Camino del Norte

San Sebastián is known for it's beautiful beaches and grand architecture. It is also a great spot for foodies! Before you set off on your Camino adventure head to the Old Town and enjoy pintxos. These delicious bar snacks are the ideal accompaniments to the cites lively atmosphere.

After a short yet steep ascent out of San Sebastián, you will enjoy relaxed countryside walking along dirt roads and well-marked footpaths. Take advantage of the trailside springs offering cool spring water. You will pass through Zarautz, a small shipping village that gained popularity after the Belgian royal family decided to holiday there in the summer.

Getaria is a fishing and whaling village and due to its location attracted many explorers passing through.

Ascent: 643m (2,109ft) / Descent: 584m (1,916ft)

This stage of the Northern Route to Santiago offers further beautiful coastal scenery along the Basque coast. You will start the route in the charming coastal town of Getaria before heading towards Zumaia and Itziar, picturesque fishing villages that showcase the rich authenticity of Basque culture. Along the way, the landscape blends rugged coastline with lush green mountains, creating a stunning natural contrast.

The stage ends in Deba, a historic town known for its beautiful beach and deep-rooted maritime heritage. 

Ascent: 560m (1,837ft) / Descent: 580m (1,902ft)

In a vast contract to yesterdays walk, you will head inland. Leaving the bustling coastal town of Deba, the trail follows the course of the river before crossing a bridge into the surrounding countryside. The path soon climbs, passing through a green, hilly landscape of woods, pastures and small farms. There are wonderful views, such as from the Ermita del Calvario, where you can see as far as the coast. The route continues through quiet valleys such as the idyllic Valle de Olatz, past old chapels, and charming hamlets. The climb to Monte Arno is particularly impressive, with its quiet forest paths offering a sense of seclusion and closeness to nature.

After the highest point, a gentle descent begins into the valley of Markina-Xemein, a small village with a historic atmosphere. The stage ends at the Iglesia de la Asunción de Nuestra Señora in the centre of the village, a fitting end to a varied day's walking.

Ascent: 788m (2,585ft)/ Descent: 714m (2,342ft)

Enjoy a tranquil walk following the meandering creek shadowed by trees, as you leave Markina. Along the way, charming places such as Bolíbar, with its historical link to Simón Bolívar, and the impressive Zenarruza Monastery, invite you to stop for a break. In the villages of Munitibar and Mendata, you can still feel the authenticity of rural Basque life. The route is varied, sometimes gently uphill, sometimes through fragrant woods, always accompanied by a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. 

The town of Gernika is known as the place where Picasso painted one of his most famous works, "Guernica." He painted this political piece in response to the bombing of the town during the Spanish Civil War.

Ascent: 728m (2,388ft)/ Descent: 789m (2,588ft)

The stage from Gernika to Lezama on the Camino del Norte passes through a varied and scenic region of the Basque Country. The route begins in the historic centre of Gernika, known for its importance in Basque history, and follows quiet cobbled streets. Passing the landmark Árbol de Gernika, the route passes through idyllic rural areas that give way to rolling hills and open fields. The path winds past small, picturesque chapels and invites you to stop and rest. A particular highlight is the climb to Alto de Morga, from where you can enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and green countryside.

Along the way, you will come across the tranquil Morga spring and the quiet village of Erkinko Auzoa, before the trail leads to the charming Larrabetzu. Finally, the stage ends in Lezama, another pretty Basque village, which marks the end of a pleasant day's walking.

Ascent: 519m (1,702ft) / Descent: 472m (1,548ft)

After leaving Lezama, the route climbs slightly and climbs over Monte Avril, from where there are magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and Bilbao. The route becomes more urbanised as it approaches Bilbao, but remains quiet and picturesque. It passes through small parks and streets, and idyllic places such as Atxeta Parkea. Finally, you reach the impressive basilica of Nuestra Señora de Begoña, a striking landmark of the city.

The route then descends into the centre of the city, through narrow, lively streets, before arriving at the Catedral de Santiago.

Ascent: 326m (1,069ft) / Descent: 380m (1,246ft)

In contrast to the pervious overnight locations, Bilbao is a bustling city with many amenities and is a great loction to have an extra night. Explore the Guggenheim Museum, wander Caso Viejo and enjoy traditional Basque culture.

