Camino del Norte from Gernika: 22 days by bike, shorter stages

Your Camino day by day

1. Day 1 Gernika → Bilbao 36.0 km · +1050 m / -1080 m

   Today’s stage from Gernika to Bilbao is a challenging 36 km trek, featuring a mix of rolling hills and urban landscapes. Pilgrims will pass through small villages and lush greenery before reaching the bustling city of Bilbao. A practical tip is to start early to avoid the midday heat during the climb.

   Did you know that Gernika is famous for its oak tree, which symbolizes the Basque people's rights and freedoms? The tree has been a symbol of Basque identity since the 14th century and is still a significant landmark today.

   

   Map of Bilbao: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Bilbao →

2. Day 2 Bilbao → Castro Urdiales 39.0 km · +550 m / -530 m

   Today’s stage stretches a demanding 39 km from Bilbao to Castro Urdiales, featuring a mix of urban landscapes and scenic coastal views. Pilgrims will encounter charming villages along the way, with a moderate climb and descent throughout the journey. A practical tip is to start early to fully enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

   Did you know that Castro Urdiales is home to the Church of Santa María, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that dates back to the 13th century? This landmark is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the town's rich maritime history.

   

   Map of Castro Urdiales: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Castro Urdiales →

3. Day 3 Castro Urdiales → Laredo 29.0 km · +400 m / -420 m

   Today's stage from Castro Urdiales to Laredo covers 29 km with a gentle climb of 400 m. Pilgrims will traverse beautiful coastal landscapes and pass through charming villages, making it a moderately challenging day. A practical tip is to start early to enjoy the cooler morning temperatures.

   Did you know that Castro Urdiales is home to the impressive Santa María de la Asunción Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture dating back to the 13th century? This church is not only a landmark but also a symbol of the town's rich maritime history.

   

   Map of Laredo: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Laredo →

4. Day 4 Laredo → Santander 41.0 km · +500 m / -500 m

   Today's stage from Laredo to Santander is a long and rewarding 41 km, featuring gentle climbs and stunning coastal views. Pilgrims will pass through charming villages and lush landscapes, making it a memorable journey. A practical tip: start early to avoid the midday heat.

   Did you know that Santander is known for its beautiful beaches and was once a favourite summer retreat for Spanish royalty in the 19th century?

   

   Map of Santander: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Santander →

5. Day 5 Santander → Santillana del Mar 47.0 km · +730 m / -660 m

   This stage takes you through a mix of coastal paths and rural landscapes, with charming villages dotting the route. Expect a challenging 47 km trek with a climb of 730 m, so pace yourself and stay hydrated. A practical tip is to start early to make the most of the cooler morning temperatures.

   Did you know that Santillana del Mar is often referred to as the "town of three lies"? This is because, despite its name meaning "Saint Ilario by the Sea," it is neither a saint, nor is it flat, nor is it located by the sea.

   

   Map of Santillana del Mar: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Santillana del Mar →

6. Day 6 Santillana del Mar → Comillas 23.0 km · +420 m / -400 m

   Today's walk from Santillana del Mar to Comillas spans 23 km with a climb of 420 m, offering a mix of lush landscapes and charming coastal views. You will pass through small villages, each with its own character, making the journey enjoyable yet challenging. A practical tip is to start early to fully appreciate the scenery and avoid the midday heat.

   Did you know that Santillana del Mar is often referred to as the "town of three lies"? Despite its name meaning 'Saint Helen by the Sea', it is neither a saint, nor is it flat, nor does it sit by the sea.

   

   Map of Comillas: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Comillas →

7. Day 7 Comillas → Unquera 27.0 km · +350 m / -330 m

   Today's stage from Comillas to Unquera spans 27 km, featuring gentle climbs and descents through lush landscapes. You'll pass charming villages and scenic coastal views, making it a rewarding trek. Remember to stay hydrated as you navigate this moderately challenging route.

   Did you know that Comillas is home to the stunning El Capricho, a unique building designed by the architect Antoni Gaudí in 1883, showcasing his distinctive style and creativity?

   

   Map of Unquera: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Unquera →

8. Day 8 Unquera → Llanes 26.0 km · +450 m / -430 m

   Today’s stage from Unquera to Llanes spans 26 km through lush landscapes and charming villages. The route includes a moderate climb of 450 m, making it a rewarding trek for pilgrims. Remember to stay hydrated as you traverse the scenic terrain.

