The Camino del Norte from Santander

Camino de Santiago Itinerary from Santander

The beautiful city of Santander is the starting point for this section of the Camino de Santiago on the Northern Way. Santander, the capital of Cantabria, is an elegant and fantastic place to relax for a couple of days. In Santander we can enjoy the incredible beaches, parks, nature, architecture and food. What more could we ask for?

From Santander we head towards the interior region of Cantabria, passing through the villages of Santa Cruz de Bezana, Mompía and Boo de Piélagos. Later we will pass by the estuary in Boo de Piélagos, ending this leg of the trip in the town of Arce.

During today’s leg, you will get to see the beautiful mountainous landscape of the northern coast. Along the way we will pass by the town of Miengo. Suances is a beautiful little town and it is well worth taking some time to visit. Your destination for today is the medieval village of Santillana del Mar. You will get the chance to walk through lovely meadows and quiet villages along the way. The town of Santillana del Mar is one of the most popular in Cantabria, famous for its Altamira Caves.

From Santillana del Mar you will continue to travel throughout the area’s natural habitat, the rugged Cantabrian coast. On your way to Comillas you will walk through magnificent villages such as Cobreces with its Cistercian monastery. Comillas has fantastic beaches and incredible architecture. We recommend taking your time to visit Comilla and explore its landmarks, like the Pontifical University, the Palace of Sobrellano with its pantheon chapel and the El Capricho building designed by Antoni Gaudí.

We will continue along the coast to the Oyambre National Park. The park is extremely important because of its wildlife and marine ecosystem, which is home to many species of birds, mollusks and fish. From here we will head through fields and green forests to Unquera, passing the village of San Vicente de la Barquera and a few small estuaries.

When departing from Unquera, we leave the autonomous community of Cantabria behind and enter Asturias, crossing a bridge over the Deva River in Bustio. On the way to the town of Colombres you will climb the “I Can’t Hill” before descending along the Sierra de la Borbolla. From here, the Camino enters Pendueles along a narrow trail that continues uphill to the Jorcada Pass after crossing the Andrínroad. After this there is another descent to La Portilla from where we will continue until arriving at our destination for today: Llanes, a lively city located between the coast and the Picos de Europa.

The first part of today’s leg takes place along the coast and the fantastic beaches of Palombina and Barro. After crossing the Niembro River we will begin the ascent until reaching the Church of San Pedro de Pría. The church sits on top of a hill overlooking the seven villages of the area. From here you descend to the Guadamía River where you will cross the medieval stone bridge. We will pass through Sobareson our way to the town of Ribadesella, a beautiful village that is worth exploring.

Ribadesella is a beautiful town bordering the sea that is worth exploring.

Camino de Santiago Accommodations from Santander

Accommodation in hotels, country homes, guesthouses, traditional Galician homes and charming hostels.

All rooms have a private bathroom and all the necessary facilities to ensure your comfort. Our accommodations have been selected to guarantee your rest and relaxation so that you have a pleasant stay along the Camino de Santiago.

All of the accommodations that we offer are personally checked on-site by our team. We also double check them by referring to the opinions of our customers.

Since we work with quality accommodations that have limited capacity, the exact name of the accommodation will be provided 30 days before the start of the Camino de Santiago.

Camino de Santiago Services from Santander

INCLUDED SERVICES

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

About the Camino del Norte from Santander to Ribadesella

We'll now talk to you about one of the sections of the so-called  Camino del Norte or the Coastal Way. We refer to the Camino de Santiago from Santander to Ribadesella.

It is one of the most spectacular and beautiful routes of all that can be done on the adventure of the Camino de Santiago. So, we will give you all the information about it so that you can organize your own route or enjoy it with Santiago Ways. We hope it helps.

Why choose the Camino de Santiago from Santander to Ribadesella?

Although it is true that each route has its own charm and its own reasons to take place, we want to point out what we consider most important on the Camino de Santiago from Santander. You can find yours yourself as each route always has some points in favour over others.

1.-The beauty of the environment: one of the highlights for the pilgrims who make the Camino de Santiago from Santander is the great beauty of its landscapes. In fact, along this route, we will not only cross areas near the coast with the greenness so characteristic of the north of Spain, but we also pass through areas of beautiful hills that meet the sea.

Therefore, beauty is everywhere in the case of this route from Santander, one of the most important reasons not only to make it but even to repeat it.

2.-Little overcrowding: The Camino del Norte is synonymous with tranquillity. It Is a route that has nothing to envy with the most popular route, the Camino Frances, in terms of beauty. However, it has the advantage that it is not so busy so we can avoid possible agglomerations.

The Camino Frances is, in general, a great opportunity to enjoy nature in its maximum splendour and with all the tranquillity possible.