There are a couple of routes to choose from today—one along the west side of the Rio Nervion, a more industrial route through the suburbs. Wander through Bilbao's picturesque streets, past bustling markets and iconic bridges such as the Puente de San Antón. The route takes you through urban Bilbao, where architecture blends harmoniously with green oases. You soon leave the city and enter quieter, rural areas with beautiful forests and open fields.

There are always wonderful views of the surrounding hills and the river. In Barakaldo, you walk through small, charming streets and parks before crossing the River Galindo and passing through the industrial town of Sestao. Finally, the route leads to Portugalete, where the imposing basilica of Santa María marks the end of the stage.

Ascent: 519m (1,702ft)/ Descent: 502m (1,647ft)

Starting from the imposing basilica of Santa María, you leave the town behind after a few steps, and walk towards the sea along a quiet former railway line, the Montes de Hierro Greenway. The path passes through small villages with an industrial past, picnic areas, chapels and green groves, always accompanied by the fresh Atlantic air. Soon the view opens up to the vast Playa de La Arena, an ideal place to take a break with your feet in the sand.

The spectacular Paseo de Itsaslur coastal path then takes you high above the sea along steep cliffs, with breathtaking views of the wild Cantabrian Sea. Cross the border tunnel into Cantabria and continue through small villages, along parks and old railway lines. Finally, you reach Castro Urdiales, with its picturesque old town, port and impressive church of Santa María de la Asunción.

Ascent: 441m (1,446ft)/ Descent: 421m (1,381ft)

A varied day ahead today. The trail winds through narrow alleyways and down to the coast, where you will enjoy your first views of the sea. As you pass beaches, viewpoints and charming districts, you will gradually leave the urban hustle and bustle behind and immerse yourself in more rural areas. Small villages such as Allendeagua and Cerdigo await you, offering traditional houses, tranquil pathways and ancient churches.

The Cantabrian coast comes into view repeatedly, and the route runs alongside spectacular cliffs, accompanied by the sound of the waves and the scent of salt and meadows. You will cross pastures with grazing animals, quiet woodlands and idyllic river valleys, which give this stage great landscape variety. In Islares, small chapels and the proximity to the sea provide the perfect opportunity for a short break before continuing towards Rioseco and finally into the gentle Liendo valley.

Ascent: 409m (1,341ft) / Descent: 396m (1,299ft)

From tranquil Liendo, the route leads past old houses and through shady forest paths to the ruins of the chapel of San Julián. A narrow coastal path leads high above the sea for spectacular views and a glimpse of the disused Cargadero de Erillo ore loading crane. In Laredo, the medieval streets and long sandy beach invite you to linger. From the El Puntal headland, take a boat to Santoña - a real highlight of the route. From there the route continues through the town and over a bridge overlooking the marshes of the Nature Reserve. After the wide beach of Berria, the route climbs to Monte Brusco before ending in the seaside resort of Noja.

Ascent: 308m (1,010ft) / Descent: 313 (1,026ft) 

The stage from Noja to Galizano on the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela passes through a picturesque landscape that combines proximity to the coast with rural idyll. Leaving Noja at the start, with its charming parish church of San Pedro Apóstol, the route follows quiet roads surrounded by agricultural fields and simple but idyllic houses. The route passes a football pitch and quiet residential areas before entering a natural area characterised by rolling hills and sweeping views.

You will pass small bridges and old mills as the Camino passes through dense forests and farmland, giving the walker a sense of solitude and peace. Along the way you will come across historic churches, such as the church of San Pedro and San Pablo in Castillo Siete Villas and the church of San Miguel in Meruelo, which are well worth a stop for their historical charm. The stage ends in Galizano, a small but welcoming town, where the Nuestra Señora de la Asunción church offers a peaceful end to the day.

Ascent: 244m (800ft) / Descent: 244m (800ft)

Starting from the tranquil village of Galizano, the route follows small roads and fields until you hear the first sounds of the sea. Walking along narrow paths, you will encounter impressive cliffs, with the deep blue Cantabrian Sea on your right and green meadows on your left. There are spectacular views of secluded coves, wide beaches and rocky lookouts. The section near Playa de Langre and the Mirador de los Tranquilos are particularly beautiful - places to stop and take a deep breath.

