Camino del Norte

Camino del Norte by Bike – From Irún to Gijón

An epic cycling adventure along the Camino del Norte

Since 814 AD, thousands of pilgrims have travelled to the shrine of Santiago de Compostela. The Camino de Santiago is not only a spiritual quest, but also a physical experience full of breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable encounters and, in our case, a cycling adventure.

The Camino del Norte, which runs along the northern coast of Spain, offers a spectacular route along the Cantabrian Sea, with its rugged cliffs, mountains and some of the best views in Spain. On this journey, we will ride around 350 km by bike, from Irún to Gijón, enjoying every corner, climbing hills, and savouring the local culture and gastronomy.

Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer to Irún

We begin our journey with arrival in Irún. Here we will settle in and get ready for the first stage of our adventure.

Day 2 – Stage 1: Irún – Zarautz (46 km, +1,207m)

The first stage takes us from the French border to the charming coastal town of Zarautz, famous for its long beach and surfing atmosphere. Along this stretch, we will climb and descend hills, enjoying stunning views of the sea.

Day 3 – Stage 2: Zarautz – Markina (45 km, +1,083m)

This day we immerse ourselves in the green interior of the Basque Country, riding through forests and passing through picturesque villages. The climb will be challenging, but the beauty of the surroundings will make the effort worthwhile.

Day 4 – Stage 3: Markina – Bilbao (58 km, +1,348m)

From Markina to the vibrant city of Bilbao, a route full of contrasts between mountains, rivers and finally the entrance into one of the most iconic cities of northern Spain.

Day 5 – Stage 4: Bilbao – Laredo (67 km, +1,178m)

The coastal route takes us from the great city of Bilbao to Laredo, a small gem with golden sand beaches. A long ride, but full of unforgettable landscapes.

Day 6 – Stage 5: Laredo – Santander (45 km, +614m)

Today we head towards the capital of Cantabria, Santander, crossing valleys and gentle hills. Here you will have the chance to explore this vibrant city and its famous bay.

Day 7 – Stage 6: Santander – Santillana del Mar (37 km, +576m)

A more relaxed stage will take us to Santillana del Mar, a medieval town known for its cobbled streets and rich history.

Day 8 – Stage 7: Santillana del Mar – Colombres (47 km, +1,003m)

We leave Cantabria to enter Asturias, riding through mountainous landscapes and following the coast to the picturesque town of Colombres.

Day 9 – Stage 8: Colombres – Ribadesella (54 km, +770m)

The route follows the Asturian coast, passing cliffs and beaches, until reaching Ribadesella, famous for its canoeing festival and its landscapes.

Day 10 – Stage 9: Ribadesella – Gijón (70 km)

On our final stage, we ride to the port city of Gijón, where our nearly 350 km adventure comes to an end. A perfect combination of physical effort and the enjoyment of spectacular natural landscapes.

Additional details:

• Total distance: 350 km
• Difficulty level: Moderate, with some more demanding stages due to elevation gain.
• Recommendation: Good physical fitness and prior cycling experience.

Trip logistics

• Luggage transport: Each day, your luggage will be transported between accommodations.
• Technical support: A mechanical assistance team will be available at every stage.
• Accommodation: 3-star hotels or rural lodgings at each stop.
• Meals included: Daily breakfast and lunch, plus refreshment stops along the routes.

What to pack?

• Comfortable cycling clothing.
• Sun protection and waterproof clothing (northern Spain can be unpredictable).
• Water bottles and energy snacks.

What’s Included?

• Breakfasts, lunches, refreshment stops.
• 2 – 3 star accommodations or rural lodging.
• Tips for luggage, porters and hotel service.
• Support vehicle.
• Mechanical assistance.
• Bike guide.
• Luggage transport from hotel to hotel.
• Electric bike rental included.
• Mtbspain T-shirt.

Cancellation Fees

The cancellation policies described below take into account the costs incurred by
MTBSPAIN well before the start of the trip.
Deposits or full payments are fully refundable if cancelled up to 65 days before departure.
Days before departure. Cancellation fee
(per person)
61+ days. No charge.
60 – 31 days. 50% of the trip
30 – 0 days. 100% of the trip.