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18-day Camino del Norte Cycling Holiday
18-day Camino del Norte Cycling Holiday
style :
Level :
Duration :
18 days
Comfort :
period:
Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct
Code:
ESSB127
E-Bikes Pilgrimage Cycling
price in double room from: € 1.845
18-day Camino del Norte Cycling Holiday

18-day Camino del Norte Cycling Holiday

Self-guided Bilbao to Santiago Bike Tour

  • Bilbao, Santander and Avilés, with avant-garde buildings and historic town centres
  • Renowned gastronomy that will leave you speechless
  • Breathtaking cliffs above the Gulf of Bizcaya and inland planes of Lugo, A Terra Chá
  • Medieval villages like Santillana del Mar or Mondonedo that take you back into time
  • Oviedo, birthplace of all pilgrimages to Santiago
  • Special encounters with other pilgrims that will stay in your memory forever
  • Santiago de Compostela, a city forged by legend
read more >>
Camino del Norte map
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ROUTE

Start: Bilbao         Finish: Santiago de Compostela 

Day 1: Arrival in Bilbao
Day 2: From Bilbao to Castro Urdiales (41 km / 25.5 mi)
Day 3: From Castro Urdiales to Laredo (31 km / 19 mi)
Day 4: From Laredo to Santander (52 km / 32 mi)
Day 5: From Santander to Santillana (40 km / 25 mi)
Day 6: From Santillana to Bustio (49 km / 30 mi)
Day 7: From Bustio to Ribadesella (56 - 61 km / 35 - 38 mi)
Day 8: From Ribadesella to Villaviciosa (39 km / 24.4 mi)
Day 9: From Villaviciosa to Oviedo (45,7 km / 28.4 mi)
Day 10: From Oviedo to Avilés (30 km / 19 mi)
Day 11: From Avilés to Cudillero (32 km / 20 mi)
Day 12: From Cudillero to Luarca (55 km / 34.5 mi)
Day 13: From Luarca to Ribadeo (55 km / 34.5 mi)
Day 14: From Ribadeo to Mondoñedo (38 km / 24 mi)
Day 15: From Mondoñedo to Vilalba (33 km / 20.5 mi)
Day 16: From Vilalba to Sobrado dos Monxes (52 km / 32.5 mi)
Day 17: From Sobrado dos Monxes to Santiago de Compostela (56 km / 35 mi)
Day 18: End of Arrangement

Day 1:    Arrival in Bilbao

As you arrive in the modern and vibrant city of Bilbao you can sample the renowned Basque cuisine. If you arrive early it's worth visiting the Guggenheim Museum, walk through the old town and along the river at the center of the city as you prepare for your Camino.  And do not forget to collect the first stamp in your pilgrim’s passport!

Day 2:    From Bilbao to Castro Urdiales (41 km / 25.5 mi)

Today you start cycling in Bilbao towards Portugalete on urban areas. From there a long cycle path leads you to the beach of La Arena, where you will meet the Cantabrian Sea, you then follow a path along the cliffs, a very beautiful stretch where you leave the Basque Country to enter Cantabria. The coastal trail leads you to Castro Urdiales, a town with a beautiful harbor and a rich history. Take some time to explore its historic streets and taste the local seafood.  

Challenge: 41 km / 25.5 miles, 575 m ascent

Day 3:    From Castro Urdiales to Laredo (31 km / 19 mi)

Your journey continues along the northern coast, with the Gulf of Biscay as your backdrop. An interesting stage with beautiful scenery, with several beaches, cliffs and stretches through forest, alternating with green inland valleys. Its profile is a continuous up and down, but with moderate gradients. Laredo, your destination for the day, is known for its golden sandy beaches. This is a great place to relax, recharge, and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.  

Challenge: 31 km / 19 mi, 735m ascent

Day 4:    From Laredo to Santander (52 km / 32 mi)

Your day starts and ends with two short sails The first from the Puntal de Laredo to Santoña and the last from Pedreña to Santander, leaving you right in the centre of the city at a few steps from the modern art museum Centro Botín. In between the Camino winds through lush countryside and charming villages, passing three long beaches: Salvé (in Laredo), Berria (after Santoña), Helgueras-Trengadín (Noja). You will then turn inland to San Miguel de Meruelo and Güemes to finalize the day with an almost flat section with again two sandy beaches within reach: Langre and Somo. Santander offers a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a perfect ending point for your pilgrimage. 

