Villafranca del Bierzo

Camino Frances

To end of camino
180.9
Altitude
519

Valtuille de Arriba

4.40

Villafranca del Bierzo

5.30

Pereje

Services
ATM
Yes
Bar
Yes
Bus
Yes
Grocery
Yes
Medical Center
Yes
Pharmacy
Yes

The Municipal and Ave Fenix albergues are at the very start of town. The latter is adjacent to the Iglesia de Santiago, one of only two churches along the way to have its own Holy Door for the benefit of pilgrims too sick to make it to the Santiago Cathedral.

Villafranca del Bierzo is one of the prettiest towns along the camino in El Bierzo. It is full of narrow streets that twist and turn and dare you to not get lost.

Located along the Burbia and Valcarce rivers it can be difficult to navigate and steep climbs seem to be obligatory no matter the destination.

Notice

The Municipal and Ave Fenix albergues are at the very start of town. The latter is adjacent to the Iglesia de Santiago, one of only two churches along the way to have its own Holy Door for the benefit of pilgrims too sick to make it to the Santiago Cathedral.

Fiesta

The Fiestas del Cristo are held on the 14th of September.

History

San Francisco de Assisi passed through 800 years ago and is said to have founded the Iglesia de San Francisco, do pay it a visit as it often doubles as an exhibition hall (plus its elevation affords a good view as the sun sets in the valley).

During the Peninsular War Villafranca was used as the headquarters for the Galician army and was sacked not once but three times by the English before finally falling into the hands of the French. It is a wonder that any part of it remains.

The most famous Villafranquino in recent centuries is Enrique Gil y Carrasco, a beloved author and world traveler.

The Road

Leave town by way of the bridge over the río Burbia. At the end of the bridge, the camino splits. Most pilgrims keep along the road which winds along the valley floor following the old national VI road, in the shadow of its replacement which soars above. The camino here is on paved asphalt, the old road surface, but is separated from the road by a barrier wall. There are numerous places where it crosses the road, and you are encouraged to watch out for traffic here; it is infrequent but speedy.

Comments

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

The layout is great: airy, spacious and single beds. Good shower. But what makes this a standout is the owner, Juan, who is so kind and attentive. I was feeling sad because I lost my Camino crew but Juan’s warmth made me feel right at home. The food was great too.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Currently not in the list: Famely driven Albergue Fiña Fernita (available via bookingcom) is fantastic! Near to the center of town, single beds, clean and lots of space - not only in the dormatories. Dinner is fantastic, mother is cooking. Host is one of the best i met on the camino so far, and i started in St Jean. If you want to do yoursef a favour stay here, you'll not regret it :)

All Caminos App User (not verified)

This was a gem of an albergue. Most notably, the proprietor Juan is the nicest person I’ve met in a walk full of nice people!

Beds were twin (no upper bunk) and spaced well apart, and the bathrooms were wheelchair accessible. Food was good and we were each given a half bottle of wine! The garden is beautiful with palm trees and sculptures.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Danny at Micro Hostel Puerta del Perdon is the most accommodating and friendly host. The food is amazing, service is fabulous, we loved our time here.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

As you leave Villafranca you will see that a new sidewalk is being installed outside the city, extending for maybe 2 to 3 KMs. This will be a safer experience m.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

El Castillo albergue was closed for the season despite saying all year. The restaurant on the corner called El Castillo was so so helpful and wonderful! The owner helped us find an open hostel and gave directions to get there, food and wine is amazing with great prices and very kind people and good service. Highly recommend!

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

This albergue stands out because of how Maria and her mother would go over and beyond in making sure that the pilgrims get a comfortable stay. They’ve been running the place for 9 years and are clearly happy in what they do. Great location, fireplace, spotless rooms and amenities, reasonable price for washer and dryer. The kitchen is a bit small but our overall experience was just amazing!

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Alberge Leo er det dejligste lille Alberge. Her er roligt og hyggeligt og en skøn atmosfære. Stedet emmer af god smag og et meget imødekommende personale.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Warning, water supply is temporarily contaminated due to a recent storm flushing ash from a forest fire into the river. Do not drink from any taps or fountains.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

highly rec!! hospitalero was so thoughtful and kind!! a beautiful home converted to an albergue right near the river and the beach!