General information about the trip

Individual supl.: 175€
Registration and meeting deadline: 26 may 19:00 h

The beginning of the greenest and most coastal Camino, a route full of history, sea, and mountains

The Northern Way is one of the oldest pilgrimage routes to Santiago, used since the Middle Ages by European pilgrims who arrived through the Cantabrian ports. Its landscapes, alternating dramatic cliffs, lush mountains, deep forests, and villages rich in Basque identity, make it one of the most spectacular and authentic routes of the Camino de Santiago.

In this program, we will walk the initial section of the Northern Camino, starting in Irun, on the border with France, and finishing in Bilbao, a city that perfectly combines tradition and innovation, symbolizing the cultural renaissance of the Basque Country.

This Camino is ideal for lovers of the sea and mountains, for those seeking an intense experience filled with natural beauty, ancient culture, unique gastronomy, and the true essence of the pilgrim spirit.

Stages of the route

Stage 1: Irun – San Sebastian (24.7 km)

We begin our journey crossing green mountains with breathtaking views over the Cantabrian Sea, arriving at the elegant city of San Sebastian, renowned for La Concha Bay and its world-famous gastronomy.

Stage 2: San Sebastian – Zarautz (22.1 km)

An unforgettable coastal stage where the sea takes center stage. We walk along cliffs, through txakoli vineyards and fishing villages until we reach Zarautz, known for its long beach and lively seaside atmosphere.

Stage 3: Zarautz – Deba (21.0 km)

The Camino continues along the Gipuzkoan coast, passing through Getaria and Zumaia, famous for their maritime heritage and the spectacular geological formations known as flysch.

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

We leave the coast and head into the rural interior of the Basque Country, with rolling hills, traditional farmhouses, and deep forests. Arrival in Markina-Xemein, a town full of historical and spiritual significance.

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

A stage full of symbolism. We reach Gernika, an emblematic city of the Basque people, symbol of peace and freedom, home to the historic Assembly House and the sacred Tree of Gernika.

Stage 6: Gernika – Lezama (19.8 km)

We continue through rural landscapes and ancient forests, walking the same paths used by pilgrims and shepherds for centuries, surrounded by peace and authenticity.

Stage 7: Lezama – Bilbao (11.0 km)

The final stage leads us to Bilbao, a city of art and culture. Arriving at the Guggenheim Museum marks the symbolic end of this section, blending the pilgrim tradition with cutting-edge urban modernity.