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Camino del Norte
Explore the Northern Way route
The Camino del Norte is a path for those who crave a wilder, more rugged kind of beauty. It has easy access via the international airports of Bilbao and Santander, making it a convenient starting point for many pilgrims. It’s also a great choice if you’d like to build in extra rest days by the beach along the way.
Winding along Spain’s dramatic northern coastline, this route is steeped in history, touched by sea mist, and dotted with hidden gems. It’s often a little higher-end than the French Way, as these are the holiday spots many Spaniards choose for their own getaways. With fewer pilgrim crowds and an ever-changing landscape—from clifftop views to cobbled city streets—it’s a journey that offers both solitude and wonder. If you’re looking for a Camino that feels untamed, raw, and deeply rewarding, the Northern Way might just be calling your name.
What is the Camino del Norte?
The Camino del Norte—also known as the Northern Way or Ruta de la Costa—is a stunning coastal pilgrimage that starts in the Basque city of San Sebastián. From there, it traces the northern edge of Spain, weaving through the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and finally into Galicia. The route itself doesn’t end in Santiago directly—you can choose to merge with the Camino Primitivo in Oviedo or continue westward along the Northern Way to reach Santiago de Compostela. This path has been walked for centuries, yet it still feels like a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered.
How long is the Northern Way and how challenging is it?
Stretching around 480 km, most pilgrims complete the Northern Way in about 23 days, averaging 22–23 km per day. It’s more physically demanding than many other Camino routes, with rolling hills, steep climbs, and plenty of ups and downs along rugged coastal paths. Expect a mix of cliffside trails, forest tracks, and urban sections. For those ready to take it on, the rewards are immense—fewer crowds, fresh ocean air, and a deep sense of adventure.
What are the highlights of the Camino del Norte?
This Camino is all about contrasts: serene fishing villages and vibrant cities like Bilbao and Santander. You could happily spend a week in many of the towns along the way—but the trail will keep calling you forward. Expect misty mornings on forest paths followed by sunlit coastal vistas, and peaceful solo walks broken by evenings filled with local wine and laughter. Along the route, you’ll find UNESCO-listed cathedrals, welcoming family-run albergues, and meals made with the best of both land and sea. If you’re seeking beauty, challenge, and a deeply personal journey, the Northern Way delivers it all—wrapped in salt air and northern charm.
Choose From Our Camino del Norte Stages
Camino del Norte route overview
Explore the Camino del Norte Route in this video, learn about its stages and highlights, and see how we make your Camino smooth and stress-free.
Camino del Norte Important Information