   Did you know that Llanes is famous for its seafood, particularly its clams and anchovies, which are celebrated in local gastronomy? The town also boasts a rich maritime history, with its port being a vital hub since the Middle Ages.

   

   Map of Llanes: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Llanes →

9. Day 9 Llanes → Ribadesella 30.0 km · +500 m / -470 m

   Today’s stage from Llanes to Ribadesella spans 30 km, featuring a mix of coastal views and rolling hills. Pilgrims will pass through charming villages and enjoy the beautiful landscape, though the climb of 500 m may be challenging. Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

   Did you know that Ribadesella is famous for its prehistoric caves, particularly the Cueva de Tito Bustillo, which contains remarkable cave paintings that date back to the Upper Paleolithic period?

   

   Map of Ribadesella: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Ribadesella →

10. Day 10 Ribadesella → Villaviciosa 38.0 km · +800 m / -760 m

    Today's stage from Ribadesella to Villaviciosa stretches 38 km through varied landscapes, including lush green hills and beautiful coastal views. Expect a moderate challenge with a climb of 800 m and a descent of 760 m. A practical tip is to start early to make the most of daylight.

    Did you know that Ribadesella is famous for its prehistoric cave paintings in the Cueva de Tito Bustillo, which date back over 20,000 years? These remarkable artworks provide insight into the lives of early humans in the region.

    

    Map of Villaviciosa: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Villaviciosa →

11. Day 11 Villaviciosa → Gijón 30.0 km · +350 m / -370 m

    Today's stage from Villaviciosa to Gijón covers 30 km, with a moderate climb of 350 m. The route takes you through lush landscapes and charming villages, providing a mix of nature and culture. A practical tip: ensure you have enough water, as some stretches can be quite remote.

    Did you know that Gijón is home to the Evaristo Valle Museum, which showcases a collection of contemporary art and is located in a stunning early 20th-century mansion? This museum reflects the city's rich cultural heritage and artistic spirit.

    

    Map of Gijón: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Gijón →

12. Day 12 Gijón → Avilés 25.0 km · +280 m / -260 m

    This stage takes you from the coastal city of Gijón to the historic town of Avilés, covering 25 km with a gentle climb. Pilgrims will enjoy beautiful views of the coastline and pass through small villages along the way. A practical tip is to carry enough water, as some stretches have limited services.

    Did you know that Avilés is home to the historic Church of San Nicolás de Bari, which dates back to the 12th century and showcases stunning Romanesque architecture? This church is one of the oldest in the Asturias region, reflecting the area's rich cultural heritage.

    

    Map of Avilés: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Avilés →

13. Day 13 Avilés → Cudillero 28.0 km · +400 m / -380 m

    Today's stage from Avilés to Cudillero spans 28 kilometres, featuring gently rolling hills and stunning coastal views. Pilgrims will pass through charming villages and lush landscapes, with a moderate climb of 400 metres. A practical tip is to start early to enjoy the cooler morning temperatures.

    Did you know that Cudillero is known for its colourful houses that cling to the cliffs overlooking the sea? This picturesque fishing village was once a vital port for the region's fishing industry.

    

    Map of Cudillero: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Cudillero →

14. Day 14 Cudillero → Luarca 47.0 km · +720 m / -680 m

    Today's stage from Cudillero to Luarca spans 47 km and includes a climb of 720 m, making it a challenging but rewarding trek. Pilgrims will enjoy stunning coastal views and charming villages along the way. A practical tip is to start early to make the most of the daylight hours.

    Did you know that Luarca is known for its beautiful whitewashed buildings and is often referred to as the 'white town'? This picturesque fishing village is also famous for its seafood, particularly its fresh fish and shellfish dishes.

    

    Map of Luarca: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Luarca →

15. Day 15 Luarca → Navia 22.0 km · +400 m / -380 m

    The stage from Luarca to Navia covers 22 km through lush green landscapes and charming villages. Pilgrims will experience a moderate climb of 400 meters, making it a rewarding day. A practical tip is to start early to enjoy the tranquility of the morning.

