Description
The landscape and the journey
The Ruta Via de la Plata follows an ancient travel corridor north through western Spain. Mérida, Cáceres and Salamanca bring history and culture to the journey. Follow the main route to Gijón or turn towards Santiago for a cycling pilgrimage.
Routes and itinerary options
The approximately 930-kilometre Gijón route is described in 14 stages. From Zamora, the Camino Sanabrés alternative continues to Santiago de Compostela in six additional stages. Road and off-road options can be combined to suit a touring, hybrid or gravel bike and your preferred daily distances.
Maps and practical planning
1:150,000 maps and elevation profiles accompany the routes, with GPX files available from Cicerone. Accommodation includes pilgrim hostels, hotels and other stops. Equipment, travel, bike transport and Spanish expressions support the practical arrangements, while history, nature and climate provide context for the plains and northern mountains.
Choosing the right trip
Choose surfaces, daily distances and season with your bike, skills, climbing and heat tolerance in mind. The guide suits independent multi-day cyclists interested in cultural stops. Deciding your destination and route combination in advance helps with accommodation, the return journey and the time you want to spend exploring.
About this edition
English-language guidebook by John Hayes. First edition published in 2022, with subsequent reprints. 224 pages. ISBN 9781786310125.
