Foncebadon to Ponferrada on the Camino de Santiago

The walk from Foncebadón to Ponferrada is one of the most dramatic and unforgettable stretches on the Camino de Santiago. We started early from the windswept heights of Foncebadón, climbing gently to the spiritual summit of Cruz de Ferro. There, beneath the towering iron cross, we paused to lay our stones—each one a symbol of burdens, hopes, or prayers carried across miles. The quiet at that moment was profound, broken only by the wind and the soft voices of other pilgrims sharing the sacred space. From there, the trail descended steeply through mountain paths lined with heather and pine, winding through the hamlets of Manjarín, El Acebo, and Riego de Ambrós, each with its own rustic charm and Camino character.

The descent was very challenging but exhilarating, with breathtaking views of valleys opening below us. We passed tinkling cowbells, slate-roofed homes, and ancient stone fountains—reminders that the past is still very much alive in these hills. As we made our way down into the valley, the warmth of the lower elevation welcomed us, and the terrain gradually leveled out. Arriving in Ponferrada, we were greeted by the imposing Templar Castle, its turrets rising dramatically over the town—a symbol of medieval might and Camino legend. We wandered its walls in the afternoon light, soaking in the views and the feeling of accomplishment. After such a meaningful and physically demanding day, Ponferrada felt like a well-earned reward—a place to rest, reflect, and prepare for the final chapters of our pilgrimage.