The Northern Way (Camino del Norte) follows the entire Cantabrian coast from east to west, from Irún to Santiago de Compostela. At 818 km across 36 stages, it is one of the most spectacular and demanding Camino routes.
The route passes through the great cities of northern Spain: San Sebastián, Bilbao, Santander, Gijón and Oviedo, along with charming coastal villages with centuries of seafaring and pilgrim hospitality.
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Stage 1 of the Northern Way. 24.7km.
Stage 2 of the Northern Way. 22.1km.
Stage 3 of the Northern Way. 21.0km.
Stage 4 of the Northern Way. 24.0km.
Stage 5 of the Northern Way. 25.4km.
Stage 6 of the Northern Way. 19.8km.
Stage 7 of the Northern Way. 11.0km.
Stage 8 of the Northern Way. 19.2km.
Stage 9 of the Northern Way. 32.1km.
Stage 10 of the Northern Way. 24.7km.
Stage 11 of the Northern Way. 28.7km.
Stage 12 of the Northern Way. 15.3km.
Stage 13 of the Northern Way. 36.3km.
Stage 14 of the Northern Way. 22.2km.
Stage 15 of the Northern Way. 28.0km.
Stage 16 of the Northern Way. 22.9km.
Stage 17 of the Northern Way. 30.0km.
Stage 18 of the Northern Way. 20.1km.
Stage 19 of the Northern Way. 17.5km.
Stage 20 of the Northern Way. 29.8km.
Stage 21 of the Northern Way. 25.4km.
Stage 22 of the Northern Way. 23.2km.
Stage 23 of the Northern Way. 15.3km.
Stage 24 of the Northern Way. 18.5km.
Stage 25 of the Northern Way. 15.3km.
Stage 26 of the Northern Way. 30.5km.
Stage 27 of the Northern Way. 21.3km.
Stage 28 of the Northern Way. 20.9km.
Stage 29 of the Northern Way. 15.6km.
Stage 30 of the Northern Way. 16.6km.
Stage 31 of the Northern Way. 20.8km.
Stage 32 of the Northern Way. 18.5km.
Stage 33 of the Northern Way. 39.8km.
Stage 34 of the Northern Way. 22.0km.
Stage 35 of the Northern Way. 19.3km.
Stage 36 of the Northern Way. 19.7km.
Route
It is the oldest Camino de Santiago route. During the reign of Alfonso II (760-842), King of Asturias, the tomb of the Apostle James was discovered in Compostela (814). Alfonso II made a pilgrimage from Oviedo to see the newly discovered tomb, establishing this route.
Pilgrims enjoy exceptional natural heritage: the trail runs between mountains and sea, offering stunning views of cliffs, beaches and green meadows. The oceanic climate makes it ideal for walking in spring or summer.
At Arzúa the Northern Way joins the French Way for the final two stages to Santiago de Compostela. Along the route, monasteries in Santoña, Santillana del Mar and Santo Toribio record pilgrims passing since the 10th century.
13 free hostels on this route