A short walk through the shady forest takes you to the beach, where you can walk barefoot in the sand to the sound of the waves. The long beaches of Los Tranquilos and Somo offer a sense of freedom and space. Finally, you will reach the small port of Somo, where a boat trip across the bay to Santander awaits you, an atmospheric end to this stage. The day ends in this lively port city, full of impressions of nature, the sea and quiet moments along the way.

Ascent: 103m (337ft) / Descent: 112m (367ft) 

Enjoy a rest day in Santander.

After a short morning transfer, this stage of the Camino del Norte begins at the idyllic Ermita de la Virgen del Monte in Mogro. The route initially passes through quiet woods and open fields, past small hamlets, scattered farms and old churches that are silent witnesses to times gone by. Views of rolling hills and green valleys open up as the route winds its way through the rural landscape of Cantabria.

You will pass through charming villages such as Cudón and Requejada, where old fountains and churches preserve the traditional character of the region. The route follows small country roads in places, crosses bridges, runs alongside rivers such as the Saja, and alternates between tarmac roads, country lanes and shady tree-lined avenues. The last section approaches the medieval town of Santillana del Mar, with its cobbled streets, stone stately homes, and the impressive Colegiata de Santa Juliana.

Ascent: 259m (849ft) / Descent: 186m (610ft)

This section of the Camino del Norte takes you from the medieval town of Santillana del Mar to the charming coastal town of Comillas. Set off from the impressive collegiate church of Santa Juliana and stroll through cobbled streets before the green Cantabrian countryside opens up around you. Along the way you will pass quiet villages such as Oreña, Cigüenza and Cóbreces, where time seems to stand still.

The route passes through fields, woods and narrow country lanes, accompanied by the smell of fresh earth and the distant sound of the coast. You can enjoy views of the sea, especially near Luaña beach, where the sound of the waves becomes a brief companion. Finally, we arrive in Comillas, a town where architecture, culture and coastal flair come together, with an impressive historic quarter and buildings such as the Puerta de los Pájaros.

Ascent: 482m (1,581ft) / Descent: 540m (1,771ft)

You start in the historic town centre of Comillas, with its old streets and modernist buildings, before entering the open countryside of northern Spain. The route takes you past old mills, open fields and through the green paradise of the Parque Natural de Oyambre, accompanied by the sound of the Atlantic Ocean. There are stunning views of the coast, white beaches such as Playa de Oyambre and Playa de Merón, and the sparkling sea.

Particularly impressive is the crossing of the Puente de la Rabia, an old bridge over a tranquil estuary set in picturesque countryside. The route often runs quietly along small country roads flanked by meadows and scattered houses. Finally, you reach San Vicente de la Barquera, whose old stone bridge and impressive silhouette of castle and church can be seen from afar.

Ascent: 220m (721ft) / Descent: 215m (705ft)

The stage from San Vicente de la Barquera to Bustio on the Camino del Norte begins at the picturesque Puente de la Maza, which opens the door to nature. From the urban area, the route quickly gives way to a peaceful rural landscape of green fields and gentle hills. 

The wooded sections of the route are particularly quiet, allowing you to enjoy nature to the full. Near Serdio and Pesués, the route passes through charming villages where you can feel the traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere of northern Spain. At the end of the route, after crossing the River Deva, you reach Bustio, in Asturias, where the Monumento Haciendo el Camino welcomes pilgrims.

Ascent: 252m (826ft) / Descent: 263m (862ft)

This stage of the Camino del Norte takes you from Bustio to Llanes through a picturesque landscape of green hills, small villages and the nearby Asturian coast. You pass through the charming town of Colombres, with its 'Casas de Indianos', and old churches and chapels that silently speak of times gone by. The views of the Cantabrian coast and the Picos de Europa in the distance are constant.

You will cross historic roads, pass under modern motorways and find peace and nature on simple paths. Small bridges, stone churches and lovingly maintained houses accompany you along the way. Arriving in Llanes, you will find a lively port town with a medieval feel, colourful fishing boats and a charming old quarter.

