Camino Frances – Day 20 – Leon

Mansilla de las Mulas to Leon

Leaving Mansilla de las Mulas behind, our journey unfolds towards Leon, covering a distance of approximately 11.5 miles (18.5 km). The route leads us through picturesque rural landscapes, immersing us in the tranquil beauty of the Spanish countryside. Each step brings us closer to our destination as we traverse the charming villages of Villamoros de Mansilla, Puente Villarente, Arcahueja, and Valdelfuente. Along the way, we ascend from an altitude of approximately 2,600 feet (795 m) to 2,755 feet (840 m), gradually ascending towards our goal. As we approach Leon, the scenery transforms, and we find ourselves walking through the outskirts of the city, a prelude to the vibrant urban experience that awaits us.

Villamoros de Mansilla

Villamoros de Mansilla
Villamoros de Mansilla

Nestled within the countryside lies Villamoros de Mansilla, a quaint village home to the Iglesia de San Esteban. Remarkably, a stork’s nest adorns the tower’s center. Despite its charm, lodging options are currently unavailable in this tranquil village.

Bridge over the Rio Porma
Rio Porma between Villmoros de Mansilla and Puente Villarente

Puente Villarente

Panaderia Puente de Villarente (Horno Rustico)

Pilgrims cherish Puente Villarente for its two beloved bakeries. First of all, Panaderia Puente de Villarente (Horno Rustico) operates from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closes on Wednesdays.

Panaderia Horno Rustico in Puente de Villarente
Horno Rustico – Panaderia Puente de Villarente

El Horno de Eladia

Secondly, El Horno de Eladia opens from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closes on Mondays. Both establishments are famed for their delectable churros and sweet pastries, making them must-visit spots during your journey.

Sweet Pastries in Panaderia in Puente de Villarente
Espresso, Churro and Sweet Pastries in Puente de Villarente

Yes, deciding between Panaderia Puente de Villarente and El Horno de Eladia is a delightful challenge, considering their exceptional quality and taste. With both bakeries renowned for excellence, it’s hard to choose just one for a satisfying culinary experience. But why settle for one when you can have the best of both worlds? Treat yourself to a carb-loaded adventure and indulge in the delicious offerings of Panaderia Puente de Villarente and El Horno de Eladia. Your taste buds will thank you for the flavorful journey!

Arcahueja

Camino de Santiago in Arcahueja
Side Street in Alcahueja

The town of Alcahueja straddles both sides of the main road leading to Leon, bisected by the Carretera General. The Camino de Santiago runs parallel to it, just a few hundred meters away on the outskirts of town.

Valdelfuente

Carretera General in Valdelafuente
Carretera General in Valdelfuente

Immediately after Alcahueja, we encounter Valdelfuente, where the main thoroughfare is known as Carretera General.

Leon

Calle Ancha in Leon
Leon – Calle Ancha

As a pilgrim, arriving in Leon marks a grand culmination of my journey. Additionally, the city’s rich history and stunning architecture, notably the inspiring Cathedral of Leon, leave me in awe. Furthermore, wandering through its ancient streets, I encounter charming squares, bustling markets, and welcoming cafes. Moreover, I find myself captivated by Leon’s historical charm.

Patio in the Cathedral of Leon
Patio in the Cathedral of Leon

Furthermore, the vibrant energy of the locals and the deep-rooted traditions of the region envelop me, offering a sense of belonging and warmth. Additionally, exploring Leon’s cultural sites, such as the Basilica of San Isidoro and the Casa de los Botines, deepens my appreciation for its significance along the Camino de Santiago. Moreover, wandering through the bustling streets, I encounter a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells that ignite my senses and enrich my journey.

Puente Villarente – Where to stay – Pilgrims Hostels and Hotels

Centro Cultural Camino de Santiago in Puente-Villarente
Puente Villarente – Centro Cultural – Camino de Santiago

Albergue San Pelayo Puente Villarente

Private Hostel – 40 Beds in 4 Rooms – 10 Private Rooms – Online Reservation – Registration begins at 12:00 PM.

