Spain

Camino Primitivo

Guided Mountain Bike Holiday

Grade

1
2
3
4
5

Duration

8 days

Prices from

£2,395 P.P.

OPTIONAL E-MTB DEPARTURES

We offer this holiday with an e-MTB only departure as well as trips on regular mountain bikes. Boost your riding off the beaten track! Our e-MTB only departures offer experienced riders the chance to enjoy a phenomenal e-mountain biking adventure with Skedaddle. Hire one of our quality e-mountain bikes and experience the buzz of a pedal-assisted ride.

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The Camino Primitivo is a wild, dramatic route that follows a little-known (but original!) pilgrims' trail to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. This exciting holiday is a chance for mountain bikers to take a wild ride through the remote mountains of Northern Spain.
Starting off from the proud capital of Asturias, beside its magnificent cathedral, this historic trail takes the adventurous rider through a beautiful region of forested valleys, open pasture, wild mountainsides and ancient hamlets and villages, born from a need to help pilgrims along their journey to Santiago.
The terrain is varied with sections of ancient drovers' trails, sinuous single track and back lanes on the journey towards Santiago de Compostela. Challenging climbs will be rewarded by thrilling descents with some great natural trails and technical riding. You’ll travel through the lush rolling valleys of Asturias and over the challenging Sierras of the Cordillera Cantabrica before a fantastic finale along the famed Camino Frances and its flowing, ancient trails.
We have E-bike exclusive departures for those looking to enjoy the journey with a group of like-minded e-bikers. Please see our dates and prices section to see which departures are exclusively for e-bikes.
This journey enables true mountain bikers to experience the Camino de Santiago as a pilgrim by overnighting in the fabulous historic cities of Oviedo, Lugo and Santiago and experiencing the wealth of culture and cuisine along the ‘Way’.
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Holiday Highlights

  • Pre-trip cider pouring in the old town of Oviedo
  • The sinuous singletrack switchback descent to Las Grandas
  • Remote, wild routes across high mountains passes
  • Descending out of the rugged Cordillera to the fabulous Roman city of Lugo
  • Tasting Galician-style Octopus washed down with a crisp Albarino white
  • Hearing the eerie wail of bagpipes on arrival into the cathedral square in Santiago

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Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival: Oviedo
Non Riding Day

You will be met at Asturias Airport (OVD) and transferred (40 minutes) to the handsome, proud capital of Asturias; Oviedo. Bikes will be built and fitted before you head out to discover the city. The beautiful Cathedral of San Salvador is a must and a great place to get the first stamp in your pilgrim’s passport, proof of completion of the pilgrimage.

In the evening your local guides will brief you on the journey to come before guiding you to the best ‘siderias’ in the city for some drinks and local cuisine.

Day 2
Oviedo to Tineo
42 Miles / 68 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 1,695 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 1,695 Metres Approx.

The exciting first steps of the route lead us out of the city on quiet lanes before we enjoy some heavenly riding along ancient paths and forest singletrack down to the river Nora. A mid-morning coffee at a pilgrims’ hostel prepares us for racy trails along the Nalon riverside, passing the striking rock pinnacle of Penaflor and entering the picturesque market town of Grado for a well-earned lunch of local delicacies.

Refreshed, we tackle our first cheeky climb over the Alto de el Fresno before dropping into a fun and furious 5 km stretch of trail down to the Rio Narcea.

Next comes the 11 km stretch between La Espina and Tineo, where the pace slows and the landscape deepens. We begin with a gentle climb from La Espina, winding through green fields and majestic chestnut forests. Along the way, small villages like El Pedregal and La Pereda offer brief but charming stops, each with its own timeless appeal.

As the path narrows, we venture into dense oak and eucalyptus forests, encountering a few challenging climbs—but the breathtaking views make every effort worthwhile. Then comes the reward: an exhilarating descent into Tineo.

Upon arrival, the Iglesia de San Pedro and Tineo’s old cobbled streets invite us to pause. A short detour to the Monasterio de Obona provides a glimpse into history, while the perfect finishing touch is a glass of sidra asturiana to celebrate the journey.

Day 3
Tineo to Vistalegre
34 Miles / 55 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 1,660 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 1,660 Metres Approx.

After a good rest and a meal filled with the best local produce, it’s time to get back on the bikes for an epic day in the Asturian mountains. From Tineo, we ride through its historic streets, leaving behind the legacy of ancient Roman gold mining. The trail quickly leads us into a steep climb up Alto de Guardia, ascending along ancient stone paths before plunging into an exhilarating technical descent through meadows, forests, and isolated villages.

