The stage, step by step
Setting off among the Roman mines
Make the most of the surroundings of Las Médulas, as the route soon enters mountainous terrain. The climb to Alto de las Pedrices opens up wide views before the path begins to lose height.
From Alto de las Pedrices to the Valdebría valley
From km 2.9 onwards, the stage descends continuously. The terrain alternates between tracks and paths, and it is worth saving your knees for the 437 m of descent remaining to Puente de Domingo Flórez.
The Cabrera and arrival in Puente de Domingo Flórez
The descent continues towards the valley, with the Cabrera and Sil rivers acting as landscape markers. As you approach the end, the vineyards of Valdeorras appear, followed in Puente de Domingo Flórez by the municipal pilgrims’ albergue and Albergue Casa Rosa.
What to see on stage 2
Ruinas de minas romanas de Las Médulas
The red formations of Las Médulas are the great starting point of the stage. The landscape was shaped by ancient Roman gold workings and is a World Heritage Site.
Alto de las Pedrices
The high point acts as a natural balcony over the changing landscape between El Bierzo and Valdeorras. It is the moment to look back before beginning the long descent into the valley.
Valle de Valdebría
The descent follows a valley with varied terrain and an increasingly enclosed feel. Walk this section without rushing, taking care with your footing on uneven ground.
Viñedos de Valdeorras
As you approach Puente de Domingo Flórez, vineyards appear in a region with a winemaking tradition dating back to Roman times. Godello and Mencía are the area’s best-known varieties.
Where to sleep in Puente de Domingo Flórez
Albergue accommodation is concentrated in Puente de Domingo Flórez. At the bottom of the descent, you have the municipal pilgrims’ albergue in Puente de Domingo Flórez and, in the village itself, Albergue Casa Rosa. Do not expect albergue alternatives halfway along the route: if you arrive late or are walking in high season, book before leaving Las Médulas.
Where to eat and refuel
At the start in Las Médulas, you will find Mesón Durandarte, Taberna Romana, Casa Fe, Arcadio Travieso and Cafe Restaurante Marifé. There is no continuous food service during the descent. In Puente de Domingo Flórez, you have BomVita, Cafeteria Los Arcos and 4-70 Bodega Chillout, as well as Dia and Coviran for buying food.
Practical tips for this stage
Set off with water and food
Fuente de la Resaca is near the beginning, but after that you should not expect to find water regularly. Carry enough to complete the descent to Puente de Domingo Flórez.
Protect your knees
Although the stage is only 9.9 km, it loses 437 m between km 2.9 and 9.9. Poles and footwear with good grip are a great help if the ground is wet or loose.
Make use of the facilities at your destination
Puente de Domingo Flórez is where you can replenish your food, rest and sort out accommodation. Do not leave these arrangements until the last minute if you are walking at the weekend.
Do not be fooled by the distance
The terrain is mountainous and the descent never really eases. It is a short day on paper, but can be tough if you descend too quickly.
Frequently asked questions about stage 2
Is the stage really short?
In distance, yes: 9.9 km. On your legs, less so, because you lose 437 m almost continuously. Most walkers combine it with the next stage or treat it as a half-day walk, leaving time to explore Las Médulas in the morning.
Where does it finish exactly?
The section finishes in Puente de Domingo Flórez. This is where you will find the municipal pilgrims’ albergue and Albergue Casa Rosa.
Is there water during the descent?
Fuente de la Resaca is near the beginning. After that, it is wiser to walk with enough water to reach Puente de Domingo Flórez.
Which part requires the most care?
The descent starts at km 2.9 and continues to the end, with an average gradient of 6.2%. The main risks are putting too much strain on your knees or slipping on uneven sections.