Navia to Vilalba

Before you begin your walk, take time to explore this port town and see the main architectural highlights, such as the old mediaeval town walls and the Arias Palace.

The walk from Navia to Ribadeo is the culmination of your route along the Atlantic coastline. Expect some spectacular views of the cliffs, sea, and swell as you navigate your way into Ribadeo. Crossing the inlet that Ribadeo is built around, you pass from Asturias into Galicia!

Leaving Ribadeo behind, you will ascend through gentle hills on woodland paths lined with eucalyptus, the fragrance of these trees filling the Galician air. You will pass through remote hamlets and quiet roads as you head for Lourenza. On arrival in the town, you can see the beautiful monastery still standing here after hundreds of years and get a good night’s rest.

Today’s walk into the low mountains bordering Galicia offers stunning views over the rich countryside. While the ascent can be challenging, the paths are mostly a mix of gravel and brick roads, making the climb a little easier. Your destination is Mondonedo, one of the seven capitals of the ancient Kingdom of Galicia, and the site of notable Bronze Age excavations.

Out of Mondonedo, you will follow the Rua Rigueira uphill and onto gravel tracks. There is construction along this route which may necessitate minor detours, but these are well waymarked. You will pass through the town of Gotan before stopping at the much larger Abadin. Abadin has many shops and facilities, so is a good place to restock your supplies.

Pass Abadin’s notable fountain as you leave the town and start a minor ascent by the highway. The route from here meanders easily along rural roads through forests and farming villages, and you will regularly criss-cross the N-634 highway. Your destination is Vilalba, the largest settlement on this section of the Camino del Norte.

After breakfast, we bid you farewell. There is plenty to experience in Vilalba, including seeing the architecture of the Church of Santa María and learning about regional history in the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology. For cheese lovers, the famous San Simón smoked cheese is also something that cannot be missed!