4 and 5 star hotels

[Mazzdog66]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

 

[Grousedoctor]

As you plan your route, I would first look toward Gronze.com for distances, destinations, and accommodations. On Gronze, you will find a variety of accommodation types including some of the nicer hotels available along The Way. Once you have your daily destinstions determined a site like Booking.com might provide you with even more hotels to choose from. You’ll also see that many of the hotels on Gronze have links directly to Booking so you can easily check on availability. Buen Camino.

 

[dougfitz]

None of the routes I have walked offer that level of accommodation outside of major cities.

 

[Molly Cassidy]

Obviously some cities on most routes will have 4 & 5 star hotels, but you'll be struggling to find a route that offers that standard of accommodation every night. Many places you pass through are small and have only a few accommodation options.

Gronze (see link below) tries to list all available accommodation.

Camino Francés | Gronze.com

El Camino Francés es el Camino de Santiago en el que confluyen la mayoría de las vías medievales de peregrinación europeas, siendo por tanto el camino de mayor relevancia histórica y el más seguido por los peregrinos. Su punto de inicio, hoy en día, tanto puede considerarse Roncesvalles como...

www.gronze.com

There are a few paradors (hotels in historic buildings) along some routes.

https://paradores.es/en/paradores

 

[K_Lynn]

None of the routes I have walked offer that level of accommodation outside of major cities.

In smaller towns (which is most of them) there will be private accommodations in basically 1 star hostels/posadas/pensiones. Large cities will have 3-5 star accommodations.

 

[jefferyonthecamino]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

yep. just use booking and you're set. sometimes they aren't exactly 4 or 5 star hotels, but, for example, places that are awesome and offer the creature comforts you would expect for the price. Estella, Castrojeriz, Frómista, Carrión de los Condes, Portomarín, Santo Domingo de la Calzada, Viana, etc etc all have places that fall within this category. the larger cities will have the full works, that may, o may not, break the bank.

There will be stretches where you will be lucky to find a one star hotel on trhe trail. but as a rule, you should be able to find and book more upscale places between Roncesvalles and Santiago.

 

[Corned Beef]

▷ Expreso de la Robla Train | Official Website

On the Expreso de la Robla, sit back and relax on board a comfortable vintage train. ▷ Welcome on board the Expreso de la Robla train

spanishluxurytrain.com

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

I'm not sure how hotels are rated worldwide but Spain rates by amenities supplied. It isn't by perceived quality. You may find you like a 3 star hotel just fine. The webpage below covers what you can can expect for each rating.

Spanish Hotel Star Ratings Explained - BenidormSeriously

Spanish Hotel Star Ratings Explained Here is a general guideline of what to commonly expect from each star rating grade in Spain.

www.benidormseriously.com

 

[C clearly]

Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations?

In reality, there are not many routes that you would be considering if you are looking for high-end hotels all the way. (On the less travelled routes, you are lucky to find a bed every 30 km.) Assuming you want to end in Santiago, you have the latter part of the Frances, the Ingles, and the Portugues to consider. Gronze and Booking would be the best sources of information.

The Camino is better known for things other than the 5-star experience!

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

I forgot to mention Paradors. I'll let them introduce themselves and others, who have stayed in one or more, can add their opinions.

https://paradores.es/en/

They have a club (free membership) that will give you some perks.

https://paradores.es/en/blog/friends-paradores-club-join-free-online-today

 

[VNwalking]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

You might try some of the top-end tours, such as those offered by Nat Geo. That's the kind of accommodation they offer, plus full support for a nice walk.

Encouragement to go outside the comfort zone - lots of us who are in our 60s and 70s stay in albergues, though we might like the nicer accommodation. But a pilgrimage is a wonderful chance to touch into the difference between want and need - and letting go of about preference in favor of simplicity.

 

[SabsP]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

Can you give us some more information what you mean by four and five stars? I know that there are differences in interpretation for this system dependent on which continent you travel in.

I do know that even upmarket hotels in Europe have much smaller rooms than their counterparts in the USA.

Like already written here you will only find these types of accomodations in bigger towns like Pamplona, Leon, Burgos and Santiago.

There are many excellent boutique hotels in Spain and on the Camino.
The websites might give you some inspiration and ideas.

Examples :
Castrojeriz

Hotel Monasterio San Zoilo | Un lugar para escribir tu historia

sanzoilo.com

Astorga
Hotel Astur Plaza

Reservar Hotel Exe Astur Plaza en León - Astorga

Reserva en el Hotel Exe Astur Plaza en León - Astorga con Eurostars Hotel Company. Mejor precio garantizado en nuestra web oficial. ¡Entra y reserva!

www.eurostarshotels.com

Viana

Palacio de Pujadas by Mij, Viana | Welcome Official Website

Official Site of Palacio de Pujadas by Mij. Detailed information about offers, reviews, services аnd maps of our location. Best Price Guaranteed.

www.hotelpalaciodepujadasbymij.com

Najera

The Hotel | Hotel Duques de Nájera

The idea parts from a personal and professional desire to turn a charming space, into an evenmore captivating and friendly place where to be able to enjoy a city with great history. It’s in the proximities of the left bank … Continued

hotelduquesdenajera.com

Villafranca Montes de Oca

Hotel San Antón Abad – Villafranca Montes de Oca

www.hotelsanantonabad.com

Good alternatives might be the casas rurales.

Happy preparations.

 

[naplesdon]

You will find for example small hotels like San Telmo in Fromista which doesn't even have a star rating is very comfortable and offer amenities like a large courtyard and laundry facilities along with a number of first class restaurants a block away. Molina Golochas is a similar place like that between Leon and Hospital de Orbigo. One time I stayed at a BnB which was well know for it chef a day before getting to Santiago, it was about 10km north of O Pedrouzo and the owner picked me up there and took me to his hotel and returned me the next morning. As someone else said determine your itinerary and then look for first class lodging within a short taxi ride away and that might satisfy your need.

 

[MickMac]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

Some "Rurals" on the Camino are equivalent to 4 star hotels check them out.

 

[David with new Kit!]

It’s not too hard to get a double room with private bathroom (most if the time!) in private albergues and some hotels are available in larger towns.

Occasionally you will come across a Parador on your route and they can be a little oasis.

But, having done 4 caminos so far , I suspect that the majority of times you will not be in a hotel (they just don’t exist in most of the small villages)

But, best of luck with your bookings

 

[Anamiri]

You will find for example small hotels like San Telmo in Fromista which doesn't even have a star rating is very comfortable and offer amenities like a large courtyard and laundry facilities along with a number of first class restaurants a block away. Molina Golochas is a similar place like that between Leon and Hospital de Orbigo. One time I stayed at a BnB which was well know for it chef a day before getting to Santiago, it was about 10km north of O Pedrouzo and the owner picked me up there and took me to his hotel and returned me the next morning. As someone else said determine your itinerary and then look for first class lodging within a short taxi ride away and that might satisfy your need.

And Fromista has a great bakery

 

[naplesdon]

I did not know that!

 

[dbier]

Mazzdogg66, you haven't mentioned which route you're walking, nor have you mentioned whether you've ever traveled in Europe before.

