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The Camino del Norte is an 865 km route throughout Spain. It crosses 4 areas: the Basque Nation, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia. The surroundings on the Camino is implausible; unspoiled sandy seashores, rugged cliffs, emerald meadows, the Atlantic Ocean, stunning historic cities and cities, and luxurious inexperienced forests. This route is a good different to the favored French Camino. Each routes go parallel; del Norte follows the coast and the French Manner goes all the way in which inland.
The Camino del Norte was our third Camino de Santiago that we walked in a single yr after the Camino Portuguese and the Camino Primitivo. In our opinion, del Norte was more durable than the opposite two Camino routes.
Camino del Norte downloadable PDFs
We’ve created free downloadable PDF recordsdata that comprise strolling phases and locations to remain alongside the route. These recordsdata will assist to plan your Camino del Norte pilgrimage*.
You could find extra particulars on the Camino del Norte together with value, lodging choices, transportation, and planning ideas in our publish An in depth information to the Northern Manner of St.James.
Camino del Norte route overview
- Whole distance – 835 km*/518 mi
- Variety of days – 30-34
- Start line – Irún, Basque Nation, Spain
- Ending level – Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
- Common value – 30 Euro per particular person per day
- Lodging – private and non-private albergues, hostels, motels
- Route marking – yellow shells and arrows
- Strolling floor – asphalt, footpath, cobblestones
*following our route. The gap can range relying on route choices.
If you wish to know what to pack for the Camino del Norte verify our detailed Camino packing information the place yow will discover the entire checklist of things for various seasons for women and men.
Journey insurance coverage for the Camino del Norte
You may learn extra info on journey insurance coverage for the Camino del Norte in our devoted publish on Camino journey insurance coverage or get an instantaneous quote proper now.
World Nomads journey insurance coverage has been designed by vacationers for vacationers, with protection for greater than 150 actions in addition to emergency medical, misplaced baggage, journey cancellation and extra.
Irún, the start of the Camino del Norte
Irún is a small city within the north of Spain on the border with France. You probably have time you may keep right here for a few days and do a day journey to Biarritz, a fantastic coastal metropolis in France which is simply 30 km away.
Locations to remain in Irún
Camino del Norte – our detailed one-month itinerary
Day 1. Irún – San Sebastián, 27km/17 miles
Irún – Pasaia- San Sebastián
The beginning of the Camino del Norte is sort of difficult; two lengthy ascends and descends on the way in which to San Sebastián. The surroundings on the primary day is wonderful – one of the stunning strolling days on the route. More often than not the Camino goes by means of the mountains and forests. There shall be just one city Pasaia on the way in which, within the center between Irún and San Sebastián. There shall be a few water fountains on the way in which to refill water. In Pasaia you cross the river on a small boat, it takes 1 minute.
Highlights
You probably have an additional day I’d recommend staying for a few days in San Sebastián. It’s a terrific place and doubtless probably the most stunning metropolis on the Camino del Norte. There are lots of issues to do right here.
- Lovely surroundings; inexperienced hills, cliffs, seashores, forest, cities
- Pasaia – a comfortable small city, a pleasant place to cease for lunch or espresso (although bars on the way in which had been fairly expensive)
- San Sebastian – most likely the gorgeous metropolis on the Camino del Norte; sandy seashores, Oldtown, good vibe, many pincho (pintxo) bars, and cafes.
Challenges
- Steep uphill that begins 3km after Irún, 250m altitude acquire with a subsequent descent to Pasaia
- Steep ascend from Pasaia, 200m altitude acquire with subsequent descent to San Sebastian.
Locations to remain in San Sebastián
Day 2. San Sebastián – Getaria, 26km/16 miles
San Sebastián – Orio – Zarautz – Getaria
The primary a part of the stroll between San Sebastian and Orio is thru the forest and fields, there are two locations to refill water. In the event you stroll in summer season be sure to start out early a lot of the method you’re uncovered to the solar. You may keep in Zarautz as an alternative of strolling to Getaria. The stroll from Zarautz to Getaria may be very good and straightforward alongside the ocean with some nice views over each cities. It was one in all our favourite strolling days on the Camino del Norte.
Highlights
- Lovely sea surroundings on the way in which from San Sebastian
- Seafront in Zarautz
- Outdated City and the seaside of Getaria
Challenges
- Steep uphill proper after San Sebastian,
- Many up and downs all the way in which until Zarautz
Getaria is a pleasant little city on the ocean with a small however stunning historic middle, cathedral, and plenty of eating places and bars the place you may cease for a drink with a pincho.
Locations to remain in Getaria
Day 3. Getaria – Deba, 19km/12 miles
Getaria – Zumaia – Itziar – Deba
First 5km after Guetaria there are no locations to cease for meals – be sure to have sufficient water and eat breakfast in Getaria or take some snacks. After 5km you arrive in Zumaia – one other city by the ocean. After that, at 9km there shall be a restaurant. The primary half of the way in which ascents and descents, strolling by means of the fields and open areas, the second half a bit of little bit of strolling alongside the highway (not very busy although) and thru the forest.
Highlights
- Lovely mountain and sea surroundings on the way in which
- Outdated City of Zumaia
- Sanctuary de Santa María de Itziar
Challenges
- Up and down hills, the entire day you mainly ascend or descend, little or no strolling on the flat.
