CAMINO DEL NORTE

Walking on the Camino Del Norte and its stages

The Camino del Norte, or as it is sometimes called, the Northern Camino, stretches 800km from Irun near the French Border to Santiago de Compostela. The final section starts in Ribadeo and ends at the Camino Way terminus, the cathedral in Santiago. If you want an upgrade in Santiago, then the Parador in Cathedral Square is an amazing place to stay and celebrate your achievement of walking the Camino del Norte.

The Camino del Norte offers a unique experience compared to other Camino routes, such as the Camino Francés. For those seeking a quieter, more scenic journey, the Camino del Norte takes pilgrims along Spain’s rugged northern coast, offering stunning ocean views, picturesque villages, and a more challenging terrain. While less crowded than the popular Camino Francés, it appeals to those who enjoy solitude and nature.

The route also provides the opportunity to experience Basque, Cantabrian, and Galician cultures, making it culturally diverse. Ideal for seasoned hikers, it provides a refreshing alternative to the more trodden pilgrim paths.

• Stage 1: The Camino del Norte stage from San Sebastián to Bilbao is a notable section of this coastal pilgrimage. The route traverses the Basque Country’s undulating terrain, blending coastal and inland walking. Pilgrims experience a mix of urban landscapes, charming villages, and natural beauty. Highlights include passing through culturally rich towns and enjoying views of the rugged coastline. The stage culminates in Bilbao, a major city boasting the renowned Guggenheim Museum and a vibrant cultural scene. This section offers a rewarding experience with its combination of Basque heritage and modern cityscapes.
• Stage 2: The Camino del Norte stage from Bilbao to Santander showcases a captivating blend of Basque and Cantabrian landscapes. The route transitions from Bilbao’s urban dynamism to the scenic Cantabrian coastline, featuring picturesque fishing villages and sandy beaches. Pilgrims traverse a mix of coastal paths and inland trails, encountering historical sites and enjoying views of the Bay of Biscay. The journey offers a contrast between the modern city of Bilbao and the more traditional coastal towns, culminating in Santander, a city known for its elegant architecture and beaches.
• Stage 3: The Santander to Ribadeo section of the Camino del Norte transitions from Cantabria into Asturias, offering diverse landscapes. The route features a mix of coastal and inland walking, showcasing rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and verdant countryside. Pilgrims encounter charming seaside towns, enjoying stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea and Asturian culture. Highlights include exploring historic villages and experiencing the region’s rich maritime heritage. The journey culminates in Ribadeo, a Galician town known for its unique beach formations.
• Stage 4: The Camino del Norte from Gijón to Ribadeo is a stunning coastal 156 km walk with diverse landscapes and beautiful countryside. You kick things off in Gijón, a lively place with a rich maritime history the Spanish are famous for. From here the trail quickly shifts to beautiful coastal paths with sweeping views of the Cantabrian Sea. The Northern Camino winds through charming fishing villages, lush green hills, and quiet beaches, offering a peaceful and invigorating experience.
• Stage 5: Final Stage, Ribadeo to Santiago: The last and final section starts in Ribadeo and ends at the Camino Way terminus, the cathedral in Santiago. The Camino del Norte is known for its scenic beauty, diverse terrain, and cultural richness.  The final stage starts in Ribadeo, a charming coastal town known for its historic bridges and sea views, the route gradually moves inland, passing through lush forests, rolling hills, and traditional Galician villages.

You can also customise the Camino del Norte and choose your own pace and length of walk by adding rest days.

For those who prefer flexibility or have a shorter time period to work with, customising the Camino Norte allows you to have your own bespoke itinerary. This way, you can stay longer in towns and walk at your own pace. We offer a discount if you pair two of the stages together.