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 incredible; unspoiled sandy seashores, rugged cliffs, emerald meadows, the Atlantic ocean, lovely historic cities and cities, and luxurious inexperienced forests. This route is a superb various to the favored French Camino. Each routes go parallel; del Norte follows the coast and the French Means goes all the best way inland.
The Camino del Norte was our third Camino de Santiago that we walked in a single 12 months after the Camino Portuguese and the Camino Primitivo. In our opinion, del Norte was more durable than the opposite two Camino routes.
On this publish, you’ll discover a full strolling itinerary from Irún to Santiago de Compostela. It is a advised itinerary that can be utilized to your Camino planning. You possibly can simply alter this itinerary to your wants.
Extra particulars on the Camino del Norte together with value, lodging choices, planning ideas, and many others. you’ll find in our publish An in depth information to the Northern Means of St.James.
Camino del Norte route overview
- Complete 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 individual per day
- Lodging – private and non-private albergues, hostels, lodges
- Route marking – yellow shells and arrows
- Strolling floor – asphalt, footpath, cobblestones
*following our route. The space can range relying on which route choices you select.
For those who’re questioning what to pack for the Camino del Norte test our detailed Camino packing information the place you’ll find the whole listing of things for various seasons for women and men.
We’ve created free downloadable PDF recordsdata that comprise strolling levels and locations to remain alongside the route. These recordsdata will assist to plan your Camino del Norte pilgrimage*.
*For those who’re planning to stroll the Camino del Norte in 2022 ensure you plan your route very fastidiously. Many public albergues are nonetheless closed some for renovation, some due to the Covid. You might need to remain extra in personal albergues or lodges.
Irún, the start of the Camino del Norte
Irún is a small city within the north of Spain on the border with France. If in case you have time you’ll be able to keep right here for a few days and do a day journey to Biarritz, an attractive coastal metropolis in France which is simply 30 km away.
The way to get to Irún?
There’s transport to Irún from a number of Spanish cities. You will get there by aircraft, prepare, or bus relying on the place you’re coming from and how briskly you need to get there.
For those who’re coming from abroad the simplest is to fly first to one of many principal Spanish cities e.g. Barcelona or Madrid. And from there proceed to Irún. Irún formally doesn’t have an airport however the airport of San Sebastian is located a lot nearer to Irún than to San Sebastian, about 6 km from the city. For those who fly to San Sebastian it’ll be very simple and fast to get from the airport to Irún.
Attending to Irún from Madrid
There are direct buses, trains, and flights from Madrid to Irún.
| Madrid – Irún | Flight | Prepare | Bus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Every day departures | 2+ flights (San Sebastian) |
5 trains | 4+ buses |
| Station | Barajas T4 | Chamartín | Avenida America |
| Time to get | 1h05min. | 6-7 hours | 6 hours |
| Ticket value | from 59 Euro | from 41 Euro | from 40 Euro |
| Firm | Iberia | Renfe | ALSA |
Attending to Irún from Barcelona
| Barcelona – Irún | Flight | Prepare | Bus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Every day departures | 2+ flights | 1 prepare | 1-2 buses (4 instances per week) |
| Station | El Prat T1 | Sants | Nord |
| Time to get | 1h15min. | 7-8 hours | 7 hours |
| Ticket value | from 35 Euro | from 35 Euro | from 34 Euro |
| Firm | Vueling | Renfe | MonBus |
The place to remain in Irún?
Albergue de peregrinos de Irún
The municipal albergue in Irún opens at 4 pm if you happen to arrive earlier you’ll have to attend. The albergue could be very good with good amenities and really welcome and useful hosts. Open from Easter weekend until thirty first October. Value – donation.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – no, washing basin
- Drying machine – no, washing traces
- Blankets – no
- Heating – sure
Extra lodging choices 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 best way to San Sebastián. The surroundings on the primary day is superb – some of the lovely strolling days on the route. More often than not the Camino goes via the mountains and forest, no street strolling. There can be just one city Pasaia on the best way, within the center between Irún and San Sebastián. There can be a few water fountains on the best way to refill water. In Pasaia you cross the river on a small boat, it takes 1 minute, prices 1 Euro pp.
Highlights
For those who an additional day I’d recommend staying for a few days in San Sebastián. It’s an ideal place and doubtless probably the most lovely metropolis on the Camino del Norte. There are lots of issues to do right here.
- Stunning surroundings; inexperienced hills, cliffs, seashores, forest, cities
- Pasaia – a comfy small city, a pleasant place to cease for lunch or espresso (although bars on the best way had been fairly dear)
- San Sebastian – in all probability 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 achieve with a subsequent descend to Pasaia
- Steep ascend from Pasaia, 200m altitude achieve with subsequent descent to San Sebastian.
Advised excursions in San Sebastian
Albergue de Ondarreta in San Sebastián
The municipal albergue of San Sebastián (donation) is on the entrance to town, at about 25km. It’s open solely in July and August, out of those months you must keep at a non-public hostel or resort. We stayed at albergue Juvenil Ondaretta, it’s situated on the opposite aspect of town (proper on the finish), at 27 km. For those who’re planning on doing some sightseeing or exit fairly keep in a special place, nearer to town middle.
Albergue de Ondarreta – capability 40 folks, open all 12 months, value 17-19 Euro.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure, range, microwave, plates, utensils and many others.
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure, 3 Euro
- Drying machine – no, washing traces
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – sure
Extra 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. For those who stroll in summer time ensure that to start out early many of the manner you’re uncovered to the solar. You possibly can keep in Zarautz as a substitute of strolling to Getaria. There’s a municipal albergue but it surely’s open solely in July and August. Hostels in Zarautz had been fairly costly (it’s a flowery surf city) for that reason we determined to maintain strolling to Getaria. The stroll from Zarautz to Getaria could be very good and straightforward alongside the ocean with some nice views over each cities. It was one in every of our favourite strolling days on the Camino del Norte.
