
Stage 11 · Camino del Norte
Laredo → Güemes
About this stage
Laredo to Güemes · 29 km · up 530 m, down 420 m
A unique stage that begins with a boat crossing of the Laredo estuary to Santoha (or a long walk around via Colindres), followed by coastal and rural walking to the village of Guemes. The terrain is gentler than previous Norte stages, with less extreme elevation changes.
The boat crossing is a memorable start to the day. After landing, the route passes through coastal marshland and gently rolling countryside with views of the Cantabrian mountains in the distance. The walking is pleasant and less demanding than the previous coastal cliff stages.
Guemes is famous among Norte pilgrims for its remarkable albergue, run by the charismatic Father Ernesto. The albergue offers a communal dinner, spiritual reflection, and genuine pilgrim hospitality. Many consider it one of the most memorable overnight experiences on any Camino.
Terrain: Beach walking, boat crossing, flat coastal paths, gentle hills, rural roads
The day, stop by stop
- 0km
Laredo
townA Cantabrian beach town with a sweeping crescent of sand, a medieval old town (Puebla Vieja), and full services. One of the longer established resort towns on the northern Spanish coast.
View town guideRestaurantCafeGroceryWaterPharmacyATMBusClinicPost Office
- 4.9km
Santoña
townA Cantabrian fishing town on a peninsula, famous for its high-quality anchovies (anchoas de Santona). Has a military fortress and marshland bird reserve.
View town guideRestaurantCafeGroceryWaterPharmacyATMBusClinicPost Office
- 7.4km

- 15.9km

- 18.8km
- 22km
- 28.8km

Places to stay along this stage
Koala Picks first, then each town in walking order. Where a place does not book online, walk in, call or message them.
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Planning the Camino del Norte?
Add this stage to your day by day plan and see how it fits with the stages around it. Day 0 is the night you arrive in Laredo. Choosing is never booking.