Ascent: 390m (1,279ft) / Descent: 350m (1,148ft)

This stage of the Camino del Norte is a scenic journey from the charming town of Llanes to the bustling coastal town of Ribadesella. The route offers a balanced mix of coastal vistas, lush green countryside and traditional Asturian villages. As you walk, you will pass through small hamlets featuring historic churches, former monasteries, and classic Asturian architecture. Walkers are treated to frequent views of the Cantabrian Sea, accompanied by the sound of crashing waves and the scent of sea air and wildflowers.

The terrain varies along this stretch and includes narrow country paths, open meadows, wooded areas and some truly picturesque beaches, such as Palombina, San Antolín and Póo. The stage concludes in Ribadesella, a lively town renowned for its historic centre and the promenade alongside the Sella River.

Ascent: 304m (997ft) / Descent: 304m (997ft)

Walking along the historic streets of Ribadesella, where you can enjoy the charm of the town with its old buildings and lively riverside, you will leave the city. Through rolling hills and fields, past idyllic villages such as San Pedro, where time seems to have stood still, the path continues. Along the way there are stunning views of the open sea and the dramatic cliffs that line the coast. Between the villages, the Camino passes through small forests and dreamy paths that offer peace and solitude. Finally, you reach Colunga, a charming village that welcomes pilgrims with its historic church and proximity to the sea.

Ascent: 354m (1,161ft)/ Descent: 330m (1,082ft)

At the start, you will pass by the Iglesia de San Cristóbal (Church of San Cristóbal), before walking through small, charming streets and along rural paths lined with lush meadows and fields. The route often passes through shady woods and over gentle hills, offering wonderful views of the green, mountainous landscape.

The route crosses the A-8 motorway several times, adding to the sense of a link between nature and modernity. Shortly before reaching Villaviciosa, you will pass apple orchards where the scent of apples fills the air, before arriving in this charming town with the impressive church of Santa María de la Oliva, which marks the end of the stage.

Ascent: 340m (1,115ft) / Descent: 330m (1,082ft)

After leaving Villaviciosa behind, the route winds along the banks of the River Linares and through the peaceful streets of Amandi, offering a glimpse into the charming rural life of Asturias. It then continues through picturesque villages such as Peón and Deva, surrounded by tranquil fields and forests. Finally, you will arrive in the lively city of Gijón, where you can stroll along the coast and take in the sea views and city atmosphere.

Particularly charming is the walk along the San Lorenzo beach and through the historic Cerro de Santa Catalina park, which offers breathtaking views of the city and sea. Finally, you will reach Gijón's port, where the stage ends at the monumental 'cider tree', a symbol of the region's culture.

Ascent: 808m (2,650ft) / Descent: 813m (2,667ft)

Enjoy a rest day in Gijon.

The stage from Gijón to Avilés on the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago begins with a pleasant stroll along the picturesque Paseo Marítimo, where the sea is always in sight and a fresh breeze blows. After passing under the railway bridge, the route continues along narrow paths lined with green meadows and charming villages. Of particular note is the detour to Monte Areo, where you can discover the mystical Dolmen de San Pablo, a place full of history and nature.

The route then continues through rolling hills and picturesque hamlets, past small churches and through the idyllic village of Zancornio. The final stretch brings us closer to Avilés, with its charming old town and imposing Town Hall, which marks the end of this varied and scenic stage.

Ascent: 271m (889ft) / Descent: 251m (823ft)

You start in Avilés, a charming town with medieval streets where you will pass historic buildings such as the Valdecarzana Palace and the church of San Antonio de Padua. Near Piedras Blancas you will be immersed in the rural charm of Asturias, with sweeping views of nature. Finally, you reach Cudillero, a picturesque fishing village overlooking the sea, and end the stage in its lively Plaza de la Marina.

Ascent: 562m (1,843ft) / Descent: 560m (1,837ft)

The stage from Cudillero to Santa Marina on the Camino del Norte passes through a picturesque coastal landscape that rewards walkers with breathtaking views of steep cliffs and the wide beaches of Playa del Óleo and Playa de La Corbera. The trail begins by following the road, passing traditional houses and small villages, before entering quieter, greener woodland and shady paths. Along the way you will come across charming chapels and the Soto de Luíña pilgrims' hostel, which is an inviting place to stop and rest.

