Ponferrada

Camino Frances

To end of camino
205.1
Altitude
539

Molinaseca

3.20

Ponferrada

3.20

Compostilla

Services
ATM
Yes
Bar
Yes
Bus
Yes
Correos
Ave General Vives, 24401, Mon-Fri: 0830-2030 & Sat: 0930-1300, 987 403 187
Grocery
Yes
Medical Center
Yes
Pharmacy
Yes
Train
Yes

Ponferrada’s Templar castle is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind and offers a glimpse into what castle life must have been like in the 12th and 13th centuries.

The Iglesia de Santa María de la Encina is named for a Templar legend according to which her image was found in the trunk of an Oak tree. It is located in the oldest part of town, near the castle.

Fiesta

Saturday is market day. The Fiesta de La Encina begins on September 8th and celebrates the patron Saint of El Bierzo, La Virgen de La Encina (oak), and lasts a week.

History

Ponferrada was at one point one of the most important of the Roman settlements due to its location at the junction of two rivers (The Sil and Boeza) in a valley both fertile and rich in minerals. Its name derives from the construction of its original bridge. Built in 1082 it was one of the first to be decorated with iron and so ‘Pons Ferrata’ became Ponferrada. The original bridge no longer exists.

The Road

Exiting Ponferrada takes you past the castle and briefly through the old town before crossing over the río Sil. At the end of that bridge turn right. The way curves left and at the next large intersection turn right. Keep straight through the first roundabout, and turn right at the second. From here the camino follows temporary signage through construction.

City Map

Comments

All Caminos App User (not verified)

On the way into Ponferrada you’ll pass this spot. Unfortunately it wasn’t open when I went by bc of a public holiday, but it looked pretty shmick and modern.

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Everything was closed due to “vacation” while we were here. We ended up at Domino’s Pizza for dinner and were truly grateful!

All Caminos App User (not verified)

I had the best pilgrim menu since the whole Camino Frances started at Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. The restaurant owns two passionate and lovely pilgrims from Tirol and they really know what pilgrims need. All fresh ingredients, freshly cooked food and a good wide enough selection, also a good vegetarian menu. And just for 14,90 for the menu. And they're open for a good talk in Spanish :)

All Caminos App User (not verified)

There is a wonderful festival going on in the city through September 7

All Caminos App User (not verified)

I researched several of Ponferrada's best bars when I was updating the 2024 Lonely Planet Spain guidebook... and others too when I was making the trek that featured in my latest book - 'Vagabond: A Hiker's Homage to Rural Spain'.
La Bodega de Godivah (on the road facing the castle) is perhaps the best place to grab a beer and a snack and enjoy some pleasant people-watching.

On another note, there is a huge Decathlon just a kilometre from here that is fantastic if you need equipment for the mountains. After my 1,225km hike from Gibraltar I was in dire need of new hiking socks...and thermal underwear for potentially sleeping-rough in the mountains.
Mark Eveleigh (UK)

All Caminos App User (not verified)

The gal that runs this shop is so kind and helpful, highly recommend stopping there for replacement clothes or equipment

All Caminos App User (not verified)

It only adds time, no nice views.

All Caminos App User (not verified)

What I liked: helpful layout. The hallways on each floor are wide, with lots of room to don or doff shoes. The first section of the room includes shower, toilet, sink, and lockers with included combination locks. Then there’s a sliding door separating this area from the bunks. Makes it easy to come and go without disturbing all the other sleeping people in the room.

What I found a bit odd is the way they assign people to rooms. How does an old lady end up in a room full of men?

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Echoing other comments. This is a great shop with a lovely owner! Very helpful. Everything you might need. She has walked the Camino so understands!

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Two good restaurant choices in one of the town squares IF you get tired of Pilgrim food. Its not Mexican like in the states but it will do in a pinch. Servers are nice and helpful. The pizza is super thin crust and yummy & an extensive menu if you don't want pizza. Their barrata salad is excellent as well, perfect for getting your greens into your diet!!
Another good thing is a "Radler" which is beer with lemon in it. Like a shandy, very refreshing on a hot day. It seems all the restaurants have them! Enjoy