Camino del Norte
The Camino del Norte follows the green northern coast of Spain from San Sebastián in the Basque Country, through Cantabria and the Asturias, to Ribadeo in Galicia. From Ribadeo, the Camino heads inland, taking pilgrims through the forests and farmlands of rural Galicia on its way to Santiago de Compostela.
• Self Guided - 5 stages – book all or any stage (minimum 2 persons on some stages)
• Boutique ensuite accommodation, breakfast included. Dinner supplement available
• Grade – moderate to strenuous in parts; a good level of fitness required
• Luggage transfers (1 piece – max. 20kg)
• Transfers as specified
• Complete documentation and Travel Notebook
• Pilgrim’s Passport
• 24-hour emergency telephone assistance
• TOP TIP: We can customise your Camino with arrival/departure transfers, extra nights, picnic lunches and more - additional cost
Day 1
Arrive in beautiful San Sebastian and overnight. San Sebastian is a foodies paradise. Be sure to sample the local pinchos and enjoy a swim at the famed beach Playa de la Concha.
Day 2
San Sebastian to Getaria, 26 km
Follow the Camino route as it leaves San Sebastian and the Bay of Biscay and travels along the coastline through farmland and rolling hills. Pass through charming coastal villages to Getaria with its lovely harbour.
Day 3
Getaria to Deba, 18 km
Your journey today passes through farmland and the harbour town of Zumania. Finish in the delightful seaside village of Deba.
Day 4
Deba to Markina, 23 km
Leave the Cantabrian coastline as you head for the Arnoate mountains. The route climbs quickly into thick vegetation before reaching the chapel of El Calvario. Follow a narrow footpath through a number of villages to reach Markina.
Day 5
Markina to Gernika, 24 km
Set off on quiet country roads before a climb to the medieval Zenrruza Monastery. Keep climbing to the hamlet of Gerrikaitz and then downhill to the historic town of Gernika, made famous by Picasso’s masterpiece.
Day 6
Gernika to Lezama, 21 km
Leave town this morning for an upward climb via the hermitage of Santa Luzia Zallo. Continue on a cobbled path to the village of Morga before descending through woodland to reach Lezama.
Day 7
Lezama to Bilbao, 12 km
Todays path takes you through farmland to the top of Mount Avril. From here enjoy stunning views of Bilbao and the valley below. As you enter the outskirts of Bilbao visit the delightful Basilica of Our Lady of Begona. End today in the Plaza de Unamuno, in the old quarter of Bilbao.
Day 8
Arrangements end after breakfast, or enjoy a rest day before setting off on Stage 2. Explore Bilbao’s old town and quaint taverns, sample the exquisite pintxos and of course, you cannot leave without visiting the Guggenheim Museum.
Day 1
Arrive in Bilboa and overnight.
Day 2
Bilbao to Portugalete, 19 km
Follow the trail from the historic centre of Bilbao, over a suspension bridge and along the banks of the Cadagua River. Cross the famed Devils Bridge and arrive at the Hermitage (religious retreat) of Santa Agueda. Prepare for a steep climb to reach the beautiful town of Barakaldo then continue along a bike path to Portugalete.
Day 3
Portugalete to Castro Urdiales, 27 km
Your path today reconnects you with the beach at Playa de la Area. Continue on under cliffs hugging the coastline. Reach the seaside town of Castro Urdiales with its impressive mix of modern and medieval architecture.
Day 4
Castro Urdiales to Liendo, 29 km
Todays Camino will take you along the Cantabrian Sea, under coastal cliffs, via a castle and lighthouse. Pass through pine forests, fields and small towns to reach the charming town of Liendo, nestled in a small valley.
Day 5
Liendo to Noja, 21 km
An undulating walk to start the day off with superb scenery. From Laredo cross the Ria de Santona by ferry to the town of Santona, known for its anchovies. Continue on the route to Noja.
Day 6
Noja to Galizano, 20 km
Leave behind Trengandin Beach and its unique neo-mountain style mansions and continue to Isle, where you will be rewarded with majestic views. Pass through Amuero and choose one of two routes to Galizano, famous for its stonemasons.