Deba is a biggish city on the river with many eating places and bars, a pleasant sq. and a few stunning church buildings.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – no
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Deba
Day 4. Deba – Markina-Xemein, 25km/15,5 miles
Deba – Ermita de Calvario de Maia – Olatz – Markina
In Deba, you stroll 1km further with a purpose to get to the opposite facet of the river as a result of the Outdated bridge is at present closed for reconstruction. There’s a bus that takes folks to the opposite facet, you may ask on the albergue the way it works, we determined to stroll. There aren’t any cities or villages between Deba and Markina besides three eating places on the way in which.
An alternative choice is to stroll 7 km from Markina to the Monasterio de Zenarruza and keep there. We simply stopped on the monastery on the way in which. I’d say it’s one of many not-to-miss experiences on the Camino del Norte. Lodging and a meal listed here are for a donation. The monastery is situated 20 min. stroll from the closest city Bolibar in a really stunning spot.
Highlights
- Lovely mountain surroundings all the way in which from Deba to Markina
- Torre Barroeta
- Ermita de San Joaquín y Santa Ana
- Ermita (small church) San Miguel de Arretxinaga
Challenges
- Steep ascend from Deba to Ermita del Calvario, 200m altitude acquire
- Steep ascend from Olatz (Taberna Zelaieta, 250m altitude acquire
- An extended and steep descent simply earlier than Markita with some very muddy components, 350m down.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure, Albergue Convento del Carmen
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Markina-Xemein
Day 5. Markina-Xemein – Guernica, 25km/15,5 miles
Markina – Iruzubieta – Bolibar – Monastery de Zenarruza – Munitibar – Berriondo – Guernica
One other day of climbing up and happening with a little bit of strolling on the highway with little site visitors. A pleasant strolling day with stunning surroundings. There have been a few eating places to cease at for espresso or lunch on the way in which and fairly a number of water fountains.
Highlights
- Monastery of Zenarruza
- Ermita de San Pedro and San Cristóbal
- Torre (tower) de Montalban, Berriondo
- Church de la Ascención, Ajangiz (Guernica)
Challenges
- A number of ascents and descents on the route.
- Steep ascend from Markina to the monastery of Zenarruza, 250m altitude acquire.
- A muddy path on the way in which to Berriondo.
Guernica (Gernika) is an enormous city with a pleasant historic middle although not very huge. It turned worldwide well-known after a 3-hour bombing by Nazi aviation on a quiet Sunday in 1937. The city from Picasso’s portray Guernica that yow will discover within the Reina Sofia Museum in Madrid, its copy is hanging on the Headquarters of the United Nations in New York.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Guernica
Day 6. Guernica – Bilbao, 33km/20,5 miles
Guernica – Larrabetzu – Lezama – Zamudio – Bilbao
It is a lengthy and difficult stage on the Camino del Norte. In the event you really feel sturdy you may stroll it in a single go. We’d recommend splitting it into two phases particularly in case you stroll in summer season. Within the second half of the route from Larrabetzu, you stroll alongside the highway, uncovered to the solar. You may stroll 21km to Lezama and the subsequent day 13km to Bilbao, this fashion you’ll have extra time to do sightseeing within the metropolis.
Highlights
- Ermita de San Esteban de Gerekiz
- Lovely forest stroll from Guernica to Goiko Elexalde
- Monte Aro and exquisite views from the highest
- The historic middle of Bilbao
Challenges
- No locations to cease for meals through the first 17km
- Steep uphill from Guernika, 220m altitude acquire
- Some very muddy components at about 13km mark
- Strolling alongside the highway from Goiko Elexalde to Zamudio, for about 10km, with no shadow
- Very steep ascend to Monte Aro with a subsequent steep descent to Bilbao, 320m up and down.
Bilbao is an enormous metropolis with a pleasant historic half, many motels, hostels, eating places, supermarkets, ATMs, and many others. You probably have time and really feel like staying for 2 days in a single place, Bilbao is a good metropolis to do it.
Locations to remain in Bilbao
Day 7. Bilbao – Pobeña, 26km/16 miles
Bilbao – Getxo (river)/Cruces – Retuerto – Sestao (mountains) – Portugalete – La Area – Pobeña
There are two methods of strolling out of Bilbao; we adopted the river all the way in which to Getxo the place we crossed to Portugalete utilizing the Vizcaya bridge (a transporter bridge) – fairly a novel expertise. You may stroll the Unique method over the hills however it’s longer and it doesn’t undergo the fashionable a part of Bilbao e.g. Guggenheim museum and many others., plus it has some steep up and downhill.
The start of the stroll was good; alongside the river, previous the fashionable a part of town. The second half was by means of the economic suburbs of Bilbao. To get to the other facet you’ll should cross the bridge. The crossing takes 2 minutes.
Some folks skip this half and take a bus from Bilbao to Portugalete as a result of they don’t wish to stroll by means of the economic areas of town.
2km after Portugalete there’s one other break up. We adopted the official (historic) route that goes on the biking/strolling route virtually all the way in which to La Playa. The choice route is extra urbanized and passes by means of some populated areas and roads.
Highlights
- The fashionable space of Bilbao; Guggenheim museum, Paseo de la Memoria, Parque da Ribera and many others.
