Walk the entire length of one of the original Camino routes followed by pilgrims walking to Santiago. 'El Camino del Norte' originates from the 9th Century and was one of the original Camino routes for pilgrims walking to Santiago de Compostela. Sheltered from the rest of the Muslim dominated Iberian Peninsula by the Picos de Europa and Cordillera Cantabrica, it was considered the safest route for Christian pilgrims making their way to the tomb of St James. The full route starts in Irun near the French border and joins the French route at Arzua. This walk begins in the vibrant city of Bilbao with the iconic Guggenheim museum, before continuing along the dramatic coastline through Cantabria and the Asturias region. From Ribadeo, gateway to Galicia the route veers south passing through historic villages enroute to Santiago de Compostela. Enjoy a variety of landscapes and architecture, both ancient and modern, while staying in small hotels with local character. The dramatic coastline of the Bay of Biscay and mountain paths make the northern way both challenging and rewarding, whilst the quieter trails offer a great alternative to the more popular French route.
Walking toursSightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Bilbao, Santiago De Compostela
Bilbao, Santiago De Compostela, Bustio, Llanes, Ribadesella, Colunga, Villaviciosa, Gijón, Aviles, Soto Del Barco, Cadavedo, Luarca, Navia, Ribadeo, Mondonedo, Abadín, Vilalba, Reguela, Sobrado Dos Monxes, Arzúa, Liendo, O Pedrouzo, Noja, Galizano, Santander, Santillana Del Mar, Comillas, San Vicente De La Barquera
Prepare to travel the Atlantic Coast from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, in Spain. Experience ocean landscapes and fishing ports that supply some of Europe's finest seafoods. Recently approved by the Cathedral of Santiago as an official Camino de Santiago, although it might be the oldest of all pilgrimage routes to the sanctuary where, according to legend, the remains of St James lie at rest. The route takes in seaside villages, sandy beaches, estuaries, country lanes, vineyards and historic towns. Expect to savour seafood menus, fine wines and charming accommodation, including Spain's Paradores - luxury hotels in castles, stately homes and historic sites, renowned for their excellent hospitality and traditional cuisine. The Camino's history of devotion inspires awe, whether religious or not. As you approach Santiago de Compostela, you'll feel the excitement of entering one of the great holy cities of Christianity, following a path forged by centuries of faith and perseverance.
For more detailed information, please take a look at our itinerary.
Mountain biking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Age Range
16-79 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Porto, Santiago De Compostela, B
Porto, Santiago De Compostela, Baiona, Baiona, Pontevedra, Cambados, Bici Carril