General information about the trip

Individual supl.: 175€
Registration and meeting deadline: 02 juny 19:00 h

The beginning of the greenest and most scenic coastal Camino, a route filled with history, sea and mountains

The Northern Way (Camino del Norte) is one of the oldest pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. Since the Middle Ages, it has been used by European pilgrims arriving on the Iberian Peninsula through the ports of the Cantabrian coast. Its landscapes combine dramatic sea cliffs, lush green mountains, dense forests and charming Basque villages, making it one of the most spectacular and authentic sections of the Camino.

On this journey we will walk the first section of the Northern Way, starting in Irún, on the French border, and finishing in Bilbao, a city that perfectly blends tradition, art and modernity and has become a symbol of the cultural renaissance of the Basque Country.

We will stay for four nights at the Olarain Residence in San Sebastián and three nights at the Hotel Euba in Amorebieta-Etxano, allowing us to complete all the stages without changing accommodation every day while enjoying the continuous support of our assistance vehicle.

Before beginning our pilgrimage, we will spend a day discovering the spectacular Basque coastline, visiting San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, one of the most iconic places on the Cantabrian coast, as well as the traditional fishing town of Bermeo, before continuing to San Sebastián.

An ideal pilgrimage for lovers of the sea and the mountains, combining breathtaking landscapes, Basque culture, outstanding gastronomy and the true spirit of the Camino along one of the most beautiful routes to Santiago.

Flight information

The group will depart on 27 July 2026. Meeting time at Palma Airport is 04:50 am, allowing plenty of time to complete check-in procedures before departure.

Vueling Flight VY3937
Palma de Mallorca → Bilbao
Departure: 06:50 am
Arrival: 08:15 am

Included baggage:

• One checked suitcase up to 20 kg.
• One small backpack or handbag that fits under the seat.

Important: Residents of the Balearic Islands must carry an updated residency certificate, as it may be requested at random by the airline or airport authorities.

Walking stages

Arrival day — Basque Coast · San Juan de Gaztelugatxe · Bermeo · San Sebastián

We will arrive in the Basque Country early in the morning. Our first visit will be to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, one of the most spectacular landmarks of the Basque coastline, connected to the mainland by a stone bridge and a long staircase offering magnificent views over the Cantabrian Sea.

Later we will travel to Bermeo, where there will be free time to stroll through its charming fishing port and enjoy lunch at your own leisure. Afterwards we will continue to San Sebastián for hotel check-in and dinner.

Stage 1: Irún – San Sebastián (24.7 km)

We begin our pilgrimage by crossing Mount Jaizkibel, enjoying breathtaking views over the Cantabrian coast before descending to Pasaia and continuing to the elegant city of San Sebastián. Lunch at a restaurant.

Stage 2: San Sebastián – Zarautz (22.1 km)

One of the most beautiful stages of the Northern Way. We will walk along dramatic cliffs, vineyards producing the famous Txakoli wine and picturesque fishing villages before reaching Zarautz, renowned for its long sandy beach and lively seaside atmosphere.

Stage 3: Zarautz – Deba (21.0 km)

The Camino continues along the Gipuzkoan coastline through Getaria and Zumaia, towns closely linked to the maritime tradition and famous for their impressive Flysch cliffs and unique geological formations.

Stage 4: Deba – Markina-Xemein (24.0 km)

Leaving the coast behind, we enter the rural heart of the Basque Country. Forests, gentle mountains and traditional Basque farmhouses accompany us throughout the day until we reach the historic town of Markina-Xemein.

Stage 5: Markina-Xemein – Gernika (25.4 km)

A stage full of symbolism leading us to Gernika, the historic heart of the Basque people and an international symbol of peace and freedom. Here we will discover the Assembly House and the legendary Tree of Gernika.

Stage 6: Gernika – Lezama (19.8 km)

Today's route follows peaceful rural paths and woodland trails that preserve the authentic atmosphere of the Northern Way. A pleasant stage before approaching the metropolitan area of Bilbao.

Stage 7: Lezama – Bilbao (11.0 km)

Our final walking stage takes us into Bilbao, completing this first section of the Northern Way. Upon arrival there will be free time to enjoy lunch and explore the city before our transfer to the airport, scheduled for approximately 7:00 pm, for the return flight.

Approximate total distance

148 kilometres divided into seven stages, crossing some of the most spectacular coastal and inland landscapes of the Basque Country.