The Camino del Norte offers a path less travelled to the popular Camino Francés route but equally captivating. For those drawn to the road less trodden, the Camino del Norte beckons with its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth. Selecting the perfect starting point is key to crafting an experience that resonates with your personal pilgrimage aspirations.
Camino del Norte
The Camino del Norte (the Northern Way), is a mesmerising route part of the larger Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. This trail takes travellers along the breathtaking northern shoreline of Spain, often called ‘Green Spain.’ The route begins in the Basque Country and crosses through regions like Cantabria and Asturias, ultimately leading to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. Along the way, you’ll discover fascinating cities, quaint fishing towns, and lovely sandy beaches, as well as indulge in scrumptious seafood. Below, we have listed the top starting points for the Camino del Norte. The routes are organised by their proximity to Santiago de Compostela, to aid in your planning. However, you can start your journey at any point along the way using our Camino de Santiago Planner.
Vilalba: The Gateway to Galician Charm
Starting from Vilalba, the last stage of the Camino del Norte and the closest to Santiago immerses you in the heart of Galicia’s enchanting landscapes and traditions. At 100km away from Santiago de Compostela, Vilalba enables you to qualify for your Compostela certificate. This market town is perfect for those wishing to experience the Camino’s spiritual essence within a shorter timeframe. The Galician charm, with its rolling hills and historic sites, provides a gentle introduction to the pilgrimage, ensuring a memorable journey through to Santiago de Compostela.
Discover The Route:
- Camino del Norte From Vilalba to Santiago Last 100km.
Navia: Asturias’ Coastal Gem
Next on our list is Navia, a picturesque town in Asturias, known for its stunning coastal views and vibrant local culture. Starting your journey here allows you to experience the northern coast’s rugged beauty and the warmth of Asturian hospitality. The route from Navia offers a blend of coastal walks and interior paths, showcasing the diverse landscapes that make the Camino del Norte so special. Navia is the ideal starting point for anyone looking to cycle the Camino del Norte, as it lies 200km/ 125 miles from Santiago and will be eligible for your Compostela certificate when you arive in Santiago!
Discover The Route:
- Cycling The Camino del Norte From Navia to Santiago 200km.
- Walking the Camino del Norte From Navia to Santiago – customise using our route planner.
Markina: Delving into Basque History
Situated in the heart of the Basque Country, Markina is a starting point rich in history and culture. Known for its remarkable architectural heritage and strong Basque traditions, embarking from Markina provides an insight into the region’s unique identity. The journey from here weaves through scenic mountains and quaint villages, offering a profound connection to the land and its people. Take a break and walk from picturesque Markina to lively Bilbao immersing yourself into the green rolling hills of the Basque countryside in this short break of 59km spread into 3 walking stages.§
Discover The Route:
- Short Break On The Camino del Norte From Markina To Bilbao.
- Walking the Camino del Norte From Markina to Santiago – customise using our route planner.
Santander: The Cosmopolitan Start
As the capital of Cantabria, Santander combines urban sophistication with stunning natural beauty. Starting your Camino in this bustling city allows you to enjoy its sandy beaches, elegant boulevards, and culinary delights before delving into the tranquil countryside. Santander’s route beautifully merges urban vibrancy with the tranquility of nature. It guides you along peaceful terrains and seaside trails into Galicia’s core.
Discover The Route:
- Walking the Camino del Norte From Santander to Santiago – customise using our route planner.
- Camino del Norte From Bilbao to Santander in 1 Week.
Bilbao: A Modern Pilgrimage
For those seeking a mix of modernity and tradition, Bilbao is an ideal starting point. As the largest city in the Basque Country, Bilbao is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, epitomised by the Guggenheim Museum. Embarking from Bilbao not only allows you to experience the region’s artistic achievements but also leads you through lush valleys and coastal towns, offering a contemporary twist to the ancient pilgrimage. A popular route for Pilgrims is from Bilbao to Santander, which takes 7 days and covers 109km (68 miles).
Discover The Route:
- Camino del Norte From Bilbao to Santander in 1 Week.
- Walking the Camino del Norte From Bilbao to Santiago – customise using our route planner.
San Sebastián: Culinary and Coastal Splendour
Finally, San Sebastián stands as a beacon of culinary excellence and scenic beauty. Beginning your Camino here offers an unforgettable experience, combining the pleasures of gastronomy with the allure of coastal walks. San Sebastian’s elegant streets, renowned restaurants, and beautiful beaches provide a luxurious start to your pilgrimage, setting the stage for a journey filled with natural beauty and cultural exploration.
Discover The Route:
- Full Camino del Norte from San Sebastian to Santiago.
- Camino del Norte From San Sebastian to Bilbao in 1 Week.
The Camino del Norte offers a range of starting points, each with its own unique allure. Whether you’re drawn to the cultural richness of the Basque Country, the stunning natural beauty of Asturias, or the historic charm of Galicia, your journey will be enriched by the diverse landscapes and communities you encounter. Remember, the journey is not just about reaching Santiago de Compostela but about the transformative journey within. Buen Camino!
For more information about the Camino del Norte or any other Camino de Santiago routes or to book your Camino trip, contact us. Buen Camino!
