Camino Francés · Stage 11 of 33
Stage 11: Belorado to San Juan de Ortega
- From
- Belorado
- To
- San Juan de Ortega
- Distance
- 23.9 km
- Climb
- ↑ 430 m
- Descent
- ↓ 193 m
- Difficulty
- Moderate
A climb into the oak and pine forests of the Montes de Oca, once feared for bandits.
Practical tips
12 km across the Montes de Oca with no village; the only fountain there is not drinkable. Steep first climb out of Villafranca. Avoid the N-120, with heavy lorry traffic.
Along the way
Villafranca Montes de Oca
The last village before the forest, with a historic pilgrim hospital that is now a hotel and hostel.
More photos of Villafranca Montes de Oca →
Montes de Oca
A long forest track at about 1,100 m. Halfway through stands a memorial to people killed here during the Spanish Civil War.
More photos of Montes de Oca →
San Juan de Ortega
A hamlet built around a 12th-century monastery. Around the equinoxes, a ray of evening sun lights up a carved capital of the Annunciation, the 'miracle of light'.
More photos of San Juan de Ortega →Where to sleep in San Juan de Ortega
- Albergue parroquial de San Juan de OrtegaParish
- Albergue La Cuadra de LuisitoPrivate
Planning note: distances and climbs are approximate and stages are a suggestion. Albergues listed are long-established ones; opening dates, prices and beds change, so check before you go. Accommodation links may be affiliate links.