Camino Francés · Stage 23 of 33
Stage 23: Astorga to Foncebadón
- From
- Astorga
- To
- Foncebadón
- Distance
- 25.8 km
- Climb
- ↑ 576 m
- Descent
- ↓ 16 m
- Difficulty
- Moderate
A steady climb through the Maragatería, a land of stone villages and heather, to the edge of the mountains.
Practical tips
In late autumn, winter and early spring expect cold, snow, wind and fog near the top; some albergues close in winter. The climb gets steeper after Rabanal, a good alternative place to stop.
Along the way
Castrillo de los Polvazares
A short detour leads to a beautifully preserved stone village of the Maragatos, once muleteers who carried goods across Spain.
More photos of Castrillo de los Polvazares →
Rabanal del Camino
Its Refugio Gaucelmo is run by the British Confraternity of Saint James, and a small Benedictine community sings Gregorian vespers in the evening.
More photos of Rabanal del Camino →
Foncebadón
Once almost a ghost village, now revived by pilgrims, with stone houses and slate roofs at about 1,430 m.
More photos of Foncebadón →Where to sleep in Foncebadón
- Albergue parroquial Domus DeiParish
- Albergue Monte IragoPrivate
- Albergue El Convento de FoncebadónPrivate
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.