As was mentioned above, even a Parador room in Santiago is highly likely to be much smaller, with different amenities, than what a US traveler would consider to be a "5- star" hotel. And you will not find full up hotels in the US sense in many of the small towns.

If Im right, and you haven't traveled in Europe before, I would suggest that you and your wife figure out when you're traveling, and what room features are non-negotiable, and then contact CaminoWays, SantiagoWays, or Follow the Camino to get those booked for you.

As just one example, many "fancy" places to stay (Portomarin and Arzua come to mind) will advertise that they have air conditioning. They won't necessarily mention that it's central, not by room, and that it may not be turned on during spring or fall.

Buen Camino, however you do it.

 

[dfox]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

A Camino tour operator may help you find a solution.

 

[Camino Jim]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

Contact Ultrya Tours https://www.ultreyatours.com/

 

[Marbe2]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

On the Camino Frances, you won’t find many 4-5 star hotels but you can find some comfortable places, many of which have elevators, and some with swimming pools and restaurants. When do you want to go? How far do you plan on walking? Where do you wish to start and end?

 

[Marbe2]

Contact Ultrya Tours https://www.ultreyatours.com/

Mike, I would caution using a tour operator unless you are positive about walking distances each day and can change your itinerary when underway. You don’t want to be locked in. Events happen on the Camino. In addition, this particular tour appears to start in Sarria and you may not want to go a whole section each day, which is why, I asked you how far you want to walk, and where you want to start, Also note, you would be staying at 3 stars and private country places, which are quite nice but not 5 stars. In addition, note, they tell you “if available”, and some pilgrims have complained that they did have not received their final itineraries till a few days before their trip from tour companies…. resulting in some disappointing accommodations for the price they paid. Provide us with more information, and perhaps we can suggest some nice accommodations for you. Most of them will be clean really comfortable places with services…but not 5 stars.

 

[Silvermomma]

When you ask about which route to take I'm wondering what you are looking for with this trip. Do you want a vacation in Spain which includes the experience of walking into Santiago as pilgrims? (No judgement!) I understand creature comforts, but I'm just trying to figure out how to reconcile the desire for 4 and 5 star hotels (which are definitely few and far between on any of the routes) with walking a pilgrimage. (Again, no judgement, just trying to help you sort out your thoughts.)

 

[andonius]

In case you're thinking on the Camino Francés you will not find any itinerary which can offer you all the days 4 or 5 star hotels. But there are some very good hotels somo private and some belonging to the public network of Paradores. Those are normally very old historic buildings (medieval castles, monasteries or palaces) reconverted to hotels and with very high standards of quality. But if you go to a Parador is mainly for cultural and historical reasons. Sleeping in a 14th century castle or monastery is really a must.
Along the camino frances you can find 5 paradores (2 in Santo Domingo de La Calzada, and 1 in Leon, Villafranca del Bierzo and Santiago de Compostela).
There are also some excellent hotels of the same kind, privately owned and located in historic buildings that really deserve the stay I think for example on Hotel 1.930 in Arzua (a 19th century house with an great charm and astonishing decoration) , Monasterio de San Zoilo in Carrión de Los Condes (an impressive monastery founded before the year 1.000) or Hotel F&G in Logroño (which has a part of the medieval city wall of Logroño inside it).
In the rest of the places you will almost always find a clean and well keeped hotel or Rural House that will be more than enough for one night's rest.
But don't expect a full 4 & 5 star hotel Camino.

 

[cjhikes]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

Which route are you taking.. we have a list of really nice places on Camino Frances and Camino Portuguese Coastal.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

Along the camino frances you can find 5 paradores (2 in Santo Domingo de La Calzada, and 1 in Leon, Villafranca del Bierzo and Santiago de Compostela).

León also has a parador-like hotel.

Hotel Real Colegiata de San Isidoro - Hotel Real Colegiata de San Isidoro

Welcome to the Royal Collegiate Church of Saint Isidoro, a place where history and gastronomy merge in an enchantinghotel monastery. The Hotel We invite you to travel through time, as we take you on a journey through the history of Leon; starting with its Roman origins represented on the walls...

www.hotelrealcolegiata.com

 

[frannie z]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

Along the Camino Frances there are many beautiful 3/4/maybe even 5 star hotels and resorts: they may be a bit off THE WAY but definitely there. I would encourage you to plan your walks such that you finish in a spot with a local bar/ cafe and then just ask the bartender to call you a cab to take you to your accommodation. The local taxis are there - it may take a while for the pick up and it might cost you 30 euros for a 10K ride. In my mind if blessed with health and means to take in a walk along a path filled with goodness, kindness, and God’s abundant go for it and ENJOY! The term Parador is used for the really elite hotels (that may be the chain name) and even in some smaller towns I found one.

 

[TheRealPixie]

Obviously some cities on most routes will have 4 & 5 star hotels, but you'll be struggling to find a route that offers that standard of accommodation every night. Many places you pass through are small and have only a few accommodation options.

Gronze (see link below) tries to list all available accommodation.

Camino Francés | Gronze.com

El Camino Francés es el Camino de Santiago en el que confluyen la mayoría de las vías medievales de peregrinación europeas, siendo por tanto el camino de mayor relevancia histórica y el más seguido por los peregrinos. Su punto de inicio, hoy en día, tanto puede considerarse Roncesvalles como...

www.gronze.com

There are a few paradors (hotels in historic buildings) along some routes.

https://paradores.es/en/paradores

Loved the Parador I stayed at in Santo Domingo! Tonight I'm at San Anton Abad in Villafranca. It's very nice.

 

[NancyZ]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

There are Paradores, a hotel chain that are in most towns. Go to booking.com
Buen Camino

 

[RESOMERS]

First, decide which Camino you will walk and when you will walk. Then figure out how far you can comfortably walk each day. If you like to sleep in and leave later than 8:30 am, private hotels are a good idea. My husband and I walked the last 100 km on the Portuguese way this past May. We stayed in private hotels that were 2 & 3 stars. They were very comfortable.
We have stayed at La Perla in Pamplona so I know 4 & 5 star. But the 2 & 3 stars will give you comfort (late check-in, late check out, breakfast, quiet rooms). Have fun on your Camino!

 

[trecile]

There are Paradores, a hotel chain that are in most towns

Not in most towns. On the Camino Francés there are Paradores in León, Santo Domingo de la Calzada, Villafranca del Bierzo, and Santiago.

Here's more information about Paradores on the Camino routes:

https://paradores.es/en/way-saint-james-paradores

 

[step2it]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

Hello - I used a travel company based in Santiago to book my full trip from SJPP to Santiago. Staying in 4 star accommodations all the way. Galiwonders is their name. Solid google reviews, easy to work with, and very responsive.

 

[Philtration]

Staying in nicer hotels, you may miss some of the community aspects of walking a Camino. Most people will be staying in more modest pilgrim oriented accommodations. The chances for spontaneous interactions with other pilgrims will be reduced. To me, one of the most enjoyable elements of Caminos are the group dinners that form easily and naturally with people staying in the same pilgrim oriented lodging.

