The Desfiladero de la Hermida is a massive and narrow canyon that has been shaped by the river Rio Deva. Alongside its river bed steep lime stone rock walls rise up to about 2000 ft. The river meanders about 14 miles through the country and, thus, turns the Desfiladero de la Hermida into the largest gorge in Spain. Travellers, scouts, hunters, climbers and other alpinists travelled this region throughout the 19th century and their transcriptions have been summarized in many books and other documents, helping to preserve a lot of important information about the evolutionary history of this canyon.

The viewpoint is easy to reach with our e-bikes and offers a fantastic view of the Picos mountains. We then descend towards Castile.

The Avenida de las Murallas will impress you with a postcard view of the Bishop's Palace. It is like a fairytale castle. Before the bikes are returned to us we should definitely try some of the sweet treats Astorga is known for.

Villafranca del Bierzo is famous for its "Iglesia de Santiago", which was built in the 12th century. The side door is called "Puerto del Perdón" (Gate of Pardon). Those who were too weak to walk all the way to Santiago de Compostella because of their age or medical conditions were given their absolution in this chapel. As a special little highlight you shouldn't miss having a drink in the pilgrim's hostel next to the church to take in the flair of pilgrimage.

The ancient mountain village lies perched on the Puerto de Pedrafita. This area has blossomed since the revival of the Path of St. James. The streets are lined with inns, souvenir shops and quaint pubs. The quite famous Galician cheese Queixo do Cebreiro Castelo is produced here. Not only to regain the pilgrim`s strength, it is also a perfect treat for cyclists.

Lavacolla is the last stop before Santiago. The pilgrims of the Middle Ages used the local river to clean themselves before continuing their journey into town. We will not go through this ritual, but enjoy a cafe con leche instead.