The Best of the Camino del Norte
Experience the dramatic beauty of northern Spain on the Camino del Norte, a fully supported journey from the Basque Country to Galicia, where coastal cliffs, mountain landscapes, historic cities, and unforgettable cuisine lead you to Santiago de Compostela.
"It’s my third trip with Kate and the crew (…) I would happily join another walking tour with Andaspain. The camaraderie in my last group was exceptional."
Overview of the Best of the Camino del Norte
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Spain’s most enchanting coastal trail on the Camino del Norte. With the majestic Cantabrian Sea to the north and the striking mountain ranges to the south, you will make your way through the charming fishing villages and captivating cities of four unique autonomous regions: The Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia.
Where the Camino del Norte goes
Your adventure begins in the Basque Country, renowned for its exquisite cuisine, fascinating cities, and strong cultural identity. From here, you will make your way into the natural wonder that is Cantabria, known for its prehistoric landmarks and perfectly preserved historical villages. Nature’s drama intensifies in Asturias, where you will trek atop stunning beaches dotted with marine geysers and framed by dramatic cliffs. Finally, your adventure comes to a close amongst the soft, green, rolling hills of Galicia where you will find the resting place of Saint James, the patron saint of Santiago and the protagonist of all Camino pilgrimages.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich culture of northern Spain. Enjoy exclusive private tours of iconic landmarks like the Guggenheim museum, the city of Lugo, and the Cathedral of Santiago. Explore breathtaking sites such as the Picos de Europa mountains and the Lakes of Covadonga, while learning the deep historical importance of Asturias in the Camino’s development.
What your tour includes
Besides a feast for the eyes and mind, this tour brings you the best culinary treasures that the north has to offer. Indulge in rich Basque tapas, called pinxos, relish fresh local seafood in Cantabria, and delight in artisan cheeses, cider, and chorizo in Asturias. Throughout the tour, you will be treated to our gourmet picnics, which cater to all dietary preferences and restrictions. Our clients consistently praise Spain’s gastronomy as one of the highlights of their trip.
Our meticulously planned stages of The Camino are designed to maximize exploration and enjoyment. We’ve tailored the walking days to allow ample time to absorb the surrounding natural wonders, culture, and key landmarks. Each day concludes in elegant accommodations, handpicked for their proximity to The Camino, charm, and quality of service. We try to use small rural farmhouses or manor houses wherever possible. These are similar to bed and breakfasts and are usually traditional houses typical of the region, full of character and run by locals.
For this tour, you will be covering 254 km/158 mi over 18 days, so we recommend a reasonable level of fitness. Thankfully, our luggage transport service eases much of the load. Leave your bags with us, and they’ll be waiting in your next hotel room. You can also count on our support van, which is accessible at key points throughout the day so you can refuel with water and snacks. When available, you can leave a day bag in the van and access it throughout the day.
Receiving the Compostela
Those who complete this tour are eligible to receive the esteemed Compostela certificate. That’s because we ensure that you walk the “Last 100 kilometers” of the Camino de Santiago, the set of stages that are required by all pilgrims wanting the Compostela.
The Best of the Camino del Norte isn’t just a journey; it’s a fully guided and supported walking tour. Our passionate English and Spanish-speaking guides will be there for you every step of the way to ensure that you have an extraordinary experience. Join us and be part of the remarkable history of the Camino del Norte.
Day 1: Arrive in San Sebastián
Distance: Tour Start
Tour Start
To start your trip, you will meet your guide(s) at the hotel, where they will welcome you with an engaging Camino orientation session and refreshments. During this gathering, you’ll gain insight into the itinerary and address any questions you might have. Afterwards, we head to old town San Sebastián to experience the world-renowned Basque cuisine.
Overnight: San Sebastián
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Walk from San Sebastián to Zarautz
Distance: 20.3 km / 12.6 mi
Today, we walk right out of our hotel and onto the Concha Promenade, which follows the stunning beach of San Sebastián. From there, we join the Camino and climb Monte Igueldo where we are rewarded with spectacular views over the Bay of Biscay. We wander through the vineyards responsible for the famous local white wine, Txakoli, before arriving at our destination of Zarautz.