 

[SabsP]

Staying in nicer hotels, you may miss some of the community aspects of walking a Camino. Most people will be staying in more modest pilgrim oriented accommodations. The chances for spontaneous interactions with other pilgrims will be reduced. To me, one of the most enjoyable elements of Caminos are the group dinners that form easily and naturally with people staying in the same pilgrim oriented lodging.

In the most recent years I did not stay in albergues but chose simple pensiones or hostales ( no stars ). I still found enough spontaneous interactions with other pilgrims in bars, restaurants or other random places.
Then again I do not very much like communal dinners in albergues so I do not feel like I am missing much by not staying there.

 

[asl]

On the Frances, there are a number of upscale accommodation options. Some may be listed in Gronze.com many are not. I'd put several we stayed in at the high 3 to mid-4 range. Happy to share if you'd like to send a note to me privately.

At a minimum, the Paradores are wonderful, have fabulous histories, and generally very good local cuisine.

 

[ginniek]

When are you leaving? I've been doing sections of the Camino every year since I turned 70 (in 2017) and try to stay at the best each stopping place offers. If you like, I'll try to find lodgings every night and pass on only the very best, which means that some towns will not have anything.

 

[Eamonrodden]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

Even if you do not find 4 or 5 star everywhere. You will still find some really nice little pension. Most will have rooms with ensuites. Gronze is a useful site. Good luck

 

[Chelo]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

You didn’t mention how long of a pilgrimage wanted to walk .There is most certainly 4 and five star hotels in the Camino Frances or a short taxi ride away . All over Spain Paradores are a good option . Once you decide hoy many days to walk you can explore different options . And routs . Buen camino

 

[step2it]

Hello - I used a travel company based in Santiago to book my full trip from SJPP to Santiago. Staying in 4 star accommodations all the way. Galiwonders is their name. Solid google reviews, easy to work with, and very responsive.

Also - my trip is set up to take 40 days with rest days in Burgos and Leon…. So accommodations you seek are available with out excessively long walking days. My ave is day is 12 miles - longest day after Leon rest day is 20 miles.

 

[Rick Davidson]

I'm not sure how hotels are rated worldwide but Spain rates by amenities supplied. It isn't by perceived quality. You may find you like a 3 star hotel just fine. The webpage below covers what you can can expect for each rating.

Spanish Hotel Star Ratings Explained - BenidormSeriously

Spanish Hotel Star Ratings Explained Here is a general guideline of what to commonly expect from each star rating grade in Spain.

www.benidormseriously.com

And a lot of the 2 star places are very nice. Clean rooms, good beds, hot water, great locations. You don’t spend a lot of time in your rooms. My advice is don’t focus too much on the number of stars. Some will be great, some average, some you would not recommend to anyone. It’s just a place to sleep for one night.

 

[ShoshTrvls]

Some "Rurals" on the Camino are equivalent to 4 star hotels check them out.

I second this. Most aren’t directly on the Camino but will offer to have you picked up in the afternoon/evening and dropped off in the same place the next morning.

 

[Richard Smith]

We did splurge when we reached Santiago (see pic with bath).
On the caminio we started with albergues but found private rooms were roughly double the cost of two bunks (back then), so we mixed bunks/rooms/hotels for the rest of the walk.
All three options had their advantages so I suggest you don't overly restrict your choices.

 

[joramos]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

As mentioned earlier by many, it is essentially in major cities only that 4-5 star hotels exist. However, along The Way there are really good accommodations with private rooms with private baths comparable to 3-4 stars accommodations. I have provided a list of places where I stayed and immensely enjoyed the comfort, privacy, and services/amenities. You and your wife can check them out and see if they will meet your standards and expectations. Places in bold are those where I stayed and have first hand experience, and any ratings.

SJPdP – Maison Simonenia*** ;wonderful host (Catherine) / Hotel Restaurant Ramuntcho
Roncesvalles – Posada Roncesvalles****/ Hotel Roncesvalles***
Pamplona – Maisonnave Hotel****
Uterga – Hostal del Perdon; great hosts
Maneru – Albergue el Cantero
Estella – Hospederia Chapitel
Villamayor de Monjardin – Casa Rural Montedeio
Los Arcos – Hotel Rural Latorrien de Ane
Logrono – Sercotel Calle Mayor
Navarette – Hotel Rey Sancho
Najera – Hotel Duques de Najera
Azofra – Hotel Botique Real Casona de las Amas
Santo Domingo de las Calzada – Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada
Granon – Casa Granda Hotel
Belorado – Pension Toni/Hotel A Santiago
Burgos – Hotel Abba Burgos
Hontanas _ Albergue Santa Brigida; reservation comes with reserved breakfast table; spa next door
Castrojeriz – Emebed Posada
Boadilla del Camino – Hotel Rural El Camino
Fromista - Eco-Hotel Doña Mayor
Carrion de los Condes - Hotel Real Monasterio de San Zoilo *****; historic; very nice clubhouse
Calzadilla de la Cueza – Albergue Los Canarios / Hostal Camino Real
Bercianos del Real Camino – Hostal Rivero; best burger along the trail
El Burgo Ranero – Pension La Costa del Adobe; good variety of food; great sisters hosts
Puente Villarente – Albergue San Pelayo; one of only two places
Leon – Barceló León Conde Luna**** ( great breakfast spread) / Parador de Turismo de Leon /
Villafranca Montes de Oca – Hotel San Anton Abad****, beautiful place
Astorga - Hotel Gaudi / Eurostars Vía de la Plata
Rabanal del Camino - Posada El Tesín; comfortable place; great food;
Foncebadon - El Trasgu de Foncebadón
El Acebo de San Miguel - La Rosa del Agua; older place with new hosts; very nice comfortable rooms
O Cebreiro - Pensión Casa Carolo***, excellent place, great restaurant, and wonderful host
Vega de Valcarce - Hostal El Recanto, nice bed but restaurant is across the street
Fonfria - A Reboleira - Casa Nuñez; excellent bar/cafe; laundry; huge number of pilgrims at dinner
Sarria - Hotel Alfonso IX / Aqua Rooms Sarria
Morgade – Casa Morgade, very nice place, good food; great host (Paco)
Portomarin - Guest House El Padrino / VISTALEGRE Hotel-Spa
Ventas de Narón - Albergue-Pensión O Cruceiro
Airexe - Pensión Eirexe
Palas de Rei - Hotel Mica / Pensión As Hortas; nice place but no in-house restaurant
O Coto - Casa de los Somoza; in between stage so few pilgrims stay; private restaurant; Don Quixote and Sancho statues
Melide - URBAN Pensión
Boente - Rectoral de Boente
Arzua - 1930 Boutique Hotel / Casa Costoya / HOTEL ARZÚA
Salceda - Pensión Casa Tía Teresa; wonderful place, laundry service; best steak (entrecot) along the way.
Santiago de Compostela - Hostal Reis Católicos (Parador de Santiago*****); right across from Praza Obradoiro and Santiago de Compostela cathedral

Again, check the places out, don't just take my word, compare and contrast what the accommodation website and Booking.com provide. Many places are between typical stages. I walk slow and I only walked 10-12 miles (16-20 kms) a day. Hope this helps. Congratulations on your retirements. I am a Navy retiree (1993), SSA and state university (1998). Buen Camino.

