Villamayor de Monjardín sits below the Monjardín peak (890 m), where the ruins of the 10th-century Castillo de San Esteban still command the hilltop. The climb to the ruins is short and steep, and the views from the top stretch across the vineyards and olive groves of the Ega valley — worth the detour if you have the energy.
The 12th-century Iglesia de San Andrés is Romanesque, with a barrel-vaulted nave and a semicircular apse. Inside, a silver Romanesque processional cross from the 12th century is the church's most valued possession. A small shop in front of the church operates from March through October, selling food and drinks.
A couple of albergues and a casa rural provide accommodation. This is your last chance to stock up before Los Arcos — the 12 km stretch ahead has no services, no shade, and no water. On hot days it can feel endless.
The castle is associated with Sancho Garcés I, who is said to have conquered it from the Moors in the early 10th century. Tradition holds that his remains were interred here. The Fuente de los Moros near Azqueta and the castle ruins together suggest this hilltop was strategically important for controlling the valley route.
The 12 km between Villamayor de Monjardín and Los Arcos is one of the more tedious stretches on this section of the Francés. The terrain is open and exposed, with long straight tracks through farmland and almost no shade. Stock up with water and food before leaving. The walking is flat but the monotony and heat (in summer) make it feel longer than the distance suggests.
