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'El Camino del Norte' originates from the 9th Century and was one of the original Camino routes for pilgrims walking to Santiago de Compostela. Sheltered from the rest of the Muslim dominated Iberian Peninsula by the Picos de Europa and Cordillera Cantabrica, it was considered the safest route for Christian pilgrims making their way to the tomb of St James. The full route starts in Irun near the French border and joins the French route at Arzua.
Embarking on the Camino del Norte from Gijón to Ribadeo traces a path through the northern reaches of Spain. This leg of the journey weaves through the dynamic landscape of Asturias, showcasing a blend of coastal wonders, rustic villages, and a rich cultural heritage. Beginning in the lively city of Gijón, discover the the rugged coastline, historic towns, sandy shores, and green hillsides that characterize the region. Reach the northernmost point of Asturias, Cabo de Peñas, offering breathtaking coastal views and a lighthouse and end in Ribadeo where you can discoverthe Playa de las Catedrales (Beach of the Cathedrals), a stunning beach with natural rock formations. All along the journey, stay in comfortable accommodation with welcoming hosts and experience the best of Asturian cuisine.
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12kg of CO2-e PP per day
(96kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Gijon
On arrival in Gijon, make your way to the joining hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore the sights in the historic centre.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
To Aviles (6hrs)
On this first stage there are some stretches through an industrial area and along the highway, but you will also walk through the Monte Areo recreational area, which features a prehistoric dolmen (you will need to detour slightly to visit the Dolmen de San Pablo). Your destination is Aviles, a prominent naval town in the Middle Ages which today has lots to see for those interested in architecture. Distance: 25km/15.6mi, highest point approx 190m
Meals: B
Day 3
On to Soto del Barco (4-5hrs)
The walk today begins in Plaza de España in Avilés, passing through the historic centre before leaving the city. The route crosses the villages of San Miguel and Piedras Blancas and passes by the Church of Santiago del Monte. From there, you walk along the main road to Soto del Barco. This stage is mainly on paved roads, with moderate but continuous inclines, with typical waymarks of the Camino to show the way. Distance 17km/10.6mi, highest point approx 200m
Day 4
Continue to Soto de Luiña (5-6hrs)
Leaving Soto del Barco, you gradually reach the Plaza Marqués in Muros de Nalón. There are well-trodden dirt paths and paved roads leading to El Pitu and Cudillero, from where there are two options - to walk along the Camí Real de Las Ballotas (along the coast) or through the Sierra de Las Palancas (through the mountains - only recommended in clear weather). The coastal path ascends along a trail parallel to the highway and continues toward La Magdalena, descending to Concha de Artedo Beach. Cross through forests on either side of the small town of Mumayor then follow the road to Soto de Luiña. This stage has moderate elevation changes. Enjoy the scenery and the stops along the way. This and tomorrow's stages are some of the most beautiful of the Camino Norte, with the coastal route offering impressive views over the cliffs and access to the beaches. Distance 22km/13.8mi, highest point approx 190m
Day 5
Walk to Cadavedo (5-6hrs)
Starting from Soto de Luiña, the route follows a quiet secondary road with little traffic, passing through the villages of Novellana and Santa Marina until it reaches Ballota. From here, you ascend along a path to Río Cabo Beach and then pass through the village of Tablizo. Finally, an uphill stretch on a paved road leads to the medieval whaling port of Cadavedo. Distance 20km/12.5mi, highest point approx 160m
Day 6
Enjoy coastal and rural landscapes to Luarca (5hrs)
From Cadavedo, this shorter stage continues along a road that soon becomes a trail. Passing through fields and forests, you arrive at Querúas and then cross the village of Chano de Canero. Continue following the VA1 road towards the port of Luarca. After skirting the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora la Blanca, descend to the Paseo del Muelle in Luarca. This afternoon you can take a stroll around the rectangular harbour. Distance: 18km/11.25mi, highest point approx 140m
Day 7
On to Navia (5-6hrs)
This morning will start with a climb heading out of Luarca, before the path levels out for the rest of the day. The route takes you away from the coast and through countryside to the lively market town of Navia. There are moderate slopes through the day, as you follow the road on paths and paved tracks between houses and crop fields. Distance: 20km/12.5mi, highest point approx 180m
Day 8
Transfer to La Caridad and walk to Ribadeo (5-6hrs)
A morning transfer (at 8.30am) takes you to La Caridad to continue the walk (you can walk this section and forgo the transfer however it adds 10km to the day). This is the last day of the Norte that is close to the coast. From La Caridad the route passes through Valdepares, Porcía and El Viso. At El Viso variant walks are possible, or continue along the main route to Tapia de Casariego. The stage from Tapia de Casariego to Ribadeo runs along paths that wind between steep cliffs and fine golden sandy beaches. Cross the ‘Ponte dos Santos’ bridge over the River Eo to enter Galicia and arrive in Ribadeo. The town is renowned for its Cathedrals Beach, the second most visited site in Galicia - after the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, of course! Distance: 23km/14.4mi, highest point approx 60m
Day 9
Trip concludes Ribadeo
Arrangements conclude after breakfast. We can assist with booking extra nights on request.
What's included
What's not included
GRADE 3 - Daily walks are between 16 and 24km on well marked trails over diverse terrain – from relatively flat to coastal rocky to mountainous. Part of the route is on paved surfaces – you should pay particular attention to your footwear to ensure that it is suitable to avoid blisters. This is a well worn path where route finding will be reasonably straight forward (refer below for further details on self guided adventures). The main areas to concentrate on route finding are arriving and leaving towns and cities. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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