 

[ShoshTrvls]

As mentioned earlier by many, it is essentially in major cities only that 4-5 star hotels exist. However, along The Way there are really good accommodations with private rooms with private baths comparable to 3-4 stars accommodations. I have provided a list of places where I stayed and immensely enjoyed the comfort, privacy, and services/amenities. You and your wife can check them out and see if they will meet your standards and expectations. Places in bold are those where I stayed and have first hand experience, and any ratings.

SJPdP – Maison Simonenia*** ;wonderful host (Catherine) / Hotel Restaurant Ramuntcho
Roncesvalles – Posada Roncesvalles****/ Hotel Roncesvalles***
Pamplona – Maisonnave Hotel****
Uterga – Hostal del Perdon; great hosts
Maneru – Albergue el Cantero
Estella – Hospederia Chapitel
Villamayor de Monjardin – Casa Rural Montedeio
Los Arcos – Hotel Rural Latorrien de Ane
Logrono – Sercotel Calle Mayor
Navarette – Hotel Rey Sancho
Najera – Hotel Duques de Najera
Azofra – Hotel Botique Real Casona de las Amas
Santo Domingo de las Calzada – Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada
Granon – Casa Granda Hotel
Belorado – Pension Toni/Hotel A Santiago
Burgos – Hotel Abba Burgos
Hontanas _ Albergue Santa Brigida; reservation comes with reserved breakfast table; spa next door
Castrojeriz – Emebed Posada
Boadilla del Camino – Hotel Rural El Camino
Fromista - Eco-Hotel Doña Mayor
Carrion de los Condes - Hotel Real Monasterio de San Zoilo *****; historic; very nice clubhouse
Calzadilla de la Cueza – Albergue Los Canarios / Hostal Camino Real
Bercianos del Real Camino – Hostal Rivero; best burger along the trail
El Burgo Ranero – Pension La Costa del Adobe; good variety of food; great sisters hosts
Puente Villarente – Albergue San Pelayo; one of only two places
Leon – Barceló León Conde Luna**** ( great breakfast spread) / Parador de Turismo de Leon /
Villafranca Montes de Oca – Hotel San Anton Abad****, beautiful place
Astorga - Hotel Gaudi / Eurostars Vía de la Plata
Rabanal del Camino - Posada El Tesín; comfortable place; great food;
Foncebadon - El Trasgu de Foncebadón
El Acebo de San Miguel - La Rosa del Agua; older place with new hosts; very nice comfortable rooms
O Cebreiro - Pensión Casa Carolo***, excellent place, great restaurant, and wonderful host
Vega de Valcarce - Hostal El Recanto, nice bed but restaurant is across the street
Fonfria - A Reboleira - Casa Nuñez; excellent bar/cafe; laundry; huge number of pilgrims at dinner
Sarria - Hotel Alfonso IX / Aqua Rooms Sarria
Morgade – Casa Morgade, very nice place, good food; great host (Paco)
Portomarin - Guest House El Padrino / VISTALEGRE Hotel-Spa
Ventas de Narón - Albergue-Pensión O Cruceiro
Airexe - Pensión Eirexe
Palas de Rei - Hotel Mica / Pensión As Hortas; nice place but no in-house restaurant
O Coto - Casa de los Somoza; in between stage so few pilgrims stay; private restaurant; Don Quixote and Sancho statues
Melide - URBAN Pensión
Boente - Rectoral de Boente
Arzua - 1930 Boutique Hotel / Casa Costoya / HOTEL ARZÚA
Salceda - Pensión Casa Tía Teresa; wonderful place, laundry service; best steak (entrecot) along the way.
Santiago de Compostela - Hostal Reis Católicos (Parador de Santiago*****); right across from Praza Obradoiro and Santiago de Compostela cathedral

Again, check the places out, don't just take my word, compare and contrast what the accommodation website and Booking.com provide. Many places are between typical stages. I walk slow and I only walked 10-12 miles (16-20 kms) a day. Hope this helps. Congratulations on your retirements. I am a Navy retiree (1993), SSA (1997), and state university (1998). Buen Camino.

A few more:

Rectoral de Lestedo in Palas de Rei -- https://rectoraldelestedo.com/
Pazo Santa Maria in Azura -- https://pazosantamaria.com/en/home/ <--probably my favorite
O Muino de Pena in O Pino -- https://omuinodepena.com/ <--old mill, beautiful little trail to walk along the creek

 

[Pilgrim9]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

I agree with most of the comments provided by others above.

If your plan-of-walk (i.e. each day's planned start-location, distance, and planned end-location) will situate you overnight in places not able to provide acceptable lodgings, consider taxiing to from there to somewhere that does (might be forwards or backwards along your route, or off to the side) then taxi back to where you left off the day before. There is nothing wrong with doing that, and indeed doing so will open up additional exploratory opportunities.

There are taxicab companies almost all over Spain and Portugal. Some of them post their telephone numbers along The Way but I recommend that you have a backup plan for determining the telephone numbers of taxi companies in each locale.

I suspect that in some places you might have a long-ish wait for the arrival of your cab, especially in rural areas, if it is a one-cab company, and if the cab happens to be a long distance away. So, consider reserving your cabs somewhat ahead of time and/or finding someplace pleasant to wait.

I hope that your trip is both pleasant and wonderful in the true sense of the word.

 

[debstruzyna]

Hello my wife and I are starting to plan for our pilgrimage and had a question about hotels. Is there a route that offers 4 & 5 star accommodations? We are retired and would prefer to stay at nicer hotels along the way. Any help or guidance is appreciated. Mike

Sounds delightful. We did the same in 2022 on the Portuguese Costal. There were a few nights where we couldn't find a luxury stopover, but every place was fun in its way... And all offered unforgettable people connections because the Portuguese are wonderful.

I echo the suggestion to plan how far you want to walk each day and then use booking.com to find fun places nearby. (We didn't use a tour company.)

To keep you encouraged, here are the 3 most extravagant places we stayed in Portugal and which we very highly recommend. (We actually stayed two nights at each of these for extra R&R or sightseeing.) Only the pousada is in a city; the rest are rural.

Enjoy your planning!

https://www.quintamonteverde.com/homepage

Hotel in Viana Castelo? Book at Pousada Viana Castelo Website!

Pousada Viana is a hotel in Viana Castelo. With pool and a stunning view, this charming hotel will provide you with an unforgettable stay. Book Now!

www.pousadas.pt

http://www.rinoterra.com/

 

[OssieMate]

Hi Mike.

I, like you, preferred to stay at better accommodation along the Camino route. If you forward your email address to me, I can forward my itinerary with all accommodation listed where we stayed at. We loved having a sound sleep and decent meals each night.

My email address is:

Email address removed by moderator. Please use private messaging to contact other members

Kind regards.

Ralph
Melbourne Australia.

 

[Rick Davidson]

Hi Mike.