Overnight: Zarautz
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Walk from Zumaia to Elorriaga Auzoa
Distance: 5 km / 3.1 mi
This morning, we shuttle ahead to Zumaia for a short walk amongst the awe-inspiring geology of the Basque Coast Geopark. Home to the longest section of continuous rock strata in the world, you will see unique formations known as flysch. After our walk, we shuttle to our hotel in Bilbao, where you can enjoy an afternoon in this iconic city and take a tour of its most important historic landmarks.
Overnight: Bilbao
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Walk from Pobeña to Castro-Urdiales via Otañes
Distance: 22 km / 13.7 mi
We shuttle to Pobeña, just outside of Bilbao. We begin our walk by crossing the bridge over the River Barbadún. A beautiful pathway following the headlands leads us across the border into Cantabria. We turn inland and get our legs ready for a climb that leads us to a seaside path, formally a mining railroad.
We finish in the town of Castro-Urdiales and shuttle ahead to one of the most important historic villages in Spain, Santillana del Mar. Here, you will have two nights to get to know this national monument and treasure. Explore the labyrinth of cobblestone streets as you make your way to charming squares surrounded by traditional stone houses decked with flowers.
Santillana del Mar is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and whimsical name. It is often referred to as the “Town of Three Lies”, because it is not a saint (santo), not flat (llana), nor is it located by the sea (mar). This name has a history dating back to the 16th century and is a testament to the village’s unique charm and character.
Overnight: Santillana del Mar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Walk from Santillana del Mar to Playa de Luaña
Distance: 13.3 km / 8.3 mi
Our trail today alternates between coastal and interior tracks to Cóbreces and its gothic and Romanesque-inspired red church of San Pedro. The nearby Cistercian abbey is home to monks who still make their own cheese. After lunch we will stroll down to the Playa de Luaña beach for a drink and a dip!
After we return to our hotel, we are treated to a private tour of Santillana del Mar, including the Colegiata de Santa Juliana, a Romanesque-style collegiate church named after the patron saint of the town. This impressive church dates back to the 12th century and features intricate carvings and a beautiful cloister.
Overnight: Santillana del Mar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Walk from Comillas to San Vicente de la Barquera
Distance: 12.2 km / 7.6 mi
Today, we surrender to the meditative rhythm of our footsteps as we make our way through the peaceful natural wonder that is Spain’s northern coastline. We will walk amongst beach dunes and tread through quiet forest paths where we can get a firsthand look at the diversity of this region’s rich flora.
We finish today’s walk in the old town of San Vincente de la Barquera. The remains of the castle and fortress wall look down over the beautiful harbor.
After lunch, we shuttle to Llanes. This Asturian town is an official historic and artistic heritage site, exuding charm and vibrancy. Once an important fishing and whaling port, it’s now known for its large array of wonderful beaches and elegant tourists!
Overnight: Llanes
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Walk from Pendueles to Llanes
Distance: 14.6 km / 9.1 mi
Today, we have another relatively short walk along some of the most spectacular beaches in the area. If seas are rough and tides are high, don’t be surprised to hear the rumblings of the ocean below you as it thunders through passages in the limestone rock before shooting upward 10 meters or more into the air. This dramatic display and the salty mist it leaves behind will have you wondering if dragons might really exist. We push onwards to Andrín, where we are rewarded with a stunning view before heading downhill to our destination of Llanes.
At the end of our walking day, we shuttle to the famous town of Cangas de Onis, where we stay for two nights. Cangas de Onís has great historic significance as the cradle of the Reconquista, where the Moors were driven out of Spain starting in 718 AD. Principal amongst the many attractions you can see here is the Roman Bridge, a symbol of the Asturian resistance.
In the evening, we visit a small local cider mill. We have a short walk to learn about local culture and tradition then try some Asturian cider and learn the secret to its dramatic pour.
