Hospital de Órbigo

Camino Frances

To end of camino
273.5
Altitude
823

Puente de Órbigo

0.60

Hospital de Órbigo

4.90

Villares de Órbigo

Services
ATM
ATM
Bar
Yes
Bus
Yes
Grocery
Yes
Medical Center
Yes
Pharmacy
Yes
Public Pool
Yes
Fiesta

A medieval jousting competition is held in early June, recreating the saga of Don Suero. San Juan is celebrated on the 24th of June. 

History

Where there are rivers with bridges there is always history to be found. Not much exists on paper, but historians theorize about Suevi and Visigoths battling in the 5th century as well as a few other skirmishes during the 10th century. All of these have been overshadowed by the much more romantic and noble story of Don Suero.

Don Suero de Quiñones was a Leonese knight who made history here in the summer of 1434, though the feats were not recorded until 1588.  During that 150 years, we can assume that exaggerations were made, but that is of no matter when you are standing on the bridge and imagining a scene out of Don Quixote.

It was here that Don Suero and nine of his fellow knights defended this pass against all challengers; the event was staged but very much real and was approved by the king as a means for Don Suero to prove his love his lady, Leonor de Tovar.  He and his men were determined to break 300 lances but after 166 of the 700 scheduled battles they were too injured to reach their goal. Don Suero, also injured in the event, ultimately set off for Santiago on his own pilgrimage.

The Road

‌Minor Detour via Villares de Órbigo

When leaving town, the camino once again splits. The preferred (though unofficial) path is to the right, passing through nearby Villares de Órbigo and scenic countryside. Both routes now rejoin in Santibañez, though if you take the road route it is also possible to stay on the road all the way to San Justo de la Vega. Unless it has been particularly rainy the route through Santibañez is the recommended and most scenic route. For either option, take plenty of water when departing Santibañez.

City Map

Comments

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Great place, not like any other. You have to see it yourself.

All Caminos App User (not verified)

We had a GREAT breakfast here! It’s a very nice place just after the bridge going into the old town. Excellent chocolate napolitana and a bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon!! Very clean and very nice man at the counter.

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Even though it’s shorter, there’s no path for the first 3km or so - you’re either walking in grass or on a major highway, before then walking on an old road. But in the apps it seems like the scenic route is now official - well good. But maybe that’s why I felt like I was walking in an abandoned part of the Camino. So don’t make the same mistake, take the scenic route.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Don’t skip this place. From the first moment you will feel that you are at home.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Albergue Verde is the way to go, everyone is friendly, dogs to pet, people to talk too, and great vegetarian dinner to eat.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Los Ángeles was one of the best dinners on the Camino so far. Regional food expertly prepared. Don’t miss it! As others said the trout soup is amazing. Mix it all up before eating like the locals do. Our waiter showed us how.

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

So there is no detour anymore. All signs point in this direction.
The detour had become the official route

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

Be sure to wander down toward the river north of the bridge for a relaxing spot!

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

The most relaxed I have felt in an Alburgue on the Camino. The real deal with excellent care. Yoga studio, vegan, beautiful outdoor space.

Camino de Sant…

We stayed Albergue Casa de los Hidalgos that just opened in September 2018. One of my favorite Albergues yet, and the owner is a great guy!