The Camino Francés is the most iconic route of the Camino de Santiago, stretching 780 km from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. This ancient pilgrimage, dating back to the Middle Ages, weaves through the Pyrenees, Rioja’s vineyards, Castile’s vast Meseta, and Galicia’s green hills, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and deep cultural immersion. Pilgrims, whether seeking spiritual growth, adventure, or personal challenge, follow the yellow arrows, staying in albergues, sharing meals, and forming lasting connections. With its mix of medieval towns, majestic cathedrals, and welcoming locals, the Camino Francés is not just a journey but a transformative experience that culminates at the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago, where pilgrims celebrate their achievement and, for many, a newfound perspective on life.

Roncesvalles, a small village in the Spanish Pyrenees, is a historic and symbolic starting point for the Camino Francés, one of the main routes of the Camino de Santiago. Known for its medieval monastery and pilgrimage tradition, it has welcomed pilgrims for centuries as they cross from France into Spain. The Collegiate Church of Santa María, a stunning Gothic sanctuary, serves as both a spiritual and practical refuge for travelers. Roncesvalles is also famous for the Battle of Roncevaux Pass (778), where Charlemagne’s army suffered a legendary defeat, inspiring the medieval epic The Song of Roland. Surrounded by lush forests and misty mountains, Roncesvalles is a place of deep historical, religious, and natural significance.