Upon reaching Samblismo, we face a key decision familiar to all pilgrims on their way to Santiago: descend into the valley to Pola de Allande or take on the wild, remote mountains leading to the highest point of the Camino Primitivo, Puerto del Palo, at nearly 1,200 meters.

As you may have guessed, we’ll be taking the more exciting route through the Hospitales, the ancient mountain paths that once sheltered pilgrims weary pilgrims. These fabulous trails lead us over high ridges, ancient trading routes, and natural singletrack. On a clear day, you can see the distant Atlantic Ocean, hidden behind layers of rolling sierras.

These spectacular trails take us across high ridges, age-old trading routes, and flowing natural singletrack. On a clear day, the distant Atlantic Ocean shimmers beyond layers of rolling sierras.

Once, small villages along this route served as pilgrim hospitals offering refuge. Today, these hamlets still provide shelter as we climb and descend, eventually reaching our remote resting place for the night—Vistalegre. A simple mountain retreat, paired with hearty local fare, is the perfect reward after a long and unforgettable day on the bike.

Day 4
Vistalegre to Fonsagrada
19 Miles / 31 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 1,160 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 1,160 Metres Approx.

After a good rest and a breakfast filled with the finest local produce, we begin the day in Vistalegre, surrounded by the lush Asturian landscape. From here, we head toward Grandas de Salime, a picturesque village that greets us with its rustic charm. As we progress, the scenery opens up, revealing breathtaking views of the Salime Reservoir, its waters stretching across the valley and reflecting the towering mountains—a true visual spectacle.

Upon reaching Grandas de Salime, we take a well-deserved break before facing the real challenge of the day: the climb to Alto del Acebo. This section follows ancient mountain paths, winding through dense forests. The ascent is steady, but each pedal stroke is rewarded with increasingly stunning views. As we gain altitude, the landscapes of both Galicia and Asturias unfold before us, offering an awe-inspiring panorama.

At the summit of Alto del Acebo, we pause to take in the sweeping views of Galicia—a perfect moment to rest before continuing. After the demanding climb, the route eases into a gentle descent through pine forests and open meadows, passing through small villages like Fonfría.

The afternoon takes on a more relaxed pace as we follow rural paths down to the valley floor. The terrain softens further, leading us to A Fonsagrada, a charming historical village perched at nearly 1,000 meters of altitude. Here, we unwind after a rewarding day of riding, savoring excellent Galician cuisine and preparing for the next stage of our journey.

Day 5
Fonsagrada to Lugo
33 Miles / 53 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 1,075 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 1,075 Metres Approx.

Today starts with beautiful paths climbing to reach the emblematic Alto de Montouto and the ruins of an ancient pilgrims hospital beside an impressive Celtic burial chamber. It’s a wonderful place to contemplate past times before a terrific descent down to Paradevilla for a mid-morning snack and coffee.

The trail snakes its way through numerous ancient settlements where time seems to have stood still. In Galicia much of the terrain is made up of smallholdings where it’s not uncommon to see people scything grass by hand or ploughing fields with oxen.

A bit of effort is needed to reach the Alto de Fontaneira, offering amazing vistas down to the rolling green valleys of Galicia, then the trail begins to descend on a multitude of tracks and paths for the last 20km to the fortified city of Lugo, our home for the night.

Lugo is a great place to overnight and wander its old lanes to the impressive cathedral and Plaza Mayor. The food is excellent too and it’s probably time to try the Galician dish of pulpo a la feira, octopus with spicy paprika to be washed down with a crisp Albarino white!

Day 6
Lugo to Sedor
35 Miles / 57 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 1,085 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 1,085 Metres Approx.

Leaving Lugo we first descend to cross the snaking Rio Mino, which further west is the natural border between Portugal and Spain. After a few easy kilometres along a narrow lane our way intersects with a Roman road connecting Braga in Portugal with the trading route of the Via de la Plata coming from the Mediterranean. There are beautifully restored Roman temples and milarios that make interesting breaks in our journey.

Once over the open moorland of Hospital das Seisas we take a long steady descent passing Celtic Castros (settlements) and interesting horreos (grain stores) to arrive in the small bustling town of Melide. It’s here where we will join the Camino Frances, the most popular of the pilgrim routes to Santiago.

