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Alternative route

D

Delynda Drury

Member
Time of past OR future Camino
My husband and I will be enjoying the Camino de Santiago (French Way) next May 2016.
Hello
While planning my trip along the Camino Frances I notice there were a few alternative routes. One is just leaving Villafranca headed towards Tranedelo. One is more of a climb and the other was along the road. The lower was along the paved road. My concern is not all maps show it. Has anyone climbed this route?
Thank you
 
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The right hand route after Villafranca del Bierzo is the recommended route, in the Brierley guide, to Trabadelo. I have only ever taken the road route. I met one guy who took the third, left hand route, via Dragonte. He said it was quite tough. Jill
 
Delynda Drury said:
One is more of a climb and the other was along the road.
Click to expand...
The ridge route requires a right turn just after crossing the bridge. It is a steep ascent, then reasonably level. There are no services. The road route is separated from a very quiet highway by a jersey wall. There are occasional highway crossings to get to the villages for a cup of coffee. The two meet at Trabadelo. I think everyone is content with the choice they make. The road route follows the river. The ridge route has great views, but will be hotter on hot days.
 
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Have walked the main valley route through Pereje and the Pradela high route on the right 2 times each. If you are looking to cover distance than stay on the Pereje route, a long steady climb on a good surface and cafes nicely spaced. The Pradela route involves an extra 300 meters of climbing, some if it quite steep and a tiring descent back down to Trabedelo so if you have your climbing legs and are in no rush then try the Pradela route for some fine views. The Dragonte route still awaits me for when I manage to finish a day in Villafranca with fresh legs.

Buen camino

Seamus
 
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Thank you thank you, your experience is appreciated
 
Thank you, it sounds like a lovely experience. We won't be in a hurry and the views sound too breathtaking not to take.
 
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