Camino de Santiago by bicycle from Irun
Camino de Santiago by bicycle from Irun
- Cycle through charming fishing villages and picturesque towns along the Camino del Norte: Avilés, Unquera and Ribadeo.
- Discover the charm of Getaria, the historic town of Gernika, the picturesque port of Luarca and the Collegiate Church of Santillana del Mar.
- Let yourself be surprised by the exquisite cuisine of the north, famous for its fish, seafood and pintxos.
- Enjoy cycle tourism along the Camino del Norte, also recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Irún
If you have time, don’t miss a visit to the area around the River Bidasoa and the town’s historic centre. Of particular note is the Church of Santa María del Juncal, a medieval church considered one of Irún’s main historical and cultural landmarks.
Overnight in Irún
Hotel Alcazar Irún Centro Ciudad
This cosy hotel located in the city centre of Irun. It has fully equipped rooms with a private bathroom, TV and free Wi-Fi.
This accommodation features a bar where an excellent breakfast is served every morning.
Day 2 - Irún to Getaria 31,7 miles | 51 km
From here, the route alternates between coastal stretches and country lanes until you reach Zarautz and, finally, today’s destination, Getaria, a charming fishing village where you’ll spend the night. Stroll through its historic centre and let yourself be captivated by its seafaring traditions and renowned cuisine.
Ascent: 921m (3,022ft) / Descent: 918m (3,012ft)
Overnight in Getaria
Hotel Itxas Gain
Located next to the Cantabrian Sea, this traditional and family-style hotel is surrounded by huge gardens and a reading room.
It has rustic-style rooms, equipped with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
Day 3 - Getaria to Gernika 41,3 miles | 66,4 km
From this point onwards, the route becomes more mountainous and peaceful, passing through forests and small inland villages such as Markina-Xemein. The route moves definitively away from the coast into a more rural and peaceful setting, until you reach today’s destination, Gernika, a town steeped in symbolism and history. Stroll through its streets and visit its iconic tree, a symbol of Basque freedoms, and let yourself be enveloped by the cultural essence of this unique place.
Ascent: 1761m (5,778ft) / Descent: 1774m (5,820ft)
Overnight in Gernika
Hotel Gernika
Located in Sahagun, it offers rooms with a private bathroom, TV and free Wi-Fi.
You can also enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet.
Day 4 - Gernika to Portugalete 32,3 miles | 52 km
From here, the Camino descends towards the Nervión estuary, combining urban stretches with walks along the water’s edge until reaching Portugalete, the final destination of the stage. This town, with its distinct industrial and maritime character, welcomes you with one of its great landmarks, the Vizcaya Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through its historic centre and enjoy the port atmosphere that defines the identity of this unique enclave.
Ascent: 1206m (3,957ft) / Descent: 1177m (3,862ft)
Overnight in Portugalete
Gran Hotel Puente Colgante
This hotel is located in a historic building from the 19th century. It has been completely renovated and offers modern rooms with all comforts.
Enjoy the on-site restaurant, where delicious and elaborate dishes are served.
Day 5 - Portugalete to Noja 49,7 miles | 80 km
From here, the route continues along the Cantabrian coast, alternating between nature trails and small local roads until reaching Laredo, known for its long, fine-sand beach. From this point, the route offers two options: skirting the estuary or crossing it by boat to Santoña, famous for its canning industry.
Finally, after passing through marshes and landscapes of great ecological value, you will reach today’s destination, Noja, a coastal town ideal for relaxing and enjoying its beaches and natural surroundings.
Ascent: 1178m (3,865ft) / Descent: 1203m (3,947ft)
Overnight in Noja
Bluesea Noja
This hotel, located in Noja, features rooms with a TV and a private bathroom. The accommodation offers free internet connection.
Day 6 - Noja to Santillana del Mar 41 miles | 66 km
From here, the route continues westwards, combining urban walks with nature trails. After crossing the bay, the route enters a more rural setting heading towards Suances, known for its cliffs and beaches. Finally, you’ll reach today’s destination, Santillana del Mar, one of Spain’s best-preserved medieval towns. Stroll through its cobbled streets and let yourself be captivated by its historical heritage and unmistakable charm.
