The stage, step by step
From Comillas towards San Vicente de la Barquera
Leave Comillas along rural paths and through open country. After the initial descent between km 0.8 and km 2.3, the route rises between km 2.3 and km 4.3; further on, it continues to alternate climbs and descents as you approach San Vicente de la Barquera.
San Vicente and Serdio
San Vicente de la Barquera is the main service point in the first half. From there, continue towards Serdio, with another climb between km 6.3 and km 8.5 followed by a descent. In Serdio, consider stopping at Albergue de peregrinos de Serdio if the day is starting to feel too long.
Pesués and Unquera
The route continues through meadows, over bridges and across estuaries via Pesués and Unquera. The descent between km 19 and km 22.5 brings you towards the final section, but do not relax too soon: the 108 m climb beginning at km 25 is still ahead.
The final climb to Colombres
From km 25, tackle 3.1 km of climbing at an average gradient of 3.5%. It is a sustained effort rather than one isolated ramp, so reach this section with water and food. The reward is finishing in Colombres, with its indiano architecture.
What to see on stage 15
Parque Natural de Oyambre
The park appears on the section between Comillas and San Vicente, with marshes, estuaries and coastal scenery. It is one of the most open parts of the day, but also one of the most exposed to sun and wind.
San Vicente de la Barquera
The town marks one of the stage’s major milestones and offers a natural break before you continue towards Serdio. Take the opportunity to rest and replenish your supplies.
Bridges and estuaries along the route
The stage crosses several bridges over marshes and estuaries. They provide clear changes of scenery in a day that alternates coastal areas, valleys and paths through meadows.
Colombres’s indiano architecture
Colombres is known for its Neo-Colonial buildings associated with emigrants who returned home. The arrival feels very different from the marshland landscape at the beginning.
Where to sleep in Colombres
In Comillas you can set off with a bed booked at La Magia del Camino or Finca María Luisa. The clearest midway option is Albergue de peregrinos de Serdio in Serdio. If you reach Colombres, you will find El Cantu and Casa de Peregrinos Colombres; Nómada Hostel is another option in San Vicente de la Barquera. Booking is worthwhile on this stage, especially if you want to sleep in Serdio or Colombres.
Where to eat and refuel
Comillas offers options for starting the day, such as Restaurante Quique and Restaurante La Caracola. In San Vicente de la Barquera you can stop at Al Lío and buy supplies at Lupa or Minymas. Further on, choices are more limited, so do not leave buying food until the final section; in Unquera you can use Depaso before tackling the last climb.
Practical tips for this stage
Protect your skin and body
There are sections exposed to sun and wind between Comillas and San Vicente. Take a cap, sun cream and a light layer in case the day is windy.
Save energy for the finish
The climb between km 25 and km 28.1 gains 108 m at an average gradient of 3.5%. Do not tackle it on an empty stomach: buy food in San Vicente or Unquera.
Take care after rain
Some paths can become muddy after rain. Waterproof footwear and a sole with good grip will help prevent slips on the uphill and downhill sections.
Plan your water
Fuente de los Tres Caños is right at the start in Comillas, and the next water point does not appear until the end of the day, so do not count on refilling along the way. Set off with your bottles full and use San Vicente de la Barquera and Unquera to top them up before the final section.
Frequently asked questions about stage 15
How long does it take to walk from Comillas to Colombres?
It is 28 km, with an average walking time of 6.2 hours. The accumulated elevation, with 480 m of ascent and 387 m of descent, makes the day feel long.
Where is the hardest part?
The clearest challenge comes at the end: between km 25 and km 28.1 you climb 108 m at an average gradient of 3.5%. There is also an 89 m climb between km 2.3 and km 4.3.
Is there food available during the stage?
The most reliable services are in Comillas, San Vicente de la Barquera and Unquera. Between these settlements, options are more limited, so carry provisions rather than relying on finding an open bar.
Can I split the stage?
Yes. Serdio is the clearest stopping point because it has Albergue de peregrinos de Serdio. You can also arrange to spend the night in San Vicente de la Barquera or continue to Colombres.