Spain: French Camino
Camino Frances: Stage 1 – Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Logrono
Average customer rating 5.0 / 5(1 verified reviews)
- Self-Guided Pilgrimage
- 10 nights hotel-to-hotel
- Moderate
- CO₂ rating 1/5
Trip highlights
Trip details
Begin your pilgrimage in the charming French town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the traditional gateway to the Camino Frances and one of the most iconic starting points for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. This first stage carries you over the foothills of the Pyrenees, through the Basque Country and the historic regions of Navarre and La Rioja, where rural landscapes and cultural heritage gently unfold at a walking pace.
What's included
Included
- 10 nights accommodation
- Official Pilgrim's Passport (Credencial)
- comprehensive route directions
- Half board except dinner in Saint Jean-Pied-de-Port and Pamplona
- Transfer, as per itinerary
- Tourist taxes, where applicable
Not included
- Flights
- All lunches
- 3 dinners in Saint-Pied-de-Port and Pamplona
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Compostela Registration fees
- Compostela &/or Certificate of distance
- Entrance fees to sites
- Any local public transport or taxi fares, as per itinerary
- Luggage transport between accommodations
- Travel insurance
Travel options
Our travel specialists can arrange flights, rail and transfers to this holiday from wherever you are. Call us to plan your journey. +44 1606 720099
Itinerary
Day 1 · —Arrive in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
Arrive in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a historic town where countless pilgrims have begun their Camino Frances journey. Take time to settle in and absorb the atmosphere before starting this celebrated section of the French Way.
Day 2 · 8km/5.0miSaint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Ourisson(SJPP)
Before beginning your walk, take some time to explore the charming old town and the famous Rue de la Citadelle, known for its weathered cobblestones and well-preserved 12th-century architecture. Your walk today ends in Ourisson, after which a transfer will return you to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port.
Day 3 · 17km/10.6miOurisson to Roncevelles
A transfer will take you to Ourisson to complete the scenic climb through the Basque Country, arriving in Roncesvalles by the afternoon. You will spend the night in Roncesvalles, home to the region’s largest medieval hospice and a significant waypoint for pilgrims on the French Way.
Day 4 · 22km/13.7miRoncesvelles to Zubiri
Today’s stage takes you to Zubiri, descending to an altitude of 528 metres. Along the way, you will pass through peaceful villages on the Navarre section of the Camino Frances. You will journey through an ancient forest of beech and oak. Upon reaching Zubiri, be sure to visit the legendary ‘Bridge of Rage’, once believed to hold supernatural powers that could protect animals from rabies.
Day 5 · 20km/12.4miZubiri to Pamplona
Walk towards Pamplona, a city where Camino pilgrims have paused for centuries. Pamplona is the capital of the Navarre region, best known for its iconic Running of the Bulls festival. A popular stop for pilgrims, here you can explore its impressive Gothic cathedral, wander through the medieval old town, or seek out the locations featured in Hemingway’s ‘The Sun Also Rises’.
Day 6 · 24km/14.9miPamplona to Puente la Reina
Puente La Reina, where several European routes merge into the main Camino Frances awaits you at the end of today’s walk. This medieval town is rich in historic architecture, including the Church of Santiago el Mayor and the Church of Crucifijo, both with ties to Templar history. The latter is believed to have been founded by the Knights Templar in the 14th century.
Day 7 · 22km/13.7miPuente de Reina to Estella
Following an ancient Roman road towards Estella, often referred to as the ‘Toledo of the North’. This charming medieval town is rich in history, featuring highlights such as the Palace of the Kings of Navarre and stunning examples of Gothic architecture for travellers on the French Way. Here you can visit the medieval market in Plaza de los Fueros, where stallholders dress in traditional period costume.
Day 8 · 21km/13.0miEstella to Los Arcos
Continuing your pilgrimage, today’s walk takes you through Irache, home to a historic monastery and the famous wine fountain, which has been offering pilgrims a free drink of water or red wine since 1991. You will pass through the village of Villamayor de Monjardin and its iconic hilltop, before reaching Los Arcos, a classic stop on the Camino Frances. You will spend the night in the charming town of Los Arcos.
