Camino del Norte (the Northern Way)
Self-guided Walking & Bike Tours
El Camino del Norte is one of the alternative routes to Santiago de Compostela, taking in the glorious north coast of Spain. This is a quieter route than the traditional Camino Francés and with its combination of stinging coastal walking, welcoming towns and outstanding cities, el Camino del Norte is a fantastic take on the Camino pilgrimage. Passing through different regions, all with unique, mouthwatering local cuisine you can undertake the spiritual journey exploring this part of Spain.
12-day Camino del Norte Walking Holiday (Part 5)
FAQs
The Camino del Norte is considered one of the most demanding Caminos due to the continuous changes in the terrain, some considerable ascents and long stages on tarmac roads. It covers a total of 825 km, divided into daily stages of between 20 and 30 km, and you can expect daily ascents of between 300 and 800 meters.
The full 825 km of the Camino del Norte can be completed on foot in about 5 weeks, with daily stages of 20 to 30 km. By bike, it takes 10 to 15 days, averaging 45-50 km per day.
The Camino del Norte is a good option from spring to autumn, and is the best alternative to the French Way for the warmer months. Temperatures in the Atlantic mountain range are mild, and few days exceed 30º. During the winter months, it should be noted that the weather is variable in the north, so pilgrims have to be prepared for both sun and rain.
The golden rule for preparing your backpack for the Camino is not to exceed 10% of your weight. When deciding what to take with you, place each item into one of 3 piles:
Essential: must take this with you (boots, T-shirts, fleece, Mobile, etc.).
Luxury: you do not necessarily need this, but one or two luxury items can be acceptable (a tablet to watch movies, makeup, umbrella, etc.).
Unnecessary: you can live without this for a few weeks (can opener, cups, stoves, tent, etc.).
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9:00am – 6:00pm (CET)
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9:00am – 6:00pm (CET)