The path winds through rolling hills and open fields lined with old trees to the dreamy village of Mumayor. As the walker passes through small, unspoilt villages, views of the open countryside and the sea in the distance open up. Finally, you reach Santa Marina, where the path is surrounded by green forests and the town's public park, a peaceful end to a wonderful stage. Here your taxi will pick you up and bring you back to Cudillero. 

Ascent: 689m (2,260ft) / Descent: 572m (1,876ft)

From Santa Marina, walk through the Asturian countryside to the port town of Luarca, founded in the 13th century. Along the way, you will pass villages such as Ballota, Cadavedo and Villademoros, where you can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Cross the River Esva at Canero, before continuing through idyllic countryside, past pastures and farms to Barcia.

The descent to Luarca offers spectacular views of the harbour, the sea, and the famous cemetery overlooking the coast. The stage ends in the charming fishing village, where colourful houses, narrow streets and the sound of the sea welcome pilgrims.

Ascent: 423m (1,387ft) / Descent: 549m (1,801ft)

From the charming fishing village of Luarca, with its white houses and sea views, the route climbs to old manor houses and country lanes with beautiful views. The route is characterised by rural idyll, encounters with cows in the meadows and the scent of eucalyptus in the air.

You will cross old paths, railway lines and village streets, but silence will be your constant companion. Finally, you will reach the lively town of Navia, where you can end the day in the town park or on the riverside promenade.

Ascent: 282m (925ft)/ Descent: 313m (1,026ft)

The stage from Navia to Ribadeo on the Camino del Norte begins with a short transfer in the morning to La Caridad, where the hike starts. From there, the path winds through gentle, rolling hills, passing green fields, dense forests and small Galician villages. Time and again, the view opens up to reveal the nearby coast, where the blue of the Atlantic Ocean blends with the lush green of the landscape. Charming villages such as Tapia de Casariego, with their traditional houses and small squares, invite you to take a break along the way.

The sections alongside secluded beaches and bays, where you can hear the sound of the waves, are particularly appealing. Later, the route crosses the impressive Ponte dos Santos bridge, which provides sweeping views of the Ría del Eo and marks the border between Asturias and Galicia. The stage ends in the lively old town of Ribadeo, with its historic buildings and cosy cafés, providing a wonderful conclusion to a varied day of hiking.

Ascent: 163m (534ft) / Descent: 149m (488ft)

Enjoy a rest day in Ribadeo.

You will begin your varied walking day at the historic Plaza de España. Soon, you will leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind you and immerse yourself in quiet residential neighbourhoods and open landscapes. The route winds through small villages such as Cubelas and Vilela, providing a peaceful experience away from the busier coastal areas.This stage is not particularly demanding physically, but its secluded location makes it a particularly tranquil and reflective experience.

En route, you will encounter classic Galician landscapes of rolling hills, scattered farmhouses and long stretches of tranquil countryside. The stage ends in Vilamartín Grande at the small chapel of the Virgen del Carmen, which is the perfect place to end the day. Here a transfer will pick you up and bring you back to Ribadeo. 

Ascent: 585m (1,919ft) / Descent: 297m (974ft)

A transfer will take you back to Villamartin-Grande before you head even further into the mountains. Initially, you will walk through quiet rural areas, passing fields, rolling hills and scattered farms. The route mostly follows small country roads and easily accessible paths, passing through villages such as Gondán and Lourenzá, where you will encounter glimpses of traditional Galician life.

Lourenzá, in particular, with its monastery and old houses, is the perfect place to take a short break. As you approach Mondoñedo, you will notice a gradual transition to a more urban environment, though the rural charm remains. The crowning glory of this stage is arriving in the square in front of Mondoñedo Cathedral, a quiet and dignified place that exudes history.

Ascent: 472m (1,548ft) / Descent: 673m (2,208ft)

Today's walk takes you from the historic town of Mondoñedo, home to an impressive cathedral, out into the green, gently undulating Galician countryside. After climbing through narrow alleyways and quiet side roads, you arrive in a rural area dotted with small villages nestled amongst meadows, fields and forests. The idyllic Valiñadares valley comes into view repeatedly, and sometimes you can hear the gentle babbling of the river.