Highlights
- Stunning sea surroundings on the best way from San Sebastian
- Seafront in Zarautz
- Outdated City and the seashore of Getaria
Challenges
- Steep uphill proper after San Sebastian,
- Many up and downs all the best way until Zarautz
Getaria is a pleasant little city on the ocean with a small however lovely historic middle, cathedral, many eating places and bars the place you’ll be able to cease for a drink with a pincho.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – no
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Albergue Kanpaia in Getaria
Kanpaia albergue, Getaria. It’s fairly fundamental for the worth, reminds extra of an albergue for a donation fairly than a hostel. Capability 30 folks. Open 1st March to thirty first October. Value 15 Euro.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure, solely microwave, kettle, utensils
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure, 3 Euro
- Drying machine – no, washing traces
- Blankets – no
- Heating – no
- Further – breakfast, 3 Euro pp.
Extra lodging choices 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 – ensure that to have sufficient water and eat breakfast in Getaria or take some snack with. After 5km you arrive in Zumaia – one other city by the ocean. After that, at 9km there can be a restaurant. The primary half of the best way ascents and descents, strolling via the fields and open areas, the second half a bit of little bit of strolling alongside the street (not very busy although) and thru the forest.
Highlights
- Stunning mountain and sea surroundings on the best way
- 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 lovely church buildings.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – no
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Municipal albergue de Deba
The municipal albergue is on the Camino, near bars, eating places, and retailers. It opens at 12pm. The albergue has 56 beds, open all 12 months, value – 5 Euro.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – no
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure, 3 Euro
- Drying machine – sure, 3 Euro
- Blankets – no
- Heating – no
Extra 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 the intention to get to the opposite aspect of the river as a result of the Outdated bridge is presently closed for reconstruction. There’s a bus that takes folks to the opposite aspect, you’ll be able to 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 best way, the primary two had been closed (it was Sunday morning), the third – Taberna Zelaieta in Olatz, at 8km, was opened. It’s located simply earlier than a protracted and steep uphill we’d advocate stopping right here for espresso and relaxation. Their espresso is nice they usually have nice pinchos.
The municipal albergue in Markina is meant to be for donation however an individual who runs it insists on all people “paying” 10 Euro which is annoying; the place is sort of fundamental and doesn’t have many amenities, although you get breakfast; toasts, jam, espresso.
Another choice is to stroll 7 km from Markina to the Monasterio de Zenarruza and keep there. We simply stopped on the monastery on the best way but it surely regarded very good. I’d say it’s one of many not-to-miss experiences on the Camino del Norte. Lodging and a meal listed below are for a donation. The monastery is situated 20 min. stroll from the closest city Bolibar in a really lovely spot. Some folks walked the subsequent day solely 7km from Markina to the monastery and stayed there.
Highlights
- Stunning mountain surroundings all the best way 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 achieve
- Steep ascend from Olatz (Taberna Zelaieta, 250m altitude achieve
- Lengthy and steep descend simply earlier than Markita with some very muddy components, 350m down.
Markina is a typical small city in Spain the place all the pieces (retailers and supermarkets) is closed on Sundays.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Municipal albegue in Markina
Albergue de peregrinos Convento del Carmen is open from seventh April to fifteenth October. There are 40 beds. Value – donation, although the host insisted on all people paying 10 Euro at check-in.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – no, a microwave, a kettle, and a few utensils
- Wi-fi – no
- Washer – sure, 3 Euro
- Drying machine – no
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – no
- Further – breakfast included
Extra 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 street with little visitors. A pleasant strolling day with lovely surroundings. There have been a few eating places to cease for espresso or lunch on the best way and fairly a number of water fountains.
Albergue for donation in Guernica is open solely in August, there are various hostels, lodges and visitor homes within the city.
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 achieve.
- A muddy path on the best way to Berriondo.
Guernica (Gernika) is a giant 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 you’ll find 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 – sure (open solely in August)
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Albergue Lumo Aterpetxea in Guernica
We stayed at albergue Lumo Aterpetxea (personal), capability 50 folks, opened all 12 months. Value 18 Euro pp.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure, cooking range, microwave, pots, utensils, cutlery.
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure, 3 Euro
- Drying machine – sure, 4 Euro
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – sure
- Further – breakfast included, lockers
Extra lodging choices 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. For those who really feel robust you’ll be able to stroll it in a single go. We’d recommend splitting it into two levels particularly if you happen to stroll in summer time. Within the second half of the route from Larrabetzu you stroll alongside the street, uncovered to the solar. You possibly can stroll 21km to Lezama (albergue for donation) and the subsequent day 13km to Bilbao, this fashion you’ll have extra time to do sightseeing within the metropolis. Don’t overlook to take meals or snacks with you or eat a great breakfast in Guernica, the closest place to cease for meals is at 17km.
Highlights
- Ermita de San Esteban de Gerekiz
- Stunning 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 in the course of the first 17km
- Steep uphill from Guernika, 220m altitude achieve
- Some very muddy components at about 13km mark
- Strolling alongside the street from Goiko Elexalde until Zamudio, for about 10km, with no shadow
- Very steep ascend to Monte Aro with subsequent steep descend to Bilbao, 320m up and down.
Bilbao is a giant metropolis with a pleasant historic half, many lodges, hostels, eating places, supermarkets, ATMs, and many others. If in case you have time and really feel like staying for 2 days in a single place, Bilbao is a superb metropolis to do it.
Excursions and actions in Bilbao
Albergue Claret Enea in Bilbao
Municipal albergue (opened 1st April – 14th October, donation) in Bilbao is situated 4km outdoors the middle, on the best way out from town. We needed to do some sightseeing and determined to remain at albergue Claret Enea, you’ll discover it if you happen to observe yellow shells and arrows previous the historic middle after crossing the bridge. The albergue is opened from 1st Might to thirty first October, capability 20 folks, value 11 Euro pp.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure, cooking range, microwave, pots, utensils, cutlery and many others.
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure, 2 Euro
- Drying machine – sure, 2 Euro
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – sure
- Further – breakfast included, lockers
Extra 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 best way to Getxo the place we crossed to Portugalete utilizing the Vizcaya bridge (a transporter bridge) – fairly a novel expertise. You possibly can stroll the Authentic manner over the hills but it surely’s longer and it doesn’t undergo the trendy a part of Bilbao e.g. Guggenheim museum and many others., plus it has some steep up and downhills.
