Camino del Norte

Day 1: San Sebastian – Getaria

On your first day on the Camino del Norte, depart from San Sebastian, journeying along the Bay of Biscay's coastline. Your path leads through verdant pastures and gentle hills, offering views of the Roman Church of San Martín de Tours and passing through quaint coastal villages like the picturesque Getaria. Here, the birthplace of couturier Balenciaga and a former whaling town invites you to savor local Txakolí wine and enjoy stunning views from San Anton.

Day 2: Getaria – Deba 

From Getaria, your Camino del Norte adventure leads through farmlands to the harbor town of Zumaia. On the path, you can explore the Church of Santa Maria la Real and the birthplace of the famed explorer Juan Sebastian Elcano. Your day concludes in Deba, a stunning beach town with captivating views of the Cantabrian coast and the historic shrine of Santa Maria de Itziar, a key stop on the route.

Day 3: Deba – Markina 

Departing from Deba, your journey takes a turn inland towards the mountains, marking a temporary farewell to the coastline until Bilbao. After crossing a river, the trail ascends through dense vegetation to the Hermitage of El Calvario. Following the narrow GR-121 footpath, you'll pass through various charming hamlets before descending steeply into Markina for a beautiful transition from coastal views to the rugged landscapes of the Arnoate mountains.

Day 4: Markina – Gernika 

Today's journey from Markina starts along a country lane, crossing the river in Bolibar. The route ascends to the historic 15th-century Monastery of Cenarruza. From there, it winds through dense woodland to Gontzegarai and the hamlet of Gerrikaitz. After visiting the Hermitage of Santiago, a steep descent brings you to a creek leading to the town of Gernika (Guernica), immortalized by Picasso and nestled in the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.

Day 5: Gernika – Lezama 

Departing from Gernika, the path takes you past the hermitage of Santa Luzia Zallo, then ascends towards the road PR-173. A cobbled path leads to the village of Morga, from where you begin a sharp descent through charming hamlets like Goikoletxea and Larrabetzu. The route then re-enters woodland, bringing you to your destination for the day: Lezama.

Day 6: Lezama – Bilbao 

Your journey from Lezama to Bilbao begins with a passage through pastoral farmlands to Zamudio, showcasing the Roman Church of San Martin and the Tower of Malpica. A gradual ascent to Mount Avril rewards you with breathtaking views of Bilbao and the surrounding valley. Upon entering Bilbao's suburbs, a visit to the Basilica of Our Lady of Begoña is a must. The day's walk concludes in the Plaza de Unamuno in the old quarter, highlighted by the impressive Guggenheim Museum and the delightful local 'pintxos.'

Day 1: Bilbao – Portugalete

Leaving Bilbao, you'll cross a suspension bridge and follow a serene route along the Cadagua River. The 'Devil's Bridge' is next before reaching the Hermitage of Santa Águeda. A steep climb leads to Barakaldo, followed by a path along the Galindo River towards Portugalete.

Day 2: Portugalete – Castro Urdiales

The journey from Portugalete unveils the rocky coastline leading to La Arena's striking red sand beach. Steep climbs along the coast guide you to Castro Urdiales, where modernity intertwines with medieval history. Notable sights include the bullring and beach, leading to explorations of its diverse architectural tapestry. Don't miss the Gothic church of Santa Maria de la Asunción, with its unique Templar-era iconography.

Day 3: Castro Urdiales – Laredo

Setting out from Castro Urdiales, you'll journey along the Cantabrian Sea's coastal cliffs, where you'll encounter a medieval castle doubling as a lighthouse. As you proceed, notable landmarks like the Chapel of Santa Isabel and the Church of La Magdalena pave the way to Liendo. Here, choose between two routes to Laredo: a valley crossing via Hazas or an ascent to the Chapel of San Julián. Laredo, your destination, is celebrated for its stunning beaches and the vibrant medieval quarter of Puebla Vieja.

Day 4: Laredo – Noja

There are two options for today. The coastal route includes a ferry ride to Santoña, followed by a walk along the scenic coastal path to Noja. Alternatively, the inland route presents a slightly more challenging trek through the towns of Colindres, Escalante, and Barrio de Castillo, where you'll enjoy stunning views of both mountains and coast en route to Noja.

Day 5: Noja – Santander

Continuing from Noja, your journey leads to San Miguel de Meruelo and the picturesque Bareyo, where the Romanesque Church of Santa María awaits. The path from Galizano to Somo offers a choice between a direct route or a scenic coastal walk. From Somo, a traditional 'Pedreñera' boat crosses the bay to Santander, the elegant capital of Cantabria.