- The Bizcaya bridge – a bridge between Getxo and Portugalete, in case you observe the river route you’ll have to make use of the bridge to cross it.
- La Area – a pleasant seaside city with good waves for browsing
Challenges
- Strolling on the paved floor made our toes fairly drained
- For about 8km after the fashionable a part of Bilbao to Getxo, you stroll by means of the economic space, fairly boring surroundings.
- Very gradual ascend from Portugalete to Gallarta, 100m altitude acquire
- A descent to La Area, 100m down
Pobeña isn’t a city, there are a few homes and two bars, no outlets if you wish to purchase one thing, do it in La Area – a city 1km earlier than.
- ATM – sure, in La Area
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – no
- Resort – sure, in La Area
- Store – sure, in La Area
- Grocery store – no
- Pharmacy – no
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Pobeña
Day 8. Pobeña – Castro Urdiales (Cantabria), 23km/14 miles
Pobeña – Ontón – Baltezana – Santullán – Castro Urdiales
The Camino del Norte goes alongside the coast in case you begin early morning you may get pleasure from a fantastic dawn – the perfect surroundings of the day. After strolling for about 4km you’ll depart the Basque Nation and enter Cantabria the place every part is a bit of bit cheaper.
At Ontón the route splits; one goes alongside the coast (the choice route) and one other goes inland (the unique method). Each routes are marked. The Coastal route is about 5km shorter than the official route. You do see extra coast however it entails fairly a little bit of strolling on the highway. In the event you’re planning to remain in Castro Urdiales reasonably take the longer route in any other case you’ll arrive within the metropolis too early and must watch for a few hours for albergues to open.
In the event you’re planning to maintain strolling we’d recommend shopping for meals in Castro Urdiales there shall be no different outlets on the way in which.
Highlights
- Paseo Itsaslur – the primary a part of the route from Pobeña alongside the coast with a fantastic dawn
- El Pico La Cruz (mountain peak) could be seen from Sámano
- The historic half and seashores in Castro Urdiales
Challenges
- In the event you take the coastal route (shorter one) you stroll alongside the highway with steep uphill by means of not a busy one
- In the event you take the unique route – a steep ascend from Ontón to La Helguera, 240m up
- Gradual downhill to Castro Urdiales, 230m down
Castro Urdiales is a stunning city with a pleasant promenade, a fantastic citadel, a number of church buildings, many bars, and eating places.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Castro Uridales
Day 9. Castro Urdiales – Laredo, 30km/18,6 miles
Castro Urdiales – Islares – El Pontarrón – El Puente – Liendo – Laredo
The primary half of the day you stroll by means of the countryside principally flat with insignificant ups and downs until El Pontarrón. At El Pontarrón you once more have two choices to take a shortcut and go on the highway to Liendo or to observe the official route over the mountains. Individuals say the official method is for much longer, about 6km than the shortcut, we walked it and it was solely 3km longer although the ascent is sort of steep and lengthy. The surroundings was stunning and peaceable. We’re not huge followers of highway strolling each time we’ve an opportunity we skip it.
Highlights
- Spectacular sea surroundings at Cerdigo, midway between Castro Urdiales and Islares
- The gorgeous mountain surroundings on the official route between El Pontarrón and Liendo
- Beautiful sea views on the way in which between Liendo and Laredo
- Seashore and the Outdated City of Laredo with many eating places and bars
Challenges
- Strolling on the highway for about 4km from Islares to El Pontarrón
- The very steep uphill stroll from El Pontarrón to Liendo with a subsequent descent to Liendo, 200m up and down (in case you stroll the official route)
- Strolling on the highway for about 7km from El Pontarrón to Liendo (in case you take the shortcut)
- The fairly steep uphill stroll from Liendo to Laredo
Laredo is a pleasant city with a protracted seaside (good for swimming in summer season), a few stunning church buildings, many bars, and eating places.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Laredo
Day 10. Laredo – Güemes, 30km/18,6 miles
Coastal route; Laredo – Santoña – Noja – Güemes
Inland route; Laredo – Colindres – Gama – San Miguel de Meruelo – Güemes
From Laredo, you may select to observe the coastal route by means of Santoña or to go inland by means of Colindres. We’re huge sea lovers and it was a really good sunny day we selected the coastal method and had been fairly glad about it. On the way in which, you get to see a few stunning seashores. In Laredo, you may stroll on the seaside for 2km to the ferry having fun with the dawn on the way in which. To be able to get from Laredo to Santoña, it’s a must to take a small ferry; the primary ferry leaves at 9 am after that it goes on a regular basis. The crossing takes about 2min.
Highlights
- Seashore stroll in Laredo to the ferry
- Good coastal surroundings on the way in which; Playa de Berria, playa de Trengandin, cliffs, hills and many others.
- The historic middle of Noja; Plaza de la Villa, the church of San Pedro.
- Albergue La Cabaña del Abuelo Peuto, Güemes
Challenges
- Lengthy day with fairly a little bit of highway strolling, and few locations to cease in between. In the event you stroll in summer season be sure to refill your water at each ingesting fountain (there are a pair on the way in which)
- Very steep uphill after Santoña, 83m up
- Many up and down hills all the way in which
Güemes is a tiny village with a few bars and motels.