Observe! For those who keep within the municipal albergue in Bilbao you’ll need to observe the longer (authentic) manner as a result of the albergue is 4km outdoors town on the route. The stroll alongside the river path to Portugalete is 14km, the historic (mountain) route is 20km. Each Camino del Norte routes are well-marked. They take part Portugalete. We had been instructed that the majority pilgrims stroll out of Bilbao following the river. We selected that manner primarily as a result of we didn’t have time to see the trendy a part of town the day earlier than.
The start of the stroll was good; alongside the river, previous the trendy a part of town. The second half was via the commercial suburbs of Bilbao. To get to the alternative aspect you’ll need to cross the bridge. The crossing takes 2 minutes, prices 0,40 Euro pp.
Some folks skip this half and take a bus from Bilbao to Portugalete as a result of they don’t need to stroll via the commercial areas of town. Not that we’re towards it if you happen to don’t have a lot time or not feeling effectively to chop this half is an choice but it surely’s part of the Camino del Norte expertise and ultimately, the stroll wasn’t that dangerous.
2km after Portugalete there may be one other break up. We adopted the official (historic) route that goes on the biking/strolling route nearly all the best way to La Playa. The choice route is extra urbanized and passes via some populated areas and roads.
Highlights
- 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, if you happen to observe the river route you’ll have to make use of the bridge to cross it.
- La Area – a pleasant seashore city with good waves for browsing
Challenges
- Strolling on the asphalt it made our ft fairly drained
- For about 8km after the trendy a part of Bilbao to Getxo, you stroll via the commercial space, fairly boring surroundings.
- Very gradual ascend from Portugalete to Gallarta, 100m altitude achieve
- A descent to La Area, 100m down
Pobeña isn’t a city, there are a few homes and two bars, no retailers 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 (opened twenty fourth March – fifteenth October)
- Personal albergue – no
- Lodge – sure, in La Area
- Store – sure, in La Area
- Grocery store – no
- Pharmacy – no
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Albergue de peregrinos de Pobeña
A small albergue about 1 km away from the seashore, proper on the Camino, near a few bars. Open from twenty fourth March to fifteenth October. There are 40 beds. Value – donation.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure, cooking range, microwave, pots, utensils, cutlery, and many others.
- Wi-fi – no
- Washer – sure, 3 Euro
- Drying machine – no
- Blankets – no
- Heating – no
Extra locations to remain in Pobeña
Day 8. Pobeña – Castro Urdiales (Cantabria), 23km/14 miles
Pobeña – Ontón – Baltezana – Santullán – Castro Urdiales
We had been instructed on the albergue to not observe the official route from Pobeña (up the steps) as a result of it’s harmful (rocks falling or one thing like that) and go as a substitute alongside the street. Fortunately we determined to stroll the route anyway and didn’t discover any hazard. The Camino del Norte goes alongside the coast if you happen to begin early morning you’ll be able to get pleasure from an attractive dawn – the perfect surroundings of the day. After strolling for about 4km you’ll go away the Basque Nation and enter Cantabria the place all the pieces 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 manner). Each routes are marked. The Coastal route is about 5km shorter than the official route. You do see extra coast but it surely entails fairly a little bit of strolling on the street. For those who’re planning to remain in Castro Urdiales fairly take the longer route in any other case you’ll arrive within the metropolis too early and should look forward to a few hours for albergues to open.
For those who’re planning to maintain strolling we’d recommend shopping for meals in Castro Urdiales there can be no different retailers on the best way. Observe! Albergue in Islares is presently closed, the subsequent albergue is at El Pontarrón. We learn dangerous evaluations concerning the albergue in El Pontarrón but it surely wasn’t that dangerous, it’s fairly fundamental however adequate for a donation albergue. You have to ask at El Pontarron Bar, folks from there’ll stamp your Credential and clarify easy methods to get to the albergue.
Highlights
- Paseo Itsaslur – the primary a part of the route from Pobeña alongside the coast with an attractive dawn
- El Pico La Cruz (mountain peak) could be seen from Sámano
- The historic half and seashores in Castro Urdiales
Challenges
- For those who take the coastal route (shorter one) you stroll alongside the street with steep uphill via not a busy one
- For those who 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, lovely fort, a number of church buildings, many bars, and eating places.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure (opened all 12 months)
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Municipal albergue de Castro Urdiales
This albergue is presently closed for renovations. A small place with one room for 16 folks. Open all 12 months. Value – 5 Euro.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure, a microwave, cutlery.
- Wi-fi – no
- Washer – no
- Drying machine – no
- Blankets – no
- Heating – no
Extra 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 via 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 street until Liendo or to observe the official route over the mountains. Folks say the official manner 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 lovely and peaceable. We’re not huge followers of street strolling each time we’ve an opportunity we skip it.
Highlights
- Spectacular sea surroundings at Cerdigo, midway between Castro Urdiales and Islares
- The attractive mountain surroundings on the official route between El Pontarrón and Liendo
- Gorgeous sea views on the best way between Liendo and Laredo
- Seaside and the Outdated City of Laredo with many eating places and bars
Challenges
- Strolling on the street for about 4km from Islares to El Pontarrón
- The very steep uphill stroll from El Pontarrón to Liendo with a subsequent descend to Liendo, 200m up and down (if you happen to stroll the official route)
- Strolling on the street for about 7km from El Pontarrón to Liendo (if you happen to take the shortcut)
- The fairly steep uphill stroll from Liendo to Laredo
Laredo is a pleasant city with a protracted seashore (good for swimming in summer time), a few lovely church buildings, many bars, and eating places.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Albergue Casa de La Trinidad
We stayed at Albergue Casa de La Trinidad. It’s a pleasant place, open all 12 months, capability 23 folks, value 10 Euro.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure, cooking range, microwave, pots, utensils, cutlery and many others.
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – no
- Drying machine – no
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – sure
- Further – breakfast says to be included however actually, typically they don’t serve it. We had been 20 folks ready for anyone to come back within the morning however no one confirmed up.
Extra 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’ll be able to select to observe the coastal route via Santoña or to go inland via Colindres. We’re huge sea lovers and it was a really good sunny day we selected the coastal manner and had been fairly pleased about it. On the best way, you get to see a few lovely seashores. In Laredo, you’ll be able to stroll on the seashore for 2km to the ferry having fun with the dawn on the best way. So as to get from Laredo to Santoña, you must take a small ferry; the primary ferry leaves at 9 am after that it goes to and again on a regular basis. The crossing takes about 2min., value 2 Euro pp.
