The stage, step by step
From Irún to the first ramps
Leave Irún with enough water and food for several hours. Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Juncal is a good starting point before tackling the climb, which begins around km 1.5 and continues to km 7, gaining 272 m at an average gradient of 4.9%.
Jaizkibel, Santiagotxo and Hondarribia
The route continues through wooded hills and the steep slopes of Jaizkibel. Ermita Santiagotxo appears on the southern side, followed by the descent towards Hondarribia, with the Bidasoa as a visual landmark. Between km 7 and km 10, the route loses 71 m of altitude.
From Lezo to Pasaia
After passing through Lezo, the profile demands attention again: between km 10 and km 12 there is a 72 m climb, followed by a 67 m descent to around km 13.8. Pasaia is a natural stopping point before continuing towards Donostia; here you can find the private Santa Ana pilgrim hostel.
Arrival in San Sebastián
The final third combines a steep descent between km 14.5 and km 16.8, a climb to km 18.5 and another climb to km 21.3. From there, the final descent begins, losing 188 m at an average gradient of 7.5%, before entering San Sebastián through residential streets and along the seafront.
What to see on stage 1
Iglesia de Nuestra Señora del Juncal
The church in Irún was built in the sixteenth century over a period of one hundred years. It combines early Gothic and Basque Gothic features and houses the image of the Virgen del Juncal, considered the oldest in Gipuzkoa.
Santuario de Guadalupe
Located on Jaizkibel, it offers views over the mouth of the Bidasoa. It is one of the most memorable points in the first half of the stage, although it is worth conserving your energy as there is still a long way to go.
Castillo de San Telmo
In Hondarribia, Castillo de San Telmo recalls the town’s historic role as a frontier settlement. The town also retains a strong medieval atmosphere, linked to the old conflicts between the Basque and French territories.
Iglesia de San Vicente
In San Sebastián, Iglesia de San Vicente is one of the outstanding Gothic churches in the old town. Its imposing façade is one of the cultural rewards awaiting you at the end of the stage.
Where to sleep in San Sebastián
Irún is where most pilgrims sleep the night before: the pilgrim hostel and a handful of small places such as Gema, Los Fronterizos and Jakobi are all within easy reach of the start. If you want to begin the day a couple of kilometres in, Convento de Capuchinos offers accommodation for a donation. After that, options are scarce: there is nowhere to stop until Pasaia, beyond km 16, where Santa Ana is practically the only choice. Donostia has plenty of beds — Ulia Mendi, at the top of the final descent, and Atxiki, Koba and Downtown River Hostel in the city — but they fill up in summer, and you will arrive late with tired legs. Book before leaving Irún.
Where to eat and refuel
Irún has the most convenient options for breakfast and provisions. You can stop at Cafetería Naroa or Amona Margarita, eat at Ibaiondo or Txalaka sagardotegia, and shop at Super Amara. After that, do not expect a continuous succession of shops through the hills; reach Pasaia or San Sebastián with enough time and make the most of the options at the end of the stage.
Practical tips for this stage
Leave Irún with enough water
There is not much water available in the early mountain sections. Fill your bottles in Irún and do not tackle the climb up Jaizkibel relying on finding a fountain.
Do not underestimate the start
The first climb begins early and maintains an average gradient of 4.9% for 5.5 km. Set off early, use a short, steady stride and save your legs for the descents and later climbs.
Protection from the wind
The Jaizkibel ridge can be exposed to strong winds. Carry a layer that is easy to put on, especially if the morning starts with poor weather.
Book your arrival
With an average walking time of 5.5 hours and several demanding climbs and descents, you will reach San Sebastián tired. In high season, book your bed in Donostia before setting off.
Frequently asked questions about stage 1
How many kilometres is the stage from Irún to San Sebastián?
It is 24.7 km and takes an average of 5.5 hours. The terrain alternates between climbs and descents, with 559 m of ascent and 575 m of descent.
Which is the toughest climb?
The initial climb, between km 1.5 and km 7, gains 272 m at an average gradient of 4.9%. Several more climbs and two steep descents follow.
Where should I sleep if I do not reach San Sebastián?
Pasaia is the clearest alternative within the stage, with the private Santa Ana pilgrim hostel. There are also options in Irún and near the finish, but it is best to book according to your pace.