- ATM – no
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure, donation
- Resort – sure
- Store – no
- Grocery store – no
- Pharmacy – no
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Güemes
Day 11. Güemes – Santa Cruz de Bezana, 25km/15,5 miles
Galizano – Somo – Santander – Santa Cruz de Bezana
From Güemes you’ve two choices; 15km and 13km routes. The longest route is probably the most stunning, I may say it gives a few of the greatest views on the Camino del Norte. The route goes alongside the coast previous some hidden seashores, dramatic cliffs, and unreal surroundings – we’d positively advocate selecting it. The final bit from Laredo to Somo you stroll on the seaside if it’s a pleasant day you may cease right here for a swim or simply to benefit from the surroundings. Even in summer season, there will not be many individuals on this seaside. We had been very unfortunate that day it was very windy and wet we couldn’t actually benefit from the stroll or see a lot.
The 13km choice is an inland route, it doesn’t observe the coast, and the second half is on the highway. Each routes are marked, and each go to the ferry in Somo that you simply take to get to Santander.
Highlights
- Beautiful sea surroundings on the way in which from Güemes to Somo
- Playa de Loredo – a fantastic seaside the place you may cease for a swim
- Santander is one in all our favourite cities on the Camino del Norte.
Challenges
- Strolling out of Santander; the marking isn’t excellent, observe yellow arrows or purple crosses (mark Camino Lebaniego).
- The final half from Santander to Bezana isn’t very picturesque previous some residential and industrial areas of town.
You probably have time you may get pleasure from reasonably a brief strolling day and cease in Santander. It’s a really good metropolis with some stunning seashores, nice eating places and bars and plenty of fascinating locations issues to see.
Locations to remain in Santander
In the event you determine to proceed, be sure to not miss the arrows the marking from the ferry terminal is a bit complicated. You will get a map with a route and explanations on the info workplace, 30m from the ferry.
Santa Cruz de Bezana is a small city with not a lot to see or do.
- ATM – no
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure, (briefly closed)
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – no
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain close to Santa Cruz de Bezana
Day 12. Santa Cruz de Bezana – Santillana del Mar, 28km/17 miles
Arce/Oruña – Mar – Requejada (Polanco) – Barreda – Santialland del Mar
The primary half of the day wasn’t that nice; lots of strolling alongside the highway, previous some industrial areas, with few locations to cease on the way in which – not too spectacular. Within the second half, at about 2km from Polanco, the great countryside surroundings begins; small cities, villages, and chapels.
Highlights
- Good countryside surroundings between Polanco and Santillana del Mar
- Santillana del Mar – an enthralling city with many fascinating sights in and round.
Challenges
- Strolling alongside the highway and thru industrial areas until Polanco.
Santillana del Mar is likely one of the prettiest cities on the Camino del Norte. I extremely advocate staying right here. Spend a while wandering across the city, have a few drinks with scrumptious seafood pinchos, and go to the Collegiata church.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure (briefly closed)
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Santillana del Mar
Day 13. Santillana del Mar – Comillas, 22km/13,6 miles
El Arroyo – Oreña – Caborredondo – Cóbreces – La Iglesia – Comillas
A simple and nice strolling day by means of the forest, fields, small cities and villages.
Highlights
- Church of San Martín de Cigüenza, Caborredondo
- Convento de las Carmelitas Descalzas, Pando
- Lovely sea surroundings on the entrance to Comillas
- Comillas – a fantastic city with some unimaginable sights, seashores, a pleasant sq., many bars, and bakeries.
Challenges
- Just a little little bit of up and downhill strolling however nothing steep or lengthy
Comillas
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Comillas
Day 14. Comillas – Colombres (Asturias), 29km/18 miles
San Vicente de la Barquera – Serdío – Unquera – Colombres
Fairly a protracted strolling day with a number of hills to beat and few locations to cease for meals in between. On the finish of the day, at Unquera, you’ll depart the province of Cantabria and enter Asturias. Asturias is a bit cheaper in a way of personal lodging.
On the entrance to San Vicente de la Barquera, you may go all the way down to the seaside and stroll on the sand all the way in which throughout the city to the bridge Puente de la Masa. The seaside method is a bit of bit shorter, you skip a number of up and down hills and it’s good to take off your boots and stroll barefoot on the sand. After San Vicente, the Camino del Norte goes away from the ocean, inland over the hills and thru the forest.
Highlights
- Beautiful sea surroundings; cliffs, inexperienced hills, and seashores on the way in which between Comillas and San Vicente de la Barquera, one of the stunning strolling days.
- San Vicente de la Barquera – a fantastic city with good seashores, church buildings, el Puente de la Masa.
- The Picos de Europa – mountain vary, view from the space.
Challenges
- A number of up-and-down hills
- Numerous highway strolling although not on busy roads
- A steep and lengthy ascent on the final 2km to Colombres
Colombres is a pleasant small city with a few eating places/bar and a pleasant inexperienced park.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Colombres
Day 15. Colombres – Llanes, 23km/14,2 miles
El Peral – La Franca – Buelna – Pendueles – Cúe – Llanes
For the primary 9km from Colombres, there is just one route, that goes on and off alongside the highway. After that, at Pendueles you may select between following the official route and persevering with strolling alongside the highway or taking the Sendero de la Costa.
