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Camino del Norte

The Camino del Norte - the Northern Way - is the coastal route of the Camino de Santiago. It follows Spain's north coast through the Basque Country, Cantabria and Asturias, then turns inland across Galicia to Santiago de Compostela. It's quieter and more challenging than the Camino Frances, and a favorite with walkers looking for a different Camino after the French Way.

Our itineraries start in San Sebastián and cover 500 miles (803 km) to Santiago. Walk it all in 42 days, or in five sections of 8 to 11 days: San Sebastián to Bilbao, Bilbao to Santander, Santander to Gijón, Gijón to Ribadeo and Ribadeo to Santiago. You can also combine two sections in one trip.

Every trip includes pre-booked accommodation with breakfast, daily luggage transfers, your pilgrim passport and scallop shell, and turn-by-turn navigation in our app, with 24/7 support while you walk.

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Routes

  • Spain

    Camino del Norte

    • Walking
    • 8–42 days
    • Moderate to Moderate - Challenging
    from$1,950CAD pp
    View Route

Why walk the Camino del Norte

The Norte trades the crowds of the Frances for clifftop paths, beaches and some of the best food in Spain.

  • Follow the Atlantic coast past fishing villages and golden beaches
  • Savor pintxos in San Sebastián and visit the Guggenheim in Bilbao
  • Far fewer pilgrims than the Camino Frances
  • Walk it all, or one section at a time over several trips
  • Luggage transfers each day, so you hike with just a daypack

Get to know the Camino del Norte

Our full route from San Sebastián to Santiago is 500 miles (803 km) and takes 42 days. Each of our five sections takes 8 to 11 days.

Find your pace

  • Easy

    Up to 5 miles per day

    Flat, well-kept paths; ideal for beginners

  • Easy - Moderate

    6–9 miles per day

    Good paths, some gentle climbs; active beginners

  • Moderate

    10–12 miles per day

    Mixed trails, regular climbs; for regular hikers

  • Moderate - Challenging

    15–17 miles per day

    Remote mountainous terrain; experienced hikers

  • Challenging

    17+ miles per day

    Scrambles, big drop-offs; very experienced hikers

  • Strenuous

    19+ miles per day

    High passes, sustained ascents; expert, very fit hikers

View all Caminos & Pilgrimages

Know before you go

Get inspired for Camino del Norte Tours

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    Camino de Santiago: The Ultimate Guide

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