Carracedo Del Monasterio: Monastery, Camino and Wine

Carracedo del Monasterio brings together several different reasons to stay: the Monasterio de Santa María de Carracedo, a variant of the Camino de Santiago, ethnographic visits and a wine visit by appointment. If you want to choose where to stay based on culture, the pilgrimage route or wine, you will find a range of topics here that can be planned individually.

The Monastery and Its Visiting Hours

The Monasterio de Santa María de Carracedo was founded in the 10th century by Bermudo II, King of León. Its architecture combines elements of the Transitional Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Neoclassical styles. This variety of styles offers a window into different periods of architecture and makes the monastery a cultural focal point of the town.

Visiting hours vary by season: From October 1 to March 31, the monastery is open continuously from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. From April 1 to September 30, there are two visiting periods, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The monastery is closed on Mondays. In summer, the afternoon closure is part of the day’s schedule; in winter, visiting hours are continuous. Check the schedule before your trip.

Camino Variant and Route to Las Médulas

The Camino de Santiago variant through Carracedo del Monasterio branches off at Camponaraya and rejoins the route at Campo de San Bartolo, at the southeastern entrance to Cacabelos. Along this variant, pilgrims can see vineyards as well as other crops. The route and landscape therefore offer two distinct points of reference when choosing a path.

The Ruta Monasterio–Médulas runs from the Monasterio de Carracedo to Las Médulas. The route is listed as 21.14 kilometers long, with a walking time of 5.5 hours. While this route is described in terms of distance and walking time, the Camino variant is defined by where it branches off and rejoins the route. On the Ruta Monasterio–Médulas, the section up to the area near Castrelín, at the boundary of the municipality of Carracedelo, is signposted with information panels, directional signs and marker posts.

Ethnographic Heritage and Wine

El Varal is divided into four sections: agriculture, bread, slaughter and wine. These topics offer different ways to explore the town’s ethnographic heritage. The Horno de Carracedado del Monasterio is also included in guided visits to the municipality’s ethnographic heritage. Ask the tourist office about availability and times.

Bodega del Abad offers enotourism visits by prior appointment. These include explanations of wine production and a guided wine tasting. The winery is a few meters from the Monasterio de Santa María de Carracedo. Make an appointment in advance if you would like to include a wine visit in your plans.

Discover more destinations: Villadepalos

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