Overnight: Cangas de Onís
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Excursion to Picos de Europa National Park
Distance: 8 km / 5 mi
Today, you will hike through the iconic Picos de Europa park and see its famous Lakes of Covadonga. During our visit, we’ll explore the Basilica de Covadonga and the adjacent Santa Cueva, which serves as a shrine and final resting place of King Pelayo. He achieved the historic victory in the Battle of Covadonga against the Moors in 718 AD before becoming the first king of Asturias.
Overnight: Cangas de Onís
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Walk from Llanes to Nueva
Distance: 15.1 km / 10 mi
This morning, we’ll return to the captivating coastline of northern Spain and weave our way towards and away from the sea. We will take a few detours throughout the day to show you hidden gems often overlooked by other pilgrims. We hope you enjoy the magic of these special secret beaches and chapels. Finally, we arrive in the small town of Nueva where we sleep tonight.
Overnight: Nueva
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: Walk from Arenal de Morís to Playa la Griega
Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
We shuttle to Arenal de Morís, a beautiful beach that marks the beginning of our walk. Glorious panoramic views of seaside pastures with grazing cows spread out before us. We spend the day walking right next to the water as we hug the coastline, finding some unexpected prehistoric treasures along the way.
Overnight: Cudillero
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11: Walk from Barayo to Frexulfe
Distance: 11.8 km / 7.3 mi
We shuttle ahead to the charming village of Barayo and walk along the seafront to the Puerto de Vega. In the afternoon, we will shuttle to Ribadeo, where we sleep for the night.
Overnight: Ribadeo
Meals: Breakfast
Day 12: Walk from Ribadeo to Playa de los Catedrales
Distance: 18.1 km / 11.2 mi
Today, we have one last dance with the crashing waves and exhilarating sea air before heading inland to Galicia. At the end of our walk, we shuttle to Lugo, where we will have a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site. You have time to explore the historic town and we highly recommend walking the 2-km-long Roman wall that encloses this enchanting city.
Overnight: Lugo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Walk from Lugo to San Román da Retorta
Distance: 19.7 km / 12.2 mi
Lugo marks the beginning of the final 100 km to Santiago via the Camino Primitivo. We leave the city over a medieval bridge, walk along old Roman roads, and into quiet hamlets and woodlands. Despite merging with a new route, it is a notably lonely stretch of Camino. At the end of our walk, we return to Lugo for a second night and time to explore more of the beautiful city.
Overnight: Lugo
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 14: Walk from San Román da Retorta to O Hospital das Seixas
Distance: 15.8 km / 9.8 mi
We walk on the Via Romana XIX, passing a replica of a Roman milestone before our route becomes a forested gravel track. We roll along tiny country roads for the rest of the day, passing over a sweet little Roman bridge in Ferreira and through a scattering of remote villages.
Overnight: Friol
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15: Walk from O Hospital das Seixas to Ribadiso da Baixo
Distance: 22.9 km / 14.2 mi
A double Camino day! Our walk on the Camino Primitivo sees us climbing up and down oak forests on our way to Melide, where the Primitivo and the French Way merge. There, we will meet for lunch to make sure that you can try its famous Pulpo a Feira, or octopus tossed with rich, paprika-infused olive oil and served with Galician potatoes called cachelos. We will gather at a local restaurant, where you can relish this famed dish alongside a local white wine served in quaint bowls. Rest assured that there will be an array of other options available, including fresh salads, chorizo, Spanish tortilla, and more.
After lunch, we continue on rolling pathways through lovely woodland with gushing rivers and end our day beside one of the oldest pilgrims’ hostels on the Camino, in Ribadiso da Baixo. This is a great place to soak your feet in the inviting river.
Overnight: Arzúa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 16: Walk from Ribadiso da Baixo to O Pedrouzo
Distance: 22.2 km / 13.8 mi
This morning, we will shuttle back to the Camino to begin today’s walk. In the morning, we will pass through Arzúa, the home of two famous cheeses, the cone-shaped tetilla and queso de Arzúa-Ulloa, a creamy, mild tasting cow’s cheese. Renewed by the buzz of our fellow pilgrims, we make our way through forest trails and narrow pathways that weave their way through classic Camino hamlets. After reaching our final destination, we will shuttle back to our pazo.