Day 1: Santander – Arce

After a restful night in the elegant city of Santander, a perfect place for an extended stay, your Camino journey transitions inland. The path takes you through the towns of Santa Cruz de Bezana, Mompia, and Boo de Piélagos. Following the picturesque estuary at Boo de Piélagos, the day concludes in the small, peaceful village of Arce.

Day 2: Arce – Santillana del Mar

Today's walk showcases the Camino's stunning, hilly northern coastline. As you enter the Miengo region and reach the town of Miengo, the path offers scenic views and charming local life. Your destination, the medieval village of Santillana del Mar, is reached through picturesque meadows and tranquil villages. Renowned as one of the most picturesque towns on the Camino Norte, Santillana del Mar's well-preserved medieval architecture and the Collegiate Church's cloister are not to be missed.

Day 3: Santillana del Mar – Comillas

Departing from Santillana del Mar, your path continues along Cantabria's rugged and wild coastline. The route to Comillas takes you through enchanting villages like Cobreces, known for its Cistercian monastery. In Comillas, a town celebrated for its beautiful beaches and striking architecture, be sure to explore notable landmarks such as the Capricho de Gaudí, the Palace of Sobrellano with its pantheon chapel, and the Pontifical University.

Day 4: Comillas – Unquera

You'll pass through the captivating Oyambre Natural Park, a haven for diverse birds, molluscs, and fish, highlighting its significant marine ecosystem. The path then leads you through verdant fields and woodlands to San Vicente de la Barquera. Continuing amidst green pastures and small estuaries, your day concludes in the welcoming town of Unquera.

Day 5: Unquera – Llanes

Leaving Unquera marks your entrance into Asturias, crossing the river Deva into Bustio and approaching the picturesque town of Colombres, adorned with 'Casas de Indianos' from prosperous locals who returned from America. The Camino then descends the Sierra de la Borbolla, leading to Pendueles via a narrow path that ascends to the Jorcada Pass. The route offers another descent to La Portilla before reaching Llanes.

Day 1: Llanes – Ribadesella

Today's stage from Llanes features a scenic coastal walk past the stunning beaches of Palombina and Barro. After crossing the river Niembro, the path ascends to the Church of San Pedro de Pria, offering spectacular views of the surrounding area. Descending toward the river Guadamía, you'll cross a medieval stone bridge and pass through Sobares en route to Ribadesella. The town is divided by a bridge into a medieval old town and a modern area with a beautiful beach, and the famous Tito Bustillo cave, known for its ancient cave art, is a highlight of the day's journey.

Day 2: Ribadesella – Colunga

Leaving Ribadesella, the Camino veers inland towards San Esteban before returning to the coastline. The route continues uphill to the village of Vega at the base of Monte Redondu. After traversing the beautiful Vega beach and crossing the Regatu del Acebu, the path leads to Berbes and descends to El Arenal de Mons beach. The day's walk includes a passage by a Templar site and the 11th-century Benedictine Monastery of Santiago, concluding in the bustling market town of Colunga (San Cristóbal).

Day 3: Colunga – Villaviciosa

Today includes a shorter walk through a series of small villages. In Priesca, take the opportunity to visit the 10th Century Church of San Salvador, one of the oldest along the Camino de Santiago. The path leads uphill to the Cabanona pass before descending to Villaviciosa. Known as Spain's 'apple capital,' Villaviciosa invites you to taste its renowned cider.

Day 4: Villaviciosa – Gijón

Today's Camino del Norte stage is long and challenging, taking you up the steep ascent of Alto de la Cruz. The trail predominantly winds through lush countryside before reaching the coast at Gijón. At Casquita, you'll encounter signs guiding pilgrims either toward Gijón on the Camino del Norte or toward Oviedo on the Camino Primitivo. Gijón is known for its beautiful beaches, rich gastronomy, Roman baths, and the unique Bagpipe Museum.

Day 1: Gijón – Avilés

Today's route leads you from the bustling city of Gijón to Avilés, featuring a climb up Monte Areo. The trail does pass through some industrial areas and along the highway, but the Monte Areo recreational area provides a pleasant natural respite. Avilés is a town with significant naval history in the Middle Ages.

Day 2: Avilés – El Pito

Today's stretch from Avilés is longer but rewarding, as it brings you through captivating small towns, leading to your stop for the night in El Pito. This town is renowned for its Renaissance gardens and grand palaces, offering a glimpse into the area's rich history.

Day 3: El Pito – Cadavedo

Today mixes road walking with old paths. The route leads through forested hills, picturesque villages, and stunning beaches amidst green countryside. A notable stop is Soto de Luina, where a former pilgrims' hospital now serves as a cultural center. The path continues towards the coastal town of Ballota, with a visit to the medieval whaling port of Cadavedo along the way.