The official route is a bit shorter and entails numerous strolling subsequent to the highway with some forest surroundings. The coastal method of the Camino del Norte is longer it’s on the footpath and follows the coast providing spectacular surroundings. To get to the coastal route at Pendueles first observe the path to tenting La Paz (Playa de Bretones), from there observe GR-E9 path (inexperienced making) that can take you all the way in which to Llanes.
Highlights
- Lovely sea surroundings on the way in which between Pendueles and Llanes (coastal route)
- Bufones (jesters) de Arenillas – water geysers, if the situations are proper you is likely to be fortunate to see them in motion
- Mirador de la Boriza with gorgeous views over the coast and Ballota seaside (coastal route)
- Llanes – a pleasant city with many eating places, bakeries, a colourful harbor, slim streets, and many others.
Challenges
- Some highway strolling at first until Pendueles. In the event you take the official route you’ll proceed strolling alongside the highway for some time.
- Steep up and down hills on the coastal route from Pendueles to Llanes
Llanes is a fantastic coastal city with an enthralling small historic middle, and plenty of eating places, cafes, and bakeries.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Llanes
Day 16. Llanes – San Esteban de Leces, 34km/21 miles
Poo – Celorio – Barro – Naves – Piñera de Pría – Cuerres – Ribadesella – San Esteban de Leces
A pleasant strolling day totally on the trail with a bit of little bit of highway, previous beautiful villages, by means of the forest. The route is marked fairly effectively, there are a number of bars and eating places on the way in which. Within the final 7 km to Ribadesella, there’s nothing, solely fields.
Ribadesella is sort of an costly touristy place. We determined to stroll 3 km to the closest municipal albergue in San Esteban de Leces however in case you don’t thoughts paying a bit extra I’d advocate staying in Ribadesella. There aren’t any outlets, eating places, or bars in Leces, solely an albergue. You’ll should convey meals with you.
Highlights
- Church of Nuestra Señora de los Dolores on the seaside, close to Niembro
- San Antolín seaside, previous Niembro
- A few cute villages on the way in which
- Ribadesella – cozy surf city with a few eating places within the Outdated City (earlier than the bridge), picturesque harbor, stunning seaside Playa de Santa Marina.
Challenges
- Lengthy strolling day, 34km
- A steep ascent from Ribadesella to San Esteban de Leces (albergue), 110m up
San Esteban de Leces isn’t a city, simply an albergue, and a church. There’s nothing round; no bars, no outlets, convey meals with you. The albergue has a kitchen. You should purchase stuff in Ribadesella, there are a few supermarkets within the city.
Day 17. San Esteban de Leces – Villaviciosa, 33km/20 miles
Vega de Ribadesella – La Espasa – La Isla – Colunga – Sebrayo – Muslera – La Payariega – Villaviciosa
Fairly a troublesome day on the Camino del Norte principally attributable to a number of up-and-down hills with stunning surroundings. It’s the one city on the way in which to Villaviciosa with ATMs and supermarkets. In the event you’re planning to cease on the municipal albergue in Sebrayo to purchase meals in Colunga, Sebrayo is simply a few homes and nothing else.
Word! The gap between Colunga to Sebrayo is about 10km with a steep and lengthy ascent. We didn’t really feel like carrying backpacks stuffed with meals and determined reasonably stroll all the way in which to Villaviciosa, after Sebrayo the stroll is far simpler.
Highlights
- Lovely stroll alongside the coast with some unspoiled seashores on the way in which from San Esteban de Leces to La Isla.
- Peaceable forest and mountain surroundings between Colunga and Villaviciosa.
- Villaviciosa – a pleasant city well-known for its ciders.
Challenges
- A number of up and down hills all the way in which
- Lengthy and steep uphill from Colunga to Pernus
- A steep descent to Villaviciosa
Villaviciosa is a small city with many cidrerias (bars the place you may strive native ciders).
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Villaviciosa
Day 18. Villaviciosa – Gijón, 29km/18 miles
Amandi – Casquita – Peón – El Pinal – Tenting Deva – Gijón
A pleasant strolling day with some steep uphills. At Casquita, 3km from Villaviciosa, there’s a break up; one route goes to Oviedo the place it joins with the Camino Primitivo and one continues on the Camino del Norte to Gijón. It takes 2 days to stroll to Oviedo on the connecting route. You could find extra particulars on the phases and locations to remain alongside the route in our PDFs. From Oviedo, you may observe our Camino Primitivo itinerary all the way in which to Santiago de Compostela.
Highlights
- Lovely surroundings from the highest of the hill at Alto de la Cruz.
- Gijón; historic middle, seashores, promenade
Challenges
- Very steep and lengthy ascend from Nievares to Alto de la Cruz, about 300m up. The next downhill isn’t that steep however fairly lengthy.
- One other ascend to Alto de Curbiello – not as steep as the primary one however fairly demanding, about 150m up.
Locations to remain in Gijón
Day 19. Gijón – San Martin de Laspra, 31km/19 miles
Tabaza – Trasona – Avilés – Salinas – San Martín de Laspra
The indicated distance – 30km is from town middle of Gijón in case you keep at Albergue Deva the stroll is 5km longer.