I, like you, preferred to stay at better accommodation along the Camino route. If you forward your email address to me, I can forward my itinerary with all accommodation listed where we stayed at. We loved having a round sleep and decent meals each night.

My email address is:

ossiemate@gmail.com

Kind regards.

Ralph
Melbourne Australia.

Ouch!! You need to stay at 4-5 star hotels to get a good sleep and have a decent meal!! I didn’t know!! I’ve been doing this all wrong.

 

[OssieMate]

Ouch!! You need to stay at 4-5 star hotels to get a good sleep and have a decent meal!! I didn’t know!! I’ve been doing this all wrong.

You bet! Nothing worst than shacking up with snorers and being woken up by pilgrims rising so early in the morning to get to their next destination. Give me a break.

Good food and accommodation is my reward for a long hard days hike. Love it.

 

[oursonpolaire]

As others have noted, 4=5 star classification is not that relevant along the Camino or, indeed, outside major cities. For those interested, here is an explanation of the system- https://www.yourspain.net/star-rating-hotels-in-spain-what-can-you-expect/. Each autonomous community (province) has its own system, and the Camino Francese passes through Navarre, the Basque lands, Rioja, Castile, Leon, and Galicia.

I have found that casas rurales offer great comfort and they are my basic recommendation. I have looked at the listings others have provided and have stayed at some of them; you will not be disappointed. I also found that, if I really liked a place, I would ask the innkeeper if there was somewhere comparable at my next stop and would he ever mind calling to see if I could have a room. They have their own networks and are happy to scratch each other's backs. Accommodation in smaller centres in Spain is one of the country's great secrets and the Camino does provide some great surprises.

 

[ginniek]

To give you an up-to-the-minute look at a few accommodations, maybe I'll post daily where I'm staying--not all 4-5 stars by any means, but nice. There will only be a few; I do short sections every year because of physical issues. If anyone here wants to make mock of me for traveling the way I do, I'll be happy to send you medical records, etc. By the time you get to be in your late 70s (me), just keeping moving is something of an accomplishment. And I still work part time--financial development for a small community college and teaching yoga at the YMCA. I'm flying to Madrid from Savannah tomorrow and will start walking from Leon Thursday morning. Ponferrada is this year's terminus. Hope to complete the rest of the Camino (I did Sarria to Santiago first because I thought I wouldn't do any more) before I can't physically. Then I'm switching over to Swim Trek, since I am a lifelong serious swimmer and expect to do that up until the very end.

 

[joramos]

To give you an up-to-the-minute look at a few accommodations, maybe I'll post daily where I'm staying--not all 4-5 stars by any means, but nice. There will only be a few; I do short sections every year because of physical issues. If anyone here wants to make mock of me for traveling the way I do, I'll be happy to send you medical records, etc. By the time you get to be in your late 70s (me), just keeping moving is something of an accomplishment. And I still work part time--financial development for a small community college and teaching yoga at the YMCA. I'm flying to Madrid from Savannah tomorrow and will start walking from Leon Thursday morning. Ponferrada is this year's terminus. Hope to complete the rest of the Camino (I did Sarria to Santiago first because I thought I wouldn't do any more) before I can't physically. Then I'm switching over to Swim Trek, since I am a lifelong serious swimmer and expect to do that up until the very end.

You do not have to justify why and how you pick your accommodations as you walk "your" Camino. What is best for us, our body and mind, only us know. I am also in my 70s and suffered severe and traumatic car accident injuries a few years back hence lucky to be alive. Am I supposed to worry about the Camino marathoners and what they say about "being genuine pilgrims staying in bunkrooms?" They labeled me as "Slow Joe" because I did not join their marathon. But that does not bother me because at the end of the day as I walk my Camino, I have a nice comfortable private accommodation where I can enjoy a comfortable rest instead of nursing blisters and worrying about loud snoring and smelly shoes.

Buen Camino pilgrim.

 

[SlowCamino2024]

To give you an up-to-the-minute look at a few accommodations, maybe I'll post daily where I'm staying--not all 4-5 stars by any means, but nice. There will only be a few; I do short sections every year because of physical issues. If anyone here wants to make mock of me for traveling the way I do, I'll be happy to send you medical records, etc. By the time you get to be in your late 70s (me), just keeping moving is something of an accomplishment. And I still work part time--financial development for a small community college and teaching yoga at the YMCA. I'm flying to Madrid from Savannah tomorrow and will start walking from Leon Thursday morning. Ponferrada is this year's terminus. Hope to complete the rest of the Camino (I did Sarria to Santiago first because I thought I wouldn't do any more) before I can't physically. Then I'm switching over to Swim Trek, since I am a lifelong serious swimmer and expect to do that up until the very end.

I would love to hear about your accommodations. Planning for Sept 2024,
also a slow camino in private, accommodations. Good on you for your
courageous persistence!

 

[SlowCamino2024]

Hi Mike.

I, like you, preferred to stay at better accommodation along the Camino route. If you forward your email address to me, I can forward my itinerary with all accommodation listed where we stayed at. We loved having a sound sleep and decent meals each night.

My email address is:

Email address removed by moderator. Please use private messaging to contact other members

Kind regards.

Ralph
Melbourne Australia.

Hola,
I would love to hear where you stayed as well. Not sure what the correct format is since
the your email was deleted. Thank you!
Linda

 

[Kirkie]

Hola,
I would love to hear where you stayed as well. Not sure what the correct format is since
the your email was deleted. Thank you!
Linda

Personal message is the correct format. If you touch the correct bit, near the name of the poster, you will find an option to start a conversation. That avoids revealing personal contact details. Does that help?

 

[C clearly]

Not sure what the correct format is
since the your email was deleted

On this forum, the private message function is called "Conversation." Touch the avator/profile of the person you want to talk to, and then touch "Start conversation."

 

[Evan123]

Like the original poster, I am looking for the best accommodations along the Camino Frances without regard to price. I’m willing to take a taxi off the Camino to find the best accommodations and then taxi back to the Camino the next morning.
Can anyone recommend the best accommodations anywhere in the vicinity of Atapuerca?

 

[SabsP]

Like the original poster, I am looking for the best accommodations along the Camino Frances without regard to price. I’m willing to take a taxi off the Camino to find the best accommodations and then taxi back to the Camino the next morning.
Can anyone recommend the best accommodations anywhere in the vicinity of Atapuerca?

Again , what is " best " for you?
24 hours service? Gorgeous views? Etcetera.

 

[Evan123]

To me, “best” accommodations would be a luxurious hotel, perhaps in a historic mansion (something like the paradors in León and Santiago). I know those paradors are exceptional, but they define “best” for me. Anything approaching that standard will do.

 

[Peter Fransiscus]

Like the original poster, I am looking for the best accommodations along the Camino Frances without regard to price. I’m willing to take a taxi off the Camino to find the best accommodations and then taxi back to the Camino the next morning.
Can anyone recommend the best accommodations anywhere in the vicinity of Atapuerca?

Absolutely, try GOOGLE.

 

[SabsP]

To me, “best” accommodations would be a luxurious hotel, perhaps in a historic mansion (something like the paradors in León and Santiago). I know those paradors are exceptional, but they define “best” for me. Anything approaching that standard will do.

