Across the street from the monastery is the small but informative History and Archeology Museum of Najera.

Those looking for an adventure can climb up to the abandoned Alcazar ruins or savor the 360° views from the Cruz Malpica. Najera is the starting point to walk the Camino Real. This incredibly scenic path is one of my favorite Camino Frances detours that leads to the special the Yuso and Suso Monasteries.

Najera has a wide range of accommodation options scattered throughout the medieval village.

8 | Santo Domingo de la Calzada | La Rioja

Santo Domingo de la Calzada is a village that is found on the border of the Rioja Alta wine region. This town is deeply connected to the Camino Frances, so a majority of the sights are linked to the Way.

➜ Psst… Feeling called to walk the Camino de Santiago? These are my top tips for first-time pilgrims and my packing list for women.

Santo Domingo de la Calzada history with the Camino dates back to the 11th century. Santo Domingo de la Calzada has a towering cathedral, an old pilgrim hospital, and the legend of the rooster. There are nods to this Camino legend that can be seen throughout the town. It’s also worth noting that the legend of the rooster can also be seen on the Camino Portuguese in the medieval village of Barcelo.

Santo Domingo de la Calzada has two Parador Hotels. One is Parador de Santo Domingo de la Calzada located in the 12th century Pilgrims Hospital and the Parador de Santo Domingo Bernardo de Fresneda which is now housed in the old convent.