Bikepacking from Burgos to León

Ready for an epic ride across northern Spain? This cycling adventure starts in the historic city of Burgos, famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral and its prominent stop along the Camino de Santiago. Over about 221 km, you’ll pedal westward toward León, another puzzle piece in Spain’s medieval heart, known for the dazzling stained glass windows of its cathedral and lively tapas scene.

Expect lots of variety under your wheels: roughly 40% of the journey is on unpaved or gravel tracks, making it a bit of a bikepacking dream—so wider tires will be your friend. The route is fairly balanced in terms of ascent and descent, so while you’ll climb over 1,200 meters, you’ll also get plenty of chances to coast.

Much of this ride follows quiet farm tracks and traditional caminos, offering classic Castilian landscapes—think wheat fields, distant mountaintops, and timeless villages. Both Burgos and León are bursting with history and well worth some extra time before and after the ride. Pack snacks, prepare for a mix of surfaces, and soak in the peaceful vibe of the Spanish plains!