Challenge: 52 km / 32 mi, 650 m ascent

Day 5:    From Santander to Santillana (40 km / 25 mi)

It will take you some time to leave behind the urban environment of Santander, because the city is built on a stretch of land surrounded by water and can only expand in one direction. Again we've found good alternatives for the official Camino, through hilly and often surprisingly serene countryside, ending in the  enchanting medieval town Santillana del Mar, one of the prettiest town in Cantabria. 

Challenge: 40 km / 25 mi, 650 m ascent

Day 6:    From Santillana to Bustio (49 km / 30 mi)

Today's route is long and interesting alternating rolling green hills with some brief incursions by the Cantabrian coast. In Comillas, you'll be captivated by the buildings in the modernist style - our art nouveau - such as El Capricho, one of Antoni Gaudí's first works. Continuing your route toward Unquera you will cross several bridges over marshes and estuaries, the largest just before entering San Vicente de la Barquera, an interesting fishing village.The second part of the route takes you land inward. Although the gradients of the continuous ascents and descents are moderate (with a maximum of 100m of ascent in one go), the total sums up 1125 m, so you get the feeling that the mountains are very close.  

Challenge: 48 km / 30 mi, 1125 m ascent

Day 7:    From Bustio to Ribadesella (56 - 61 km / 35 - 38 mi)

The first village en-route today is Colombres, where the outstanding villa Quinta Guadalupe catches your eye as you approach the town. It's one of several houses built in the 19th century by so-called Indianos, emigrants who returned wealthy from their stay in America and imported a whole new (and very flamboyant) lifestyle.  As you leave Colombres, the gentle sound of the ocean accompanies your journey as you pass through idyllic fishing villages, immersing yourself in the culture of Asturias and ending in Llanes. This mediaeval town has a lively centre full of traditional cider houses and a fishermen's port with artistic breakwater. When leaving Llanes you will cross some beaches such as Palombina, Torimbia and San Antolín, all of which are beautiful and quite busy in summer. The route then turns inland once again, through rural areas with less tourist pressure. After crossing a number of level crossings, you will end the day in Ribadesella, a coastal town famous for its prehistoric caves among other things.  

Challenge: 56 or 61 km/ 35 or 38 mi, 950 m in ascent

Day 8:    From Ribadesella to Villaviciosa (39 km / 24.4 mi)

A relatively short but interesting route, with some ascents that allow for superb views. Again, there are several beaches along the way to stop for a swim: Santa Marina (in Ribadesella), Vega, Arenal de Morís (somewhat remote), La Espasa and La Isla. In Colunga  you might decide to make a small detour to the Jurrasic Museum (MUJA) or the Playa de la Riega, where you can literally retrace the (fossilized ) steps of dinosaurs. The route continues more inland, through a mountainous landscape typical for Asturias, ith apple orchards, meadows and tiny rural hamlets. The day ends in Villaviciosa, the Apple Capital, famous for its cider production. 

Challenge: 39 km / 24.4 mi, 800 ascent

Day 9:    From Villaviciosa to Oviedo (45,7 km / 28.4 mi)

Today you will turn your back to the ocean in order to end your pilgrimage in a proper way, at the doorstep of the gothic Cathedral San Salvador in Oviedo. While cycling away from Villaviciosa recommend to visit the prerromanesque church and romanesque monastery in Valdedios before starting with the last (and very steep) ascent of 260 m to el Alto de la Campa. After that you'll sail mostly down, to the market town Pola de Siero and past some modern sub urbs. We have postponed the transition from peaceful countryside to a hectic urban atmosphere as long as possible, by offering an alternative route to the official Camino that follows the old N-634 for kilometers on end. But at the end you will be heading to the magnificent Cathedral of Oviedo, symbolizing the rich history and culture of Asturias which has been linked with the history of the Camino since the 9th century. It's a friendly town with some very good restaurants and numerous sidrerías (cider bars).  

Challenge: 45,7 km / 28.4 mi, 900 m ascent

Day 10:    From Oviedo to Avilés (30 km / 19 mi)

After a quiet morning in Oviedo, during which you can visit the Cathedral or one of the museums (Modern Art or Archeology), today's route takes you to the coastal city of Avilés. As you leave the capital of Asturias behind, cycling through the mount Naranco foothills, you'll experience a mix of urban and rural landscapes. Avilés welcomes you with an ugly area that recalls the heyday of mining industry  but it has a surprising historical town centre full of nice terraces and the flamboyant Niemeyer Art Cente. 

Challenge: 30 km / 19 mi, 400m ascent

Day 11:    From Avilés to Cudillero (32 km / 20 mi)

Today your Camino follows the coastline, offering splendind views while crossing villages with traditional Asturian architecture. The nicest views will be as you arrive to the banks of the Nalón River, where the San Martín Castle is guarding the Camino from its promontory. After an ascent to Muros de Nalón you will cycle a bit further before descending to Cudillero, one of the most beautiful fishermen's villages in Asturias. 

