The stage, step by step
Last-minute shopping in Castilblanco
Leave Castilblanco with a fully stocked rucksack. In the first few kilometres, you can still find Piccadilly Circus, Chicago, La Venta, Covirán and El Rincón del Beni, but afterwards the route enters an area without services.
Local roads and the first undulations
The start alternates between local roads and dirt tracks. Between km 0.8 and km 2.5, you descend 43 m, then regain 34 m between km 2.5 and km 4.8; it is a gentle opening that does not reveal the more demanding section ahead.
El Berrocal and the central climb
As you move through the mountains, the terrain becomes more undulating. The climb between km 10.8 and km 16.3 gains 154 m at an average gradient of 2.8%, followed by a 146 m descent to km 22.3.
Alto del Calvario and Almadén
The final section starts gaining height again from km 22.3, so save some energy. When you reach Almadén de la Plata, you can refill at Fuente de Santiago or Fuente de la Palmera and look for a rest at Hostel Casa de Reloj.
What to see on stage 3
Finca El Berrocal
The first third of the route passes through the surroundings of Finca El Berrocal, alternating local roads and dirt tracks. This is where the stage leaves Castilblanco’s more urban surroundings behind.
Alto del Calvario
The climbs and descents around Alto del Calvario give the day much of its mountain character. You will be glad to have kept your pace under control from the start.
Iglesia de Santa María de Gracia
The church in Almadén de la Plata is a late-16th-century temple. It is in the destination village and offers a peaceful visit after a 28.2 km day.
Torre del Reloj
Torre del Reloj in Almadén was built in the Neo-Mudéjar style in 1905. It is one of the destination’s most recognisable features.
Where to sleep in Almadén de la Plata
If you need to rest before setting off, Castilblanco has Albergue de peregrinos Castilblanco. In Almadén de la Plata, you can stay at Hostel Casa de Reloj; there is no alternative place to rest midway, so book ahead in busy periods.
Where to eat and refuel
Buy supplies and eat in Castilblanco: Piccadilly Circus, Chicago and La Venta are near the start, and you can stock up at Covirán or stop at El Rincón del Beni. After that, there are no bars, restaurants or shops during the crossing; reach Almadén with enough food for the whole day.
Practical tips for this stage
Set off fully supplied
The stage includes roughly 28 km without intermediate services. Carry water, food and sun protection from Castilblanco, and avoid setting off during the hottest part of the day.
Save energy for the second half
The 154 m climb between km 10.8 and km 16.3 comes when you already have many kilometres in your legs. Walk conservatively from the start.
Take care on the descents
Between km 17.8 and km 22.3, there is a 146 m descent with an average gradient of 3.2%. The pace changes on this section, so avoid rushing if your legs are tired.
Make use of the water on arrival
Fuente de Santiago and Fuente de la Palmera appear once you are in Almadén de la Plata. Use them when you finish, but do not rely on them to solve your water needs in the mountains.
Frequently asked questions about stage 3
How much elevation gain is there on the stage?
It is 28.2 km with 431 m of ascent and 303 m of descent. Altitude ranges from 302 m to 537 m, with several climbs and descents spread across the route.
Is there anywhere to buy food or eat on the way?
There are no intermediate services. The last clear opportunity is in Castilblanco, where you can shop at Covirán or eat at Piccadilly Circus, Chicago, La Venta or El Rincón del Beni.
Where is the longest climb?
The main climb runs from km 10.8 to km 16.3, gaining 154 m at an average gradient of 2.8%. The final section also gains height before Almadén.
Where can I sleep on arrival in Almadén?
In Almadén de la Plata, the main accommodation option is Hostel Casa de Reloj. Castilblanco also has Albergue de peregrinos Castilblanco, should you need to arrange the previous night.