Highlights
- Seaside stroll in Laredo to the ferry
- Good coastal surroundings on the best way; Playa de Berria, playa de Trengandin, cliffs, hills and many others.
- Historic middle of Noja; Plaza de la Villa, church of San Pedro.
- Albergue La Cabaña del Abuelo Peuto, Güemes
Challenges
- Lengthy day with fairly a little bit of street strolling, few locations to cease in between. For those who stroll in summer time ensure that to refill your water at each ingesting fountains (there are a pair on the best way)
- Very steep uphill after Santoña, 83m up
- Many up and down hills all the best way
Güemes is a tiny village with a few bars and lodges.
- ATM – no
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure, a donation (open all 12 months)
- Lodge – sure
- Store – no
- Grocery store – no
- Pharmacy – no
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Albergue la Cabaña del Abuelo Peuto
Albergue La Cabaña del Abuelo Peuto in Güemes is outdoors the village, about 10min. stroll. It’s an ideal place, one of many legends of the Camino del Norte. The albergue is for donations in addition to dinner and breakfast. A really fascinating place with very pleasant and welcoming folks, a pleasant backyard, good amenities, an fascinating story – a should keep on this Camino.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – no, however they make dinner and breakfast for donation
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure, 3 Euro
- Drying machine – sure
- Blankets – no
- Heating – no
Extra 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 have got two choices; 15km and 13km routes. The longest route is probably the most lovely, I might say it affords a number of the finest 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 seashore if it’s a pleasant day you’ll be able to cease right here for a swim or simply to benefit from the surroundings. Even in summer time, there usually are not many individuals on this seashore. 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. We wouldn’t advocate strolling this route on a day like this, the trail will get muddy it may be harmful to stroll alongside the cliffs.
The 13km choice is an inland route, it doesn’t observe the coast, the second half is on the street. Each routes are marked, each go to the ferry in Somo that you just take to get to Santander. The ferry begins operating at 9.55am and goes each half-hour. Value 3 Euro pp. It’s attainable to stroll to Santander as effectively but it surely’s about 20km extra. These days only a few folks stroll it, it’s not a really lovely route alongside the street, the ferry is an official a part of the Camino.
Highlights
- Gorgeous sea surroundings on the best way from Güemes to Somo
- Playa de Loredo – an attractive seashore the place you’ll be able to cease for a swim
- Santander is one in every of our favourite cities on the Camino del Norte.
Challenges
- Strolling out of Santander; the marking isn’t superb, observe yellow arrows or crimson crosses (mark Camino Lebaniego).
- The final half from Santander to Bezana isn’t very picturesque previous some residential and industrial areas of town.
If in case you have time you’ll be able to get pleasure from fairly a brief strolling day and cease in Santander. It’s a really good metropolis with some lovely seashores, nice eating places and bars and lots of fascinating locations issues to see.
Excursions and actions in Santander
Locations to remain in Santander
For those who resolve to proceed, ensure that 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 to do.
- ATM – no
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure, a donation (opened all 12 months)
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – no
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Municipal albergue of Santa Cruz de Bezana
A small and comfy place with 2 rooms, 14 beds in complete. Open all 12 months, value – donation.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure, a microwave, a kettle, cutlery
- Wi-fi – no
- Washer – no
- Drying machine – no
- Blankets – no
- Heating – sure
- Further – communal dinner & breakfast
Extra 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; numerous strolling alongside the street, previous some industrial areas, with few locations to cease on the best way – not too spectacular. Within the second half, at about 2km from Polanco, the good countryside surroundings begins; small cities, villages, chapels on the best way.
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 street 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, go to the Collegiata church.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure (opened all 12 months)
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Albergue de peregrinos Jesús Otero
A pleasant small albergue (16 beds) subsequent to the Colegiata. Open all 12 months, value 6 Euro.
Extra 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 straightforward and nice strolling day via the forest, fields, small cities and villages.
Highlights
- Church of San Martín de Cigüenza, Caborredondo
- Convento de las Carmelitas Descalzas, Pando
- Stunning sea surroundings on the entrance to Comillas
- Comillas – an attractive city with some unbelievable sights, seashores, a pleasant sq., many bars, and bakeries.
Challenges
- Somewhat little bit of up and downhill strolling however nothing steep or lengthy
Comillas
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure (open 1st April – thirty first October)
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Albergue La Huella del Camino
It’s a non-public albergue with good amenities, very snug and clear. Bunk beds have curtains you have got extra privateness right here. It’s open from twenty third February to thirty first October. Value 15 Euro. E-book your mattress right here.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure
- Drying machine – no
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – sure
- Further – lockers, breakfast included
Extra 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 go away 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’ll be able to go all the way down to the seashore and stroll on the sand all the best way throughout the city to the bridge Puente de la Masa. The seashore manner 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. We’d advocate stopping for lunch or espresso right here, it’s a pleasant city and the subsequent place with a bar/restaurant is sort of far-off. After San Vicente, the Camino del Norte goes away from the ocean, inland over the hills and thru the forest.
Highlights
- Gorgeous sea surroundings; cliffs, inexperienced hills, and seashores on the best way between Comillas and San Vicente de la Barquera, some of the lovely strolling days.
- San Vicente de la Barquera – an attractive city with good seashores, church buildings, el Puente de la Masa.
- The Picos de Europa – mountain vary, view from the gap.
Challenges
- A number of up and down hills
- Various street 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
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Locations to remain in Colombres
Albergue El Cantu in Colombres opens solely at 5 pm, we didn’t need to wait on the road for 3 hours. We requested round and locals instructed us a couple of visitor home Lodge Villanueva 1km from the city (on the Camino). We received a double room with a personal toilet for 30 Euro. The albergue prices 12 Euro pp. The one minus of the resort is it’s situated 1km outdoors the city no supermarkets close by however there’s a good restaurant (Casa Junco) the place you may get breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 15. Colombres – Llanes, 23km/14,2 miles
El Peral – La Franca – Buelna – Pendueles – Cúe – Llanes
The primary 9km from Colombres there is just one route, that goes on and off alongside the street. After that, at Pendueles you’ll be able to select between following the official route and persevering with strolling alongside the street or taking the Sendero de la Costa.