In our opinion it was the worst strolling day on the Camino del Norte; many roads, industrial areas, and cities however not many locations to cease for meals. Even on the finish after Avilés the final bit was on the highway. That is the day to skip in case you’re planning to skip any. We determined to not keep in Avilés and continued strolling 7km extra to albergue de San Martin de Laspra, to make up a long way for the subsequent day however in case you don’t really feel like strolling extra you may cease in Avilés, it’s a pleasant metropolis.
Locations to remain in Avilés
The albergue of San Martin de Lespra is situated within the residential neighborhood there aren’t any eating places or outlets close by, and the closest meals locations are about 2km away within the city. Make sure that to convey meals with you, there shall be a few supermarkets in Avilés on the way in which (Alimerka).
Highlights
- The brief a part of strolling by means of the forest at Alto Monte Areo (after the primary uphill), about 5km from Gijón
- The historic middle of Avilés: cobblestone pedestrian streets, squares, monuments, a few church buildings, and many bars, and eating places.
Challenges
- Strolling alongside the highway and thru industrial areas for probably the most a part of the day
- Steep uphill to Alto Monte Areo at about 5km from Gijón
Day 20. San Martín de Laspra – Soto de Luiña, 32km/20 miles
Soto de Barco – Muros de Nalón – El Pito – Rellayo – Soto de Luiña
Today we loved strolling by means of the forest and fields after the day gone by of strolling alongside the highway. There are few locations to cease for meals on the way in which – pack snacks and convey sufficient water. We had been fairly glad that we walked an further 7km the day earlier than a few of our fellow pilgrims had a really lengthy stroll at the present time – all the way in which from Avilés, 40km.
Highlights
- Lovely forest surroundings on the way in which from Laspra
- Palacio Selgas – a fantastic palace and backyard in El Pito.
- Lovely views over the coast and the seaside at La Playa de La Concha de Artedo
Challenges
- An extended waking day with many smallish ascents and descents
- Not many locations to cease for meals on the way in which
Soto de Luiña is a small good city surrounded by inexperienced hills and forest.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Soto de Luiña
Day 21. Soto de Luiña – Cadavedo, 20km/12,4 miles
Novellana – Santa Marina – Ballota – Cadavedo
There are two route choices on the Camino del Norte after Soto de Luiña; the mountain route and the coastal route. The mountain route is alleged to be harmful with many steep ascents and descents and never effectively marked. There aren’t any locations to cease for meals for 17km. It was suggested to observe the coastal route so we did.
Highlights
- Lovely coastal surroundings on the way in which to and from Ballotas
- Seashore in Cadavedo
Challenges
- All the way in which slight up and down hills
Cadavedo is a small rural village with a few eating places/bar. The seaside and the coastal surroundings are stunning when you have time positively stroll to the coast.
- ATM – no
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – no
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Cadavedo
Day 22. Cadavedo – Piñera, 31km/19,2 miles
A pleasant day with a bit of little bit of strolling on the highway, at first, reasonable up and down hills, previous small cities and villages the place you may cease for meals or espresso. The albergue in Piñera is away from the eating places and outlets, you may cease for lunch at one of many locations 2km earlier than or purchase meals on the store, 800m earlier than the albergue.
Highlights
- Torre (tower) de Villademoros (not proper on the Camino del Norte, should do a detour) – a potential Roman origin tower
- Good forest and countryside surroundings
- Luarca – a fantastic small coastal city
Challenges
- A number of intersections with the freeway
- Up and down hills all the way in which
- The steep ascent that begins from Luarca and subsequent descent to Piñera
Piñera is a small village with a few homes, one grocery retailer and a restaurant.
- ATM – no
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – no
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure, 800m from the albergue, on the way in which
- Grocery store – no
- Pharmacy – no
- Restaurant, bar – no, you may get dinner and breakfast on the municipal albergue (further value)
Two route choices on the Camino del Norte from Piñera
- Piñera – Porcia – Tapia de Casariego – Ribadeo – 38km (coastal method)
- Piñera – Porcia – Tol – Ribadeo – 34km (half inland/half coastal)
You could find extra particulars on the inland route in our PDFs.
Day 23. Piñera – Tapia de Casariego, 27km/16,7 miles
Navia – Jarro – La Caridad – Tapia de Casariego
One other break up on the route; the Camino del Norte is stuffed with different routes and non-obligatory walks. As I already talked about we at all times select the coastal choice this time wasn’t an exception, we went alongside the coast to Tapia de Casariego. It was the final likelihood to stroll by the ocean as soon as in Galicia the route goes inland. It’s a simple strolling day previous many villages with no bars or eating places if you wish to cease for breakfast, espresso or a snack do it at Navia.
Highlights
- The ex-municipal albergue in Tapia de Casariego – is situated by the ocean, on the fringe of the cliff with gorgeous surroundings over the coast, there’s a rocky seaside downstairs.
- Middle of Tapia de Casariego; the principle sq., church, and eating places.
Challenges
- A very simple strolling day, the one drawback there aren’t any locations to cease for meals on the way in which after Navia.
