Ponferrada

Camino Frances

To end of camino
205.1
Altitude
539

Molinaseca

3.20

Ponferrada

3.20

Compostilla

Services
ATM
Yes
Bar
Yes
Bus
Yes
Correos
Ave General Vives, 24401, Mon-Fri: 0830-2030 & Sat: 0930-1300, 987 403 187
Grocery
Yes
Medical Center
Yes
Pharmacy
Yes
Train
Yes

Ponferrada’s Templar castle is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind and offers a glimpse into what castle life must have been like in the 12th and 13th centuries.

The Iglesia de Santa María de la Encina is named for a Templar legend according to which her image was found in the trunk of an Oak tree. It is located in the oldest part of town, near the castle.

Fiesta

Saturday is market day. The Fiesta de La Encina begins on September 8th and celebrates the patron Saint of El Bierzo, La Virgen de La Encina (oak), and lasts a week.

History

Ponferrada was at one point one of the most important of the Roman settlements due to its location at the junction of two rivers (The Sil and Boeza) in a valley both fertile and rich in minerals. Its name derives from the construction of its original bridge. Built in 1082 it was one of the first to be decorated with iron and so ‘Pons Ferrata’ became Ponferrada. The original bridge no longer exists.

The Road

Exiting Ponferrada takes you past the castle and briefly through the old town before crossing over the río Sil. At the end of that bridge turn right. The way curves left and at the next large intersection turn right. Keep straight through the first roundabout, and turn right at the second. From here the camino follows temporary signage through construction.

Comments

All Caminos App User (not verified)

The $7 euro breakfast was more than toast and instant coffee and they have 10 AM check out for those who need extra sleep. We had private room with shared bathroom.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

If you need any high quality replacements this place has you covered. Lots of American brands with gear from Black Diamond, teeva, smart wool etc.. I went in looking for a jacket and left with another hiking shirt lol the owner is a real cool down to earth guy

All Caminos App User (not verified)

This was a great castle to explore! You get some impressive views of the city and the mountains beyond. Price for peregrinos: 4 euros

All Caminos App User (not verified)

You can easily skip Ponferrada. Nothing of interest and nice to see

All Caminos App User (not verified)

There is a cafe on calle san valerio called venusia they have international craft beer. It is separated by style. The interesting beers are all in cans and bottles, they have the usual on tap too.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

This was probably best morning stop ever especially when all other breakfast spots are closed! Their croissants and pain au chocolate are to die for! Their tostados with jambon also amazing m. Service with a smile and great view of the castle! Highly recommend ❤️

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

The map shows the wash out being on the road

It no longer is. Instead it good along the river and a nice park

No big deal as it is we’ll signposted

It passes the Museo del Energia (an old power station) which friends have said is worth a detour

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

if you are going to stop in Ponferrada, stop here! A lovely oasis right on the path (if you take the road) with a few beds, fresh sheets, and an amazing home cooked meal. Lovely hospitaleros!

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Went to Panaderia Liébana for lunch and grabbed a sandwhich. Soon realized that the lettuce in the sandwhich hadn’t been washed and was covered in dirt…

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

By far the least interesting city on the Camino , castle notwithstanding (and there really is nothing else to see). Accommodations and restaurants are oddly expensive. Drab and dirty compared to other Spanish towns. Stay in Molinaseca or Cacobelos instead.