The great forgotten Jacobean pilgrimage – the Aragonese Way

The Aragonese Way is one of the most unknown and forgotten Jacobean routes by pilgrims. As such, it’s a magical route on which you can enjoy beautiful landscapes, medieval heritage and traditional villages in peace and quiet.

The Aragonese Way is an alternative to the Navarre Way, which crosses from France via the Roncesvalles Pass. Instead, this route crosses the Pyrenees at Somport and heads through the Aragonese provinces of Huesca and Zaragoza before entering Navarre and ending at Puente la Reina where it joins the main route of the French Way. The majority of pilgrims coming from France, Italy and England have used this route since the 11th century, but, over time, it’s become one of the less travelled variants of the Camino de Santiago.

Through this Collection, I encourage you to embark on a unique pilgrimage, far from any crowds, that brims with natural beauty and history. Each of the seven stages averages around 25 kilometres (15.5 mi).

You can reach the start of the route, the Somport Pass, by bus. From there, you descend through the spectacular Pyrenees. In Jaca, the route heads west through the Aragón river valley, revealing medieval fortresses, Romanesque jewels and villages where peace and tradition reign. Once in Navarre, you enter the impressive nature reserve of the Foz de Lumbier, one of the most spectacular gorges in northern Spain. Then, paths through fields and forests, lead you to Puente la Reina where you can either continue on your way or hop on a bus home.

Although the route is not very busy, this doesn’t mean that there is a lack of accommodation or services. All stages end in towns with a pilgrims' hostel, where you can stock up on food and drink for the next stretch. Most hostels cannot be booked in advance, so it’s advisable to arrive as early as possible. Some require you to present your pilgrim's credentials in order to stay. Pick yours up at one of the hostels or tourist information centres that you pass on the first stage.

Due to the opening dates of some hostels and also the possibility of snowfall, this itinerary is best between April and October. The weather can be different every year, so I recommend checking the forecasts before you venture out, especially if you hike at the tailends of the season.

I hope you enjoy the beauty and serenity of this pilgrimage and have a good Camino!