The official route is a bit shorter and entails various strolling subsequent to the street with some forest surroundings. The coastal manner 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 best way to Llanes. Earlier than taking the coastal manner cease for lunch in Pendueles there can be no different place to cease for meals until Llanes.
Highlights
- Stunning sea surroundings on the best way between Pendueles and Llanes (coastal route)
- Bufones (jesters) de Arenillas – sea water geysers, if the situations are proper you may be fortunate to see them in motion
- Mirador de la Boriza with beautiful views over the coast and Ballota seashore (coastal route)
- Llanes – a pleasant city with many eating places, bakeries, colourful harbor, slender streets, and many others.
Challenges
- Some street strolling to start with until Pendueles. For those who take the official route you’ll proceed strolling alongside the street for some time.
- Steep up and down hills on the coastal route from Pendueles to Llanes
Llanes is an attractive coastal city with an enthralling small historic middle, many eating places, cafes and bakeries.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Albergue La Casona del Peregrino
It’s a pleasant place near the middle with good amenities. Opened from fifteenth March to thirty first October, capability 44 folks, value 15 Euro pp. They’ve personal rooms as effectively that may be booked on-line.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – no
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure, included within the lodging value
- Drying machine – no
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – no
- Further – breakfast included
Extra 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 street, previous beautiful villages, via the forest. The route is marked fairly effectively, there are a number of bars and eating places on the best way. Within the final 7 km to Ribadesella, there may be nothing, solely fields.
Ribadesella is sort of an costly touristy place. We determined to stroll on 3 km to the closest municipal albergue (open all 12 months) in San Esteban de Leces however if you happen to don’t thoughts paying a bit extra I’d advocate staying in Ribadesella. There aren’t any retailers, eating places, or bars in Leces, solely an albergue. You’ll need to carry meals with you.
Highlights
- Church of Nuestra Señora de los Dolores on the seashore, close to Niembro
- San Antolín seashore, previous Niembro
- A few cute villages on the best way
- Ribadesella – cozy surf city with a few eating places within the Outdated City (earlier than the bridge), picturesque harbor, lovely seashore Playa de Santa Marina.
Challenges
- Lengthy strolling day, 34km
- Fairly steep ascend 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 retailers, carry meals with you. The albergue has a kitchen. You should purchase stuff in Ribadesella, there are a few supermarkets within the city. The albergue is open all 12 months, Value 8 Euro.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – no
- Drying machine – no
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – sure
Locations to remain in Ribadesella
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 as a consequence of a number of up and down hills with lovely surroundings. The primary open restaurant we discovered was after 15km in Colunga, it was Saturday all of the locations earlier than had been closed. It’s the one city on the best way to Villaviciosa with ATMs and supermarkets. For those who’re planning to cease on the municipal albergue in Sebrayo to purchase meals in Colunga, Sebrayo is simply a few homes and nothing else.
Observe! The space 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 fairly stroll all the best way to Villaviciosa, after Sebrayo the stroll is far simpler.
Highlights
- Stunning stroll alongside the coast with some unspoiled seashores on the best way 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 best way
- 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’ll be able to strive native ciders).
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – no
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Albergue El Congreso
It’s a pleasant place, located in the principle sq.. Capability 49 folks, open from 1st March to thirtieth November, value from 10 Euro per mattress, from 25 Euro for a double room (within the peeak season costs are increased).
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure, cooking plates, microwave, utensils, cutlery and many others.
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure, 3 Euro
- Drying machine – sure, 3 Euro
- Blankets – no
- Heating – sure
Extra 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 on the Camino del Norte to Gijón. We determined to proceed on the Camino del Norte as a result of we’d already accomplished the Camino Primitivo. There are a few eating places and bars on the best way and a number of other ingesting fountains.
Highlights
- Stunning 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. Ensure you have sufficient water. Subsequent 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.
The municipal albergue of Gijón (albergue/campsite Deva, opened all 12 months) is 5km earlier than town, we walked on to town and stayed there in a resort. Gijón is a giant metropolis with good infrastructure (lodges, bars, vacationer information, supermarkets, ATMs) however there usually are not many albergues.
We had been right here in October and for various causes not one of the personal albergues was opened, solely the municipal one 5km outdoors town. We stayed at Lodge 44 a bit outdoors of the middle however proper on the Camino and near the seashore. It was very good – an actual deal with after two weeks of staying in albergues. We had a very good sleep right here and felt well-rested the subsequent day.
Extra locations to remain in Gijón
Days 18-19. Combining the Camino del Norte with the Camino Primitivo.
Day 18. Villaviciosa – Pola de Siero, 26km/16mi
Amandi – Casquita – Vega de Sariego – Pola de Siero
We haven’t walked these 2 days as a result of we accomplished the Camino Primitivo (the Authentic Means) 3 months earlier as a separate stroll, not as part of some other Camino. All the data for these 2 levels we received from the individuals who began with us the Camino del Norte and later went to the Primitivo.
Many individuals requested us which route to decide on; proceed alongside the coast following the Camino del Norte or go to Oviedo and stroll the Primitivo. If you wish to mix the beautiful coastal surroundings of the del Norte with the spectacular mountain surroundings of the Authentic Means then go to Oviedo. For those who fairly stick to at least one Camino and full all of it the best way – keep on Camino del Norte.
We wouldn’t advocate persevering with on the Primitivo if in case you have any knee points – there are various steep ascents and descents all the best way. Earlier than going to Oviedo test the forecast if it’s going to be wet and overcast fairly keep on the Camino del Norte; strolling via the mountains in dangerous climate isn’t enjoyable, plus you gained’t see a lot.
For those who resolve to go to Oviedo, after about 3km from Villaviciosa at Casquita observe the marking “Oviedo”, the Camino turns left. It’s marked all the best way with yellow arrows and shells like some other Camino.
Pola de Siero
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – no
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Municipal albergue de peregrinos Casona de San Miguel, capability – 24 folks, opened all 12 months, value 6 Euro pp.