On the final kilometres of this penultimate day the trail continues through oak woods and eucalyptus plantations, following a well-restored medieval road. One last flowing descent takes us down to cross the Boente Valley, from here it’s a short pedal to our relaxing accommodation for the night, a great place to refuel for the final hop to the great city of Santiago.

Day 7
Sedor to Santiago de Compostela
28 Miles / 45 Kms Approx.
Ascent: 825 Metres Approx.
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch
  • Ascent: 825 Metres Approx.

Our final day’s cycling on the journey to Santiago is full of fun, with a party atmosphere filling the trail! It will be a memorable day, with just 45km to go! A steady climb brings us to the artisan’s town of Arzua where, according to legend, a local woman who denied a tired, hungry pilgrim a piece of bread had her head turned to stone! So please be in a sharing mood! We will cycle deep into mysterious Galicia, rich with legends and stories of Brujeria (witchcraft) and mythology. The route is intricate, winding through tiny granite hamlets and farmsteads, giving us the chance to savour the region’s beauty.

Many of the trails we ride on today are corredioras, ancient stone paths linking villages, which make fabulous mountain biking trails.

There is a quiet rest area in Santa Irene where we can stop and rest for lunch, refuelling for the final pedal to Santiago. After riding through Lavacolla we’ll take on the last climbs of the Camino as we head up on paved roads and along to Monte del Gozo (Mount Joy), so called as the long-awaited sight of Santiago comes into view for the first time. From here it’s downhill all the way to a place declared a World Heritage Site in its entirety by UNESCO, Santiago de Compostela. Our sights will be firmly set on the Plaza de Obradoiro, Santiago’s impressive cathedral square, which houses its greatest treasures. It’s a special moment, signifying the end of a truly memorable ride!

Day 8
Departure: Santiago de Compostela
Non Riding Day
  • Meals: Breakfast

After a relaxing breakfast it’s time to pack those bags one last time, as we’ll be transferring you to Santiago de Compostela airport for your flight home (just a short 30 minute transfer).

Santiago de Compostela is a beautiful city to explore at your own pace and it is well recommended if you wish to stay for longer. The cathedral never fails to impress and delight, especially the impressive incense bearing Botafumerio as it swings from the rafters. Other sights of particular interest include Convento de San Paio de Antelares, which houses the Museo de Arte Sacro, the Praza de la Azabacheria and Museo do Pobo Galego. The Hospital Real (now a luxury hotel) is worth a visit, even if it’s for a quick drink in the bar. Or why not take a few moments to relax and reflect on the trip and watch the world drift by in a plaza – a fantastic place to end the trip, relax and unwind.

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The Cycling

Terrain

The route takes you on a vast array of ever-changing terrain from forest singletrack to rocky mountain trails, ancient drovers’ roads and 4×4 tracks, as well as asphalted back lanes.

Travelling through mountainous areas will demand a good level of fitness and solid bike-handling skills to get the most enjoyment out of the tour (even on the e-bike departure). We’d expect all riders on this tour to have mountain biking experience, and be confident taking on the technical terrain and challenging nature of a grade 4 holiday.

There is the option to use an e-MTB on this holiday, as well as e-bike only departures. Please note if opting for an e-MTB on a standard departure, the pace of riding will be set by the riders on MTBs. If you are interested in riding an e-MTB on this holiday please click here for more information.

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Mountain Biking Grade

1
2
3
4
5
Grade 3 - 4: Moderate/ Challenging

25-50 miles / 40-80 kms per day

Aspects of both our grade 3 and 4 holidays

For mountain bikers with some experience of singletrack and steeper terrain

May include rocky features and switchbacks

Our grading guidelines have been carefully created based on our many years of cycling experience, as well as customer feedback from our trips. Of course, if you're still struggling to figure out where you fit on the scale, do feel free to give us a quick call and we'll be more than happy to help!

For more information about our grading system click here.

Is this suitable for you?

Holidays that are graded as a 3-4, will have aspects of both our grade 3 and 4 holidays. If you have experience of off road riding on a variety of terrain, and would like a taste of more challenging terrain, a grade 3-4 trip could be for you. Terrain will include singletrack and steep sections (both up and down) which require more bike handling ability. Shorter technical and demanding features such as rocks, roots and tricky climbs will be encountered on occasion on most days. A day’s ride can see you on the trails for around 8 hours (with breaks) and covering between 25-50 miles depending on the terrain. If you’re generally fit and manage to ride frequently this could be the level for you.