Albergue El Delfin Verde Puente Villarente

Private Hotel – 15 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Hostal La Montana Puente Villarente

Private Hostel – 14 Private Rooms – Reservations by phone at 0034 987312045

Arcahueja – Where to stay – Pilgrims Hostels and Hotels

Blooming rose bush in Arcahueja
Blooming rose bush in Arcahueja

Albergue La Torre Arcahueja

Private Hostel – 17 Beds in 3 Rooms – 4 Private Rooms – Online Reservation – Registration begins at 12:00 PM.

Hotel Camino Real Arcahueja

Private Hotel – 44 Private Rooms – Reservations by phone at 0034 987218134

Leon – Where to stay – Pilgrims Hostels and Hotels

Plaza de San Marcello in Leon
Leon – Plaza de San Marcello

Albergue de Convento de las Carbajalas Leon

Parochial Hostel – 134 Beds in 4 Rooms – Online Reservation – Registration begins at 11:00 AM.

Albergue Residencia San Francisco de Asis Leon

Parochial Hostel – 48 Beds in 12 Rooms – 22 Beds in 11 Rooms – Online Reservation

Globetrotter Hostel

Private Hostel – 46 Beds in 5 Rooms – Online Reservation – Registration begins at 12:00 PM.

Albergue Santo Tomas de Canterbury Leon

Private Hostel – 36 Beds in 3 Rooms – 7 Private Rooms – Online Reservation – Registration begins at 10:00 AM.

Albergue Check In Leon

Private Hostel – 40 Beds in 2 Rooms – Online Reservation – Registration begins at 10:00 AM.

Albergue Muralle Leonesa

Private Hostel – 52 Beds in 11 Rooms – 6 Private Rooms – Online Reservation – Registration begins at 12:00 PM.

Leon Hostel in Calle Ancha
Leon Hostel in Calle Ancha

Leon Hostel

Private Hostel – 14 Beds in 3 Rooms – 6 Private Rooms – Online Reservation – Registration begins at 1:00 PM.

Hostel Quartir Leon Jabalquinto

Private Hostel – 54 Beds in 4 Rooms – 5 Private Rooms – 1 Apartment – Online Reservation – Registration begins at 1:00 PM.

Hostel Covent Garden

Private Hostel – 24 Beds in 3 Rooms – Online Reservation – Registration begins at 1:00 PM.

Albergue Residencia Miguel de Unamuno Leon

University Hostel – 50 Beds in individual and double Rooms – Online Reservation – These accommodations cater primarily to university students; however, during the summer holidays, the beds are also rented out to pilgrims.

Plaza de Santo Domingo in Leon
Plaza de Santo Domingo in Leon

Palacio Real Hostel

Private Hostel – 112 Beds in 18 Rooms – 8 Private Rooms – Online Reservation – Registration begins at 1:00 PM.

Hostal Gargola

Private Hotel – 10 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Rincon de Leon

Private Hotel – 10 Private Rooms – Reservations by phone at 0034 600868013

Hostal Guzman el Buono

Private Hotel – 25 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Hostal Albany

Private Hotel – 14 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Hostal Alda Casco Antiguo

Chain Hotel – 12 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Alojamiento Alda Centro Leon

Chain Hotel – 14 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Hotel Alda Via Leon

Chain Hotel – 17 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Hostal Orejas

Private Hotel – 49 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Hotel Neru

Private Hotel – 16 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Hospederia Pax

Private Hotel – 20 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Hotel Crisol Quindos Leon

Chain Hotel – 96 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Posada Regia Leon

Private Hotel – 19 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Room in the My Palace Hotel in Leon
Room in the My Palace Hotel in Leon

Hotel My Palace Leon

Private Hotel – 56 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

NH Plaza Mayor

Chain Hotel – 51 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

Parador de Leon (Hostal San Marcos)

Chain Hotel – 203 Private Rooms – Online Reservation

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