Camino del Norte Route 3 Galicia Spain   The Camino del Norte route, or the Northern Way, is also referred to as the Ruta de la Costa. This Camino was used for centuries by Spanish pilgrims coming from the magnificent coasts of the Basque region and Asturias. From there, they turned inland towards Santiago de Compostela, the final resting place of the Apostle Saint James. The Camino del Norte is a unique journey, so it is no wonder that so many consider this their favourite Camino. This Camino route unfolds out across some of the most spectacular scenery on Spain’s northern coast. It passes through superb cities, from Bilbao to San Sebastian and Santander to Oviedo. Ultimately, this Camino joins the Camino Primitivo route in Oviedo, which continues on to the city of Santiago. Santander, another port city, not only boasts a historic centre and beaches but is also where the royal family of Spain use to take their summer breaks. This third section of Camino del Norte takes you through the western coast of Cantabria with a mixture of coast walking and inland, more hilly country. Leaving Santander, you will move inland passing through towns before coming back to the estuary and village of Arce. A hilly day, passing meadows and sleepy villages, will have you arrive into Santillana del Mar.   Walking Tour Meeting: Santander Airport:   Bilbao Transfer: Airport transfers not included, but can be arranged for additional cost. Trip Brochure (PDF)

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Day 1: SANTANDER
You will be booked into a hotel in the heart of Santander. Once the summer destination of the Spanish royal family, nowadays there is an eclectic mix of tapas bars and restaurants, busy shopping streets, and sandy beaches all within easy walking distance of each other.
Distance: - 

Day 2: SANTANDER to ARCE
During this stage, the Camino moves slightly inland and passes through typical Cantabiran towns such as Santa Cruz de Bezana, Mompia, and Boo de Pielagos. The estuary of Boo de Pielagos leads to the village of Arce, where you will stop for the night.
Distance: 19.6 km

Day 3: ARCE to SANTILLANA DEL MAR
The Camino follows the pleasant, hilly landscape of the coast today. Coming to Miengo, we finally reach the Besaya region. Take your time while here to visit the charming little village of Suance. Passing meadows and sleepy villages, we eventually arrive in the mediaeval village of Santillana del Mar.
Distance: 25.4 km

Day 4: SANTILLANA DEL MAR to COMILLAS
This stage introduces the pilgrim to the wild western coast of Cantabria. The Camino passes villages of outstanding beauty like Cobreces, with its Cistercian monastery, and finally arrives in Comillas with its impressive beaches and remarkable architecture. Check out the spectacular ‘Capricho de Gaudi’, the Palace of Sobrellano with its pantheon chapel, and the Pontifical University.
Distance: 22 km

Day 5: COMILLAS to UNQUERA
From Comillas, the Camino continues along the coast, and comes to Oyambre Natural Park. Here you will have the chance to witness an outstanding marine ecosystem consisting of a large variety of birds, molluscs, and fish species. The Camino next reaches the town of San Vicente de la Barquera. Finally, passing estuaries, green pastures, and forests, we arrive in Unquera.
Distance: 26.6 km

Day 6: UNQUERA to LLANES
The Camino de Santiago enters Asturias, crossing a bridge over the river Deva and continuing into Bustio. Before Colombres, we have to climb the ‘Cuesta la Cantu’. Then we go downhill along the Sierra de La Borbolla. The Way now enters Pendueles. Here, the Camino take a narrow footpath that crosses the road to Andrin and climbs up to the Jorcada pass. The Camino drops to La Portilla and continues to Llanes, where we stay for the night.
Distance: 26.4 km

Day 7: LLANES to RIBADESELLA
Passing the beautiful beaches of Palombina and Barro, the Camino crosses the river Niembro. Climbing steadily uphill, we reach the Church of San Pedro de Pria, set on a hill overlooking the district’s seven main towns. Then, the Camino continues downhill to the mediaeval stone bridge over the river Gua­damia, it crosses the railway and continues on to Sobares and Ribadesella. Ribadesella is a fascinating town and well worth a stroll around.
Distance: 29.1 km

Day 8: RIBADESELLA
After breakfast, we bid you farewell. Ribadesella is visited year-round for its history, sport activities, and food – meaning there is plenty to do once you have finished your Camino. Ribadesella is also known for its prehistoric cave, Tito Bustillo, which is open to visitors all year round.

* itinerary can be customized with additional days to shorten the distance between places each day -- please inquire for more information
 

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This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:
Horses:
Pace:		Average distance: 24.9 km, Min: 19.6 km, Max: 29.1 km, Total distance: 149.1 km
Level:		(3 to 5 out of 5)    Moderate
Riders:		Min 2	Max 20

 
 
Santander

Santander city is surrounded by beautiful nature and is best known for its beautiful beaches. The Cathedral de Santander, dating back to the 13th Century, is not to be missed. If you have extra time to spare, a visit to the Museum of Prehistory and Archeology could also be an interesting visit and chance to develop your perspective of the region!


Santillana del Mar

Santillana del Mar is a well preserved historic village from the mediaeval times with brick buildings and cobblestone roads. The Collegiate Church from the 12th Century, with its finely crafted Romanesque works, is a must see. Located 2km from Santillana del Mar, you can also visit the UNESCO World Heritage listed Altamira Caves.


Bufones de Arenill

Bufones de Arenilla is a spectacular natural feature with a sea water eruptions of 20m high escaping from holes in the cliff. When the sea is calm, you will hear the sound of the sea splashing gently below. On the way to Ribadesella you will be passing the ruined Monsaterio de San Antolin with a beach of the same name close by to visit.
 
 

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