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Highlights
Enjoy the beautiful landscapes on your Camino route from Santander to Gijón
Experience stunning coastal landscapes as you journey along the northern coast of Spain, passing by picturesque beaches, rugged cliffs, and panoramic ocean views.
Explore historic towns and villages along the route, each with its own unique architectural heritage and cultural landmarks, providing insight into the region's rich history and traditions.
Traverse through scenic natural parks and reserves, immersing yourself in the beauty of lush forests, rolling hills, and pristine coastline, while enjoying the tranquility and serenity of the natural surroundings.
Experience the warm hospitality of the Asturian people as you interact with locals, sample traditional cuisine, and learn about the region's customs and traditions.
Discover the magic of the legendary Camino de Santiago Northern Way on this brilliant section from Santander to Gijón. This 13-Day self-guided pilgrims’ walk will introduce you to the most stunning landscapes of the Camino del Norte, as you trek at your own self-guided pace.
The journey begins in Santander, with pilgrims exploring its maritime charm and historic landmarks like the Cathedral and Palacio de la Magdalena. After a lengthy trek to Santillana de Mar, renowned for its monumental presence and proximity to the Altamira Caves, the route leads to Comillas, offering sights such as Gaudi's Capricho and the Palace of Sobrellano.
The pilgrimage continues through rural landscapes, passing through San Vicente de la Barquera and Colombres before entering Asturian territory. Scenic beauty unfolds with each step, from the coastal views near Pendueles to the monumental complex of Llanes. The journey is punctuated by significant climbs, leading to Ribadesella and eventually to Colunga. Crossing rivers and beaches, the route culminates in Villaviciosa, known for its cider, before the challenging ascent to Gijón, the bustling capital of Asturias, rich in cultural heritage.
Enjoy the ease of having all details such as accommodations, many meals, and luggage transfer taken care of for you on your Camino journey. This 13-day walk on the Northern Way is the perfect introduction to the iconic Camino de Santiago.
Other stages of the Complete Camino del Norte are:
- Stage 1 of the Camino del Norte: San Sebastian to Bilbao
- Stage 2 of the Camino del Norte: Bilbao to Santander
- Stage 4 of the Camino del Norte: Gijon to Ribadeo
- Stage 5 of the Camino del Norte: Ribadeo to Santiago de Compostela
Discover the magic of the legendary Camino de Santiago Northern Way on this brilliant section from Santander to Gijón. This 13-Day self-guided pilgrims’ walk will introduce you to the most stunning landscapes of the Camino del Norte, as you trek at your own self-guided pace.
The journey begins in Santander, with pilgrims exploring its maritime charm and historic landmarks like the Cathedral and Palacio de la Magdalena. After a lengthy trek to Santillana de Mar, renowned for its monumental presence and proximity to the Altamira Caves, the route leads to Comillas, offering sights such as Gaudi's Capricho and the Palace of Sobrellano.
The pilgrimage continues through rural landscapes, passing through San Vicente de la Barquera and Colombres before entering Asturian territory. Scenic beauty unfolds with each step, from the coastal views near Pendueles to the monumental complex of Llanes. The journey is punctuated by significant climbs, leading to Ribadesella and eventually to Colunga. Crossing rivers and beaches, the route culminates in Villaviciosa, known for its cider, before the challenging ascent to Gijón, the bustling capital of Asturias, rich in cultural heritage.
Enjoy the ease of having all details such as accommodations, many meals, and luggage transfer taken care of for you on your Camino journey. This 13-day walk on the Northern Way is the perfect introduction to the iconic Camino de Santiago.
Other stages of the Complete Camino del Norte are:
- Stage 1 of the Camino del Norte: San Sebastian to Bilbao
- Stage 2 of the Camino del Norte: Bilbao to Santander
- Stage 4 of the Camino del Norte: Gijon to Ribadeo
- Stage 5 of the Camino del Norte: Ribadeo to Santiago de Compostela
Read more
Camino del Norte from Santander to Gijón Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Santander for your Camino del Norte Pilgrimage
Santander is the capital of Cantabria, a city marked by its maritime and commercial activity! On arrival, settle into your hotel, then head out to visit Sardinero Beach, the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, and the Palacio de la Magdalena.
Overnight Location: Bed and breakfast in Santander
Distance: None
Meals: None
Day 2 Walk to Arce
Leave Santander behind, initially following urban stretches through Peñacastillo before continuing towards Boo de Piélagos. Depending on the tide, the crossing of the Pas River may require using the bridge or taking the train. Quiet paths through meadows and small villages then lead you to Arce, where you can relax beside the river.
Overnight Location: Bed and breakfast in Arce
Distance: 4 hours, 17km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Walk to Santillana del Mar
Continue through the Cantabrian countryside along agricultural paths, forested sections, and small settlements before reaching Santillana del Mar. Take time to explore its beautifully preserved historic centre, cobbled streets, traditional mansions, and the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana.
Overnight Location: Bed and breakfast in Santillana del Mar
Distance: 5 hours, 20km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Walk to Comillas
The route that awaits today runs away from the sea and is mostly paved. In general, today’s walk consists of moderate climbs without any major challenging sections. You’ll trek through cities like Cóbredes, where you can see the Cistercian monastery. The day ends as soon as you reach Comillas, a charming city, well worth exploring on foot. Top sights include Gaudi’s Capricho and the Palace of Sobrellano.
