This website uses its own and third-party cookies, for the proper functioning of the site and to generate usage statistics.
By continuing to browse we understand that you consent to our ookie policy

Camino De Santiago: Northen Way

(Hondarribia - Bilbao)

Map Camino del Norte: Hondarribia - Bilbao

Pilgrimage through the Basque Country landscape from Hondarribia to Bilbao.

Embark on the 'Northern Way from Hondarribia to Bilbao', a challenging yet rewarding 152 km trek rated 4 out of 5 in difficulty, brought to you by Spain is More. Though the official route starts in Irún, our journey begins in Hondarribia, a coastal town of unparalleled beauty just 5 km from Irún. Immerse yourself in the authenticity of the Basque Country and its delicious cuisine.

In Hondarribia, enjoy its picturesque harbor and exquisite food. Travel from the beautiful La Concha beach in San Sebastián to the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, and experience 'unique cultural encounters on the Northern Way'. The Basque 'pintxos' will be a delightful 'gastronomic adventure in the Basque Country'.The terrain, though rugged and challenging, allows for the division of some stages, making this 'scenic and culturally rich trek on the Northern Way' a journey of discovery and culinary delights.

Click on Request a quote (on the right column) and receive a personalized offer for your trip with no binding commitment.

 

What Spain is More Offers

✔ Daily departures throughout the year.

✔ Carefully selected hotels, always with a private bathroom.

✔ A personalized digital guide from Spain is More with practical information about the route and recommendations.

✔ Stage customization: Yes, some.

 

Don't miss out...

We recommend adding an extra night at all the following sites so you have time to discover these beautiful localities.

✔ Hondarribia: This charming coastal town in the Basque Country is known for its medieval old town and picturesque atmosphere.

✔ San Sebastián: Famous for its La Concha beach and exquisite cuisine, San Sebastián is a must-visit destination for food and culture lovers.

✔ Bilbao: Home of the famous Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao offers a mix of modern architecture and Basque tradition.

Click here to explore the Camino del Norte

Find key insights on distances, terrain, climate, and vital tips.

It includes
  1. 8 nights in a double room - always with private bath/toilet.
  2. 8 x breakfast.
  3. Spain-is-More´s-Digital- Travel Guidebook: 
  4. Pilgrims passport/Credencial
  5. 24/7 emergency telephone number.
  6. Taxes.
Not included
  1. Some short local bus or taxi journeys, e.g. from airport to bus or train station in the same city.
  2. Summer: 1 June to 30 September is high season. Unlike the French route the hotels are filled with summerguests why the price increases considerably. During this time you should expect extra costs around 120 €/person.
Optional
  1. Personalise your Camino:(sometimes): Divide stages
  2. Baggage Transport:  your bag / suitcase will be transported from hotel to hotel on the scheduled days of hiking. Price 100 €/unit of max 15 kg.
  3. Extension of stay
  4. Printed guide. If you prefer the printed guide, it can be purchased for 30 euros per specimen. (You can add it when you buy the trip).
  5. Transportation to starting point from anywhere in Spain.
  6. Cancellation insurance: available in the trip confirmation process. (can be added when ordering).

Camino De Santiago: Northen Way

(Hondarribia - Bilbao)

From
790 EUR/pers.
Request Quote
Single room supplement: 350 EUR

Daily program

Hondarribia - Bilbao

Detailed itinerary (view all days )
Day 1.- Arrival to Hondarribia

Arrival in Hondarribia which is a beautiful village in the Basque Country with two historic districts that make up the old and monumental part of the town center.
'Casco Viejo' or Old Part corresponding to the walled old town. It is a area with many buildings of artistic and historical interest. The harbour is a charming fishermen neighbourhood, located outside the walls.  

Hondarribia is the perfect place to enjoy the local cuisine, either through pintos or in a restaurant (or both).

Day 2.- Hondarribia - San Sebastián 27 Km

You start off with a tremendously beautiful walk with a splendid view of the bay. In many regards this stage is one of the most beautiful on the route.

However, you will have to work for the beautiful view and the stage is quite hilly. But you will be perfectly rewarded with delicious pintxos in San Sebastián 's beautiful old town.

If today's stage is too long, there are opportunities to shorten it a bit, either at the beginning or at the end of the day. Consult with Spain is More or see the guide material that is sent to you before departure.

Distance: 27 Km

ALTITUDE PROFILEm
San SebastiánHondarribia
Day 3.- San Sebastián - Zarautz 20 Km

Waking up in San Sebastian is always a pleasure. Enjoy views of San Sebastian from Mount Igeldo and its lighthouse. You will walk through woods and the vineyards of Txacoli (white wine) and pass the picturesque fishing villages.

This day ends in Zarautz, a town between sea and mountains, which is also one of the most popular seaside resorts in the Basque Country.

Distance: 20 Km

ALTITUDE PROFILEm
ZarautzSan Sebastián
Day 4.- Zarautz - Deba 22 Km

This stage follows the coastline, forcing the pilgrims to overcome countless hills between the pretty coastal towns. You will pass, among other things, a beautiful monument from the 16th Century, as well as a wonderful geological phenomenon produced by the erosive action of the sea against the stratified rocks.

Distance: 22 Km

ALTITUDE PROFILEm
DebaZarautz
Day 5.- Deba - Markina - Xemein 24 Km

The stage becomes quite hilly as the route goes inland and leaves the ocean for the next 3 days.

Pilgrims are faced with tough climbs, but everything has an end and the last path of the route is more favourable.

Distance: 24 Km

ALTITUDE PROFILEm
XemeinDeba - Markina
Day 6.- Markina - Xemein - Guernika Lumo 25 Km

This day is an idyllic stage where Cistercian monks still welcome the pilgrims.

The Camino winds through dark and winding paths while small churches, towers and other medieval monuments are crossed.

The stage ends in the town of Guernica, which was immortalized by Picasso.

Distance: 25 Km

ALTITUDE PROFILEm
Guernika LumoMarkina - Xemein
Day 7.- Guernica - Lezama 21 Km

The Camino follows much of the day an asphalt road through the vast forests.

This part of the route is in sharp contrast to the modern metropolitan cities like Bilbao and San Sebastian.

Distance: 21 Km

ALTITUDE PROFILEm
LezamaGuernika
Day 8.- Lezama - Bilbao 11 Km

Monte Avril is the last "hurdle" of pelgrims that you must overcome to get to Bilbao. Bilbao, known for its cuisine, culture and music, which is felt throughout the city and especially in the old quarter.

We recommend to spend an extra day in Bilbao. The Bilbao Guggenheim Museum, the Euskalduna Conference and Music Centre, Norman Foster's Underground... are all examples of the dynamism that exists in Bilbao.

However, today's stage is short and you can easily get a impression of Bilbao in the time available.

Distance: 11 Km

ALTITUDE PROFILEm
BilbaoLezama
Day 9.- Departure

Departure from Bilbao

Other similar trips

See all Camino pilgrimages

What do our customers say

Read our guests' recommendations

Our blog

See more blog posts