    Did you know that Luarca is known for its stunning whitewashed houses and is often referred to as the 'White Town' of Asturias? This picturesque fishing village has a rich maritime history, celebrated in its local seafood cuisine.

    

    Map of Navia: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Navia →

16. Day 16 Navia → Ribadeo 31.0 km · +380 m / -400 m

    This stage takes you along the stunning northern coast of Spain, with beautiful views and charming villages like Barres and Villanueva. The 31 km route features moderate climbs, making it a rewarding challenge for pilgrims. Be sure to fill your water bottle at the fountains in the villages along the way.

    Did you know that Ribadeo is home to the famous Playa de las Catedrales, known for its impressive rock formations and arches? This beach is a protected natural monument and attracts visitors from all over the world.

    

    Map of Ribadeo: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Ribadeo →

17. Day 17 Ribadeo → Mondoñedo 36.0 km · +700 m / -660 m

    This stage offers a mix of coastal scenery and lush green hills as you walk from Ribadeo to Mondoñedo. You'll pass through charming villages, with a challenging distance of 36 km and a climb of 700 m. A practical tip is to start early to enjoy the cooler morning temperatures.

    Did you know that Mondoñedo is home to the Cathedral of Mondoñedo, a stunning example of Gothic architecture built in the 13th century? The cathedral is renowned for its impressive altarpiece and has been declared a National Monument.

    

    Map of Mondoñedo: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Mondoñedo →

18. Day 18 Mondoñedo → Vilalba 37.0 km · +850 m / -810 m

    The stage from Mondoñedo to Vilalba covers 37 km through lush landscapes and charming Galician villages. Expect a moderate challenge with a climb of 850 meters, so pace yourself and stay hydrated. A practical tip is to start early to avoid the midday heat.

    Did you know that Mondoñedo is home to the Cathedral of Mondoñedo, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture built in the 12th century? It has been declared a National Historic-Artistic Monument.

    

    Map of Vilalba: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Vilalba →

19. Day 19 Vilalba → Miraz 35.0 km · +800 m / -760 m

    Today's stage from Vilalba to Miraz stretches 35 km through lush green landscapes and charming villages, presenting a moderate challenge with an elevation gain of 800 m. Expect a mix of forest paths and quiet roads, so stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

    Did you know that the historic town of Vilalba is known for its impressive medieval castle, which dates back to the 15th century? This castle, once a fortress, now stands as a testament to the region's rich history and architectural heritage.

    

    Map of Miraz: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Miraz →

20. Day 20 Miraz → Sobrado dos Monxes 26.0 km · +450 m / -430 m

    Today's stage takes you through lush green landscapes and charming villages, making it a picturesque journey. The 26 km trek features a moderate climb, ideal for those prepared for a day of walking. Remember to stay hydrated and take breaks to enjoy the scenery.

    Did you know that Sobrado dos Monxes is home to a 12th-century Cistercian monastery, which is one of the most important examples of Romanesque architecture in Galicia?

    

    Map of Sobrado dos Monxes: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Sobrado dos Monxes →

21. Day 21 Sobrado dos Monxes → Arzúa 22.0 km · +300 m / -320 m

    Today's stage takes you through lush green landscapes and charming villages, covering 22 km with a moderate climb of 300 m. The route is relatively straightforward but be prepared for some gentle ups and downs. A practical tip is to fill up your water bottle at the fountains in the villages along the way.

    Did you know that Arzúa is famous for its cheese, known as Arzúa-Ulloa? This creamy cheese has been produced in the region for centuries and is a staple of Galician cuisine.

    

    Map of Arzúa: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Arzúa →

22. Day 22 Arzúa → Santiago de Compostela 39.0 km · +530 m / -540 m

    This stage is a long trek of 39 km, with a moderate climb of 530 m, making it a challenging yet rewarding day for pilgrims. The route takes you through lush landscapes and charming villages, creating a beautiful backdrop as you approach Santiago. A practical tip is to start early to avoid the heat and ensure ample time to reach your destination.

    Did you know that Santiago de Compostela is home to the famous Cathedral of Santiago, which is believed to be the burial site of Saint James, one of the twelve apostles? This iconic monument attracts thousands of pilgrims each year, making it a significant cultural and religious landmark.

    

    Map of Santiago de Compostela: sleep, eat, pharmacy → Places to stay in Santiago de Compostela →

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