Rabanal del Camino

Camino Frances

To end of camino
236.9
Altitude
1141

El Ganso

6.60

Rabanal del Camino

5.20

Foncebadón

Services
Bar
Yes
Grocery
Yes

Now home to 4 albergues and many pensions, Rabanal is a common (and wise) stopping point along the way. Ahead is a high mountain pass that demands a bit of rest.

Vespers are sung by the monks every night at 7pm at the small parish Iglesia de Santa María and a benediction for pilgrims is held afterward.

The town has always enjoyed a level of prosperity because of the camino, and in recent years has developed a slightly bohemian feel.

History

As the camino leaves Astorga, the terrain becomes more rugged and the risk to pilgrims (historically speaking) increased. It is for this reason that the Knights Templar settled here and in the larger town of Ponferrada on the other side of the mountain.

The Road

The camino leaves town along the same cobbled path that you found at the start of town, which leads past the church. It does NOT leave along the road.

City Map

Comments

All Caminos App User (not verified)

We purchased some eggs etc from the first store on the left entering the town . Opposite was an area set up called Green Garden that we thought was like a park to relax in . After we took our food back to the Albergue and had a wine , we took our books to the Green garden and didn’t realise it was set up by the grocery shop owner , who came over and basically started abusing us in Spanish . She indicated we were to buy more from her and we just got up and left . To be spoken to like that , for what was a misunderstanding is unacceptable behaviour from a business owner. She kept muttering to us as we departed even though we never responded to her . I would take my business to the other shop as when we went there later , she was very nice to her customers.

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Not in the app, unless I’m mistaken, since this hotel has a kind man at the front desk and no bugs whatsoever. A nice choice right on the Camino. Private rooms, excellent salad and very accommodating. I’m glad for the good night’s rest.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

The Stone Boat recommended we stay here since their private rooms were booked. El Rincón was perfect for us. It only has a couple rooms but they are clean, spacious and comfortable. Susana, the owner, made us feel at home and let us know about. Her tienda is connected so anything we needed was right there. ¡Fue perfecto!

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Highly recommend spending at least 2 nights with the Benedictine monks to rejuvenate your body and give yourself time to reflect on your Camino. Don’t be scared by the “retreat”. You will share meals with the monks and pray with them and other pilgrims in the church and the rest of the time you are provided the quiet and peaceful facilities to reflect in your own time. They are so welcoming and hospitable and they would love you to stay even longer if you can.

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Best pilgrims menu so far. I had the lentil soup, fish and cheese cake. Highly recommended

All Caminos App User (not verified)

We couldn’t find anything in Rabanal but booking suggested El Molinero casa rural in Santa Colomba de Somoza about 3.5 miles outside and it was wonderful. Great rooms and dinner. All in all 2 meals and a private room cost about $55 ! Use this place as an option for Rabanal del Camino.
May 8,2023.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Susanna who runs the small tienda round the corner from Guacelmo, has a nice new place with two private rooms, each with ensuite, a kitchen, washing machine and a nice courtyard. One room is a small double, the others single. When I was there (April 2023) it was €50 for the double, €35 for the single.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

The Benedictine brothers who are caring for the church are lovely. It's possible to stay with them but then at least for 2 nights. Probably worth it if you want to take a break.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Go to El Tacin for delicious healthy food. We loved the service, the variety, and the amazing quality of the food. I highly recommend the chicken soup and the veggie burger :)

Camino de Sant…

I will stay here again if I am ever in Rabanal in the future!!!