Overnight: Arzúa
Meals: Breakfast
Day 17: Walk from O Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostela
Distance: 19.4 km / 12.1 mi
This stage marks the exciting last day of your pilgrimage. After a morning of walking, we regroup at the pilgrim’s last hill, Monte de Gozo. Here, you are treated to a first glimpse of the Cathedral spires. From here, the group will walk approximately 5 km to our destination of Plaza Obradoiro. Your pilgrimage is complete! Congratulations! While you check into your hotel, your guide will go to the pilgrim’s office to collect your Compostela. You will then have the opportunity to attend pilgrim’s mass before we head to our final celebratory dinner.
Overnight: Santiago de Compostela
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 18: Tour End
Distance: Tour End
Tour End
This morning, we will head to the most famous destination in Santiago and take a private guided tour of the Cathedral and surrounding area. This tour runs approx. 1-2 hours.
Finally, it’s time to say good-bye to our Camino family. We hope that you walk away with a great sense of accomplishment, new lifelong friendships, and many treasured memories. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for experiencing this magical journey with us at Andaspain and we look forward to seeing you back on the Camino someday.
Overnight: Extra nights on request
Meals: Breakfast
What’s Included
- 17 nights’ accommodation
- All breakfasts, 7 lunches and 9 dinners, including wine and other drinks (While we guarantee the number of meals provided, the schedule outlined in the daily itinerary is subject to change based on restaurant availability, weather, and other factors)
- Guided private tours of Bilbao, town of Santillana del Mar, city of Lugo, and Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
- Water and snacks along the way
- Luggage transport (limited to one 23 kg / 50 lb piece of luggage per person)
- English and Spanish speaking guide(s)
- The Pilgrim’s Credencial, or Pilgrim’s Passport, and scallop shell
- Camino del Norte Guide Book
What’s not included
- Travel to the start of your tour or from its end
- Meals and drinks not included in your tour
- Extra items purchased on your behalf by your Andaspain guide
- Guide gratuity (270 EUR/person/guide is suggested)
- Additional activities not outlined in the What’s Included section
Highlights of the Best of the Camino del Norte
- Experience the beautiful city of San Sebastián (known as Donostia in the Basque language Euskera), famed for its great food and beaches.
- Enjoy a private tour of Bilbao’s historic city center and experience the architectural wonder that is the Guggenheim.
- Visit the Basilica de Covadonga and the nearby Santa Cueva, or Holy Cave then take a walk in the Picos de Europa National park and the Lakes of Covadonga.
- See beautiful examples of Casas Indianas, the magnificent villas built by the many Asturians who made their fortunes after emigrating to the Americas.
- Hike over the beaches of Asturias – picturesque coves, mountain backdrops and spectacular marine geysers.
- Take a tour of the iconic town of Santillana del Mar and the famous city of Lugo, deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Enjoy the rolling, bucolic scenery of Galicia, with its myriad of churches and chapels.
- Indulge in the incredible, authentic food and wine. Did we mention the food? And the wine? Gastronomic heaven awaits you!
- Arrive at the Plaza de Obradoiro to see the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, along with the familiar faces of all the other pilgrims who have, like you, walked hundreds of miles to get there!
Facts about your tour
- Trip Duration: 18 days / 17 nights
- Walking Distance: 253 km / 157 mi
- Departure City:San Sebastián
- Arrival City: Santiago de Compostela
- Tour Availability: Guided group tour with fixed trip dates
- Accommodation: Excellent hotels, casas rurales, pazos and manor houses
- Transportation: Van or bus (depending on group size)
- Language: English
- Guides: English and Spanish-speaking Camino experts
- Walking Hours: 6-8 hours per day
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Compostela?
The Compostela is an official certificate issued by the Archdiocese of Santiago de Compostela, awarded to pilgrims who complete 100 continuous km of the Camino on foot (plus the last stage ending in Santiago de Compostela). If you are a part of a guided tour, your guide will collect it for you on your behalf. If you are on a self-guided tour, you can collect it in person at the Pilgrim’s Office upon arrival in Santiago.
Can I add extra nights to my trip?
