Logrono to Najera : Step By Step Guide To Stage 8 Of The Camino Frances

Walking The Camino Frances From Logrono To Najera

Stage 8 of the Camino Frances covers 28.7 kilometres, weaving it’s way through the beautiful landscapes of Rioja wine country. The route changes from the urban walk through Logrono, into suburbs, urban parks and green spaces that open up to vineyards and wide horizons.

Today is a lovely walk that sees us really wandering into wine country but also an area rich in medieval history.  Whilst the stage doesn’t have the elevation challenges of earlier stages, it is considered moderate due to the distance.  However, the relatively flat terrain keeps it manageable for most. And, if you prefer a slower route to Santiago de Compostela, there are a few options to shorten the stage.

Logrono

I always find it tricky walking in and out of cities; it’s easy to lose arrows with all the distractions. These days, I head for Calle Portales, the long, straight road leading away from the Concatedral de Santa María de la Redonda. It’s lined with shops, and you can pause for a coffee at Café Caleda.

You’ll rejoin the arrows at the roundabout, Plaza Alfredo Provisional. There’s a tourist information office just before the roundabout, and a coffee shop on the corner that’s often open in the morning.

From here, the arrows are easier to follow, with markings on the pavement guiding you out of the city.  You’ll quickly find yourself walking through urban parks before reaching the very lovely Parque La Grajera at the city’s edge. As exits go, this one is pretty good.

Grajera is a pleasant green space, popular with joggers, cyclists, and walkers. There is a large café in the park, but it was closed during my last visit and looked like it had been for some time. But it’s always worth checking, you never know!

Top Tip : There are toilets here but remember to bring your own toilet tissue.

The path skirts around Embalse Grajera, a small reservoir, before heading uphill and out of the park. The views beside and behind are pretty wonderful so don’t forget to look up! From here, the trail follows the N-120 for a short stretch before heading off to Navarrete.

Navarrete (12.5 km)

Just 12.5 kilometres from Logrono, the village of Navarrete welcomes pilgrims with a climb; first up a set of stairs and then another hill. Known for its wine and vineyards, Navarrete also boasts a fascinating medieval cemetery and the magnificent Church of the Assumption, a Gothic structure featuring an ornate baroque altarpiece.

Before reaching Navarrete, keep an eye out for the ruins of the old pilgrim hospital of San Juan de Acre, just off the trail. Built in the 12th century, this hospital once provided shelter and care for pilgrims on the Camino. Today, you can still see some remnants, including an archway and parts of the foundation.

Most pilgrims take a break here, and I’d recommend at least visiting the church before moving on. Navarrete is also a popular overnight stop. I’ve stayed here, and would happily recommend :

A special mention also goes to the bar below the church, Casa de Comidas Begona y Antonio, also known as Bar Deportivo. The food here is excellent and we’ve loved every visit; though it’s also where I discovered I’m allergic to molluscs after trying squid for the first time!

Leaving Navarrete, the trail winds through vineyards. While it rises gently, the gradient is barely noticeable. The path is well-marked, easy to follow, and offers stunning views. It’s a long walk on to Najera without services, unless you take the variant to Ventosa.  There are a few shops in Navarrete so make sure you stock up with a few supplies.

From the vines, the arrows lead you along the A-12 road.  Unlike other stretches beside the road, I don’t mind this little section but you can make a short diversion to Ventose if you prefer.

Top Tip : If the lorries and cars beep beep, then wave back; they’re wishing you a Buen Camino.

Variant To Ventosa (Adds 0.8 Km)

The diversion to Ventosa is clearly marked from the trail alongside the road. If you’re considering an alternative stop for the day, Ventosa offers a welcoming village with a few bars, an albergue, and a small hotel. I’ve not stayed in town but my good friend at Somewhere Slowly often ends the day here and loves her stay.

Top Tip: Don’t be tempted by the Sotés Variant. While it’s marked on the road as you leave Navarrete, it adds unnecessary distance and lacks the pilgrim services of Ventosa.

Recommended places to stay in Ventosa include:

When I last visited, the bar in Ventosa served some fantastic fruit smoothies; if you’re looking to break this long section that might tempt you to add the kilometre.  And after refreshments, as you leave the village, the Camino arrows will guide you back to the main path, leaving approximately 10 kilometres to Najera.