Ascent: 313m (1,027ft) / Descent: 329m (1,079ft)
Overnight in Santillana del Mar
Hotel Los Ángeles
In this traditional-style accommodation, decorated with stone and natural wood, you can enjoy authentic mountain food.
It has rustic-style rooms, equipped with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
Day 7 - Santillana del Mar to Unquera 31,1 miles | 50 km
From here, the route continues, alternating between coastal stretches and inland paths, passing through peaceful, green landscapes until you reach San Vicente de la Barquera, a picturesque fishing village dominated by its castle and church overlooking the estuary.
From this point, the path winds its way through marshes and meadows, gradually approaching the border between regions, until finally reaching Unquera, the destination for this stage. This small village, situated beside the River Deva, is known for its ‘corbatas’, a traditional sweet that is well worth a taste after the day’s walk.
Ascent: 786m (2,579ft) / Descent: 869m (2,851ft)
Overnight in Unquera
Agroturismo Muriances
Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and stay in rooms with everything you need for a relaxing stay, including TV, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
Day 8 - Unquera to Colunga 48,5 miles | 78 km
From here, the route alternates between stretches along the coast and country lanes that wind through meadows and small hamlets, offering constant views of the Cantabrian. The route continues westwards, passing through towns such as Ribadesella, situated at the mouth of the River Sella and known for its seafaring tradition. Finally, you will reach today’s destination, Colunga, a quiet town where you can rest and enjoy the natural surroundings and the essence of rural Asturias.
Ascent: 786m (2,579ft) / Descent: 778m (2,552ft)
Overnight in Colunga
Hotel Villa de Colunga
Hotel Villa de Colunga is located in the town of Colunga and offers rooms with private bathroom, TV and free Wi-Fi.
In addition you can enjoy a delicious breakfast and relax in its charming terrace.
Day 9 - Colunga to Avilés 44,7 miles | 72 km
From here, the trail heads towards more urbanised areas, gradually approaching Gijón, a lively coastal city where the Cantabrian Sea once again takes centre stage. After skirting part of its coastline and leaving its urban atmosphere behind, the trail continues westwards, alternating between industrial and natural sections until finally reaching Avilés. This city, with an interesting historic centre and a distinct industrial and cultural identity, offers a day’s end full of contrasts.
Ascent: 1075m (3,527ft) / Descent: 1085m (3,559ft)
Overnight in Avilés
Hotel Alda Palacio Valdés
This hotel combines a modern, comfortable and functional style. It has rooms equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
Day 10 - Avilés to Luarca 46 miles | 74 km
From here, the route continues amongst cliffs, forests and small hamlets, alternating views of the Cantabrian Sea with rural areas of great beauty. You’ll pass through increasingly open and secluded landscapes as you approach Cadavedo, always retaining the natural essence of western Asturias. Finally, you’ll arrive in Luarca, known as the ‘white town on the green coast’. Stroll through its harbour and historic centre and let yourself be enveloped by the seaside charm of this beautiful spot.
Ascent: 1567m (5,141ft) / Descent: 1574m (5,164ft)
Overnight in Luarca
Hotel Dabeleira
Located in the town of Luarca, its comfortable rooms have flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
Day 11 - Luarca to Ribadeo 33 miles | 53 km
From here, the route continues westwards through increasingly peaceful countryside, with paths winding through meadows and woods. You will gradually approach the border between the regions until you cross the River Eo, which marks the entrance to Galicia.
Finally, you will reach today’s destination, Ribadeo, a town with a long tradition of trade and seafaring. Stroll through its harbour and historic centre, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere that characterises this gateway to Galicia.
Ascent: 501m (1,644ft) / Descent: 471m (1,545ft)
Overnight in Ribadeo
La Casona de Lazurtegui
This accommodation is located in an old colonial house from the 20th century. It offers rooms with flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
Enjoy a delicious continental breakfast served daily in its cafeteria.
