The stage, step by step
Leaving Castuera
Castuera has all the services you need before setting off. You can have breakfast, buy food and take care of any last-minute purchases before leaving the town, as the route becomes rural and does not pass through another settlement.
A gradual climb towards the middle
Between km 6.6 and km 12.3, the path gains 67 m gradually. It is not a sharp climb, but it is long enough to make a steady pace advisable.
Descent and change of pace
From km 12.3 to km 15.5, you lose 39 m. It is a comfortable section for making progress, although there is no point in emptying the tank because the steepest rise of the stage is still ahead.
The final rise and Campanario
Between km 15.5 and km 16.5, you climb 32 m at an average gradient of 3%. The path then continues towards Campanario, where you can stop at La Piscina or Séneca and buy something at Dia Market.
What to see on stage 15
Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción
Campanario’s church is a late-15th-century building. Its presence marks your arrival in the town and it is worth visiting before looking for accommodation.
Ermita de Piedraescrita
This is the sanctuary dedicated to Campanario’s patron saint. If you have time after finishing, it is one of the religious sites most closely associated with the town.
Convento de Pobres Clarisas
The convent retains a distinctive brick belfry. It is another of the buildings you can include in a walk around Campanario.
Granite and slate outcrops
The area around Campanario lies between 300 m and 400 m above sea level and features granite and slate outcrops. They are visible characteristics of the La Serena landscape.
Where to sleep in Campanario
In Castuera, you can start from the Albergue de Peregrinos. If you want to split the day, the Albergue Estacion de la Quintana is further along the route. In Campanario, you have Hostal "Malay". It is the clearest option for sleeping at the destination, so it is best to confirm your place.
Where to eat and refuel
Castuera is the best place to set off with provisions: you can stop at Los Naranjos, Mesón El Coto, La Parrilla, La Piscina or Paraíso, and buy food at Dia. There is no intermediate settlement with a reliable choice of food along the way. In Campanario, you can eat at La Piscina or Séneca and shop at Dia Market.
Practical tips for this stage
Do not leave without food
Although the stage is short, it is best not to rely on finding a bar halfway. Buy something in Castuera before starting and keep part of it for the final section.
Take care on the final rise
The climb between km 15.5 and km 16.5 is the steepest, with an average gradient of 3%. Reach it at a conservative pace and do not speed up too much on the preceding descent.
Carry water from Castuera
There is no marked fountain along the way. Carry water from Castuera and assume that the next reliable refill will be in Campanario.
Confirm where you will sleep
The day allows you to arrive early, but pilgrim accommodation along the route is limited. If you plan to sleep at Hostal "Malay" or the Albergue Estacion de la Quintana, arrange it in advance.
Frequently asked questions about stage 15
How long does it take from Castuera to Campanario?
The stage is 20.4 km long and has an average duration of 4.5 hours.
Is the stage completely flat?
Not quite. Most of it is gentle, but it includes 95 m of ascent and a final climb between km 15.5 and km 16.5 with an average gradient of 3%.
Are there services halfway?
You do not pass through another settlement between Castuera and Campanario. Leave Castuera with enough water and food.
Where can I sleep?
You can sleep at the Albergue de Peregrinos in Castuera, the Albergue Estacion de la Quintana, or continue to Hostal "Malay" in Campanario.