The stage, step by step
Leaving Alcaudete
Before setting off, you can have breakfast at Churrería los Zagalez, shop at Masymas and deal with any last-minute problems at Manuel Barea Pérez, La Muralla or La Plaza. The Albergue de peregrinos de Alcaudete is the reference point for the previous night.
First climb and descent
The stage gains 93 m between km 7.5 and 10.5, then loses 44 m to km 12. The surroundings begin to open out as the route moves from the area around Alcaudete towards the Campiña.
The second climb
Between km 13.8 and 18.6, you face the longest climb of the profile, gaining 121 m. It is a long, steady effort rather than one short, sharp climb, so settle into a pace you can hold for several kilometres.
Descending towards Baena
From km 18.6, the route gradually loses height and reaches its steepest descent between km 22.4 and 23.6. Near Baena, you have Lidl, Churrería Luna and several restaurants, including Los Palancos and Mesón Casa del Monte.
What to see on stage 5
Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor
Baena's church was built over an old Umayyad mosque and retains late-Gothic architecture from the 15th and 16th centuries. It is one of the places that best explains the town's long history.
Castillo de Baena
The medieval fortress dominates Baena's townscape. After the final descent, climbing up to the castle adds one last effort, but gives you a clear sense of the town's defensive role.
Campiña del Guadajoz
The day crosses the transition between the hills and the Campiña cordobesa, with olive groves and the surroundings of the Guadajoz river. The landscape becomes more open as you approach Baena.
DOP Baena olive oil
Baena is a historic producer of extra-virgin olive oil with its own protected designation of origin. It is the most recognisable local product to taste or buy at the end of the stage.
Where to sleep in Baena
In Alcaudete, you have the Albergue de peregrinos for the start. In Baena, Albergue Ruta del Califato awaits near the end of the stage. There is no intermediate hostel where you can split the day, so arrange your arrival in advance, especially if you are walking in peak season.
Where to eat and refuel
The choice at the start in Alcaudete is limited: El Torero, Patoca and Churrería los Zagalez are specific options. There is no intermediate town with clear services along the route, so carry food and water from the beginning. Baena offers more choice on arrival, including Saratoga - tapas & copas, Los Palancos, Pizzeria Atusa III, Mesón Casa del Monte and Churrería Luna.
Practical tips for this stage
Set off self-sufficient
Do not rely on a marked fountain as your main support during the day. Fill your bottle in Alcaudete and carry enough food for 25.3 km.
Break the stage down mentally
There is a 93 m climb between km 7.5 and 10.5 and another of 121 m between km 13.8 and 18.6. Assuming the whole stage is downhill may leave you overconfident in the second half.
Take care on the final descent
Between km 22.4 and 23.6, the route loses 81 m at an average gradient of 6.8%. If your legs are tired, save some concentration for this section before entering Baena.
Use Baena to recover
The destination offers accommodation, supermarkets and restaurants. If you plan to visit Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor or the castle, leave your rucksack first and recover your strength.
Frequently asked questions about stage 5
Is it an easy stage because it is mostly downhill?
The elevation profile is favourable, with 480 m of descent against 246 m of ascent, but it is 25.3 km long and includes two notable climbs. The second, between km 13.8 and 18.6, gains 121 m.
Are there services between Alcaudete and Baena?
Options are concentrated in the two towns at either end. There is no obvious intermediate settlement where you can buy food or sit down for a meal, so leave Alcaudete prepared.
Where can I sleep in Baena?
The destination's hostel option is Albergue Ruta del Califato. In Alcaudete, Albergue de peregrinos is available if you need to arrange the previous night.
How long does it take?
Allow around 5.6 hours. The distance is 25.3 km and the altitude drops from a maximum of 648 m to a minimum of 367 m.