The stage, step by step
Leaving El Cubo de la Tierra del Vino
Before setting off, you can organise the day at Restaurante Casa Iván and leave with accommodation arranged at Albergue de peregrinos "Torre de Sabre" or Albergue "F&M". The stage is long, so it is worth starting with water and food.
Plateau and central descent
From kilometre 7.3, a 10 km descent begins, losing 158 m. It is a gentle section, but the distance means you should keep a comfortable pace and avoid walking too fast at the beginning.
Stopping in Villanueva de Campeán
Villanueva de Campeán is the strategic stop of the day: make use of its full range of services to rest and replenish before continuing. There is still a substantial distance to Zamora afterwards.
Final descent and entry into Zamora
Between kilometres 19.8 and 30.3, the route descends steadily once again. On arrival, you have options such as El Arrabal del Pozo, La Bodega del Arrabal and Restaurante Los Pelambres, as well as Albergue Municipal de Peregrinos de Zamora.
What to see on stage 21
Catedral de Zamora
Dating from the 12th century, it crowns the old city above the Duero. After 31.6 km across the plateau, seeing it appear is the real sign that the stage is ending; it is best visited the next day or after a shower.
Iglesia de San Claudio de Olivares
One of the Romanesque churches in the lower part of Zamora, in the Olivares district beside the Duero. It is on the way if you enter the city along the river, so you can see it without taking a single extra step.
Zamora
Zamora is a historic city with a medieval character and marks a clear change from the open plateau landscape. On arrival, you will have services, shops and several options for the night.
Where to sleep in Zamora
In El Cubo, you can set off from Albergue de peregrinos "Torre de Sabre" or Albergue "F&M". Along the route, you will find Albergue de Peregrinos (Privado). If you complete the stage, in Zamora you can choose between Infinium, Residencia Juvenil "Doña Urraca" and Albergue Municipal de Peregrinos de Zamora. Reaching a city makes it easier to find an alternative, but booking is advisable during busy periods.
Where to eat and refuel
In El Cubo, Restaurante Casa Iván is a good place to set off prepared for the day. Villanueva de Campeán is the key stop because it offers full services for resting and replenishing supplies. As you approach Zamora, you will find El Arrabal del Pozo, La Bodega del Arrabal and Restaurante Los Pelambres; once in the city, you can continue at Mesón La Vega, La Rúa Restaurante or Cuzeo.
Practical tips for this stage
Make the most of Villanueva de Campeán
Do not miss this stop. Its full range of services makes it the obvious place to rest, buy what you need and tackle the second half of a 31.6 km stage.
Look after your legs on the descents
The stage loses 277 m and includes two long descents: one between kilometres 7.3 and 17.3, and another between kilometres 19.8 and 30.3.
Take water from the start
Although Villanueva de Campeán allows you to replenish your supplies, the distance between stops is considerable. Leave El Cubo with enough water and do not wait until you are thirsty before looking for the next opportunity.
Do not mistake distance for ease
The plateau landscape and gentle gradients can be deceptive. It is 31.6 km with an average walking time of 7 hours, so keep a sustainable pace from the first kilometre.
Frequently asked questions about stage 21
How many kilometres are there between El Cubo and Zamora?
The stage is 31.6 km, with an average walking time of 7 hours.
Where can I replenish food or water?
Villanueva de Campeán is the strategic stop with full services. You can also leave El Cubo prepared and finish your shopping on arrival in Zamora.
Are there more climbs or descents?
There are more descents: the stage includes 92 m of ascent and 277 m of descent.
What can I visit in Zamora?
Catedral de Zamora and Iglesia de San Claudio de Olivares are two highlights at the end of the stage.