Day 7
Galizano to Santander, 13 km
Continue on to the village of Somo where you can take a ‘Pedrenera’ (traditional boat) across the bay to Santander, an elegant city with plenty of beaches, parks, architecture and delicious food.
Day 8
Arrangements end after breakfast, or enjoy a rest day and explore Santander, then carry on your pilgrimage with Stage 3.
Day 1
Arrive in Santander, the capital city of Cantabria.
Day 2
Santander to Mogro, 23 km
Your Camino today heads inland and passes through the towns of Santa Cruz de Bezana and Mompia. On arriving at Boo de Pielagos cross the river to the small village of Mogro.
Day 3
Mogro to Santillana Del Mar, 21 km
Todays walk is through peaceful farmland and quiet villages. Pass through Suances, a beautiful wee town and well worth spending some time in. Reach the medieval village of Santillana del Mar - popular in Cantabria and home of the famed Altamira Caves.
Day 4
Santillana Del Mar to Comillas, 21 km
Move on along the wild, rugged coastline and pass through many little villages, notably Corbreces with its Cistercian monastery. Enjoy a dip in one of Comillas many beaches, explore its landmarks and don’t miss the El Capricho building designed by Gaudi.
Day 5
Comillas to San Vicentre De La Barquera, 12 km
A varied walk today along the coast to Oyambre National Park, home to many species of birds, molluscs and fish. Pass through pastures, beaches and woodlands before crossing a beautiful bridge that takes you to your overnight accommodation.
Day 6
San Vincente De La Barquera to Bustio, 16 km
Today you bid farewell to Cantabria and enter into the Asturias region. A bridge over the River Deva takes you into Bustio.
Day 7
Bustio to Llanes, 19 km
Pass through Colombres, home to several impressive Casas de Indianos built by local emigrants who made their fortune in America. Continue on along a narrow path that climbs to the Jorcada Pass then descend into Llanes, a lively fishing village nestled between the coast and the Picos de Europa mountain ranges.
Day 8
Llanes to Ribadesella, 28 km
Make your way along the coast via the beaches of Palombina and Barro. At Niembro cross the river and commence a steady climb to the Church of San Pedro de Pria, perched atop a hill overlooking the seven towns in the area. Descend to Ribadesella; a town divided in two by a bridge, with the east side home to the charming medieval old town, and its west side to the beach and the famed Tito Bustillo cave with its ancient cave art.
Day 9
Ribadesella to Colunga, 19 km
Head inland today for a short time then back to the coast and along sandy beaches. Overnight in the bustling market town of Colunga (San Cristobal).
Day 10
Colunga to Villaviciosa, 18 km
Leave the coast today and follow inland paths through Sebrayo to Villaviciosa, the capital of cider! Along the way stop off in Priesca and check out the 10th Century Church of San Salvador, one of the oldest on the Camino de Santiago.
Day 11
Villaviciosa to Gijon, 22 km
Today is challenging as you walk up Alto de la Cruz. You will not be on the coast again until you reach Gijon. At Casquita the Camino offers two routes, those heading for Gijon on the Camino del Notre and those heading towards Oviedo on the Camino Primitivo. Gijon has lots to explore - great beaches, great gastronomy and a plethora of history and heritage including Roman Baths and a Bagpipe Museum – something to please even the pickiest pilgrim.
Day 12
Arrangements end after breakfast, or enjoy a rest day exploring Gijon before continuing
on to Stage 4.
Day 1
Arrive in Gijon
Day 2
Gijon to Aviles, 24 km
Mostly through a green landscape today and into the industrial town of Aviles. Recommended day to take a picnic with you (we can arrange a packed picnic for you – additional cost). Along the way you’ll see Dolmen, megalithic tombs!
Day 3
Aviles to Cudillero, 25 km
Walk through small towns to arrive in the picturesque fishing village of Cudillero. If time permits visit the Renaissance Gardens and grand palaces in El Pito.
Day 4
Cudillero to Ballota, 27 km
Today’s route to Ballota will take you along a mix of roads, old paths, sandy beaches and green countryside.