Day 19. Pola de Siero to Oviedo, 17km/10,5 miles
El Berrón – Meres – Colloto – Oviedo
A straightforward and quick strolling day offers you extra time to spend in Oviedo. It’s an attractive city with many fascinating sights together with the cathedral de Oviedo, the beginning of the Camino Primitivo. You could find all of the providers in Oviedo; municipal albergue, lodges, eating places, supermarkets, ATMs, and many others.
From Oviedo, you’ll be able to observe our Camino Primitivo itinerary all the best way to Santiago de Compostela.
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 if you happen to keep at Albergue Deva the stroll is 5km longer.
In our opinion the worst strolling day on the Camino del Norte; too many roads, too many industrial areas, and cities however not many locations to cease for meals. Even on the finish after Avilés the final bit was on the street. That is the day to skip if you happen to’re planning to skip any. We determined to not keep in Avilés and continued strolling 7km extra to albergue de San Martin de Laspra (opened all 12 months), to make up a long way for the subsequent day however if you happen to don’t really feel like strolling extra you’ll be able to cease in Avilés, it’s a pleasant metropolis. There’s a municipal albergue within the middle of Avilés, it seems fairly good.
Locations to remain in Avilés
Observe! The albergue is situated within the residential neighborhood there aren’t any eating places or retailers close by, the closest meals locations are about 2km away within the city. Make sure that to carry meals with you, there can be a few supermarkets in Avilés on the best way (Alimerka). We advocate discovering the albergue on Google maps, there are two strolling routes just one goes previous the albergue via Salinas, we took the unsuitable route and needed to stroll some further km to get right here.
Highlights
- The quick a part of strolling via 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, many bars and eating places.
Challenges
- Strolling alongside the street and thru industrial areas 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 via the forest and fields after the day before today of strolling alongside the street. Observe! There are few locations to cease for meals on the best way, some retailers and eating places had been closed for the offseason, not even anyplace to refill water – ensure that to pack snacks and convey sufficient water with and pack some snacks. We had been fairly pleased that we walked an further 7km the day earlier than a few of our fellow pilgrims had a really lengthy stroll this present day – all the best way from Avilés, 40km.
Highlights
- Stunning forest surroundings on the best way from Laspra
- Palacio Selgas – an attractive palace and the backyard in El Pito. Sadly, it’s presently closed for guests you’ll be able to see a few of it via the gate.
- Stunning views over the coast and the seashore 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 best way
Soto de Luiña is a small good city surrounded by inexperienced hills and forest.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Municipal albergue de Soto de Luiña
A middle-seize albergue with a few rooms for 40 folks in complete. Open all 12 months. Value 8 Euro.
- Sizzling bathe – sure
- Kitchen – no, solely microwave
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure
- Drying machine – sure
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – no
Extra 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 (undecided why) with many steep ascents and descents and never effectively marked. There aren’t any locations to cease for meals for 17km. It’s suggested to observe the coastal route and we did; it was a pleasant sunny day to strolling alongside the coast was an actual pleasure. Each time we had a alternative we went for the coastal choice.
There’s one other choice to observe the route that more often than not goes on the street but it surely’s positively not one of the best ways. Originally (earlier than the break up) there was a bit of little bit of strolling on the street, the break up is at about 2km; the coastal route goes to Ballotas, the mountain route goes to Palancas. The space is meant to be 23km however based on our GPS, we walked solely 20km on the coastal route. The municipal albergue in Cadavedo is a bit outdoors of the village there’s a grocery store on the best way the place you may get meals.
Highlights
- Stunning coastal surroundings on the best way to and from Ballotas
- Seaside in Cadavedo – 2km away from the albergue. It’s type of on the best way to the city you are able to do a detour and go to the seashore first after which to Cadavedo. The seashore is gorgeous with some beautiful views from the encompassing cliffs.
Challenges
- All the best way slight up and down hills
Cadavedo is a small rural village with a few eating places/bar. The seashore and the coastal surroundings are lovely if in case you have time positively stroll to the coast.
- ATM – no
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – no
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Municipal albergue of Cadavedo
A really small place with two rooms with 16 beds in complete. Open all 12 months. Value 6 Euro.
- Sizzling bathe – sure
- Kitchen – sure
- Wi-fi – no
- Washer – no
- Drying machine – no
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – no
Extra 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 street, to start with, reasonable up and down hills, previous small cities and villages the place you’ll be able to cease for meals or espresso. The albergue in Piñera is away from the eating places and retailers, you’ll be able to 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, need to do a detour) – a attainable Roman origin tower
- Good forest and countryside surroundings
- Luarca – an attractive small coastal city
Challenges
- A number of intersections with the freeway
- Up and down hills all the best way
- 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 (open 1st March – thirty first October)
- Personal albergue – no
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure, 800m from the albergue, on the best way
- Grocery store – no
- Pharmacy – no
- Restaurant, bar – no, you may get dinner and breakfast on the municipal albergue (further value)
Municipal albergue of Piñera
A pleasant small place with nice hosts. There are 24 beds. Open from 1st March to thirty first October. Value 5 Euro.
- Sizzling bathe – sure
- Kitchen – sure, however no for pilgrims. The hosts make dinner (8 Euro) and breakfast (3 Euro)
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure
- Drying machine – no
- Blankets – no
- Heating – no
- Further – lockers
Three route choices on the Camino del Norte from Piñera
- Piñera – Porcia – Tapia de Casariego – Ribadeo – 38km (coastal manner)
- Piñera – Porcia – Tol – Ribadeo – 34km (half inland/half coastal)
- Piñera – Porcia – Tol – Vegadeo – 41km (inland route). This route merges with the opposite two solely in Mondoñedo. It’s the unique Camino del Norte route that was utilized by pilgrims earlier than the bridge in Ribadeo was constructed. The river crossing by ferry was very climate dependent and unreliable. These days with the bridge, extra pilgrims select the coastal route.
Days 23-24. Choice 1 – coastal route. Piñera – Tapia de Casariego – Vilela, 47km/29 miles
Day 23. Choice 1. 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 various routes and optionally available 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 snack do it at Navia.
