The stage, step by step
Leaving Fuente de Cantos
Sort out breakfast, water and food before setting off, as the route does not pass through a clearly equipped intermediate settlement. Fuente de Cantos is also the last place to try chanfaina, Extremaduran gazpacho and its Iberian cured hams.
The descent towards the plain
Between km 3.8 and km 10.3, the route loses 86 m at an average gradient of 1.3%. The terrain is open and walking is straightforward, although the lack of urban landmarks can make the stretch feel monotonous.
Calzadilla and the undulating section
During the day, you pass Albergue Público de Peregrinos - Calzadilla de los Barros, a useful reference if you want to arrange a night away from Zafra. Further on, the profile gains 33 m between km 12.3 and km 16.
Entering Zafra
After the gentle climb, the route continues across the plain to Zafra. Accommodation is concentrated on arrival, and you can explore the historic city without adding any extra stage kilometres.
What to see on stage 6
Extremaduran plain and dehesa
The stage takes place in an open landscape of Extremaduran plain and dehesa. There are no major changes in relief, but there is a clear transition from Fuente de Cantos towards the surroundings of Zafra.
Churches of Zafra
Zafra preserves churches linked to its historic and Renaissance architecture. They make a good first visit on arrival, while you still have time and your legs are not too tired.
Historic Zafra
The destination city brings together medieval and Renaissance heritage, contrasting with the rural landscape of the route. It is worth setting aside some time to explore it after dropping off your rucksack.
Where to sleep in Zafra
On the way, you can consider stopping at Albergue Público de Peregrinos - Calzadilla de los Barros. If you complete the stage, Zafra offers Albergue de Peregrinos Vincent van Gogh Zafra, Hostal Carmen, Arias and Albergue Convento De San Francisco. Booking is advisable because most of the accommodation is concentrated at the end.
Where to eat and refuel
Between Fuente de Cantos and Zafra, you will not find a bar or shop where you can stop, so set off having had breakfast and carrying water and food. It is better to reach Zafra with time to spare and eat there than to rely on finding an improvised stop between the plain and the destination.
Practical tips for this stage
Set off with food and water
The stage does not pass through an intermediate settlement with places to eat or shop. Organise everything in Fuente de Cantos before starting.
Enjoy the descent without forcing the pace
Between km 3.8 and km 10.3, you lose 86 m on a long but gentle descent. Keep a comfortable stride and do not speed up simply because the profile is favourable.
Book your accommodation
You can sleep in Calzadilla de los Barros or continue to Zafra. If you choose Zafra, confirm a place at Albergue de Peregrinos Vincent van Gogh Zafra, Hostal Carmen, Arias or Albergue Convento De San Francisco.
Leave time for Zafra
The average walking time is 5.4 hours and the elevation gain is modest. Setting off early allows you to arrive in daylight and visit the historic city after the walk.
Frequently asked questions about stage 6
How many kilometres are there to Zafra?
The stage is 24.2 km and takes an average of 5.4 hours. It gains 75 m and descends 146 m, so the overall balance is downhill.
Is there a village where I can stop for food?
There is no village with a bar or shop along the way. Leave Fuente de Cantos with enough food and water.
Where can I sleep before reaching Zafra?
The intermediate option is Albergue Público de Peregrinos - Calzadilla de los Barros. In Zafra, you have Albergue de Peregrinos Vincent van Gogh Zafra, Hostal Carmen, Arias and Albergue Convento De San Francisco.
Which section is the most demanding?
The descent between km 3.8 and km 10.3 is the most notable for its length, losing 86 m. The following climb gains only 33 m between km 12.3 and km 16.