Gronze might be of help.
Atapuerca seems to have gotten lots of nice places since I walked that part in 2011.

Hotel Papasol – Turismo Rural en Burgos

hotelpapasol.es

Atapuerca, Burgos | Albergues y Hoteles | Gronze.com

Albergues, Hoteles y Servicios para Peregrinos en Atapuerca, Burgos, en el Camino de Santiago.

www.gronze.com

In Burgos centre NH Palacio de la Merced is situated in a gorgeous building.

https://www.nh-collection.com/nl/hotel/nh-collection-palacio-de-burgos

 

[SlowCamino2024]

This is probably not relevant, but I just canceled my reservations to 2 nice places.
Not 4-5 star but maybe someone can beneft ASAP.
LA VILLA ESPONDA in St. Jean Pied de Port Sept 5.
MICRO-HOSTAL LA PUERTA DE PERDON in Villafranca del Bierzo Oct 6

 

[Damien Reynolds]

So like, I snore sometimes. I pretty much stay in private accommodation every night on the camino as to avoid disturbing others (wink). Now I've developed my own criteria for evaluating camino hotels/pensions:

1. Is it clean? They almost all are.
2. Do they have a hair dryer in the room? Hit and miss.
3. Do the toiletries include hair conditioner? Always gets another star from me.
4. Do they recognize me at the front desk? (only in Santiago)
5. Is there a laundromat nearby?

I kind of have low standards... but I also have another favorite saying... "The road to disappointment is expectations".

 

[markie6]

Again , what is " best " for you?
24 hours service? Gorgeous views? Etcetera.

No bedbugs ... defo worth an extra star

 

[henrythedog]

Like the original poster, I am looking for the best accommodations along the Camino Frances without regard to price. I’m willing to take a taxi off the Camino to find the best accommodations and then taxi back to the Camino the next morning.
Can anyone recommend the best accommodations anywhere in the vicinity of Atapuerca?

You’re not asking in the right place. You’ll get some variously- informed replies (the Papasol above for example is a fine place and exceeded my expectations whenever I’ve stayed, but it’s 2* at best)

You would do better to look for one of the many ‘concierge’ who will pre-book the whole experience for you and give them your requirements and budget. To meet your expectations will require fancy logistics.

If you’re not accustomed to Spanish hotels a Spanish 5* will not approach US standards. (Other than that the staff will be paid a decent salary and if they wish you ‘buenos días’ they probably mean it)

I’m always delighted when somewhere exceeds my expectations and that’s a damn sight easier if you book family-run 2 and 3 *s. A 5* with gold taps and a price to match has only one way to go. In my opinion, of course.

 

[JohnCP43]

Pilgrim 9 (posting # 45) alludes to a very workable option. For example, if you start at an accommodation you like, walk a comfortable distance then taxi back to start point then the next morning taxi to the point you stopped at and again walk your comfortable distance at the end of which either taxi back to start point or leapfrog ahead to your next chosen accommodation and next am taxi back to where you left off. The allows you to be comfortable in your accommodations but also lets you walk with only a day pack.

 

[trecile]

Pilgrim 9 (posting # 45) alludes to a very workable option. For example, if you start at an accommodation you like, walk a comfortable distance then taxi back to start point then the next morning taxi to the point you stopped at and again walk your comfortable distance at the end of which either taxi back to start point or leapfrog ahead to your next chosen accommodation and next am taxi back to where you left off. The allows you to be comfortable in your accommodations but also lets you walk with only a day pack.

The problem that I would have with this approach is that it would keep me separated from other pilgrims and much of the Camino experience outside of walking hours. But I'm sure that it will appeal to some.

 

[Damien Reynolds]

No bedbugs ... defo worth an extra star

Here is the thing about that one tho: it doesn't matter how many stars a hotel has...

 

[Rick Davidson]

The problem that I would have with this approach is that it would keep me separated from other pilgrims and much of the Camino experience outside of walking hours. But I'm sure that it will appeal to some.

Agree. We stay in small hotels, rurals, etc, 2 maybe 3 star. A reasonable place but the most important is location. On the Camino and close to cafes, bars, etc. Walk around, see the local sites, find a good aperitif place, etc. You can’t to that if you take a taxi 10km off the Camino for accommodation.

 

[trecile]

Agree. We stay in small hotels, rurals, etc, 2 maybe 3 star. A reasonable place but the most important is location. On the Camino and close to cafes, bars, etc. Walk around, see the local sites, find a good aperitif place, etc. You can’t to that if you take a taxi 10km off the Camino for accommodation.

And in some areas you could travel 10 km from the Camino and still not find a 4 or 5 star hotel!

 

[henrythedog]

It would be a boring old world if we all thought the same. Back in the day the gentry wouldn’t be sleeping in refugios with the commoners, pigs and chickens and a 5* tourist brings more economic value to Galicia than most folk do.

According to the forum rules we’re all ‘pilgrims’, and we often have the bleat of ‘you walk your own Camino’ (even if that involves being driven to and from the start point daily I assume?), so that’s that.

(If I knew the first thing about emojis I’d insert one for ‘I’m looking you in the eye and lying to you’, but I don’t)

 

[Damien Reynolds]

So like I almost posted a snarky response again. But I deleted it because I think about the first timers, The camino is a life changing experience, .

 

[Kirkie]

It would be a boring old world if we all thought the same. Back in the day the gentry wouldn’t be sleeping in refugios with the commoners, pigs and chickens and a 5* tourist brings more economic value to Galicia than most folk do.

According to the forum rules we’re all ‘pilgrims’, and we often have the bleat of ‘you walk your own Camino’ (even if that involves being driven to and from the start point daily I assume?), so that’s that.

(If I knew the first thing about emojis I’d insert one for ‘I’m looking you in the eye and lying to you’, but I don’t)

I am in a hurry but you are such a hoot, keep ] trying to find that emoji
How's this?

 

[MickMac]

The problem that I would have with this approach is that it would keep me separated from other pilgrims and much of the Camino experience outside of walking hours. But I'm sure that it will appeal to some.

Trecile I have walked the Camino the last few years staying in private rooms each time the feeling of isolation at times was overpowering.
Finishing at 15.00 hrs or earlier left a long evening of lonely reflection spanish tv and phone for company broken only by a meal, it isolated me from the groups and was not the Camino I came to love.
I thought I wanted the lonely road but badly misjudged the effect it had on me.
So if I ever walk again it will be Albergues all the way.
The one great thing I learnt was to keep walking I you are not tired tiredness is a friend for the soul.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

I thought I wanted the lonely road but badly misjudged the effect it had on me.

Same here. There are few walkers on the Catalan. Anyway, if you are a single walker looking for the fancy hotel experience consider not booking them all before you start walking.

 

[Kirkie]

Trecile I have walked the Camino the last few years staying in private rooms each time the feeling of isolation at times was overpowering.
Finishing at 15.00 hrs or earlier left a long evening of lonely reflection spanish tv and phone for company broken only by a meal, it isolated me from the groups and was not the Camino I came to love.
I thought I wanted the lonely road but badly misjudged the effect it had on me.
So if I ever walk again it will be Albergues all the way.
The one great thing I learnt was to keep walking I you are not tired tiredness is a friend for the soul.