Highlights
- The ex-municipal albergue in Tapia de Casariego – it’s situated by the ocean, on the fringe of the cliff with beautiful surroundings over the coast, there’s a rocky seashore downstairs.
- Heart of Tapia de Casariego; the principle sq., church, eating places.
Challenges
- A very simple strolling day, the one downside there aren’t any locations to cease for meals on the best way after Navia.
Tapia de Casariego is a pleasant city by the ocean with a few seashores, an attractive middle and a few nice look-out factors close to the albergue.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – no, there was once however now it’s personal.
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Albergue de Tapia de Casariego
The situation of the place is superb, on the sting of the cliff close to a small seashore. It’s a small home with 30 beds. Open all 12 months. Value 8 Euro.
- Sizzling bathe – sure
- Kitchen – no, a microwave, a fridge, and a few utensils
- Wi-fi – no
- Washer – sure
- Drying machine – sure
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – no
Extra locations to remain in Tapia
Day 24. Choice 1. Tapia de Casariego – Vilela (Galicia), 20km/12,5 miles
Tapia de Casariego – Ribadeo – Vilela
Immediately you’ll go away Asturias and enter Galicia, two provinces are separated by the River Ria de Ribadeo. The border between the 2 provinces is midway over the bridge Ponte dos Santos. A pleasant and straightforward strolling day with some beautiful sea and mountain views. We had been planning to stroll additional but it surely began raining and we determined to cease at Vilela.
As an choice you’ll be able to cease in Ribadeo it’s a pleasant city with meals amenities. There’s a municipal albergue in Ribadeo however based on the evaluations, it’s not good.
Extra locations to remain in Vilela
Observe! Purchase meals in Ribadeo, there can be Eroski grocery store on the best way, after that there can be no retailers. The municipal albergue in Vilela is closed (don’t know for the way lengthy), we stayed on the personal albergue (ask on the bar).
Highlights
- Stunning surroundings on the best way 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 straightforward strolling day apart from heavy rain and robust wind that caught us in Ribadeo.
Vilela is a really small place with a few homes and an albergue-restaurant.
- ATM – no
- Municipal albergue – sure, quickly closed in 2020
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – no
- Grocery store – no
- Pharmacy – no
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Albergue de Vilela (personal), open all 12 months, capability 12 folks, value 10 Euro.
- Sizzling bathe – sure
- Kitchen – no, microwave, some utensils
- Wi-fi – no, solely on the bar
- Washer – sure, 4 Euro as much as 12kg
- Drying machine – sure, 4 Euro as much as 12kg
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – no
Day 23-24. Choice 2 – half inland/half coastal route. Piñera – Tol – Vilela, 48km/30 miles
Navia – Jarro – La Caridad – Tol – Barres – Figueras – Ribadeo – Vilela
This manner is a combination of two routes and on the second day in Ribadeo, it merges with the coastal route. You possibly can cease in Tol for the night time and the subsequent day proceed previous Ribadeo to Vilela or additional or stroll the entire distance in sooner or later. Some guidebooks say it’s the unique Camino del Norte route but it surely’s not proper the unique route was once via Vegadeo as a result of until 1987 there was no bridge to cross the river in Ribadeo.
Day 23. Choice 2. Piñera – Tol, 29km/18 miles
Tol
- ATM – no
- Municipal albergue – sure
- Personal albergue – no
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure, grocery store
- Grocery store – no
- Pharmacy – no
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Day 24. Choice 2. Tol – Vilela, 19km/12 miles
After 9km in Ribadeo, the route joins the coastal manner.
Day 23-25. Choice 3 – inland route. Piñera – Tol – Vegadeo – Abres – Mondoñedo, 80km/52 miles
Advised itinerary;
- Day 23. Piñera – Tol, 29km/19mi (municipal albergue de Tol).
- Day 24. Tol – Abres, 20km/12,4mi (personal albergue Estraperlo, donation, opened all 12 months )
- Day 25. Abres – Mondoñedo, 31km/19mi (municipal albergue de Mondoñeda)
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 via 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 might lastly eat one thing solely after 16km at San Xusto.
Highlights
- A number of church buildings and chapels on the best way, the route waves between them on a regular basis.
- Mondoñedo – a stunning city with an attractive cathedral, cobblestone streets, church buildings, eating places.
Challenges
- Fairly a number of ascends and descends – it felt like we walked uphill many of the day.
- If it rains the trail in some locations may 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
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
The municipal albergue of Mondoñedo regarded tremendous but it surely was a chilly and wet day and we determined to remain in El Albergue del Montero not removed from the cathedral. It’s a really good and comfy place with good amenities.
- Sizzling bathe – sure
- Kitchen – sure, electrical plates, microwave, utensils, cutlery.
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure
- Drying machine – sure
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – sure
- Further – eating space, widespread space, good backyard, AC
Extra 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 may be 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 street (the street with nearly no automobiles). It’s 7km longer than the official route with a extra gradient ascent. Each routes undergo the mountains and supply nice surroundings. We took the choice route it rained so much the earlier days we didn’t need to stroll via the mud. Observe! There solely retailers on the best way are in Abadín.
For those who take the shorter (official) route as a substitute of stopping at Castromaior you’ll be able to proceed to Vilalba, the full distance from Mondoñedo on the quick route – 32km.
Highlights
- The attractive mountain surroundings on the best way from Mondoñedo to Gontán
- Church of Santa María in Abadín
- Stunning forest surroundings on the best way from Abadín to the albergue
Challenges
- A few steep ascends on the best way from Mondoñedo to Gontán, on the official route about 450m altitude achieve.
- Muddy path if you happen to observe the official (shorter) route.
Castromaior isn’t a city or village there may be nothing apart from a non-public albergue the place you may get espresso, tea, dinner, breakfast, beer, wine, snacks however all the pieces is dearer. I’d advocate bringing your personal stuff (drinks, snacks, and many others.). Dinner – 10 Euro, breakfast – 3 Euro. Albergue O’Xistral is a superb place; very cozy with good amenities and an superior host. It’s an attractive previous 18th-century home with a pleasant yard. The place isn’t huge I’d advocate within the season reserving your mattress upfront.
- Sizzling water – sure, superb “rain showers”
- Kitchen – sure, cooking plates, microwave, utensils, cutlery.