Day 5
Ballota to Luarca, 24 km
Follow the coastal path as far as Cadavedo, then head inland before making your way back out to the coast and the lovely, traditional fishing town of Luarca. This evening, fresh seafood and a glass (or two) of cider are highly recommended!
Day 6
Luarca to Navia, 19 km
Follow a quiet inland route to the busy, riverside market town of Narvia. Explore the town and its medieval walls, and be sure to sample the tasty local cuisine as you go.
Day 7
Navia to Tapia De Cassariego, 24 km
Today is your last day following the coastline. Reach La Caridad and continue your Camino along the Cantabrian plain until you reach the secluded port of Tapia de Casariego.
Day 8
Tapia de Casariego to Ribadeo, 13 km
Cross into Galicia over the bridge on the River Eo to reach the Galician tourist town of Ribadeo. The nearby natural Cathedral on Cathedrals Beach (10km taxi ride from Ribadeo) is Galicia’s second most visited site after Santiago’s cathedral
Day 9
Arrangements end after breakfast, or enjoy a rest day and continue Stage 5 of the Camino
del Norte – the final stage!
Day 1
Arrive in Ribadeo
Day 2
Ribadeo to Villamartin Grande, 17 km
Leave Ribadeo via its historic centre and into a rural environment. The walk is flat to moderate slopes to begin with but once you reach A Ponte de Arante, it’s a steep climb from 100m to almost 360m to the village of Villmartin Pequeno and on to the Chapel of the Virgen del Carmen in Villamartin Grande. From here you will be provided with a transfer
back to Ribadeo for overnight.
Day 3
Villamartin Grande to Mondonedo, 18 km
This morning transfer back to Villamartin Grande to begin the day’s walk. Start with a descent then you’re on the way up again on the route to Lourenza, famous for its local beans. As you climb you will be rewarded with amazing views of the surrounding countryside. The Camino then flattens out as you descend into Mondonedo with its historic centre, magnificent cathedral and famous Mondonedo cake (which is really a tart and is really delicious).
Day 4
Mondonedo to Abadin, 17 km
Continue on through pretty villages, woods and valleys in an undulating landscape. Once you reach Abadin you will be transferred back to Mondonedo for overnight.
Day 5
Abadin to Vilalba, 22 km
Return to Abadin by car this morning to begin a gentle walk to Vilalba. Meander through forests, farmland and pastures of the Terra Cha (Flat Lands) that lead to the market town of Vilalba. This region is renowned for its production of milk and specialty cheeses.
Day 6
Vilalba to Seixon, 32 km
Todays route takes you through the heart of the Terra Cha region of Galicia. Again, after an initial descent the Camino flattens out. Cross over many rivers, follow forest paths, pass through small farming villages and lush quiet countryside. On arrival in Seixon you will be met and transferred to Reguela for your overnight accommodation.
Day 7
Seixon to Sobrado Dos Monxes, 29 km
Return to Seixon to start today’s relatively flat Camino across rural Galicia to the centre of Sobrado Dos Monx and its impressive 10th century monastery. Transfer back to Reguela for overnight.
Day 8
Sobrado Dos Monxes to Arzua, 26 km
This morning return to where you left off yesterday and begin your walk to Arzua to join up with the most popular Camino, the French Way. Be prepared to meet up with many pilgrims in this market town, famous for its local cheese.
Day 9
Arzua to Rua, 20 km
Heading downhill via shady woods, across streams and through sleepy villages, the countdown is on. Visit the chapel of Santa Irene with its famous statue of Santiago before descending into the pretty town of Rua and the very last night of your pilgrimage!!
Day 10
Rua to Santiago de Compostela 20 km
Ascend and descend into Lavacolla where pilgrims traditionally washed in the river before reaching Santiago. Rows of tall eucalyptus trees line the path to Monte del Gozo where you will catch your first glimpse of the Cathedral of Santiago spires! Descend into this UNESCO World Heritage Site and soak up the architecture and wonderful atmosphere of this cultural and spiritual mecca.