Challenge: 32 km / 20 mi, 575m ascent

Day 12:    From Cudillero to Luarca (55 km / 34.5 mi)

Leaving Cudillero, you'll venture through picturesque Asturian countryside as you are facing one of the most beautiful stages of the entire Camino del Norte. After crossing Soto de Luiña you will take the Camín Real de Las Ballotas, a coastal route with access to beaches and other services, eventually reaching the charming village of Cadavedo. The last obstacle of the day is the uphill section after Canero, but it allows for some beautiful views during the descent across Luarca with its white-washed buildings and fishing harbor.

Challenge: 55 km / 34.5 mi, 680m ascent

Day 13:    From Luarca to Ribadeo (55 km / 34.5 mi)

Cycle away form the coast, along comfortable inland tracks and roads, with moderate gradients, passing through numerous towns with services, through rolling hills and peaceful woodlands before arriving the coastal town of Navia. From there the Camino returns to the coast as you head for Tapia, another village with a charming little harbour, and Penarronda beach, surrounded by spectacular cliffs. Finally you will cross the wide river Eo to leave Asturias and enter Galicia. Ribadeo, with its beautiful estuary and lively atmosphere, is a perfect place to end your day.   

Challenge: 55 km / 34.5 mi, 325m ascent

Day 14:    From Ribadeo to Mondoñedo (38 km / 24 mi)

After Ribadeo you will definitely move away from the coast to enter the green hills of Galicia, a rather mountainous route through a sparsely populated rural territory. The most important climb of the day will be between A Ponte de Arante and Gondán: 260 metres of ascent in 5 kilometres! You will cross two interesting towns with an interesting cultural heritage: Vilanova de Lourenzá, where the church of the old monastery stands out, and Mondoñedo, capital of the region of A Mariña Central and diocese since the Middle Ages. Mondoñedo’s cathedral (erected in 1246 although restyled several times afterward) and the old quarter are a National Historic-Artistic Site.  

Challenge: 38 km / 24 mi, 975m ascent

Day 15:    From Mondoñedo to Vilalba (33 km / 20.5 mi)

An interesting route because you ascend to Terra Chá, the inland plateau of Lugo, passing from 140 to 560 metres above sea level. The Camino passes through the valleys of Valiñadares and Lousada, as you make your way to Abadín and finally Vilalba, another town known for its medieval heritage. 

Challenge: 33 km / 20.5 mi, 600m ascent

Day 16:    From Vilalba to Sobrado dos Monxes (52 km / 32.5 mi)

Today the Camino follows all sort of tracks; dirt roads, paths and muddy corredoiras (tractor ruts) and there hardly are any ascents, allowing you to truely enjoy the rural environment. Buy a coffee and bocadillo in Baamonde, the last village before entering a very solitary and wooded section populated only by meigas and trasgos (mythical creatures similar to witches and goblins), Finally you will reach As Cruces and Sobrado dos Monxes; named after it's impressive monastery founded in 951 by monks (monxes).  

Challenge: 52 km / 32.5 mi, 635 m ascent

Day 17:    From Sobrado dos Monxes to Santiago de Compostela (56 km / 35 mi)

In contrast to the previous sections, today the landscape is becoming much more urban, as you are approaching Santiago. The route converges in Arzúa with the maelstrom of the classic Camino also known as the French Way. Although a very busy and monotous section, it has the added value of the vibes of excitement that fill the air; the collective positive energy of hordes of fellow pilgrims, drawn by an immense, irresistible magnet: the Plaza Obradoiro in Santiago. The urban hustle and bustle will not deter you and it’s still easy to imagine ancient pilgrims weeping with joy as they glimpsed the distant spires of the Cathedral. Historically, pilgrims pause at Monte do Gozo to set their sights then make one last stop at the spring in Lavacolla, to cleanse their face and feet before meeting their beloved saint in Santiago de Compostela.  

Challenge: 56 km / 35 mi, 625 m ascent

Day 18:    End of Arrangement

After breakfast your Camino comes to an end. Option of booking an extra night in Santiago de Compostela.  

STANDARD HOTELS

Comfortable family-run hotels and hostels with private en-suite rooms. They have been carefully selected for their location, atmosphere and/or unique services. If a certain hotel is unable to confirm due to lack of availability, we will request a similar one and inform you about the alternative booked. 

Extra nights can be booked at any of the accommodations along the way.

Hotel Iturrienea Ostatua (Bilbao)
Hotel Iturrienea Ostatua (Bilbao)

Iturrienea Ostatua is located in the heart of the historic centre of the city, on the first floor of a building built in 1906 for the Countess of McMahon. With a typical Basque farmhouse atmosphere, this accommodation treasures unique pieces of furniture and decoration.

www.iturrieneaostatua.com

 Pensión Ardigales 11 (Castro Urdiales)
Pensión Ardigales 11 (Castro Urdiales)

ensión Ardigales 11 in Castro Urdiales offers 12 aesthetic and functional rooms, providing options for single, double, and family accommodations. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and there's a welcoming reception area with a resting zone.

www.pensionardigales11.com

Hotel Cosmopol (Laredo)
Hotel Cosmopol (Laredo)

The Hotel Cosmopol is located in front of the Salvé beach and only a few metres from the beach of Laredo. The complex offers all the necessary services and facilities and has an outdoor swimming pool. All rooms are exterior.

www.hotelcosmopol.es

Le Petit Boutique (Santander)
Le Petit Boutique (Santander)

Located 200 meters from Sardinero Beach, enjoy a boutique hotel with personality and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. All rooms offer independent air conditioning and fiber optic wifi.

www.lepetithotelsantander.com

 Hotel Los Infantes (Santillana)
Hotel Los Infantes (Santillana)

A 17th century palace converted into a hotel in the centre of Santillana del Mar. The facilities include beautiful lounges and common areas, a magnificent restaurant with a central fireplace, cafeteria, garden terrace with views of the imposing main façade and free WIFI.

www.hotel-los-infantes.com

 Agroturismo Muriances (Vilde)
Agroturismo Muriances (Vilde)

Located on the bank of the Deva river, with views towards the Picos de Europa. With a wide garden, a large living room with chimney and free parking. 

www.agroturismo-muriances-guest-house.hotel-costa-verde.com

 Hotel Jardín de Eugenia (Ribadesella)
Hotel Jardín de Eugenia (Ribadesella)

Family-run hotel with elegant, well-equipped rooms, very well located, next to the Sella estuary and a 10-minute walk from the beach and the centre of Ribadesella.

www.eljardindeugenia.com

 Hotel Casa España (Villaviciosa)
Hotel Casa España (Villaviciosa)

Situated in Villaviciosa's historic center, Hotel Casa España occupies the restored Casa del Arcediano, formerly a chocolate factory. The Hotel features 12 rooms with amenities like heating, TV, and a bathroom with a hairdryer. It offers services such as a cafeteria, social lounge and restaurant.

www.hotelcasaespana.es

 Hotel Campoamor (Oviedo)
Hotel Campoamor (Oviedo)

Recently renovated hotel located in the heart of Oviedo, facing the Campoamor Theater and close to Gascona Street, a lively area with many traditional cider bars. Featuring comfortable, quiet, and spacious rooms.

www.hotelcampoamoroviedo.com

 Hotel Don Pedro (Avilés)
Hotel Don Pedro (Avilés)

A charming hotel located in the heart of the historic-artistic district of Avilés. Just 30 meters from the Town Hall and Plaza de España, and 100 meters from the international center Oscar Niemeyer.

www.hoteldonpedro.es

 Hotel La Casona de Pío (Cudillero)
Hotel La Casona de Pío (Cudillero)

Ten double rooms, one of them with a lounge, perfectly equipped. The comfort of the facilities, combined with friendly and personalized service, creates a feeling of being in a homely and comfortable environment for our guests.

www.lacasonadepio.com

 Hotel Báltico (Luarca)
Hotel Báltico (Luarca)

A very peaceful hotel located in the heart of the fishing port and in the center of Luarca. It offers guests a pleasant stay and exceptional cuisine, where you can taste typical dishes of the region.

www.hotelbaltico.com

 Hotel La Casona Lazúrtegui (Ribadeo)
Hotel La Casona Lazúrtegui (Ribadeo)

The Casona de Lazúrtegui Hotel is located in Ribadeo. The rooms feature adjustable air conditioning, TV, Wi-Fi, hydromassage bathtub, hairdryer, safe, and minibar.

www.hotelcasona.com

Hotel Montero (Mondoñedo)
Hotel Montero (Mondoñedo)

Located at the entrance to the Episcopal City of Mondoñedo, just 200m from the center, our hotel offers 17 comfortable rooms. In our restaurant, you can taste traditional Galician cuisine, always with vegetarian options and choices suitable for celiacs.

www.hrmontero.com

 Hotel San Marcus ** (Sobrado dos Monxes)
Hotel San Marcus ** (Sobrado dos Monxes)

Located in the province of Coruña, in Sobrado dos Monxes, an essential stop on the Northern Way to Santiago, where you can visit the first Cistercian Monastery on the peninsula and enjoy its landscapes through hiking routes in the countryside.

www.hotelsanmarcus.es

 Hotel Bonaval (Santiago de Compostela)
Hotel Bonaval (Santiago de Compostela)

Modern and elegant hotel located in a historically significant building, offering views of the towers of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela and adjacent to Bonaval Park. It is situated in a very quiet area and just a short walk from the historic center.

www.aldahotels.es

PRACTICAL INFO

You can start on any day of the week, subject to availability, between Abril 1st and October 15th.

