Camino del Norte Route 4

Introduction
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.

This final section of the Camino del Norte takes you from the coast inland to Oviedo (which is also the starting point of the Camino Primitivo). From Ribadesella you still get to enjoy the coastline as you go up and down to towns and beaches before passing a famous Knights Templar site and Benedictine Monastery of Santiago to arrive in Colunga. A relatively short day follows along the valley before climbing up the Cabanona Pass and coming back downhill to another valley and the town of Villaviciosa.
 

Accomodation

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Riding
 
 
Villaviciosa

Villaviciosa is sometimes referred to as the ‘apple capital’ of Spain due to its production of cider. This isn’t all this charming town has to offer, however: you will also find the beautiful 13th Century Church of Sanra Maria de la Olivia. After, wander Villaviciosa’s historic centre and discover other buildings of interest like the Town Hall and palaces from the 17th and 18th Century.


The Church of San Salvador de Valdedios

The Church of San Salvador de Valdedios is the religious centre of Asturias and includes the small Oratory of San Salvador and the Cisterian monastery built around the Basilica of Santa Maria. The church is one of the finest examples of Asturian Pre-Romanesque art and is popularly known as ‘El Conventín’.


Oviedo

Oviedo has many chapels and squares to wander, as well as the beautiful Campo de San Francisco Park. Throughout the year there are many different festivals in Oviedo, all with their own charm. Whereas most of Spain is known for its wine, Oviedo is known for its local apple cider.
 
 

Itinerary

Day 1: RIBADESELLA
You will be booked into a hotel in the heart of Ribadesella. The town is known for its prehistoric cave, Tito Bustillo (open to visitors all year round), as well as the International Sella River Descent, where kayakers from all over the world gather to attempt the final 20 km of the Sella River on the first weekend of August each year.
Distance: - 

Day 2: RIBADESELLA to COLUNGA
The Camino continues uphill towards the village of Vega, at the foot of the impressive Monte Redondo. Reaching Vegas beach, we cross the Regatu del Acebu and climb to the charming village of Berbes. Then, the Camino goes downhill to the beach of El Arenal de Mons, where you can see the mouth of the River de los Romeros. After passing a well-known Knights Templar site and the Benedictine Monastery of Santiago (founded in the 11th Century), we arrive in Colunga.
Distance: 20 km

Day 3: COLUNGA to VILLAVICIOSA
From Colunga, the Camino continues along the valley of the river Llovones, passing small villages along the way. As we leave the valley the track leads uphill to the Cabanona Pass, where we can get superb views of the coast. The Camino continues downhill to Priesca, past the Church of San Salvador, which was consecrated in the year 921 AD. If the church is open, have a look at the paintings inside. Now, on the left bank of the river Sebrayu, the Camino follows the Nabla river valley to reach Villaviciosa.
Distance: 18.1 km

Day 4: VILLAVICIOSA to POLA DE SIERO
From Villaviciosa, we follow the Camino until we reach the village of La Casquita. Here, we leave the coast taking the southern way of the Camino Norte. On the Camino, don’t miss the Church of San Juan de Amandi, and the marvellous Pre-Romanesque Church known as El Conventin. We cross the river Valdedio and continue to Camoca to the Alto La Campa, enjoying superb views over the Sariego Valley. We finally descend to Figares and continue walking towards La Carcabada until we come to Pola de Siero.
Distance: 25.4 km

Day 5: POLA DE SIERO to OVIEDO
The Camino passes El Rayu, famous in the 18th Century for its ceramics, and we head towards Carbayal, Fonciello, Meres, and Granda. This area has a semi-urban character. Passing the small village of El Llugarin, we come to the mediaeval bridge of Colloto, entering Oviedo via Cerdeno and Calles de la Tenderina Alta and Baja.
Distance: 17.6 km

Day 6: OVIEDO
After breakfast, we bid you farewell. In the Middle Ages, Oviedo was one of the most important pilgrimage sites on the Camino. Don’t miss the Cathedral of San Salvador and the relics and treasures in the Holy Chamber while you are here.

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

Rates and Dates for Camino del Norte Route 4

Dates Note:

Other Info
Meeting: Ribadesella
Airport: Santander
Transfer: Airport transfers not included, but can be arranged for additional cost.

Climate: