The stage, step by step
From Santander to Santa Cruz de Bezana
You leave Santander through a completely urban, tarmac setting, passing Peñacastillo before reaching Santa Cruz de Bezana and Mompía. It is a good idea to sort out breakfast, water and any shopping here, because the urban character of the start does not mean services will be evenly spaced throughout the day.
Mompía, Boo de Piélagos and Oruña
The Camino continues towards Boo de Piélagos and Oruña. Between km 7.5 and km 11 there is a sustained 52 m climb, followed by a 30 m descent to km 12.6. It is still a heavily developed stretch, with tarmac and built-up areas, so save some energy for the kilometres ahead.
Polanco, Barreda and Viveda
In Polanco you will find Albergue de peregrinos Clara Campoamor, a useful option if you decide to split the stage. Further on, you pass through Barreda and Viveda, with another 59 m climb between km 18 and km 20.9, followed by short climbs and a particularly steep descent between km 22.4 and km 23.3.
The final effort to Santillana del Mar
From Viveda, tackle the final section towards Santillana del Mar. There is a 46 m climb between km 29.3 and km 32.1 and, with barely any chance to relax, another 82 m climb between km 32.6 and km 36.3. The surroundings become more rural, and the medieval streets of Santillana make the tiredness worthwhile.
What to see on stage 13
Colegiata de Santa Juliana
Santillana del Mar’s most emblematic monument is a striking Romanesque church. It stands at the heart of the historic quarter, so you will arrive almost right beside it at the end of the stage.
Cuevas de Altamira
The Palaeolithic site of Altamira is closely associated with Santillana del Mar and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It bears witness to human presence in Europe 36,000 years ago; if you want to visit, arrange your booking in advance.
Santillana del Mar’s medieval quarter
Santillana has one of Cantabria’s best-preserved medieval villages. After such an urban, tarmac-heavy stage, taking an unhurried walk through its stone streets is an excellent way to finish the day.
Where to sleep in Santillana del Mar
Santander has the widest choice if you want to set off well rested: consider Albergue turístico Villa Miguela, Hostel Santander or Albergue de Peregrinos Santos Mártires. Halfway through the stage, Polanco has Albergue de peregrinos Clara Campoamor. At the finish you will also find Albergue El Convento; if you want to sleep in Santillana del Mar, confirm availability before setting off.
Where to eat and refuel
In Santander you can have breakfast and buy supplies without difficulty: Cafetería Alaska, Salitre and La Conveniente are specific options for getting started. After that, the choice becomes more limited between Santa Cruz de Bezana, Boo de Piélagos, Oruña and Polanco, so buy something before leaving the city. You can also bring food from Lupa or BM, both in Santander.
Practical tips for this stage
Set off early
With 36.3 km and an average walking time of 8.1 hours, it is best to start early. The final section includes an 82 m climb when you already have much of the day in your legs.
Many hours on tarmac
Do not expect a rural-path stage: the route is completely on tarmac and passes through built-up areas. Wear comfortable footwear, look after your feet and use your breaks to stretch.
Water and supplies
Leave Santander with your bottle full and some food in your pack. Even though there are services at the start, do not rely on being able to sort out every need in the next village.
Consider splitting the stage
If 36.3 km is too much for you, Polanco’s Albergue de peregrinos Clara Campoamor allows you to turn the day into a more manageable stage.
Frequently asked questions about stage 13
How long does it take to walk from Santander to Santillana del Mar?
The distance is 36.3 km and the average walking time is 8.1 hours. The tarmac and succession of built-up areas can make the day more tiring than expected.
Is it a difficult stage?
It is a hilly stage, with 409 m of ascent and 325 m of descent. The main challenges are its length and the final 82 m climb between km 32.6 and km 36.3.
Where can I split the stage?
Polanco is the clearest option because it has Albergue de peregrinos Clara Campoamor. You also pass through Santa Cruz de Bezana, Mompía, Boo de Piélagos, Oruña, Barreda and Viveda.
Does the route use dirt paths?
Not mainly: almost the entire route is on tarmac, through built-up areas and occasional industrial surroundings before you approach Santillana del Mar.