Day 11
Arrangements end after breakfast. We recommend you spend at least one extra night in Santiago de Compestela to allow time to explore and to get your Compostela (Pilgrim Passport) certified. We can also arrange a day trip to Fisterre – the “end of the world”.
• Self Guided - 5 stages – book all or any stage (minimum 2 persons on some stages)
• Boutique ensuite accommodation, breakfast included. Dinner supplement available
• Grade – moderate to strenuous in parts; a good level of fitness required
• Luggage transfers (1 piece – max. 20kg)
• Transfers as specified
• Complete documentation and Travel Notebook
• Pilgrim’s Passport
• 24-hour emergency telephone assistance
• TOP TIP: We can customise your Camino with arrival/departure transfers, extra nights, picnic lunches and more - additional cost
STAGE 1
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 |
Arrive in beautiful San Sebastian and overnight. San Sebastian is a foodies paradise. Be sure to sample the local pinchos and enjoy a swim at the famed beach Playa de la Concha.
Day 2
San Sebastian to Getaria, 26 km
Follow the Camino route as it leaves San Sebastian and the Bay of Biscay and travels along the coastline through farmland and rolling hills. Pass through charming coastal villages to Getaria with its lovely harbour.
Day 3
Getaria to Deba, 18 km
Your journey today passes through farmland and the harbour town of Zumania. Finish in the delightful seaside village of Deba.
Day 4
Deba to Markina, 23 km
Leave the Cantabrian coastline as you head for the Arnoate mountains. The route climbs quickly into thick vegetation before reaching the chapel of El Calvario. Follow a narrow footpath through a number of villages to reach Markina.
Day 5
Markina to Gernika, 24 km
Set off on quiet country roads before a climb to the medieval Zenrruza Monastery. Keep climbing to the hamlet of Gerrikaitz and then downhill to the historic town of Gernika, made famous by Picasso’s masterpiece.
Day 6
Gernika to Lezama, 21 km
Leave town this morning for an upward climb via the hermitage of Santa Luzia Zallo. Continue on a cobbled path to the village of Morga before descending through woodland to reach Lezama.
Day 7
Lezama to Bilbao, 12 km
Todays path takes you through farmland to the top of Mount Avril. From here enjoy stunning views of Bilbao and the valley below. As you enter the outskirts of Bilbao visit the delightful Basilica of Our Lady of Begona. End today in the Plaza de Unamuno, in the old quarter of Bilbao.
Day 8
Arrangements end after breakfast, or enjoy a rest day before setting off on Stage 2. Explore Bilbao’s old town and quaint taverns, sample the exquisite pintxos and of course, you cannot leave without visiting the Guggenheim Museum.
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STAGE 2
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Arrive in Bilboa and overnight.
Day 2
Bilbao to Portugalete, 19 km
Follow the trail from the historic centre of Bilbao, over a suspension bridge and along the banks of the Cadagua River. Cross the famed Devils Bridge and arrive at the Hermitage (religious retreat) of Santa Agueda. Prepare for a steep climb to reach the beautiful town of Barakaldo then continue along a bike path to Portugalete.
Day 3
Portugalete to Castro Urdiales, 27 km
Your path today reconnects you with the beach at Playa de la Area. Continue on under cliffs hugging the coastline. Reach the seaside town of Castro Urdiales with its impressive mix of modern and medieval architecture.
Day 4
Castro Urdiales to Liendo, 29 km
Todays Camino will take you along the Cantabrian Sea, under coastal cliffs, via a castle and lighthouse. Pass through pine forests, fields and small towns to reach the charming town of Liendo, nestled in a small valley.
Day 5
Liendo to Noja, 21 km
An undulating walk to start the day off with superb scenery. From Laredo cross the Ria de Santona by ferry to the town of Santona, known for its anchovies. Continue on the route to Noja.
Day 6
Noja to Galizano, 20 km
Leave behind Trengandin Beach and its unique neo-mountain style mansions and continue to Isle, where you will be rewarded with majestic views. Pass through Amuero and choose one of two routes to Galizano, famous for its stonemasons.
Day 7
Galizano to Santander, 13 km
Continue on to the village of Somo where you can take a ‘Pedrenera’ (traditional boat) across the bay to Santander, an elegant city with plenty of beaches, parks, architecture and delicious food.