Day 4: Cadavedo – Luarca

Continuing your journey near the coast after Ballota and through Cadavedo, the trail heads inland before revealing the sea again as you near Luarca. Your destination is this charming fishing town, known for its picturesque harbor and fresh seafood. The walk into Luarca involves a steep descent with many steps, crossing the River Negro to reach this delightful town.

Day 5: Luarca – Navia

Leaving the coastal serenity of Luarca, today's trail takes you inland towards the vibrant market town of Navia, nestled along the riverbank. The morning begins with a climb out of Luarca, leading to a more level path through the picturesque countryside. Upon arrival in Navia, take the opportunity to explore its medieval heritage.

Day 6: Navia – Ribadeo

As you embark on your final day along the Cantabrian coast, the journey brings you to the lively town of Ribadeo. Crossing the iconic bridge of the Saints over the River Eo, you enter Galicia. This longer walking day offers a blend of inland paths and coastal views, with an optional route that stays closer to the shore. In Ribadeo, a must-visit is the Cathedrals Beach, Galicia’s second most popular attraction.

Day 1: Ribadeo – Lourenzá

Leaving Ribadeo, today's path takes you inland to Lourenzá, a town celebrated for its local beans. The trail meanders through rural landscapes, gradually becoming more mountainous. You'll wander through small villages and hamlets amid eucalyptus groves.

Day 2: Lourenzá – Mondonedo

Your journey today takes you from Lourenzá into the mountains, leading to the historically significant town of Mondoñedo, once the capital of the Kingdom of Galicia. The ascent offers spectacular views that reward your efforts.

Day 3: Mondonedo – Abadin

Departing from Mondonedo with its notable Sanctuary of Remedios and the impressive Cathedral, your Camino path leads you along a series of gravel tracks, starting with a sharp uphill climb. The route then takes you through the neighboring towns of Gontan and Abadin.

Day 4: Abadin – Vilalba

Today's journey on the Camino del Norte takes you through the serene forests, farmlands, and green pastures of 'Terra Chá' to its capital, Vilalba. This market town, known for its rich journalistic and literary history, especially from the 20th century, invites you to indulge in local delicacies, including renowned cheeses and farm products.

Day 1: Vilalba – Baamonde

Leaving Vilalba, the Camino del Norte guides you through the heart of the Terra Chá region, a quintessential representation of rural Galicia. Your walk is characterized by serene forest paths, quaint farming villages, and the verdant countryside. The journey to Baamonde, passing through places like Sta Leocadia, offers tranquility and a deep connection with nature.

Day 2: Baamonde – Miraz

Before departing Baamonde, take a moment to visit the medieval St. James Church (Igrexa de Santiago), a site imbued with history and tradition. As you continue on the Camino del Norte, today's walk to Miraz is relatively easy, allowing you to enjoy the simplicity and beauty of rural Galicia.

Day 3: Miraz – Sobrado dos Monxes

Today, the path leads to the highest point of the trail at Marcela, where you can pause to savor the expansive views. Your day's destination is Sobrado dos Monxes, renowned for its impressive monastery dating back to the 10th century, with a striking baroque facade. Upon reaching the monastery, you will be picked up and taken back to Miraz for your overnight stay.

Day 4: Sobrado dos Monxes – Arzúa

Returning to Sobrado dos Monxes, you resume on the final stretch of the Camino del Norte. Today's walk takes you to Arzúa, where the Camino del Norte converges with the popular Camino Francés. This bustling market town, brimming with pilgrims, offers a dynamic change of pace. Arzúa is renowned for its delicious local cheese, a delicacy not to be missed. As you journey through easier terrain and cross the River Seco on the Magdalena Bridge, the path takes you through several villages, ideal for a lunch stop, before reaching the province of La Coruña.

Day 5: Arzúa – Rua

Your walk from Arzúa is characterized by a peaceful journey through shaded woods, alongside streams, and into tranquil villages. Along this serene path, make sure to visit the chapel of Santa Irene, notable for its unique statue of Santiago. The remainder of your route to Rúa-O Pino unfolds on quiet country roads, a quaint and less crowded stop before reaching Santiago de Compostela.

Day 6: Rua  – Santiago de Compostela

On this final day of your Camino journey, the trail to Santiago de Compostela is lined with history, from ancient monuments and chapels to storied bridges. You'll reach Lavacolla, where pilgrims traditionally cleansed themselves in the river. The path, bordered by tall eucalyptus trees, leads to Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy), offering the first glimpse of Santiago's cathedral spires. Descending into Santiago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you have the opportunity to explore its rich architecture and vibrant cultural atmosphere. This memorable day culminates in the city, inviting you to celebrate your journey's end and experience the local dining scene.