The stage, step by step
Leaving Zarautz for Getaria
Start in Zarautz with the first climb of the day just ahead. Getaria soon appears as a natural stopping point; if you need a pharmacy, Fuldain Farmazia is in the town. The route combines coastline and short climbs, so do not use all your energy at the start.
Getaria and the approach to Zumaia
Between Getaria and Zumaia, the route retains its coastal character. In Zumaia you will find Farmacia Mutiozabal and Izaro, as well as a good opportunity to stop before the climb between km 8.8 and km 12.8, which gains 194 m.
The climb to Itziar
After Zumaia, you have to gain height again. Between km 16.5 and km 18.8, the route climbs 132 m at an average gradient of 5.9%; this is the last significant climb before reaching Itziar and visiting Santuario de Santa María de Itziar.
Final descent to Deba
From the high ground, the descent towards Deba begins, losing 259 m between km 18.8 and km 21.9 at an average gradient of 8.3%. It is a beautiful but lengthy descent: control your pace and stay focused through the final kilometres.
What to see on stage 3
Iglesia de San Salvador de Getaria
Iglesia de San Salvador in Getaria was declared a National Monument. Construction began in 1525, and the church is dedicated to Juan Sebastián Elcano, who was born in the town.
Zumaia’s stratified cliffs
Zumaia’s stratified cliffs create one of the most striking geological landscapes of the stage. The route makes them a visual landmark before heading inland and tackling the next climbs.
Santuario de Santa María de Itziar
The sanctuary was built in the sixteenth century on the site of an earlier Romanesque church. It is a traditional landmark on the Camino del Norte and appears just as the day reaches its final major climb.
Iglesia Parroquial de Santa María de Deba
Deba’s church is a Gothic-Renaissance building begun over the remains of a fourteenth-century temple. It is one of Gipuzkoa’s notable buildings and well worth visiting at the end of the stage.
Puente de Deba-Mutriku
The bridge was opened in 1866 and is an example of nineteenth-century architecture. On reaching Deba, its surroundings help explain the historic relationship between the town and Mutriku.
Where to sleep in Deba
Zarautz has plenty of choice: as a beach town, it offers several hostels close to the start, from Blai Blai Hostel to Txiki Polit and Youth Hostel Zarautz. The useful thing about this stage is that you can split it without pushing yourself too hard. In Getaria, around km 4, there are Txalupa Hostel and Albergue Akarregi, with Askizu udal aterpetxea a little further on; halfway through the day, in Zumaia, there is San Jose komentua. Deba, by contrast, is the weak point of the stage, with far fewer choices, so if you plan to finish there, secure your bed before setting off.
Where to eat and refuel
Zarautz takes care of breakfast and supplies without leaving the centre: start at Kafe Lauok or Aramendia, eat at Asador Lagunak if you prefer a meal before walking, and stock up at BM Urban or Eroski. Getaria and Zumaia are both on the route and have their own options, but you reach them early, before you really feel like stopping. The issue is the timing: the climbs come later and do not always coincide with a town. Carry fruit and something savoury, and do not rely on finding an open bar precisely when you need one.
Practical tips for this stage
Treat it as a mountain day
Although it is 21 km, the stage gains 572 m and loses 565 m. The three main climbs are spread throughout the day, so keep a steady pace from Zarautz.
Carry water and refill in the towns
At the start in Zarautz you will find the Iturria and Aqua fountains, as well as shops and cafés. Refill before leaving urban areas and use Getaria or Zumaia if you need to buy supplies.
Do not take the descent to Deba lightly
The final kilometres lose 259 m at an average gradient of 8.3%. If your legs are tired, use poles or slow down so you arrive safely.
Book if you plan to stop en route
Accommodation is spread between Zarautz, Getaria and Zumaia. If you want to split the effort or secure a bed before Deba, book well in advance.
Frequently asked questions about stage 3
How many major climbs does this stage have?
The stage documentation identifies three significant climbs: one at Zarautz, another at Zumaia and the last at Itziar. The longest section runs from km 8.8 to km 12.8 and gains 194 m.
Where is the hardest part at the end?
The final section is not uphill but downhill: between km 18.8 and km 21.9, the route loses 259 m at an average gradient of 8.3%. It can put considerable strain on your knees.
Where can I buy food?
The easiest place is Zarautz, where you will find Domiko, BM Urban, Dia, Carrefour Express, Eroski and other shops. Getaria and Zumaia are on the way, but it is best to set off prepared.