CF21 - El Burgo Ranero - Mansilla de las Mulas - 18,7 km

Stage of the Camino de Santiago: From El Burgo Ranero to Mansilla de las Mulas

Departure from El Burgo Ranero

The stage begins in El Burgo Ranero, where the village houses line both sides of the sirga, which here is known as Calle Real. Leaving the village, pilgrims cross a large pond, known for the sounds of the frogs. The route then continues along the tree-lined avenue, which accompanies the pilgrim continuously, with the León-Palencia railway line on their right.

Journey through the Páramo

The Camino de Santiago continues for about 10 km through a vast páramo. The landscape, somewhat monotonous, offers an impressive view to the north, where the first foothills of the Cantabrian Mountains are visible. This section, though solitary, allows the pilgrim to enjoy the stillness and vastness of the Castilian landscape.

Passing through Villamarco and the Vallejo de Santa María

Before crossing the railway track, the village of Villamarco is left to the left, about 1 km from the route. From here, the landscape changes, becoming more rugged. After passing through a hollow, the route enters the stream and valley of Santa María, an area populated by a beautiful riverside forest, offering a pleasant transition to a more varied natural setting.

Entering Reliegos

The pilgrim then reaches Reliegos, a small village crossed through its Calle Mayor. From here, the descent towards the Esla valley and the town of Mansilla de las Mulas begins. The descent is noticeable, marking the end of this section of the route.

End of the Stage: Arrival in Mansilla de las Mulas

About a league from Castilla (approximately 5.5 km), the outskirts of Mansilla de las Mulas are reached. The tree-lined avenue that started at Calzada del Coto ends here, after covering 32 km. From this point, the pilgrim crosses some dumps and the Cistierna road before entering Mansilla de las Mulas through the southern gate, which has lost its original arch.

Summary of the Stage

This stage of the Camino de Santiago is a blend of tranquil landscapes, with wide páramos and pleasant riverside forests. The tree-lined avenue, which stretches from Calzada del Coto, sets the rhythm of the journey until reaching Mansilla de las Mulas, a town rich in history. The combination of natural beauty and tranquillity makes this stage one of the most emblematic of the route to Compostela.