The stage, step by step
Leaving urban Bilbao
You begin surrounded by services in Bilbao and pass through the Begoña area. During the first kilometres, streets alternate with uphill sections; between km 1.4 and km 2.3 there is a 41 m climb, still manageable before the serious ascent begins.
Climbs and descents before Monte Kobetas
Between km 3 and km 5.4, you gain height again, with 117 m of ascent and an average gradient of 4.9%. You then descend between km 5.4 and km 7.4, but this is only a brief respite: the climb to Monte Kobetas occupies km 7.4 to km 9 and reaches an average gradient of 11.2%.
Barakaldo and Sestao
Once Monte Kobetas is behind you, the profile drops between km 9 and km 12.5 before linking a series of small undulations. The landscape becomes distinctly urban and industrial as you cross Barakaldo and Sestao; here, the tarmac weighs more heavily than navigation.
The final kilometres to Portugalete
The final section includes another gentle climb between km 15.8 and km 18.3, followed by the descent to Portugalete. The arrival is urban and leads to the surroundings of Puente Bizkaia, one of the stage’s most recognisable features.
What to see on stage 8
Monte Kobetas
This is the point that gives the stage its physical character. The climb is abrupt and requires you to save your legs from Bilbao, although afterwards you can continue towards the urban corridor of the left bank.
Puente Bizkaia (Bizkaiko Zubia)
This is a historic transporter bridge, opened in 1893 and regarded as an important example of engineering heritage. It appears at the end of the day, around Portugalete.
Barakaldo
Passing through Barakaldo shows how the Camino changes from central Bilbao to the industrial landscape of the left bank. It is not a stretch of countryside, but it helps explain the identity of this stage.
Portugalete
The destination provides a more distinctive finish than the preceding kilometres. It is the place to rest, eat and prepare for the next day towards Castro Urdiales.
Where to sleep in Portugalete
It is worth knowing this before setting out: all the accommodation along the route is in Bilbao, within the first two kilometres. Uri Hostel Bilbao, Ganbara, Albergue Claret Enea Aterpea and the pilgrims’ hostel at Santa Cruz de Begoña are useful for the previous night, not for when you finish. Portugalete has a pilgrims’ hostel and is a convenient destination, but it is an urban finish and, in high season, improvising is unwise: call in the morning, before entering the industrial crossing, and walk the afternoon without that worry hanging over you.
Where to eat and refuel
Bilbao offers plenty of options from the very start: Restaurante Casablanca, Erronda Berri, La Ribera Gastro - plaza and McDonald's are in the initial area, along with cafés such as Pagoa Café and Cafeteria Josune. After that, choices become less regular as you cross the industrial landscape of Barakaldo and Sestao, so set off with something bought in advance if you do not want to rely on finding somewhere open.
Practical tips for this stage
Save energy for Monte Kobetas
The climb between km 7.4 and km 9 gains 185 m with an average gradient of 11.2%. Take it with short, steady steps; it is the most demanding point of a stage that is also mainly on tarmac.
Set off with water and food
You will not find any fountains along the route: it is an urban and industrial crossing from start to finish. Bilbao gives you the chance to shop before leaving, with BM, Dia, Eroski and Covirán around the initial section; do not rely on finding a fountain during the walk.
Protect your feet
The route is mainly on tarmac and includes 427 m of ascent and 458 m of descent. Comfortable footwear and dry socks make a noticeable difference, especially in the second half.
Check availability in Portugalete
The stage ends after almost twenty urban kilometres, while the hostels are concentrated mainly in Bilbao. If you want to sleep in Portugalete, arrange your bed before setting off.
Frequently asked questions about stage 8
How long is the Bilbao-Portugalete stage?
It is 19.2 km, with an average walking time of 4.3 hours. The terrain alternates between climbs and descents, gaining 427 m and losing 458 m.
Where is the toughest climb?
The most demanding climb is at Monte Kobetas, between km 7.4 and km 9. It gains 185 m with an average gradient of 11.2%.
Is the route mainly trails or tarmac?
The route is mainly on tarmac. There are changes in gradient, but the tiredness also comes from spending many hours on hard surfaces and in urban areas.
Are there fountains along the way?
No, there are no fountains on the route. Leave Bilbao with enough water and use the supermarkets at the start to stock up.