The Camino Norte, or Northen Camino, is the second-most popular trail in Spain after the Camino Frances. The route starts in San Sebastian and travels along the coast, through the Spanish regions of Asturias and Cantabria, before turning inland and reaching Santiago de Compostela.

 

Tim Charody, the award-winning filmmaker, has captured what it's like to experience the Camino Norte on a self-guided walking tour with UTracks. Watch this short movie to learn more about walking the Camino Norte and the great benefits from going on a tour with a helpful navigation app, comfortable accommodation, daily luggage transfers and more.

 

 

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Pilgrims traveling along Spain's northern coast often follow a route now known as the Camino del Norte, or the Northern Way.

While pilgrimages traditionally began at one’s doorstep, attracting pilgrims from across Europe, many converged on this coastal path after reaching Spain. The Camino del Norte offered not only a safer route in the early days of pilgrimage but also breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to experience a less traveled path compared to the bustling Camino Francés.

Although less popular than its inland counterpart, the Camino del Norte draws pilgrims seeking a quieter, more introspective journey. Approximately 6-8% of Camino pilgrims choose this route, which meanders through charming seaside towns and rugged coastal landscapes, offering a unique perspective on the pilgrimage to Santiago.

Starting points vary, but many modern pilgrims begin their journey in cities such as San Sebastián, Bilbao, or Santander, allowing them to experience a section of the route within a week or two. Others take on the full challenge of the Camino del Norte, beginning near the French border in Irún and traversing over 800 kilometers to Santiago de Compostela.

The Camino del Norte is well-marked and provides adequate infrastructure for pilgrims, including albergues, restaurants, and rest stops, though not as extensive as the Camino Francés. This lends it a more intimate and less commercialized atmosphere.

The route offers an unparalleled blend of coastal and mountain scenery, from the dramatic cliffs of the Cantabrian coast to lush green hills and occasional glimpses of the Picos de Europa. Along the way, pilgrims pass through vibrant cities like Bilbao, home to the Guggenheim Museum, and Gijón, as well as smaller, picturesque villages steeped in history.

The Camino del Norte invites those who seek a more tranquil pilgrimage, steeped in natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a rewarding and memorable path to Santiago.

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