Tapia de Casariego is a pleasant city by the ocean with a few seashores, a fantastic middle and a few nice look-out factors close to the albergue.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Tapia
Day 24. Tapia de Casariego – Vilela (Galicia), 20km/12,5 miles
Tapia de Casariego – Ribadeo – Vilela
Right now you’ll depart Asturias and enter Galicia, two provinces separated by the River Ria de Ribadeo. The border between the 2 provinces is midway over the bridge of Ponte dos Santos. A pleasant and straightforward strolling day with some gorgeous sea and mountain views. We had been planning to stroll additional however it began raining and we determined to cease at Vilela.
As an choice you may cease in Ribadeo, it’s a pleasant city with meals services.
Locations to remain in Ribadeo
Word! Purchase meals in Ribadeo there isn’t any store in Vilela.
Highlights
- Lovely surroundings on the way in which from Tapia de Casariego to Ribadeo; seashores, cliffs, fields, and many others.
- Bridge between Asturias and Galicia – Ponte dos Santos.
- The historic middle of Ribadeo.
Challenges
- A simple strolling day aside from heavy rain and powerful wind that caught us in Ribadeo.
Vilela is a really small place with a few homes and an albergue-restaurant.
Vilela
- ATM – no
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – no
- Grocery store – no
- Pharmacy – no
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Day 25. Vilela – Mondoñedo, 30km/18,6 miles
Villamartín Grande – Gondán – San Xusto – Lourenzá – Mondoñedo
The stroll can be very good if it wasn’t for the rain. The path goes primarily by means of the forest and fields, previous small villages with not many locations to cease for meals. The primary place to cease for espresso is Vilanova Grande we walked in October and low season the place is closed. We may lastly eat one thing solely after 16km at San Xusto.
Highlights
- A number of church buildings and chapels are on the way in which.
- Mondoñedo – a stunning city with a fantastic cathedral, cobblestone streets, church buildings, and eating places.
Challenges
- Fairly a number of ascends and descends – it felt like we walked uphill a lot of the day.
- If it rains the trail in some locations is likely to be muddy.
Mondoñedo is a pleasant city with a small and exquisite historic middle. We arrived within the city on Sunday most locations had been closed just one or two open eating places and a small store on the petrol station.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Mondoñedo
Day 26. Mondoñedo – Castromaior (albergue O Xistral), 23km/14 miles
Gontán – Abadín – Castromaior
Make sure that to have breakfast in Mondoñedo – the subsequent place to get meals is about 17km away in Gontán, there’s nothing in between. There are two routes from the cathedral of Mondoñedo: the official one and the choice (Complementario) route however the one that’s marked Complementario is definitely the unique route.
The official Camino del Norte route goes down from the cathedral and follows the trail, it’s 7km shorter however has a really steep and fairly lengthy uphill and the trail will get fairly muddy if it rains. The choice route goes up from the cathedral, out of the city previous the municipal albergue after which turns left and follows the highway (with virtually no automobiles). It’s 7km longer than the official route with a extra gradient ascent. Each routes undergo the mountains and provide nice surroundings. We took the choice route it rained loads the earlier days we didn’t wish to stroll by means of the mud. Word! The one store on the way in which is in Abadín.
In the event you take the shorter (official) route as an alternative of stopping at Castromaior you may proceed to Vilalba, the overall distance from Mondoñedo on the brief route – 32km.
Highlights
- The gorgeous mountain surroundings on the way in which from Mondoñedo to Gontán
- Church of Santa María in Abadín
- Lovely forest surroundings on the way in which from Abadín to the albergue
Challenges
- A few steep ascends on the way in which from Mondoñedo to Gontán, on the official route about 450m altitude acquire.
- Muddy path in case you observe the official (shorter) route.
Castromaior isn’t a city or village there’s nothing aside from a personal albergue the place you may get espresso, tea, dinner, breakfast, beer, wine, and snacks however every part is dearer. The place isn’t huge I’d advocate within the season reserving your mattress upfront.
Day 27. Castromaior – Baamonde, 32km/20 miles
Martiñan – Vilalba – San Xoán de Alba – Baamonde
Fairly a protracted strolling day with few locations to cease for meals on the way in which. We had breakfast on the albergue (3 Euro) subsequent place to cease is Vilalba, 12km away. The stroll was fairly simple with no up and downhills. In the event you don’t really feel like strolling all the way in which you may keep in Vilalba there are two albergues; one municipal and one non-public. Apparently, the non-public one may be very good and comfy.
Highlights
- Vilalba – a pleasant city with a few church buildings, the principle sq., and the prehistory museum.
Challenges
- The highway will get a bit muddy if it rains
- Lengthy distances between locations to cease for meals or espresso; 12km to the primary city and virtually 20km to the subsequent one.
Baamonde, is a small city with a few eating places and a store or two. Not a lot to see or to do right here.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – no
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Baamonde
Day 28. Baamonde – Sobrado dos Monxes, 40km/25 miles or 32km/20 miles
Carballedo – Seixón – A Lagoa – Miraz – As Laxas – A Roxica – A Cabana – O Mesón – Sobrado dos Monxes (the unique route)
In accordance with the present necessities to get your Compostela certificates, you want two stamps per day for the final 100 km to Santiago.
Sobrado dos Monxes is a must-stay place on the Camino del Norte, the monastery may be very spectacular, and staying in a single day there’s a nice expertise.
One other route break up – 3km after Baamonde there’s a break up; between the unique route and the brand new route. Word! The break up is 3km away from Baamonde, within the forest. There are two Camino markers with distances on the break up.