Absolutely. Additional nights can be arranged before or after your trip. If you’re traveling during peak season or heading to a popular destination like Santiago de Compostela, we recommend booking in advance. We’re happy to help, so just get in touch.
How flexible is the itinerary?
Your experience is our priority. Some activities are weather-dependent, and if conditions change (a planned picnic lunch, for example), we’ll arrange a comparable alternative, like a group lunch at a local restaurant. If you’d like to add activities to your itinerary, contact us and we’ll do our best to accommodate. For a fully tailored experience, we also offer private guided tours and self-guided tours.
How difficult is the Best of the Camino del Norte?
We consider the Camino del Norte to be a medium level of difficulty. This is because it is one of our longer tours, involving walking 253 km/157 mi over 18 days. The route traverses much of northern Spain, known for its dramatic coastlines. Although you will mostly be walking along the coast, you must contend with a fair share of steep hills. With respect to navigation, the Camino in general is very well marked, making it easy to navigate. On this fully guided tour you will have the luxury of our support vehicle should you need it.
What is the weather like?
Contrary to popular belief, the rain in Spain does not fall mainly on the plain. Rather, it falls on the northern coast of Spain. Thanks to this vibrant oceanic climate, you will be able to enjoy the lush greenery that makes this area so special. To ensure that you have the best weather for your pilgrimage, we organize this tour during late late summer / early fall. However, it is always advisable to pack some rain gear.
Who are your guides?
Every one of our qualified, bilingual guides started out as a pilgrim. Most of us spent years walking the Camino before we ever thought about leading others along it. That firsthand experience is at the heart of everything we do, and sharing it with you is what keeps us coming back.
I’d prefer to walk less each day. Is that possible?
All of our guided tours include van support so if you ever feel too tired to walk, you can shuttle ahead to the lunch spot or your hotel. However, if you would prefer a tour at a different pace, we would be happy to customize a self-guided or private group tour for you.
What is the typical group size on guided tours?
Our guided group tours accommodate between 6 and 15 participants. The number of guides assigned depends on group size, and we aim for one guide per every 7 to 8 participants to ensure everyone gets the attention they deserve.
Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risk and Release
This document contains a complete release of liability. Read it carefully before agreeing below.
The undersigned understands and agrees that the travel to foreign countries including remote and underdeveloped areas and related activities that I have chosen to take and engage in with Andaspain LLC and its affiliates are potentially hazardous and dangerous activities and carry a significant risk of serious personal injury, death, or property damage. I also know that there are natural, mechanical and environmental conditions and risks which independently or in combination with my activities may cause property damage or severe or even fatal injuries to me or others.
In consideration of Andaspain LLC and affiliates agreeing to permit me to participate in the travel, hiking, sightseeing, walking and related activities and other good and valuable consideration, I agree that I am responsible for: (a) my safety while participating in activities undertaken with Andaspain LLC and its employees, and (b) providing, utilizing, and maintaining all equipment necessary for the safe enjoyment of my participation in such events and specifically acknowledge that the following persons or entities including Andaspain LLC, or its employees, agents, representatives and subcontractors or affiliates are not responsible for my safety.
By agreeing to this Acknowledgment and Assumption of Risk I acknowledge that I understand that any and all risk is expressly assumed by me, and all claims are expressly waived in advance. Additionally I understand completely and fully the terms and conditions and agree to be bound by them.
Andaspain LLC strongly encourages participants to purchase travel insurance including trip cancellation coverage.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
If you have to cancel your trip, we require the cancellation in writing. We will calculate the refund, where due, based on the day we receive your written cancellation.
The following charges will apply.
Cancellations received 121 or more days prior to trip start date: 10% of trip price
Cancellations received 120 – 91 days prior to trip start date: 15% of trip price
Cancellations received 90 – 61 days prior to trip start date: 50% of trip price
Cancellations received 60 days or less prior to trip start date: 100% of trip Price
Andaspain LLC reserves the right to cancel any of our trips due to insufficient participants – our minimum number of participants is four.
If Andaspain LLC has to cancel a trip for any reason, including insufficient number of participants, the full amount you paid to us will be refunded to you.