Camino del Norte Stage 1 & 2 - San Sebastián to Santander

Welcome to San Sebastián, the 'Pearl of the Bay of Biscay'! Once you have arrived, why not take a stroll along the famous Playa de la Concha or Playa de la Ondarreta beaches to help you relax and unwind? In the evening, the charming old town awaits with its narrow streets and legendary pintxo bars, where you can sample the diverse flavours of Basque cuisine. If you would like to continue your Camino del Norte pilgrimage, you can start in Irún and hike the first stage to San Sebastián. Feel free to contact us – we will be happy to provide personalised advice.

From San Sebastián, a short but steep climb takes you out of the city. You will be rewarded with sweeping views and a relaxing hike along unpaved paths and clearly marked trails. Springs along the route provide cool, fresh water. Zarautz, once a tranquil fishing village, was even a favourite holiday destination for the Belgian royal family. Today's destination is Getaria, a charming former fishing and whaling village that has always attracted travellers thanks to its location. Here, you can enjoy fresh fish and a sea view at the end of the day.

Ascent: 643m (2,110ft) / Descent: 584m (1,916ft)

This stage of the Northern Route starts in the picturesque coastal town of Getaria and follows the stunning Basque coastline. En route, you will pass through the authentic fishing villages of Zumaia and Itziar, which delight visitors with their maritime charm. The varied landscape combines dramatic cliffs with gentle green hills, offering ever-changing views. Your destination for the day is Deba, a historic town boasting a beautiful beach and a rich maritime heritage. It's the perfect place to end the hike with a stroll by the sea.

Ascent: 560m (1,837ft) / Descent: 580m (1,903ft)

With every step, you move further away from the sea and deeper into the lush green heart of the Basque Country. The constant inclines and declines make this section one of the most challenging hikes of the entire trip. As you hike, you can look forward to quiet forests, wide meadows and impressive vistas. Once you arrive in Markina-Xemein, be sure to visit the Church of Santa María de la Asunción de Xemein. It is a destination that is well worth the effort.

Ascent: 788m (2,585ft)/ Descent: 714m (2,343ft)

As you pass through rolling hills and dense forests, you will come to the idyllically situated Zenarruza monastery on the slopes of Monte Oiz. Inside, you will find a small shop where you can take a break and enjoy sweet specialities from the monastery's own bakery. The trail then continues through the lush greenery of the Basque Country to Gernika, a town with a rich history. In 1937, it was almost completely destroyed during the Spanish Civil War, an event which was later immortalised by Pablo Picasso's world-famous work, Guernica. This is a destination that combines culture and nature in a unique way.

Ascent: 728m (2,389ft)/ Descent: 789m (2,589ft)

Following the more challenging stages of recent days, today's route leads you gently and leisurely to Lezama. The quiet route has only a few ascents and descents, inviting you to enjoy the surroundings at a relaxed pace. You can discover the green landscape and small villages along the way at your own pace. Once you arrive in Lezama, you can end the day with a delicious dinner in one of the cosy restaurants. A glass of regional wine is the perfect way to round off a relaxing day.

Ascent: 519m (1,703ft)/ Descent: 472m (1,549ft)

After a short hike, you will reach the lively city of Bilbao, where you will have the afternoon free to explore at your leisure. Take a stroll through the streets and experience the blend of traditional and modern architecture. Highlights include the impressive Santiago Cathedral and the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum. However, the city's charming alleys, cafés and markets are also well worth exploring.

Ascent: 326m (1,070ft) / Descent: 380m (1,247ft)

Today is a rest day in Bilbao. Take this opportunity to explore the city at your own pace. Take a stroll through the old town to discover its charming alleys, markets and cafés, or admire the modern architecture around the Guggenheim Museum. A visit to Santiago Cathedral is also worthwhile, as it allows you to experience the city's cultural diversity. It's an ideal day to recharge your batteries and experience the best of Bilbao.

After breakfast, you will leave Bilbao and follow the course of the Nervión River, passing through charming suburbs and alongside lush green riverbanks. This relaxed route offers beautiful views of the water and the surrounding area. As you travel, you can enjoy the blend of urban life and nature. Your destination for the day is Portugalete, a town with a maritime atmosphere and historic charm. You can end the day here with a stroll through the old town or along the waterfront promenade.

Ascent: 464m (1,522ft)/ Descent: 461m (1,513ft)

From Pobeña, the Camino del Norte returns to the coast, passing green hills and offering sweeping views of the sea. Following old railway lines that once transported ore from the mines to the ships, the route tells a part of the region's industrial history. Impressive panoramic views of the coast and sea open up again and again along the way. The destination for the day is the charming town of Castro Urdiales, where the harbour and old town are perfect for strolling around. In the evening, you can relax with a walk along the promenade or in one of the cosy restaurants.

Ascent: 472m (1,549ft)/ Descent: 477m (1,565ft)

Starting in Castro Urdiales, the trail climbs gently along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay. After passing through Islares, the route winds its way into the lush green countryside, where rolling hills dominate the landscape. You will be tested by a steep ascent and descent, but you will be rewarded with impressive panoramic views. Finally, you will reach Liendo, the charming village where you will spend the night.

Ascent: 397m (1,303ft) / Descent: 382m (1,253ft)

Today's stage mostly runs along the coast, offering fantastic views of white, sandy beaches. After leaving Liendo, you will reach Laredo, a popular summer destination for people from the north of Spain. From El Puntal, you can take a ferry to Santoña and enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace (approx. €2, payable on site – please check the ferry timetable in advance). En route, you will pass beautiful beaches such as Playa de Berria. Your destination for the day is Noja, where you can finish off with a walk by the sea.

Ascent: 259m (850ft) / Descent: 277m (909ft)

Today, we will leave the coast behind and head into the peaceful countryside, where the route will wind its way along mostly flat paths through fields and small villages. This gentle stage is perfect for letting your gaze wander and enjoying the rural tranquillity. As you walk, you will be accompanied by green meadows and scattered farms, which are characteristic of this region. Once you arrive in Galizano, you will find a peaceful spot where you can unwind.

Ascent: 237m (778ft) / Descent: 226m (742ft)

Today's short, mostly flat stage will take you towards Santander, where you can enjoy views of the sea and beautiful sandy beaches. Enjoy the fresh sea air along the way, and if the weather is good, why not dip your feet in the water or even treat yourself to a refreshing swim? In Somo, you can take a ferry to Santander (approx. €3, payable on site) and enjoy the coastal views from the water. The port city welcomes you with a blend of maritime charm and urban sophistication. It's the perfect place to relax in the evening.

Ascent: 91m (299ft) / Descent: 99m (325ft)

After an eventful few days on the Camino del Norte, today is the day to say goodbye. Depending on your departure time, you may have time for one last walk or coffee in a relaxed setting. Then you can begin your journey home or onwards. You will carry with you many memories of the stunning northern Spanish coastline and the encounters you had along the Way of St. James.