En route, you will pass through charming villages such as Lousada, San Xusto and Gontán, where life seems to move at a slower pace. Once you arrive in Abadín, a small town with Galician charm greets you, and you will feel closer to reaching your destination. Here your taxi awaits you and bring you back to Mondoñedo.

Ascent: 573m (1,879ft) / Descent: 198m (649ft)

A morning transfer will bring you back to Abadín where you continue your Camino. You will walk along narrow paths and quiet country roads, passing through forests, meadows, and small hamlets that offer a glimpse into rural life in this region. 

The route is mostly quiet and pleasant with no major climbs, making it ideal for enjoying nature and pausing for a moment. You will also come across old stone bridges, small chapels and lovingly tended front gardens along the way. As you approach Vilalba, the surroundings become increasingly urban until you finally reach the historic centre and the Plaza de Santa María.

Ascent: 175m (574ft) / Descent: 232m (761 ft)

As you walk along quiet paths, you pass traditional houses and green fields, and you may find yourself passing through small forests. The path crosses the country road several times and winds under motorway bridges, yet it never loses its rural tranquility. En route, you pass the small church of San Juan de Alba and finally arrive in the charming village of Baamonde.

After crossing the clear River Parga, the pretty Chapel of San Alberte provides the perfect spot for a short break. The final section winds through shady forest paths to an idyllic rest area in Seixón, from where it is a short distance to Seixón de Abaixo. There, you can catch the transfer to Friol, which provides a relaxing end to a scenically varied and peaceful stage.

Ascent: 310m (1,017ft)/ Descent: 306m (1,003ft)

After a short transfer in the morning from Friol, your walk begins in the small hamlet of Seixón de Abaixo, right next to the rural restaurant O Cruceiro. From here, the trail initially follows a quiet country road before leading you along an idyllic path through meadows and sparse forests towards Miraz. In Miraz, you will see traditional Galician stone houses and experience the peaceful way of life in a village that has welcomed pilgrims for centuries.

The route continues along small roads and country lanes through gently undulating countryside with sweeping views of green valleys. Shortly before reaching your destination, the view opens up to reveal the serene Lagoa de Sobrado, a natural paradise and oasis of tranquillity. The final section leads to the historic village of Sobrado dos Monxes, where the impressive Cistercian monastery of Santa María de Sobrado awaits, providing the perfect conclusion to this stage of the journey.

Ascent: 416m (1,364ft) / Descent: 414m (1,358ft)

Your day starts at the impressive Cistercian monastery in Sobrado. After leaving the town behind, you will soon find yourself immersed in rural tranquillity, walking past small hamlets, dense forests and wide meadows. En route, you pass the village of Boimorto, where you can take a short break.

With every step, you get closer to the busier town of Arzúa, a popular destination for pilgrims on the more famous Camino Francés route. The transition from quiet seclusion to lively pilgrimage is what makes this stage so special. Finally, the Church of Santiago de Arzúa awaits you in the heart of the town.

Ascent: 241m (790ft)  / Descent: 357m (1,171ft)

The journey from Arzúa to Rúa is a scenic and short stretch, blending natural beauty with rustic charm. This peaceful segment of the Camino Francés winds through forests and villages, building anticipation for the final walk to Santiago. Along the way, visit the medieval shrine of Santa Irene, dedicated to a Portuguese martyr, and admire its baroque fountain said to have healing waters. This tranquil walk is a soothing and inspiring part of your pilgrimage.

Ascent: 259m (849ft) / Descent: 390m (1,279ft)

The stage from Rúa to Santiago is the last stage of the Camino Francés, taking pilgrims from the village of Rúa, through wooded landscapes to the “Mount of Joy” of Monte do Gozo, from where the towers of Santiago Cathedral come into view.

First the Camino leads to San Paio and Lavacolla, where it was traditional for pilgrims to wash themselves in the river before reaching Santiago. The final kilometres of your walk take you through the beautiful streets of Santiago before you arrive at the Plaza del Obradoiro, where the majestic cathedral welcomes pilgrims at the end of their spiritual and physical journey.

Ascent: 328m (1,076ft)/ Descent: 359m (1,177ft)

Book an additional night in Santiago to enjoy this wonderful city and spectacular cathedral and also enjoy the Pilgrims mass. Or head back to the airport for your flight home.