The nearest airport is Bilbao (BIO)

HYBRID BIKES

  • Model: Cube Aim Race Allroad
  • Type of bicycle: Híbrids/trekking 
  • Frame: Aluminum
  • Speeds: 2x8
  • Suspension: Suntour de 100 mm (with lockout)

  • Model Bike: Trekking Urban FS Alivio 27S Disk
  • Frame: TRK Alu IDF DB 700c alu 6061
  • Fork: Suntour ALU NVX 30 DISK 700C
  • Deraileur: Shimano Alivio 27s
  • Chainwheel: Shimano FC-MT101 44/34/22
  • Shifters: Shimano SLM 2010 27s
  • Brakes: Shimano MT200 Disk
  • Wheels: Raxe 700c Disk DB
  • Seat post: Shock Absorbed PROMAX Suspended PROMAX
  • Tires: TRK 700x40 Protec Michelin/MITAS
  • Weight: 18.00 kg thick

  • Bike model: Trekking Urban FS Alivio 27S Disk
  • Frame: TRK Alu IDF DB 700c alu 6061
  • Fork: Suntour ALU NVX 30 RL DISK 700C
  • Derailleur: Shimano Alivio 27s
  • Chainwheel: Shimano FC-MT101 44/34/22
  • Shifters: Shimano SLM 2010 27s
  • Brakes: Shimano MT200 Disk
  • Wheels: Raxe 700c Disk DB
  • Seat post: Shock Absorbed PROMAX Suspended PROMAX
  • Tires: TRK 700x40 Protec Michelin/MITAS
  • Weight: 18.00 kg thick

 

FOR KIDS

Possibility of renting bicycle accessories for children

     Fun-Trailer/add on bike                         Child seat   

           

 

E BIKES

  • Bike model: Movelo Kalkhoff
  • Bike type: Hybrid E-bike
  • Brakes: Shimano M396 180 mm
  • Gear switch: Shimano SLX
  • Tyres: Schwalbe marathon GT tour 28 pulgadas
  • Battery: Bosch PowerPack 500
  • Engine: Bosch  Performance CX (75Nm) Cruise (250Watt)
  • Weight: 26,1 kg

 

  • Bike Model: NEOMOUV ADONIS 2
  • Bike type: Hibrid E-bike
  • Frame: Aluminum 6061 T6 - 28'' talla 44-48 - Compatible: AXA Defender
  • Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes - ANT: 180mm - ATR: 160mm
  • Tyres: 28 inches - Double wall perforated rims - Stainless steel spokes
  • Battery: 36V: 522Wh (14.5Ah) - 36V: 630Wh (17.5Ah) - Integrated battery - 2A/ 100-240V charger
  • Engine:  250W - Central NEOASSIST - 80nm

 

  • Bicycle model: NEOMOUV ELIA 2
  • Bicycle type: Electric bicycle
  • Frame: Aluminum 6061 T6
  • Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes
  • Tires: 28.0", Stainless steel spokes, double-walled aluminum rim
  • Battery: 522 Wh (80-100 km), 500 cycles
  • Motor: NeoAssist 2 central motor, 250W / 80Nm -> High torque for quick starts
  • Weight: 27.0 kg

urbain-velo-electrique 

 

GPS tracks are available upon request
 

INCLUDED

Included

  • 17 nights' accommodation with breakfast
  • Luggage transport between accommodations
  • Digital route notes in English
  • Access to the trip on GUIBO
  • Pilgrim passport
  • 24-hour telephone assistance


Not included

  • Lunches and dinners
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Tourist Tax
  • Trasfers by public transportation
  • Transfer to first/ from last accommodation
  • Bicycle hire or helmet
  • Personal expenses, such as drinks, phone calls, tips, extra transfers, etc
  • Solo traveller supplement for bike rental (if booked through S-Cape), to be applied separately


Extras

  • Extra nights at any of the hotels along the way
  • Transfers to and from airport / train station / bus station
  • Bike rental
  • Shipment of printed documents to the first accommodation
REVIEWS

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