Day 8
Arrangements end after breakfast, or enjoy a rest day and explore Santander, then carry on your pilgrimage with Stage 3.
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STAGE 3
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Arrive in Santander, the capital city of Cantabria.
Day 2
Santander to Mogro, 23 km
Your Camino today heads inland and passes through the towns of Santa Cruz de Bezana and Mompia. On arriving at Boo de Pielagos cross the river to the small village of Mogro.
Day 3
Mogro to Santillana Del Mar, 21 km
Todays walk is through peaceful farmland and quiet villages. Pass through Suances, a beautiful wee town and well worth spending some time in. Reach the medieval village of Santillana del Mar - popular in Cantabria and home of the famed Altamira Caves.
Day 4
Santillana Del Mar to Comillas, 21 km
Move on along the wild, rugged coastline and pass through many little villages, notably Corbreces with its Cistercian monastery. Enjoy a dip in one of Comillas many beaches, explore its landmarks and don’t miss the El Capricho building designed by Gaudi.
Day 5
Comillas to San Vicentre De La Barquera, 12 km
A varied walk today along the coast to Oyambre National Park, home to many species of birds, molluscs and fish. Pass through pastures, beaches and woodlands before crossing a beautiful bridge that takes you to your overnight accommodation.
Day 6
San Vincente De La Barquera to Bustio, 16 km
Today you bid farewell to Cantabria and enter into the Asturias region. A bridge over the River Deva takes you into Bustio.
Day 7
Bustio to Llanes, 19 km
Pass through Colombres, home to several impressive Casas de Indianos built by local emigrants who made their fortune in America. Continue on along a narrow path that climbs to the Jorcada Pass then descend into Llanes, a lively fishing village nestled between the coast and the Picos de Europa mountain ranges.
Day 8
Llanes to Ribadesella, 28 km
Make your way along the coast via the beaches of Palombina and Barro. At Niembro cross the river and commence a steady climb to the Church of San Pedro de Pria, perched atop a hill overlooking the seven towns in the area. Descend to Ribadesella; a town divided in two by a bridge, with the east side home to the charming medieval old town, and its west side to the beach and the famed Tito Bustillo cave with its ancient cave art.
Day 9
Ribadesella to Colunga, 19 km
Head inland today for a short time then back to the coast and along sandy beaches. Overnight in the bustling market town of Colunga (San Cristobal).
Day 10
Colunga to Villaviciosa, 18 km
Leave the coast today and follow inland paths through Sebrayo to Villaviciosa, the capital of cider! Along the way stop off in Priesca and check out the 10th Century Church of San Salvador, one of the oldest on the Camino de Santiago.
Day 11
Villaviciosa to Gijon, 22 km
Today is challenging as you walk up Alto de la Cruz. You will not be on the coast again until you reach Gijon. At Casquita the Camino offers two routes, those heading for Gijon on the Camino del Notre and those heading towards Oviedo on the Camino Primitivo. Gijon has lots to explore - great beaches, great gastronomy and a plethora of history and heritage including Roman Baths and a Bagpipe Museum – something to please even the pickiest pilgrim.
Day 12
Arrangements end after breakfast, or enjoy a rest day exploring Gijon before continuing
on to Stage 4.
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STAGE 4
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Arrive in Gijon
Day 2
Gijon to Aviles, 24 km
Mostly through a green landscape today and into the industrial town of Aviles. Recommended day to take a picnic with you (we can arrange a packed picnic for you – additional cost). Along the way you’ll see Dolmen, megalithic tombs!
Day 3
Aviles to Cudillero, 25 km
Walk through small towns to arrive in the picturesque fishing village of Cudillero. If time permits visit the Renaissance Gardens and grand palaces in El Pito.
Day 4
Cudillero to Ballota, 27 km
Today’s route to Ballota will take you along a mix of roads, old paths, sandy beaches and green countryside.
Day 5
Ballota to Luarca, 24 km
Follow the coastal path as far as Cadavedo, then head inland before making your way back out to the coast and the lovely, traditional fishing town of Luarca. This evening, fresh seafood and a glass (or two) of cider are highly recommended!
