tracks, with only the rare stretch of busy tarmac, so you’ll enjoy peaceful moments and maybe spot some locals tending to cows or gathering chestnuts. Bring sturdy tires, because the route mixes a good chunk of old, unpaved Camino tracks with smoother paved sections.

Rolling into Sarria, you’ll join walkers and bikers setting out on their final Santiago push. Don’t miss the cozy cafés and classic pulpo (octopus) dishes to refuel—you’ve earned it!