The stage, step by step
From Lezama to Zamudio
You start in Lezama, leaving the village’s first services behind. The long climb begins at km 1.7 and continues to km 7.2; this is the section that sets the pace for the day. Zamudio is the first obvious place to stop, have a drink or buy supplies.
The climb towards Bilbao
The ascent gains 317 m over 5.6 km and feels easier if you keep a steady pace. Around Arteaga, you can make your way to Iglesia de San Martín and Torre de los Marqueses de Malpica, two useful landmarks before the landscape starts becoming more urban.
Down towards the city
The main descent starts at km 7.2, losing 290 m at an average gradient of 9%. The surface and surroundings demand attention, alternating between woodland, tracks and increasingly industrial areas. Restaurante El Leon Jatetxea appears along this section.
Entering Bilbao
The final kilometres lead towards the Begoña district and the urban fabric of the city. Puente de Rontegi marks a very noticeable change in scale before the finish; once in Bilbao, you will find bars, cafés, supermarkets, chemists and most of the accommodation.
What to see on stage 7
Iglesia de San Martín
It stands in the Arteaga district, at the transition between Lezama and the outskirts of Bilbao. It is a simple stop where you can take in some local heritage before tackling the more urban section.
Torre de los Marqueses de Malpica
The medieval tower stands beyond Iglesia de San Martín. Its presence recalls the seigneurial past of this section, which now combines residential neighbourhoods, tracks and industrial areas.
Iglesia de Santa María de Aretxalde
This is a 16th-century Gothic church. It preserves a panel from the anteiglesia of ancient communities and remains closely linked to Lezama’s rural landscape.
Puente de Rontegi
The bridge crosses the river Kadagua and marks a particularly recognisable point on the approach to Bilbao. Its panoramic views contrast with the urban landscape that follows.
Where to sleep in Bilbao
With only eleven kilometres ahead, it would be unusual not to sleep in Bilbao. There you will find everything from Albergue de Peregrinos Santa Cruz de Begoña, in the Begoña district where the Camino enters the city, to urban hostels such as Ganbara, Latroupe La Granja and BBK Bilbao Good Hostel. Lezama has a pilgrims’ hostel, but use it the night before if you want an early start: it makes little sense as the end of this stage. Book in Bilbao well in advance; it is the largest city on the entire Norte route and weekends fill up for reasons that have nothing to do with the Camino.
Where to eat and refuel
Lezama lets you set off after breakfast and buy something for the trail: there is Lezama sagardotegia, as well as supermarkets such as Josune and Denda. Zamudio, halfway along, is the obvious place for a coffee: Bide-bi and Bidegorri are close to the route, while Trady's will do if you only need to pick something up. The choice becomes plentiful again once you enter Bilbao, with Bar Amatxo, Sarima, La Ribera Gastro - plaza and several cafés in the Begoña district.
Practical tips for this stage
Do not be misled by the short distance
It is only 11 km, but you gain 316 m and lose 307 m. The climb from km 1.7 to km 7.2 and the descent afterwards account for practically all the day’s effort.
Carry water from Lezama
The only fountain on the route is Fuente de Santa Marina, in the higher section around kilometre 7. Do not treat this as an urban stroll from the outset: set off with enough water and refill whenever you have the chance.
Take care on the descent
Between km 7.2 and km 10.4, the average gradient is 9%. If it has been raining, descend carefully and do not rush when the surface changes from track to urban ground.
Make the most of Zamudio
Zamudio is the clearest halfway point for stopping, eating or shopping. After that, the route becomes more industrial and urban, so it is sensible to sort out any basic needs there.
Frequently asked questions about stage 7
How long does it take to walk from Lezama to Bilbao?
The average walking time is 2.4 hours for the 11 km stage. The actual time will depend mainly on the long climb and the final descent.
Is it an easy stage because it is short?
Not entirely. The terrain alternates between climbs and descents, with 316 m of ascent and a 317 m climb between km 1.7 and km 7.2.
Where can I stop halfway?
Zamudio is the clearest stopping point. You will find bars, restaurants and supermarkets there, including Bide-bi, Mosai, Trady's and Eroski.
When does the steep descent begin?
The main descent begins at km 7.2 and continues to km 10.4, losing 290 m with an average gradient of 9%.