Day 9 · 18km/11.2miLos Arcos to Viana
Moving from Navarre into La Rioja, one of Spain’s most renowned wine regions, the landscape shifts from open fields to a patchwork of olive groves and vineyards. Highlights along the way include the octagonal chapel of Torres del Rio and the fortified village of Viana, designed in the style of a French bastide. Both sites are steeped in medieval charm and offer welcome shade on warmer days.
Day 10 · 10km/6.2miViana to Logrono
Cross The Puente de Piedra into Logrono, located in the heart of the Rioja region. The city welcomes you to explore the vibrant city centre, home to the Museo de la Rioja and the impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria.
Enjoy the rest of your day exploring the town, and consider booking an extra night before heading home.
Day 11 · —Departure
Depart Logrono for your onward travels, bringing with you the steady rhythm and rich heritage of this early section of the Camino de Santiago
Enjoy the rest of your day exploring the town, and consider booking an extra night before heading home.
What our travellers say
Positive impact
Carbon score for this trip
9.0
Kg CO₂e
per person, per night
Relative to other Headwater trips
We measure emissions from the parts of the holiday we organise — including accommodation, in-trip transport, meals and activities — and express them as CO₂e per person, per night. Our label doesn’t include your travel to and from the start of the trip. As a Certified B Corp, Headwater is committed to reducing this figure and to positively impacting local communities, the local environment and our staff. Learn more
Frequently asked questions
What is a pilgrimage walking holiday?
A pilgrimage walking holiday is more than just a journey, it’s a chance to slow down, reflect, and immerse yourself in centuries of history and culture. Traditionally, pilgrimages were spiritual routes, but today they appeal to anyone seeking meaningful travel.
You will usually follow well-trodden paths through charming villages, rolling countryside, and vibrant towns, connecting with local traditions along the way. It’s about walking with purpose, enjoying the rhythm of the trail, and discovering the stories that shape these iconic routes.
Do I need a pilgrim Camino passport?
Yes, if you’d like to collect stamps along the way and receive the official Compostela certificate in Santiago. The pilgrim passport, or credencial, is a wonderful keepsake of your journey, it’s stamped at churches, cafés, and hotels as you progress. Even if you’re not walking for religious reasons, it adds a lovely sense of occasion and helps you access pilgrim menus and accommodation.
How long is Camino Frances to walk?
The full Camino Frances stretches around 780 km (485 miles) from St. Jean Pied de Port in France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Most walkers take about 30–35 days to complete the entire route, averaging 20–25 km per day. If you’re short on time, you can choose to complete only a section—many opt for the final 100 km from Sarria to Santiago, which takes roughly a week.
When is the best time to walk the Camino Frances?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) are ideal. You will enjoy mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and landscapes at their most beautiful, think wildflowers in spring and golden vineyards in autumn. Summer is popular but can be hot and busy.
What is the recommended Camino Frances packing list?
Pack light, comfort is key! Essentials include:
Lightweight, breathable clothing for layering
Sturdy walking boots (well broken-in)
Rain jacket and quick-dry gear
Reusable water bottle
Basic first aid kit (blister care is a must)
Small daypack with good support
Repelent for ticks and insects
Remember, laundry facilities are common along the route, so less is more.
Is there any luggage restriction on Camino Frances ?
If you have luggage transfers booked, the service is limited to one item per person. Please restrict the weight of each piece of
luggage to no more than 20kg. There may be an additional charges should you bring more luggage, please advise us prior
to departure so any extra luggage services can be arranged.
At your first hotel, please mark your bags with the Surname of the lead booker and number each bag (1 of 2, 2 of 2
etc.). Please also ensure that where possible you lock your bags and leave nothing valuable in them. Please note we cannot
be held responsible for any damage.
Please have your bags ready for collection by 8am. We make every effort to deliver your luggage to the next hotel by 6pm,
please contact us locally if your luggage has not arrived by this time.
What type of Camino Frances accommodation is provided?
On a Headwater holiday, you’ll stay in handpicked, characterful hotels and guesthouses, chosen for their comfort and local charm. You will be greeted by welcoming hosts, hearty regional meals, and peaceful night’s of sleep after a day on the trail. It’s a step up from the traditional pilgrim albergues, perfect if you want the Camino experience with a little extra comfort.