The stage, step by step
Leaving Castro and reaching Allendelagua
You leave Castro Urdiales with all services close at hand and cross the surroundings of Allendelagua. The profile descends gently between km 3.3 and km 10, losing 58 m as the route gradually approaches the wooded coastal landscape.
Islares and Oriñón
Islares and Oriñón are the clearest intermediate landmarks in the first half. You can find Rompeolas and El Pontarrón here for a break, but do not delay too long: the important climb comes afterwards.
Climbing to Lugarejos
Between km 14 and km 17.3, you tackle the hardest climb, gaining 223 m with an average gradient of 6.9%. It is the only section that really disrupts the rhythm; take it patiently and save energy for what remains.
Descending and arriving in Laredo
After the summit, the profile descends between km 17.3 and km 21.3, losing 205 m. There is still a climb between km 21.3 and km 24.3, but the day is now heading towards Laredo, where a wide range of services becomes available again.
What to see on stage 10
Iglesia de San Marcos de Allendelagua
This Gothic church stands on the coastal route. It appears at the beginning of the stage, while you are still leaving Castro Urdiales behind.
Playas de Arenillas
The beaches can be seen from viewpoints along the route. They are a visual landmark of the coastal landscape, although the path constantly alternates between open views and wooded trails.
Iglesia de San Martín de Tours
The church forms part of the heritage along the route between Castro Urdiales and Laredo. It is a stop associated with the small settlements that appear before the destination.
Iglesia de Santa María de la Magdalena
It stands in Laredo and is one of the destination’s main heritage sites. After the effort of Lugarejos, arriving in the town allows you to finish the day at a calmer pace.
Where to sleep in Laredo
The stage has accommodation spread along the route, which is useful if you want to adjust your finish. In Castro Urdiales, you will find Albergue de Peregrinos; in Islares, Islares Hostel; in Oriñón, Hostel Lia; and in Liendo, Albergue de peregrinos Saturnino Candina. If you reach Laredo, you can choose between Albergue Casa Loopez, Albergue Bajamar and Casa de la Trinidad.
Where to eat and refuel
Castro Urdiales is the best place to have breakfast and shop before setting off: you will find Carrefour, Lupa, Dia and several bars and restaurants, including Bar La Cueva, Pulpería Rosa Lar and Restaurante Los Chelines. In Islares, you can stop at Rompeolas, while the El Pontarrón section has the El Pontarrón café. Guriezo has supermarkets such as Dia and Lupa before the arrival in Laredo.
Practical tips for this stage
Save your legs for Lugarejos
The climb from km 14 to km 17.3 gains 223 m with an average gradient of 6.9%. There is no need to hurry in the first half: the initial profile is gentler, and the stage is best managed by conserving energy.
Carry water from the start
The route’s water points include Fuente de los Leones and Acueducto Romano de El Chorrillo. Even so, leave Castro with a full bottle and do not assume that a particular fountain will always be available.
Make the most of Islares or Oriñón
These are the clearest intermediate points for a break before the climb. If you pass through without stopping, the next section demands more concentration and the ascent comes in the second half.
Descend carefully after the summit
Between km 17.3 and km 21.3, you lose 205 m with an average gradient of 5.1%. Fatigue and uneven ground can put strain on your knees, so do not speed up simply because Lugarejos is behind you.
Frequently asked questions about stage 10
How long is the Castro Urdiales-Laredo stage?
It is 24.7 km, with an average walking time of 5.5 hours. The terrain alternates between climbs and descents, gaining 440 m and losing 424 m.
Where is the toughest section?
The climb to Lugarejos lies between km 14 and km 17.3. It gains 223 m with an average gradient of 6.9%.
Is there accommodation before Laredo?
Yes. You can stay at Islares Hostel, Hostel Lia in Oriñón or Albergue de peregrinos Saturnino Candina in Liendo. Laredo has more options.
Is the second half easier?
The descent predominates after Lugarejos, but it is not completely flat: there is still a 113 m climb between km 21.3 and km 24.3.