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.

Comments

Camino de Sant…

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

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

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

All Caminos App User

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…

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…

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…

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 :)

michael

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

michael

Great food here! We had walked from Astorga and this was the first hot food we found. And it was fabulous.

michael

A lady from the states started this small hotel. only 3 rooms. very nice and peaceful. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone. somewhat granola. but in a good way. Fabulous brekky!