Day 6
Luarca to Navia, 19 km
Follow a quiet inland route to the busy, riverside market town of Narvia. Explore the town and its medieval walls, and be sure to sample the tasty local cuisine as you go.
Day 7
Navia to Tapia De Cassariego, 24 km
Today is your last day following the coastline. Reach La Caridad and continue your Camino along the Cantabrian plain until you reach the secluded port of Tapia de Casariego.
Day 8
Tapia de Casariego to Ribadeo, 13 km
Cross into Galicia over the bridge on the River Eo to reach the Galician tourist town of Ribadeo. The nearby natural Cathedral on Cathedrals Beach (10km taxi ride from Ribadeo) is Galicia’s second most visited site after Santiago’s cathedral
Day 9
Arrangements end after breakfast, or enjoy a rest day and continue Stage 5 of the Camino
del Norte – the final stage!
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STAGE 5
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Arrive in Ribadeo
Day 2
Ribadeo to Villamartin Grande, 17 km
Leave Ribadeo via its historic centre and into a rural environment. The walk is flat to moderate slopes to begin with but once you reach A Ponte de Arante, it’s a steep climb from 100m to almost 360m to the village of Villmartin Pequeno and on to the Chapel of the Virgen del Carmen in Villamartin Grande. From here you will be provided with a transfer
back to Ribadeo for overnight.
Day 3
Villamartin Grande to Mondonedo, 18 km
This morning transfer back to Villamartin Grande to begin the day’s walk. Start with a descent then you’re on the way up again on the route to Lourenza, famous for its local beans. As you climb you will be rewarded with amazing views of the surrounding countryside. The Camino then flattens out as you descend into Mondonedo with its historic centre, magnificent cathedral and famous Mondonedo cake (which is really a tart and is really delicious).
Day 4
Mondonedo to Abadin, 17 km
Continue on through pretty villages, woods and valleys in an undulating landscape. Once you reach Abadin you will be transferred back to Mondonedo for overnight.
Day 5
Abadin to Vilalba, 22 km
Return to Abadin by car this morning to begin a gentle walk to Vilalba. Meander through forests, farmland and pastures of the Terra Cha (Flat Lands) that lead to the market town of Vilalba. This region is renowned for its production of milk and specialty cheeses.
Day 6
Vilalba to Seixon, 32 km
Todays route takes you through the heart of the Terra Cha region of Galicia. Again, after an initial descent the Camino flattens out. Cross over many rivers, follow forest paths, pass through small farming villages and lush quiet countryside. On arrival in Seixon you will be met and transferred to Reguela for your overnight accommodation.
Day 7
Seixon to Sobrado Dos Monxes, 29 km
Return to Seixon to start today’s relatively flat Camino across rural Galicia to the centre of Sobrado Dos Monx and its impressive 10th century monastery. Transfer back to Reguela for overnight.
Day 8
Sobrado Dos Monxes to Arzua, 26 km
This morning return to where you left off yesterday and begin your walk to Arzua to join up with the most popular Camino, the French Way. Be prepared to meet up with many pilgrims in this market town, famous for its local cheese.
Day 9
Arzua to Rua, 20 km
Heading downhill via shady woods, across streams and through sleepy villages, the countdown is on. Visit the chapel of Santa Irene with its famous statue of Santiago before descending into the pretty town of Rua and the very last night of your pilgrimage!!
Day 10
Rua to Santiago de Compostela 20 km
Ascend and descend into Lavacolla where pilgrims traditionally washed in the river before reaching Santiago. Rows of tall eucalyptus trees line the path to Monte del Gozo where you will catch your first glimpse of the Cathedral of Santiago spires! Descend into this UNESCO World Heritage Site and soak up the architecture and wonderful atmosphere of this cultural and spiritual mecca.
Day 11
Arrangements end after breakfast. We recommend you spend at least one extra night in Santiago de Compestela to allow time to explore and to get your Compostela (Pilgrim Passport) certified. We can also arrange a day trip to Fisterre – the “end of the world”.