Pop in some time to time to the camino info centre in D8 before the next camino. It would be so good to learn from you, and maybe you might even have spare time to volunteer!!!

 

[David Tallan]

It would be a boring old world if we all thought the same. Back in the day the gentry wouldn’t be sleeping in refugios with the commoners, pigs and chickens and a 5* tourist brings more economic value to Galicia than most folk do.

According to the forum rules we’re all ‘pilgrims’, and we often have the bleat of ‘you walk your own Camino’ (even if that involves being driven to and from the start point daily I assume?), so that’s that.

(If I knew the first thing about emojis I’d insert one for ‘I’m looking you in the eye and lying to you’, but I don’t)

There is not a sentence in your first paragraph that I disagree with. And I'm not lying to you.

 

[C clearly]

According to the forum rules we’re all ‘pilgrims’

No, that's not what Rule 3 says.

We simply don't want argument or discussion of whether other people are pilgrims or not.

 

[MaryMuller]

Hi Mike.

I, like you, preferred to stay at better accommodation along the Camino route. If you forward your email address to me, I can forward my itinerary with all accommodation listed where we stayed at. We loved having a sound sleep and decent meals each night.

My email address is:

Email address removed by moderator. Please use private messaging to contact other members

Kind regards.

Ralph
Melbourne Australia.

Ralph, Husband and another couple are doing our first Camino in sept. Starting from Sarria. We would love hotel accommodation rec’s. I think we would prefer private room and private bath

 

[Evan123]

Thanks to those of you who have posted helpful suggestions. I'm working on my list of the nicest hotels from SJP to Leon and will post it here soon.

 

[Evan123]

Last year, we did the Camino from Leon to Santiago and stayed in some nice hotels along the way. I'll post those soon too.

 

[MaryMuller]

Which route are you taking.. we have a list of really nice places on Camino Frances and Camino Portuguese Coastal.

We are traveling Camino Frances and would love the list of nice places

 

[Evan123]

MOST LUXURIOUS HOTELS ON THE CAMINO FRANCES FROM SJP TO LEON:

NOTE:

• This list is based on internet research. I haven’t done this part of the Camino so I haven’t stayed at any of these hotels (except for the Parador in Leon).
• The hotels were chosen without regard to price. Instead, I looked for the most luxurious property that I could find. Historical charm was also considered.
• Some villages had nothing remotely luxurious so I chose the best that I could find.
• To reach some of these hotels, it will be necessary to take a taxi once you stop walking for the day. Then in the morning, you can taxi back to your starting point. Sometimes, the hotel owner may be willing to pick you up.
• Some hotels offer rooms with a “cama matrimonial”. These are double beds, which can vary in size. In my opinion, some of them are too narrow for 2 people to sleep comfortably. When in doubt, I’d recommend booking a room with 2 beds (unless you really like sleeping close together!).
• If you’re walking in the hot weather months, please check to see if the hotel has air conditioning. Many do not.
• The towns listed below average 12 miles apart (range of 6.2 to 15.6 miles), which is a good walking distance for me.

St. Jean Pied de Port (SJP):

1. Hotel les Pyrenees: 4*, 4.4 on Google reviews. Centrally located. Get a superior room in the rear of the hotel (courtyard) for quiet. https://hotel-les-pyrenees.com/en/
2. Central Hotel: 3*, 4.0 on Google reviews. Centrally located right on the river, common areas look traditional, rooms look modern, functional and clean. Get a river view room with balcony, both for the view and to avoid street noise. https://www.centralhotel64.com/en

Roncesvalles:

1. Casa de Beneficiados: Seems to be part of the Hotel Roncesvalles.
2. Hotel Roncesvalles: 3*, 4.4 on Google reviews. https://hotelroncesvalles.roncesvalles.es/

Zubiri:

Casa Rural Txantxorena: 3*, 4.7 on Google reviews. Small hotel, looks lovely, very traditional. https://www.txantxorena.com/en/

Pamplona:

1. Gran Hotel La Perla: 5*, 4.7 on Google reviews. Looks very nice. https://www.granhotellaperla.com/EN/home.html
2. Pamplona Catedral: 4*, 4.4 on Google reviews. Very modern decor. https://www.pamplonacatedralhotel.com/en

Puente la Reina:

1. Finca El Peregrino: 3*, 4.8 on Google reviews. On the Camino, about 0.5 mile before Puente la Reina. Looks nice. Looks more upscale than El Cerco. Traditional appearance. Looks like it might be a converted church. https://fincaelperegrino.com/en/about-us
2. El Cerco Hotel Rural: 1*, 4.7 on Google reviews. https://www.hotelelcerco.es/en/home/

Estella:
Hospederia Chapitel: 4*, 4.4 on Google. Looks very nice. https://hospederia-chapitel.es/

Los Arcos:
Hotel Rural Latorrién de Ane: 3*, 4.6 on Google reviews. 3 miles north of town. Looks traditional and cute. Not luxurious but it’ll do. https://www.latorrien.es/

Viana:
Hotel Palacio de Pujadas: 3*, 4.3 on Google. Building and common areas look nicely historic. https://www.hotelpalaciodepujadasbymij.com/en/

Logroño:
Looks like big town with lots of hotels.

1. Áurea Palacio de Correos: 5*, 4.7 on Google. Modern hotel inside a historic building. Looks great! https://www.eurostarshotels.co.uk/aurea-palacio-de-correos.html
2. Mercure Carlton Rioja: 4*, 4.1 on Google. Modern. Uninspiring. https://all.accor.com/ssr/app/accor/rates/B1H5/index.es.shtml

Navarrete:

1. Posada Ignatius: 3*, 4.6 on Google. 15th century mansion. Duke of Navarrete lived here as did St. Ignatius of Loyola! Some (but not all) rooms have private baths. A Trip Advisor review from June 2018 says no air conditioning, but says that the stone building stays cool. https://posadaignatius.com/
2. Hotel Rey Sancho: 3*, 4.1 on Google. Looks nice enough. Interesting blend of old and new. https://hotelreysancho.es/#
3. Bodegas FYA: 4*, 4.7 on Google. About a mile south of Navarrete. Horrible modern architecture but appears to be a relatively luxurious hotel. https://bodegasfya.com/

Najera:

1. Hotel Real Casona de las Amas: 3*, 4.4 on Google. On the Camino, 5 miles past Najera. Looks nicer than Duques. NOTE: No AC!! https://realcasonadelasamas.com/en/loungebar/#
2. Hotel Duques de Nájera: 3*, 4.2 on Google. Looks nice enough. Historic building. https://hotelduquesdenajera.com/en/the-hotel/

Santo Domingo de la Calzada:
Amazingly, Santo Domingo has 2 paradors!

1. Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada: 4*, 4.4 on Google. Has restaurant and bar. Even though the other parador looks prettier, the onsite bar and restaurant and the lack of complaints re AC moves this parador to the top of the list. https://paradores.es/en/parador-de-santo-domingo-de-la-calzada
2. Parador de Santo Domingo Bernardo de Fresneda: 3*, 4.3 on Google. 16th century monastery. No restaurant or bar. Looks prettier to me than the other parador. The superior double room looks fabulous! Multiple complaints about air conditioning. https://paradores.es/en/parador-de-santo-domingo-bernardo-de-fresneda

Belorado:
Hotel Rural Verdeancho: 3*, 4.6 on Google. Old building. Basic rooms. “Matrimonial beds” look too small. I recommend getting a room with 2 beds. https://www.casaverdeancho.com/

Villafranca Montes de Oca:
Hotel San Antón Abad: 3*, 4.2 on Google. Only hotel in the area. Looks very nice and historic. Has both hotel rooms and an albergue. https://www.hotelsanantonabad.com/

Atapuerca:
Looks like a very small town with only a few choices.

1. Hotel Rural Papasol: 2*, 4.1 on Google. Looks pretty basic. Basic dinner is provided. Some (but not all) rooms have private baths. https://hotelpapasol.es/
2. Casa Rural el Rincón de Atapuerca: 3*, 4.8 on Google. Looks pretty basic but functional. Has 5 rooms, 3 of which have 2 beds. According to an email from the hotel, the bathrooms are outside the rooms but are private. https://www.elrincondeatapuerca.com/

Burgos:
Big city with lots of choices.

1. NH Collection Palacio de Burgos: 4*, 4.4 on Google. 16th century building. Looks great. Rooms have modern decor. https://www.nh-hotels.com/en/hotel/nh-collection-palacio-de-burgos
2. AC Hotel Burgos: 4*, 4.4 on Google. Looks nice too. Part of the Marriott AC Hotel chain. https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/rgsbu-ac-hotel-burgos/overview/

Hornillos del Camino:
Nothing much in this tiny village.

1. Hotel Señorío de Olmillos: 4*, 4.2 on Google. This hotel is 10 miles off the Camino, which will require taking a taxi. https://www.hotelolmillosdesasamon.com/en/
2. Hotel Rural la Consulta de Isar: 3*, 4.2 on Google. 2 miles north of town. Looks very basic. https://consultadeisar.com/

Castrojeriz:

1. Quinta San Francisco: 4*, 4.9 on Google. Traditional architecture. Modern construction. Looks very nice. https://hotelruralquintasanfrancisco.com/en/
2. Emebed Posada: 3*, 4.8. Older building. Looks very nice. http://www.emebedposada.com/en/

Fromista:
Eco Hotel Doña Mayor: 3*, 4.7 on Google. Looks like a nice, small modern hotel. Nothing traditional about it in terms of appearance. Seems like the best in the area. https://www.hoteldonamayor.com/en/

Carrion:
Hotel Real Monasterio San Zoile: 4*, 4.4 on Google. Looks lovely! Upscale hotel in an old monastery. https://sanzoilo.com/ [Consider staying here 2 nights. See notes under Calzadilla de la Cueza below]

Calzadilla de la Cueza:
Not many hotels in this tiny town.

1. Consider staying at Hotel Real Monasterio San Zoile two nights, walk from Carrion to Calzadilla, then taxi back to hotel after the walk, then back to Calzadilla in the morning to continue the walk.
2. Hostal Camino Real: No stars. 4.2 on Google ratings. Unable to find a website. Looks very basic.

Sahagun:
Not a lot of choices in this town.
Hotel Puerta de Sahagun: 4*, 3.7 on Google. Modern construction, looks similar to a Holiday Inn in the USA. Nothing special, but probably a decent place to stay. https://www.hotelpuertadesahagun.net/english/

El Burgo Ranero:
Not a lot of choices in this town.

1. Best choice seems to be a farmhouse located in the village of Calzadilla de los Hermanillos called Casa el Cura. 2*, 4.7 on Google reviews, 5.0 on TripAdvisor. There are 2 ways to get there: (1) Walk on the Camino Frances until reaching El Burgo Ranero and then take a taxi 4 miles to Casa el Cura. (2) Alternately, deviate onto the “Via Romana” 3.7 km past Sahagun and walk to Casa el Cura. According to Brierly, the Via Romana is considered the scenic route. However, reviewers complain about Via Romana past Calzadilla. Perhaps, after Calzadilla, one should rejoin the Camino Francis. This route is covered in Brierley.
2. In the village of El Burgo Ranero, there is Pensión Restaurante La Costa del Adobe. 4.5 on Google reviews. Rooms have private bathrooms. Does not look luxurious but seems like a decent place to stay. https://lacostadeladobe.es/

Mansilla de las Mulas:

1. Luxury option: Upon reaching Mansilla, take a taxi to the Parador in Leon. Then taxi back to Mansilla in the morning to finish the walk into Leon
2. If you want to stay in Mansilla, try the Hotel Rural La Casa de los Soportales: 2*, 4.4 on Google reviews. Appears to be newer construction. All rooms have private bathrooms. https://www.albergueeljardindelcamino.com/la-casa-de-los-soportales/

León:
Parador de Leon: 5*, 4.5 on Google reviews. Wonderful! Ancient building, now a luxurious hotel. Really enjoyed our stay there in 2023. I recommend staying at least one extra day in Leon to rest and see the city. https://paradores.es/en/parador-de-leon

 

[Camino Chrissy]

Thanks to those of you who have posted helpful suggestions. I'm working on my list of the nicest hotels from SJP to Leon and will post it here soon.

You have an amazing list. I wonder if AI would have anything else to add.

 

[henrythedog]

You have an amazing list. I wonder if AI would have anything else to add.

It’s a good list based on what must have been extensive desktop research. I’ve stayed in several of those and - whilst they’re fine - they’re not 4/5 star. (Which I only recognise from the long ago days when someone else was paying the bill)

 

[David Tallan]

You have an amazing list. I wonder if AI would have anything else to add.

And how much it would add would exist outside its imagination....

 

[dbier]

l would footstomp two pieces of Evan's advice, especially if the readers haven't traveled in Europe before.

For *anyone* wanting accommodations along the Caminos, particularly if traveling as a couple, pay heed to his statements:

• "Some hotels offer rooms with a “cama matrimonial”. These are double beds, which can vary in size. In my opinion, some of them are too narrow for 2 people to sleep comfortably. When in doubt, I’d recommend booking a room with 2 beds (unless you really like sleeping close together!)

He's not kidding - queen or king sized beds in Spanish hotels are the exception, absolutely not the norm. Some hotel rooms I've stayed in along the Caminos Frances and Primitivo aren't big enough for them ;-) If the two of you need that amount of space, beware.

• If you’re walking in the hot weather months, please check to see if the hotel has air conditioning. Many do not. "

Even if the hotel has A/C, it's often central (not in individual rooms), and depending on the season, it may not be on.

If you're seeking "luxe" accommodations along a Camino in Spain, and you're not particularly familiar with the various websites (especially if the hotel doesn't *have* one, or doesn't maintain their own), I'd strongly suggest getting a Camino-wise travel company or agent to help you.