Stage 25: Ponferrada - Villafranca

Ponferrada was founded in 1908 with a population of only 3,000 inhabitants. Today, it has grown to over 67,000 inhabitants, making it the last major city before reaching Santiago in about 8 to 10 days.

Its strategic location, first overlooking the fertile surrounding valley and then as a rich mining district, has contributed to its growth.

It is believed that the area was populated before the Romans colonized it and built a fort for mining. The city was reconquered by Alfonso III the Great, who began its reconstruction.

The first documented evidence of construction for pilgrims was the creation of the bridge in 1082. At the end of the 12th century, the town was entrusted to the Knights Templar, who began building the castle in 1218 and completed it in 1282. The castle can be visited daily between 10:00 and 14:00 and 16:30 and 20:30 between April 1 and October 15.

Other historical buildings that we recommend are the Church of San Andrés, of Templar origin, and the Church of Santa María de la Encina.

Ponferrada is a good place to have breakfast. However, there are several small towns along the way to stop for lunch.

Along the way you will pass through places like Fuentes Nuevas, Camponaraya and Cacabelos. The last 8 km from Cacabelos to Villafranca are quite easy, with only a small hill after the village, but there are no places to get water or food.