The stage, step by step
From Ponferrada to Toral de Merayo
Leave Ponferrada with water and some food, as most of the facilities are concentrated near the start. When you reach Toral de Merayo, the vineyards of El Bierzo and Iglesia de Cristo come into view, making this a good place for your first break.
Toral de Merayo, Rioferreiros and Santalla
The route alternates between dirt, tarmac and narrow paths. Between km 4.2 and 5.3, you face a 57 m climb, followed by a descent to km 8.1. Near Santalla, you will have to cross the N-536 twice, so take great care.
The climb to Cornatel
Between km 10.2 and 14.6 comes the most demanding section: 290 m of ascent with an average gradient of 6.7%. The woodland path becomes narrower and steeper, with chestnut trees and views of Castillo de Cornatel. Fonte do Cura is roughly halfway through the day.
Descent and arrival in Las Médulas
From km 14.6, a long descent of 304 m begins, continuing to km 20.1. There is another climb between km 21.2 and 24.3 before you make your way towards Las Médulas. Fuente de la Resaca is near the end, and the views over the Sil valley make the final effort worthwhile.
What to see on stage 1
Castillo de Cornatel
This medieval fortress stands in Santalla del Bierzo overlooking the area around Las Médulas. Its origins may be linked to a Roman settlement built to protect the mines. Access is free for pilgrims.
Iglesia de Cristo
The parish church of Toral de Merayo is one of the first points of interest on the stage. It stands among vineyards and small villages, before the route becomes more mountainous.
Ermita de Nuestra Señora del Carmen
The chapel is in Rioferreiros and remains beside the path despite being almost destroyed by the floods of the 1960s. It is a simple stopping point, but closely connected with the route’s more recent history.
Las Médulas
The stage ends amid the red landscape of the ancient Roman gold mines. The site is a World Heritage Site and deserves time to explore its viewpoints and paths.
Where to sleep in Las Médulas
In Ponferrada, you can set off with a bed booked at Albergue de Peregrinos San Nicolás de Flüe, Albergue Guiana, Albergue Alea or Albergue Parroquial San Nicolás de Flüe. Along the middle section, you will find Casa Salva, Casa Tina and Casa Fina-Inma. Accommodation becomes much scarcer as you approach Las Médulas, so confirm your booking before setting off or consider staying in Ponferrada if you need more choice.
Where to eat and refuel
Ponferrada is the most reliable place to stock up properly: you can have breakfast at Churrería Alba or Café del Teatro, and eat at La Violeta or El Leñador. There are also supermarkets such as Gadis and Familia. After Toral de Merayo, do not rely on finding food regularly; carry something for the Cornatel section and the approach to Las Médulas.
Practical tips for this stage
Fill up with water before the climb
Leave Ponferrada with enough water. The marked water points are Fonte do Cura, roughly halfway through the stage, and Fuente de la Resaca, near Las Médulas; do not plan the day as if there were fountains every few minutes.
Take Cornatel seriously
The climb between km 10.2 and 14.6 is sustained and gives you little respite. Wear proper hiking footwear: the narrow, steep woodland paths are not suitable for bicycles.
Take care at the N-536
Near Santalla, you will cross the main road twice within a short distance. Do not cross distracted or wearing headphones, even if the rest of the route seems quiet.
Start early
At 27.2 km with 682 m of ascent, this is a moderately difficult to demanding stage. Setting off before 7:00 gives you time to walk through the woodland and reach Las Médulas before daylight fades.
Frequently asked questions about stage 1
How long does it take to walk from Ponferrada to Las Médulas?
Allow around six hours of walking. The stage covers 27.2 km and includes 682 m of ascent, so stops in Toral de Merayo or at Cornatel may make it longer.
Where is the toughest climb?
The main climb runs from km 10.2 to 14.6 and gains 290 m. Just when you think the hardest part is over, there is another climb between km 21.2 and 24.3.
Are there any dangerous road crossings?
Yes. Near Santalla del Bierzo, you cross the N-536 twice over a short section. This is one of the points where you need to be most careful.
Can I buy food during the stage?
The most practical option is to buy it in Ponferrada, where you have Gadis, Familia and other shops. Facilities are much more limited after the start.