- Wi-fi – sure
- Washer – sure, 3 Euro
- Drying machine – sure, 3 Euro
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – sure
- Further – swimming pool, good backyard, dinner and breakfast (further value)
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 best way. 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. For those who don’t really feel like strolling all the best way you’ll be able to keep in Vilalba there are two albergues; the municipal for six Euro and the personal for 10 Euro. Apparently, the personal one could be very good and comfy.
Highlights
- Vilalba – a pleasant city with a few church buildings, the principle sq., the prehistory museum.
Challenges
- The street will get a bit muddy if it rains
- Lengthy distances between locations to cease for meals or espresso; 12km to the primary city and nearly 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 – sure
- Lodge – no
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Municipal albergue de Baamonde
A giant place with a giant widespread space proper on the Camino, near eating places and retailers. There are 94 beds. Open all 12 months. Value 8 Euro.
- Sizzling bathe – sure
- Kitchen – sure, however only a few pots, plate, and utensils
- Wi-fi – no
- Washer – no
- Drying machine – no
- Blankets – no
- Heating – no
Extra 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 the Compostela 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 could 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; the unique route and the brand new route. Observe! There’s a break up in Baamonde as effectively; a marker with the identify “Complementario” factors left but it surely’s not the fitting break up. 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 for a number of causes; first as a result of it’s extra lovely; forest, hills, small villages. Second, there’s a place (a home) at about 12km the place you may get an actual wax stamp (we couldn’t it was out of season and the person was on vacation). Third, we didn’t need to minimize off 8km from the final 100km to Santiago.
The longer (authentic) route. Complete distance – 40km to Sobrado dos Monxes principally via the forest, apart from the final 10km that entails fairly a little bit of strolling on the street. As an choice, you’ll be able to stroll 40km over two days. The primary day you stroll solely 15km to Miraz and keep at albergue San Martin (donation) or 16km to As Laxes and keep at personal albergue O Abrigo (10 Euro) a brand new albergue with a restaurant. And the subsequent day you proceed strolling 24km to Sobrado.
There’s one other albergue about 25km from Baamonde in A Roxica the guidebooks say there’s a bar there, actually, the bar was closed now there isn’t a place close by the place you may get any meals. About 1km from A Roxica in A Cabana there’s a model new municipal albergue, opened all 12 months, 6 Euro. Observe! For those who’re planning to remain there carry meals with you.
The shorter (new) route. Complete distance – 32km to Sobrado, it entails numerous strolling on the street. It says there aren’t any meals locations on this route, actually, there’s a new bar proper within the center the place you may get meals. Unsure 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 – some of the spectacular mastery complexes on the Camino
Challenges
- A long-distance stroll particularly if you happen to take the unique route – 40km
- On the 32km route, there is just one bar within the center, at about 16km
- On the 32km route numerous strolling on the street
- On the 40km route, there are two bars at 13km and 15km and two extra at 35km.
- About 5km strolling on the street 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
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Albergue-abbey Sobrado dos Monxes
Staying at this place was a really particular expertise. It’s a giant place with many rooms, 120 beds in complete. Open all 12 months. Value 8 Euro.
- Sizzling water – sure
- Kitchen – sure
- Wi-fi – no
- Washer – no
- Drying machine – no
- Blankets – sure
- Heating – sure, electrical heaters
Day 29. Sobrado dos Monxes – Arzua, 22km/13,6 miles
Corredoiras – Boimil – A Gándara (Boimorto) – Arzúa
Immediately in Arzua the Camino del Norte joins the Camino Frances. Put together to see considerably extra folks. The French Means is the preferred Camino route particularly the final little bit of the route from Sarria. From Arzúa on there can be extra eating places, bars, albergues, and many others.
Total it’s a simple strolling day with many cafes and villages on the best way.
Highlights
- Somewhat bit monotonous surroundings; strolling alongside the street, previous cities and thru the fields
Arzua is a biggish city with many albergues and lodges, all the pieces right here is concerning the Camino.
- ATM – sure
- Municipal albergue – sure (opened all 12 months)
- Personal albergue – sure
- Lodge – sure
- Store – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
- Restaurant, bar – sure
Extra 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 can be a break up, most individuals take the route on the left and observe the gravel path via the fields and the forest, this route is marked as “Complementary”. Each routes be part of once more fairly quickly, after 2-3km you’ll see the gap 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 roughly the identical distance.
All eating places on the best way are fairly dear; you pay 3-4 Euro for a easy sandwich (espresso costs are regular), we’d advocate shopping for snacks in Arzua in a grocery store or having lunch at one of many eating places in O Pedrouzo. Observe! The route doesn’t undergo O Pedrouzo it turns proper into the forest simply earlier than the city, if you happen to’re planning to remain there or cease for lunch simply observe the street (the route via the city is marked).
As an choice you’ll be able to stroll 35km from Arzua all the best way 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, lodges, 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 usually are not many locations to cease for meals and people which can be on the best way are fairly costly and have very restricted choices – fairly 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 street, previous the airport and suburban areas of Santiago.
Santiago de Compostela, the tip of the Camino del Norte
Arriving in Santiago is probably the most superb feeling on the Camino, while you enter Plaza de Obradoiro and see all of the pilgrims sitting round, hugging one another, taking images – you are feeling like being part of one thing huge and vital, take your time and revel in this second, you’ve been ready for it greater than a month.
There are lots of superb 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’ll be able to be part of Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and Museum Guided Tour.
After ending the Northern Means 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. For those who’ve walked sufficient however nonetheless want to go to Finisterre and Muxía you are able to do a day bus tour from Santiago.
Excursions & actions in Santiago de Compostela
Locations to remain in Santiago
Books and guidebooks for the Camino del Norte
Helpful apps for strolling the Camino del Norte
- Camino Help Pilgrim Santiago. Free obtain, accessible for Android and Apple.
- Buen Camino de Santiago. Free obtain, accessible for Android and Apple.
- Properly + Norte; a Sensible Pilgrim information. Value US$6, accessible for Android and Apple. We haven’t used it however I noticed many sad customers complaining concerning the app, I’d advocate studying the evaluations earlier than shopping for it.
Camino del Norte route planning sources
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