Camino del Norte

The Camino del Norte follows Spain's rugged northern coastline from Irún, on the French border, to Santiago de Compostela. At 825 km, it is the second longest Camino route and one of the most scenic, tracing the Cantabrian Sea through four distinct regions: the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia.

This was one of the earliest routes to Santiago. During the 9th and 10th centuries, when much of central and southern Spain was under Moorish control, pilgrims from across Europe landed at northern ports and followed the coast westward. The route fell out of favour once the Camino Francés became safer after the Reconquista, but has seen a strong revival in recent decades.

The landscape shifts constantly. The Basque Country delivers steep coastal cliffs and world-class pintxos in San Sebastián. Cantabria offers golden beaches, the medieval gem of Santillana del Mar, and the dramatic descent into Santander. Asturias brings cider country, remote mountain paths, and tiny fishing villages. Galicia turns inland through eucalyptus forests and quiet hamlets before joining the Camino Francés at Arzúa for the final two stages to Santiago.

The Norte is considered one of the more challenging routes. The terrain is hilly throughout, with constant ascents and descents, particularly in the Basque Country and Asturias. Daily stages average 23–25 km but several exceed 30 km. The coastal climate means mild summers but frequent rain, especially in Galicia. Accommodation is available throughout but less dense than on the Francés, so booking ahead is recommended in beach towns during July and August.

This route is best suited for experienced walkers who want dramatic scenery, fewer crowds, and outstanding food. It takes 30–35 days to complete and is best walked between May and October. Pilgrims can also detour from Gijón or Villaviciosa to Oviedo to join the Camino Primitivo, combining two routes into one journey.