Day 12 - Ribadeo to Abadín 32,7 miles | 52,6 km
From here, the route continues to climb, offering sweeping views of the Galician countryside as it winds along quiet, little-used paths. The trail passes through increasingly secluded spots, where nature takes centre stage.
You will then reach Abadín, a small village surrounded by hills and meadows, the ideal place to rest and enjoy the tranquillity of the rural surroundings.
Ascent: 1397m (4,583ft) / Descent: 938m (3,077ft)
Overnight in Abadín
Casa Goás
This charming family-run accommodation features rooms with flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. It also has a restaurant and a lovely terrace.
Day 13 - Abadín to Sobrado dos Monxes 50,3 miles | 81 km
As the route progresses, the landscape becomes more undulating and tranquil, offering sweeping views of the Galician countryside and an atmosphere of profound peace. You will pass through small rural villages where time seems to pass more slowly, always preserving the most authentic essence of inland Galicia.
You will finally arrive at Sobrado dos Monxes, where its impressive monastery awaits you, one of the great historical and spiritual landmarks of the Camino.
Ascent: 775m (2,543ft) / Descent: 774m (2,539ft)
Overnight in Sobrado dos Monxes
Hotel San Marcus
Enjoy this comfortable hotel which features a garden, terrace and rooms with private bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the accommodation.
Day 14 - Sobrado dos Monxes to Santiago de Compostela 37,9 miles | 21 km
Throughout the day, the route alternates between country lanes and stretches of forest tracks, with gentle ascents and descents, passing through towns such as Arzúa, known for its cheese-making tradition and a common resting spot on the Camino. From here, the atmosphere is filled with excitement and anticipation, with every step bringing you closer to your final destination.
After passing through forests, mountain passes and small rural villages, you will reach Santiago de Compostela. Its majestic cathedral welcomes you in the iconic Plaza del Obradoiro, bringing to an end a journey steeped in history, effort and spirituality.
Ascent: 558m (1,831ft) / Descent: 788m (2,585ft)
Overnight in Santiago de Compostela
Hospedería San Martin Pinario
This historic monastery is the perfect place to relax in the heart of Santiago de Compostela, combining Galician tradition with maximum comfort.
Enjoy its rooms with private bathroom, free Wi-Fi and a good breakfast.
Day 15 - Santiago de Compostela
End of our services.
Itinerary Map
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Services
Included
- Accommodation in en suite rooms in charming hotels and country cottages
- Daily Breakfasts
- MTB bike
- Luggage transfers between accommodations
- Camino de Santiago pilgrim credential
- Information dossier with maps and routes
- 24-hour telephone support
- Assistance vehicle in case of emergency
- Travel insurance
- Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
- Taxes
Extras
- E-bike
- Cancellation insurance
- Additional nights
- Dinners
- Picnics
Accomodation
General information
The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available.
Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip.
The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip.
We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.
The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.
Room types
It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms.
All rooms have private bathrooms.
Travel & Transfers
If you cannot find flights to San Sebastián, your second option is to fly to Bilbao Airport.
If you arrive at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, you can take a direct train to Irún from Madrid-Chamartín station. The train company operating this route is Renfe; you can view timetable details and purchase tickets on their website.
At the end of your trip in Santiago de Compostela, we recommend flying from Santiago de Compostela Airport, which is just 15 minutes from the city centre. You can also get there by taking the bus, which runs every 15 minutes to the airport. You can find more information on the MonBus website.
FAQs
Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
- Maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg).
- Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
- Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
- Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
What is the best time of year to do this trip?
How far in advance should I book my trip?
How fit should I be?
What equipment do I need to bring?
Can I take this trip solo?
How do I get the pilgrim's credential?
Can I combine and change a few days of the tour?
Can some of the longer stages of the itinerary be divided?
- Comillas to Unquera (with overnight in San Vicente de la Barquera).
- Llanes to Ribadesella (with overnight in Nueva).