The trail crosses more vineyards and whilst it rises gently, I didn’t notice the gradient.  The path is easy, well marked and the views are fabulous!

As you approach Najera, you’ll first pass through the modern suburbs, with a couple of bars and shops. We usually pause at the first convenient stop for a quick rest before heading into town to find our accommodation. If you’re in need of supplies, this is a good area to stock up here.

Najera (Direct From Navarrete 16.2 Km)

Najera is a town of two halves. As you enter, you’ll find yourself in the more modern part of town, a functional area that gives little away about its illustrious past. However, once you cross the River Najerilla, you’ll step into the old town, with narrow streets and the impressive Monastery of Santa María La Real, built in 1052.

According to legend, King Don García of Navarre had a vision of the Virgin Mary in a cave near Najera. He credited his military success to this vision and, in gratitude, founded the monastery. The Camino itself was modified to pass through Najera, making it an important staging post for pilgrims.

Najera’s history like many towns and villages here, is tied to ancient Rome, but it also has unusual links to English history too.  On one Camino, a local resident shared with us a story about the 14^th Century Battle of Najera (also known as the Battle of Navarrete). As a reward for his victory, Edward the Black Prince of England, received a famous ruby, which later became part of the British Crown Jewels, and is now set in the Imperial State Crown.

The old town of Nájera is compact, and while some ancient monuments may be closed, it’s worth taking time to wander the narrow streets discovering these long forgotten corners; in what on the surface appears a sleepy town.

Where To Stay In Najera

There are accommodation options on both sides of the river in Najera, but I recommend staying in or as close to the old town as possible. You’ll want to spend some time exploring and you’ll miss this if you stay in the suburbs.

I skipped Najera on my first Camino; I had walked from Navarrete and continued on to Azorfa but I have very fond memories of eating lunch by the river at a café full of pilgrims.  By now there were many familiar faces and I felt very much at home with my Camino family.

Since then, I’ve stayed in Najera several times and my top choice for a bed has to be Pension San Lorenzo. They have a couple of small properties, the buildings are close by each other. The rooms are spotless, the owner very helpful and the simple breakfast is a welcome treat before setting off in the morning. They are just a few steps from the Camino and perfectly located in the heart of the old town.

If you prefer an albergue, I can also recommend Albergue Puerta de Najera, where we’ve also stayed. They offer a range of bunk options, with rooms for 2, 4, or more people. Conveniently located just off the bridge as you enter the old town, it’s a good choice for pilgrims seeking bunk beds and more traditional accommodation.

Potential Problems Between Logrono and Najera

This looks like a long list of things that could go wrong but I’m including everything to avoid surprises; today really is a great walk with few problems. My only request maybe would be another coffee stop someone along the route but really it’s a wonderful walk.

Recommended Apps, Books And Websites

When walking any stage of the Camino Frances there are guidebooks and apps that I highly recommend you downloading or purchasing before leaving home; these include :

My Final Thoughts on Camino Frances Between Logrono and Najera

As you leave Logrono behind and step firmly into La Rioja, the horizon definitely begin to change. As you walk you’ll see white paths leading off in all directions and on my first Camino, I wondered which one would be ours.

While there aren’t many places to pause along today’s route, there are a few picnic spots. Make sure you’re prepared with water and snacks, and resist the temptation to rush. This is another wonderful walk, so take your time and enjoy it.

Top Tip: If you’re walking the whole stage then book your bed in advance so you can relax and enjoy the day, knowing you have all the time you need to meander.

You’re definitely in wine country and this stage is a wonderful introduction to La Rioja. There is a point on the trail, after the stretch along the road, where you’ll crest a hill and ahead you’ll see a carpet of vineyards stretching off to the horizon, framed by mountains. For me, it’s one of those Camino moments, so take your time!

This is another great Camino day; the views are different from those from Los Arcos and they’ll change again as you approach Burgos. While it’s a longer stage, it’s very manageable if your feet are in good shape. The scenery is glorious, and a few historical gems along the way.  I know Gerry, prefers shorter days, but I feel this this stage is worth the effort.  And if not, there are always options.

Enjoy the walk, take in the beauty around you, and don’t forget to order some wine with your dinner; it is La Rioja, after all!

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