Camino Francés - Day 17: Boadilla del Camino to Carrión de los Condes
We took it slow today, mindful that one of our group members was struggling with foot pain. The stage from Boadilla del Camino to Carrión de los Condes was mostly flat, but much of the trail ran alongside the road. While the terrain wasn’t scenic, the steady rhythm of walking helped pass the time. With little shade and the sun beating down, the Meseta heat was challenging, and reaching Carrión felt like a huge relief.
As we navigated the town, a friendly local stopped to ask where we were headed. He pointed us to the correct street for our albergue, saving us time and frustration—small acts like this remind you how welcoming the people along the Camino can be.
Albergue Espíritu Santo proved to be a comfortable stop with a large kitchen. We picked up groceries from a nearby store and cooked dinner together—a nice way to unwind and share stories after the long day. The simple routine of preparing a meal, chatting, and cleaning up felt grounding and communal, the perfect end to a hot and tiring walk.
History & Background
Carrión de los Condes is a historic town in Palencia, Castile and León, known for its rich medieval heritage and its significance on the Camino Francés. The town has been a major pilgrimage stop since the Middle Ages, with churches, convents, and albergues offering rest, medical care, and hospitality to walkers.
The Albergue Espíritu Santo, located near the town centre, has long welcomed pilgrims with shared kitchen facilities and dormitory-style accommodations, maintaining the spirit of community and simplicity that has defined the Camino for centuries.
Getting There
This stage covers approximately 25 km along mostly flat paths toward Carrión de los Condes, with some sections running parallel to roadways. Shade is minimal, so an early departure and plenty of water are strongly recommended.
Walking is the traditional and most rewarding way to experience this stretch, allowing pilgrims to fully appreciate the quiet, open Meseta landscape. For those needing an alternative, regional buses and taxis connect Boadilla del Camino to Carrión de los Condes.
Route Overview
Distance: 25.27 km (Albergue en El Camino0415 → Albergue Espíritu Santo)
Total elevation gain: 86 m
Duration: 5 hr 10 min (with breaks 6 hr 46 min)
Difficulty: Hard
For the full day-by-day route breakdown, including distances and duration, see my complete Camino Francés route guide.
Cost Breakdown
Accommodation: Albergue Espíritu Santo (Reserved via WhatsApp) — €10
Food: €22.49