Overnight Location: Bed and breakfast in Comillas
Distance: 5 hours, 22.1km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Walk to San Vicente de la Barquera
Enjoy a shorter coastal stage as you make your way from Comillas to San Vicente de la Barquera. Comfortable paths offer views of the sea and the distant Picos de Europa. On arrival, you can discover the town’s medieval bridge, castle, and the Gothic Church of Santa María de los Ángeles.
Overnight Location: Bed and breakfast in San Vicente de la Barquera
Distance: 3 hours, 11km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Arrive in Colombres
Leave Cantabria and continue towards Asturias through a landscape of beaches, winding rivers, and mountain views. Climb towards the Hermitage of San Antonio before crossing the Tina Mayor estuary and entering Asturias through Unquera. Continue to Colombres, known for its colourful mansions and the Archivo de Indianos.
Overnight Location: Bed and breakfast in Colombres
Distance: 4 hours, 18km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Walk to Llanes
A day with beautiful landscapes awaits you as you walk to Llanes! The challenge really begins when you pass Andrín, but fear note, as just a few kilometers away, you’ll find Llanes. Llanes has a monumental complex of particular interest, but the “Cubes of Memory”, an artistic work in the port, should also be noted as a mandatory stop!
Overnight Location: Bed and breakfast in Llanes
Distance: 5 hours, 23.2km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 Walk to Nueva
Follow a relaxed coastal route from Llanes to Nueva, passing beaches such as Celorio and Barro along the way. The trail also leads through small villages surrounded by the green landscapes of Asturias. Your walk ends in Nueva, where you can rest before continuing towards Ribadesella.
Overnight Location: Bed and breakfast in Nueva
Distance: 4 hours, 18km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9 Walk to Ribadesella
Leave Nueva and follow rural paths and forested sections near the coast towards Ribadesella. This seaside town lies at the mouth of the Sella River and offers an inviting historic centre. You can also walk along Santa Marina Beach or enjoy views from the Hermitage of La Guía.
Overnight Location: Bed and breakfast in Ribadesella
Distance: 3 hours, 13km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10 Press on to Colunga
Cross the Sella River this morning as you set out towards Santa Marina Beach. Today’s walk is characterized by several stretches of sandy shoreline. Go uphill towards Vega de Ribadesella and cross the Vega River to discover La Vega Beach. Pass Berbes and follow the path through the beach of Arenal de Morís and Playa de la Espasa, and then press on to your destination today — Colunga!
Overnight Location: Bed and breakfast in Colunga
Distance: 5 hours, 20km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11 Walk to Villaviciosa
One of the shortest stages of the entire journey awaits today! You leave the coast completely to take a tour inland and combine the mountainous landscape of the north with asphalt paths. The most important climb of the stage leads from Pernús to Priesca. The day ends in Villaviciosa, a city known as Comarca de la Sidra.
Overnight Location: Bed and breakfast in Villaviciosa
Distance: 4 hours, 17.2km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 12 Final Walk to Gijón
It’s time to face another challenging day on the trail, but today is your last day on the Camino Norte, so be sure to soak up every moment! An undulating, but surprisingly urban environment paves the way to Gijon, with two significant climbs along the way.
Overnight Location: Bed and breakfast in Gijón
Distance: 7 hours, 29km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 13 End of Your Camino
Buen Camino & see you next time!
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation on Camino del Norte from Santander to Gijón
During this trip you will mostly stay in quaint hotels, bed & breakfasts, and pensions along the Camino route. These accommodations cater to pilgrims, providing an authentic Camino experience and modern amenities for comfort. They are most often locally owned and operated.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel where possible. Solo travellers may be required to pay a supplement.
What’s Included in the Camino del Norte from Santander to Gijón?
Meals
12 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 12 nights are included. Accommodations before the tour are not included but can be added as a supplement.
Transportation during the Tour
Transportation for your luggage is included throughout the tour (max. 20 kg – 1 piece of luggage per person).
Also included
- 24-hour emergency line
- Maps for all stages
- Pilgrim pass
- Pilgrim scallop
Not included
- Any personal transport
- Flights
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Tips
- Gratuities
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Single occupancy upgrades
- Optional activities or excursions
- 3rd person discount sharing room with 2 adults
- Half board supplement
- Picnic Supplement
- Private transfer to Santander
- Private transfer to the airport
- Extra piece of luggage
- How hard is the Camino del Norte from Santander to Gijón?
- Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?
- Are meals included on the Camino del Norte from Santander to Gijón?
- Do I need insurance?
- How do I get to Santander to start this tour?
- Where does the Camino del Norte from Santander to Gijón end?
- Do I need special vaccines to travel to Spain?
- Are there any travel restrictions for Spain?
We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. Although the terrain is not challenging, you will be walking up to 37 km daily. If you do this in July and August the heat can make this a very challenging walk.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
12 breakfasts included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover walking. Get your travel insurance.
You can get to Santander by flight, train, car or bus.
The tour ends in Gijón.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
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