< Villa Franca del Bierzo – El Acebo >

Today we start the hike at El Acebo and arrive at the town of Ponferrada. After leaving El Acebo, we hike through the villages of Riego de Ambros and Molinaseca before reaching Ponferrada. The city of Ponferrada is located in the region of el Bierzo known for top quality vegetables and the denominated Mencia wine. Ponferrada is a large city with excellent bus and Renfe train connections. Ponferrada has a Templar castle. The albergue has good cooking & washing facilities and a very good supermarket close by. The main reasons I split the hike from Rabanal del Camino to Ponferrada are the distance and the extreme downhill rocky conditions after Riego de Ambros.

The hiking distance from Rabanal del Camino to Ponferrada is about ~41 kms. There is too much distance to cover in one day. The downhill portion requires utmost attention and alertness at every step taken after leaving Riego de Ambros towards Molinaseca. A good pair of hiking boots is necessary for this downhill hike. It is a difficult descent of almost 700 meters after El Acebo. Another advantage is early arrival to the Ponferrada albergue to wash clothes, to rest and tour the city. Ponferrada is a must stop.

El Acebo to Ponferrada ~ 22 kms. Downhill ~ 700 meters. Challenging rocky terrain. Use caution walking downhill. Watch every step. Portion between Molinaseca & Ponferrada mostly flat with 10 kms distance. Difficulty is 7/10 from Riego de Ambros to Molinaseca.

Elevation