For more information about the grading of this holiday in particular, please check out the terrain section which will give you some specifics of what to expect on this tour.

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Dates & Prices

Secure Your Holiday With A Deposit

Book now with a £400 deposit and nothing more to pay until 60 days before departure. Choose a date to start your booking and see all prices, including bike hire and single room supplements.

Select a date to view prices and book
Start Date
End Date
Duration
Price p.p.
Start Date
* 18/05/2025 E-Bike Departure
Return Date
25/05/2025
Duration
8 days
Price
£2,395.00
Start Date
14/09/2025
Return Date
21/09/2025
Duration
8 days
Price
£2,395.00
*

Late Availability

We want you to know which holidays are coming up soon, so you don’t miss out! If a trip has this symbol beside it, it means you don’t have long to snap up your place.

Whats Included Tick

A) Accommodation (shared twin / double en suite rooms) in hotels or shared hostels

B) Meals as per the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)

C) Full tour service, including Skedaddle guides

D) Unless stated, at least one leader qualified in first aid

E) Support vehicle and luggage transfers

F) GPX files available on request

G) Group airport transfer on scheduled arrival day from Asturias Airport (OVD)

H) Group airport transfer on scheduled departure day to Santiago de Compostela airport (SCQ)

I) Financial Protection through ABTOT

What's not Included Cross

A) Bike rental (available if required)

B) Flights and charges for travelling with your bike (if applicable)

C) Meals not stated in the itinerary

D) Single room (available if required)

E) Travel insurance

F) Personal clothing and equipment

G) Personal expenditure (souvenirs, bar bills, hotel facilities etc)

H) Airport transfers on days other than the scheduled arrival / departure days

I) Tips for guides, drivers, support staff

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Private Departures

Private Departures

Are you keen to only travel with your family or friends? Struggling to find the right date? Well, we can organise a private departure for this tour and tailor aspects to suit your group's specific needs. Contact our friendly team and we'll help you turn your dream into reality.

The Essentials

Travel Options

Your tour starts in Oviedo and finishes in Santiago.

Group airport transfers are included in the cost of your holiday and both the arrival and return transfers from Asturias Airport (OVD) and to Santiago de Compostela airport (SCQ) will be co-ordinated with the group flight schedule.

It is possible to arrive into Santiago de Compostela airport (SCQ) and schedule a private transfer. Please contact us for a quote.

We will provide you with details of suitable flight/arrival/departure schedules as flight timetables become available.

Please check with us before making any travel arrangements to ensure we have reached the minimum number required to guarantee your holiday and to make sure your arrangements fit with our scheduled transfers.

Please note If you make travel arrangements that fall outside of the scheduled transfer windows, there may be an additional charge for individual transfers.

Accommodation

Accommodation typically includes shared twin or double en-suite rooms in carefully selected hotels or guesthouses, chosen for their quality, character and authenticity. Single occupancy rooms can be provided for a supplement and are subject to availability at the time of booking.

Bike Hire

If you don’t own a suitable bike or would prefer to avoid bringing your own, we have bikes available to rent.

Rental bikes are typically Giant Trance full suspension Trail bikes. These are set up tubeless with disc brakes, dropper seatposts and quality components.

Our e-mountain bikes are typically MMR X-Bolt 140 full suspension mountain bikes.

If booking onto one of our e-bike departures, only e-MTBs will be available.

Our bikes come equipped with at least one bottle cages and water bottle, a seat post bag containing: puncture repair kit, multitool, inner tube (unless the bike is a tubeless e-bike) and pump.

If you do decide to rent and would like us to provide a helmet, please let us know at the time of booking, otherwise you should bring your own helmet with you.

Please also let us know if you plan on bringing your own clip-in pedals, or if you will use the flat pedals which our rental bikes come fitted with.

If you are travelling overseas, hire bikes might have a different brake set-up to what you are used to. In Europe, typically the rear brake is operated by your right hand and the front brake will be operated by your left hand.

This may take a short while to get used to. We recommend that you use brakes appropriate to the conditions. Using both brakes at the same time can help reduce loss of control (and it’s recommended to brake gently until you are used to how the brakes work).

If you choose to bring your own e-bike, please contact us so we can discuss the bike specification and ensure it is suitable for the tour.

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News, Reviews & Stories

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Reviews

3