The stage, step by step
Leaving Almadén
Before setting off, you can fill your bottles at Fuente de Santiago and Fuente de la Palmera. The route rises gently between km 1.3 and km 4, then descends 94 m to km 6.8.
First slopes and Mediterranean woodland
Between km 6.8 and km 8.5, you face a 109 m climb at an average gradient of 6.2%. Afterwards, the route continues to undulate through holm oaks, cork oaks and rockroses, retaining its mountain character.
Passing through El Real de la Jara
El Real de la Jara appears roughly halfway through the day and is the logical place to stop if 33.6 km feels too much. You can find Albergue de Peregrinos, Alojamiento Molina, Farmacia Real de la Jara and bar El chati there.
The final climb towards Monesterio
From km 22 to km 32.3, a long, gradual 239 m climb dominates the route, arriving when you have already covered many kilometres. The final section leads into Monesterio, where it is best to have accommodation arranged.
What to see on stage 4
Sierra Norte sevillana
The stage follows the southern slopes of Sierra Norte, in a much more natural setting than the previous days. The landscape shifts between dehesa, Mediterranean woodland and open areas.
Dehesa of holm oaks, cork oaks and rockroses
The vegetation accompanies you for almost the entire day and gives this section its identity. It is a beautiful landscape, but do not mistake it for an easy stage: the distance and final climb take their toll.
El Real de la Jara
This intermediate village is the best reference point for splitting the day or taking a long break. It also allows you to sort out water, pharmacy needs and accommodation without waiting until Monesterio.
Where to sleep in Monesterio
In Almadén de la Plata, you can set off well rested from Hostel Casa de Reloj. If you split the day, El Real de la Jara has Albergue de Peregrinos and Alojamiento Molina. If you complete the 33.6 km, Monesterio offers Albergue Municipal Las Moreras and Albergue Parroquial de Peregrinos.
Where to eat and refuel
The options midway are limited: in El Real de la Jara, you have bar El chati, and further on there is El Culebrin Tienda de Jamón. Monesterio has most of the arrival options, including Sierra de Monesterio, Mesón Casa Juan, Las Tablas and supermarkets such as Spar, Dia Market and El Árbol. If you intend to complete the stage, do not wait until the final climb to look for food.
Practical tips for this stage
Consider splitting the stage
At 33.6 km and an average walking time of 7.5 hours, this day may be too much for some pilgrims. El Real de la Jara is the natural place to sleep and spread the effort.
Use the fountains at the start
Fuente de Santiago and Fuente de la Palmera are at the beginning, in Almadén. Set off with your water sorted and do not plan the day assuming there will be a convenient fountain in the mountains.
Save energy for the end
The 239 m climb between km 22 and km 32.3 is long, even though its average gradient is only 2.3%. You will arrive in better shape if you keep a sensible pace from Almadén.
Book if you are going to Monesterio
This is a long stage and accommodation is concentrated at the destination. Confirm a place in Monesterio or El Real de la Jara before setting off, especially if you do not want to turn the final climb into a race.
Frequently asked questions about stage 4
Is this the toughest stage from Seville?
It is the longest stage so far, at 33.6 km and an average of 7.5 hours. It has 497 m of ascent and 221 m of descent, and the final 239 m climb makes itself felt.
Can I split it over two days?
Yes. El Real de la Jara lies roughly halfway and has Albergue de Peregrinos and Alojamiento Molina, making it the most practical place to stop.
Where can I eat during the stage?
The midway point is El Real de la Jara, with bar El chati. Further on, you have El Culebrin Tienda de Jamón; the widest choice is in Monesterio.
Which section is the most demanding?
The climb from km 22 to km 32.3 gains 239 m and comes after many hours of walking. Setting off too quickly from Almadén usually catches up with you at the end.