We selected the longer route as a result of it’s mentioned to be extra stunning; forest, hills, and small villages.
The longer (unique) route. Whole distance – 40km to Sobrado dos Monxes principally by means of the forest, aside from the final 10km which entails fairly a little bit of strolling on the highway. As an choice, you may stroll 40km over two days. On the primary day, you stroll solely 15km to Miraz and keep at albergue San Martin (donation) or 16km to As Laxes and keep at non-public albergue O Abrigo. And the subsequent day you proceed strolling 24km to Sobrado.
The shorter (new) route. Whole distance – 32km to Sobrado, it entails lots of strolling on the highway. It says there aren’t any meals locations on this route, in reality, there’s a new bar proper within the center the place you may get meals. Undecided in the event that they’re open on Sundays.
Highlights
- Capilla de San Alberte – a Sixteenth-century chapel (after crossing the bridge, within the forest)
- Sobrado dos Monxes Abbey – one of the spectacular mastery complexes on the Camino
Challenges
- A long-distance stroll particularly in case you take the unique route – 40km
- On the 32km route, there is just one bar within the center, at about 16km
- On the 32km route lots of strolling on the highway
- On the 40km route, there are two bars at 13km and 15km and two extra at 35km.
- About 5km strolling on the highway on the 40km route on the finish.
Sobrado dos Monxes is a small city, the monastery is definitely the principle attraction right here. There are a few bars/eating places on the sq. subsequent to the monastery.
- ATM – no
- Municipal albergue – sure, the monastery
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Day 29. Sobrado dos Monxes – Arzua, 22km/13,6 miles
Corredoiras – Boimil – A Gándara (Boimorto) – Arzúa
Right now in Arzua the Camino del Norte joins the Camino Frances. Put together to see considerably extra folks. The French Manner is the preferred Camino route particularly the final 100 km from Sarria to Santiago. From Arzúa on there shall be extra eating places, bars, albergues, and many others.
Total it’s a simple strolling day with many cafes and villages on the way in which.
Highlights
- Just a little little bit of monotonous surroundings; strolling alongside the highway, previous cities and thru the fields
Arzua is a biggish city with many albergues and motels, every part right here is concerning the Camino.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resort – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Arzua
Day 30. Arzua – O Pedrouzo, 20km/12,4 miles
Pregontoño – Calzada – Calle – Salceda – A Brea – Santa Irene – A Rúa – O Pedrouzo
On the exit from Arzua after a downhill on the cobblestone road, there shall be a break up, most individuals take the route on the left and observe the gravel path by means of the fields and the forest, this route is marked as “Complementary”. Each routes be a part of once more fairly quickly, after 2-3km you’ll see the space markers once more. We walked this half twice and each time we took the complimentary choice (each time missed the second route). Each routes have kind of the identical distance.
As an choice you may stroll 35km from Arzua all the way in which to Monte do Gozo – an enormous albergue 5km earlier than the cathedral and the subsequent day stroll the final 5km.
O Pedrouzo is a small city with many albergues, motels, and eating places serving pilgrim’s menus, and many others. For most individuals, it’s the final cease earlier than Santiago de Compostela.
- ATM – sure
- Supermarkets – sure
- Outlets – sure
- Eating places – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – sure
- Resorts – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
Locations to remain in O Pedrouzo
Day 31. O Pedrouzo – Santiago de Compostela, 20km/12,4 miles
San Paio – Lavacolla – San Marcos – Monte do Gozo – Santiago de Compostela
We’d advocate beginning early if you wish to make it in time for the Pilgrim Mass at 12 pm within the cathedral. There will not be many locations to cease for meals and people which are on the way in which are fairly costly and have very restricted choices – reasonably eat breakfast in O Pedrouzo or pack snacks. The primary half of the stroll is thru the forest with a bit of little bit of strolling on the highway, previous the airport and suburban areas of Santiago.
Santiago de Compostela, the top of the Camino del Norte
Arriving in Santiago is probably the most wonderful feeling on the Camino, while you enter Plaza de Obradoiro and see all of the pilgrims sitting round, and taking photographs – you are feeling like being part of one thing huge and necessary, take your time and revel in this second, you’ve been ready for it greater than a month.
There are lots of wonderful issues to do in Santiago de Compostela to maintain you busy for a few days. If you wish to know extra concerning the cathedral and its historical past you may be a part of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and Museum Guided Tour.
After ending the Northern Manner in Santiago and celebrating it with fellow pilgrims the subsequent day we began strolling the Camino Finisterre-Muxía. It’s a 3-4 day path to Cape Finisterre. In the event you’ve walked sufficient however nonetheless want to go to Finisterre and Muxía you are able to do a day bus tour from Santiago.
Locations to remain in Santiago
Camino del Norte route planning sources
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The gorgeous half of Stingy Nomads, answerable for all our land adventures (mountain climbing, climbing, strolling the Camino) and following them write-ups. Alya loves strolling since she was a toddler, she prefers to stroll 1000 km with a backpack reasonably than to do a ten 000 km highway journey (truly any highway journey). Alya is an enormous fan of Latin America, the Spanish language, and dancing. Each time we go away she desperately misses our canine Chile.
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