3.- Good infrastructure: When it comes to making the Camino de Santiago and especially if it is our first time, we must look for routes that have a good infrastructure. This depends in a large part on the autonomous government and on its investment in implementing the quality of the routes.

Therefore we must look for routes with good communications, well signposted and with everything necessary for the supply and rest for the pilgrim.

4.-Gastronomy: In general, gastronomy is an attraction to visit the north of Spain in general. However, in the case of the Camino de Santiago from Santander to Ribadesella, this motive has more influence.

We will pass by some of the best localities in terms of gastronomic resources: Llanes in Asturias, San Vicente de la Barquera or Ribadesella itself. Later we will give you some recommendations for the best places to eat.

5.-Heritage: All the pilgrims who make the Camino del Norte emphasize the beauty of their villages besides that of their natural surroundings. We will go through one of the most beautiful areas of Spain that include fishing villages with small colourful houses.

All this, along with all the history they have, constitutes another of the strongest reasons to make the Camino de Santiago from Santander to Ribadesella.

Information about the Camino del Norte from Santander

El Camino de Santiago from Santander forms part of the itinerary of the Camino del Norte. It is the third stage, so it can be continued previously from Bilbao and can, in fact, continue to Santiago.

However, for the stretch, we will say that it begins in the beautiful city of Santander to finish the tour in the coastal village of Ribadesella. On the way, we can enjoy the majestic mountain scenery. It's a somewhat more demanding route than others, but it's worth it.

Route of the Camino del Norte from Santander to Ribadesella

Maps of the Camino del Norte from Santander to Ribadesella

We now enclose the maps of the route of the Camino del Norte from Santander to Ribadesella to have all the necessary information to plan your route and at the same time, you can find out in advance the places you will visit.

Santander - Arce

Map stage from Santander to Arce

Arce - Santillana del Mar

Map stage from Arce to Santillana

Santillana del Mar - Comillas

Map stage from Santillana to Comillas

Comillas - Unquera

Map stage from Comillas to Unquera

Unquera - Llanes

Map stage from Unquera to Llanes

Llanes - Ribadesella

Map stage from Llanes to Ribadesella

Profiles of the Camino del Norte from Santander to Ribadesella

We want to show you now the profile of this stretch of the Camino del Norte so you can see for yourself its difficulty. This is often not on the slopes, but on the rugged terrain. In spite of that, nothing is impossible and it is indeed an adventure which you will enjoy to the maximum.

Santander - Arce

Profile stage from Santander to Arce

Arce - Santillana del Mar

Profile stage from Arce to Santillana

Santillana del Mar - Comillas

Profile stage from Santillana to Comillas

Comillas - Unquera

Profile stage from Comillas to Unquera

Unquera - Llanes

Profile stage from Unquera to Llanes

Llanes - Ribadesella

Profile stage from Llanes to Ribadesella

Stages on foot of the Camino del Norte from Santander to Ribadesella

We enclose all the stages on foot that you will travel with Santiago Ways on this adventure of the Camino de Santiago from Santander to Ribadesella.

Stage from Santander to Arce

Stage from Arce to Santillana del Mar

Stage from Santillana del Mar to Comillas

Stage from Comillas to Unquera

Stage from Unquera to Llanes

Stage from Llanes to Ribadesella

How long does the Camino del Norte from Santander to Ribadesella take?

The Camino de Santiago from Santander to Ribadesella has a length of 116 kilometres that are divided between a total of 8 stages with their corresponding 7 nights.

It is a perfect length and duration to carry it out in one of the holiday periods that are presented throughout the year, like Easter for example. Now we will talk about when to make the Camino de Santiago from Santander.

Best time of the year to do the Camino del Norte from Santander

While it depends on each person's taste in deciding the time when to complete the Camino del Norte, we must say that each route has some advantages in each season.

That is why we want to talk to you about each season in turn and with it, the advantages and disadvantages you have regarding the others when make the Camino del Norte from Santander

Spring

In the springtime, there can be weather instability in terms of precipitation. The temperatures are mild but the risk of rain increases. So we must ourselves, in turn, increase our planning by wearing proper attire.

On the other hand, it is one of the most popular seasons that is gaining popularity in recent times among pilgrims. Especially for routes of a few days like this of the Camino del Norte from Santander to Ribadesella, which can be done during Easter period.

Summer

Summer is the time in which more pilgrims are encouraged to make the Camino de Santiago in general and the Camino del Norte desde Santander in particular. They do it because in the first place it is the time of year in which they have more free time.

On the other hand, it is also a time when temperatures are mild and we can enjoy good weather due to the proximity of the sea and the oceanic climate of the area of the Camino del Norte.

The drawback is that precisely as a consequence of these advantages, the number of pilgrims that walk on the Camino del Norte increases: However, ahead of other possible routes like that of the Camino Frances de Santiago, this is not an inconvenience in the case of this route. Much less if we do it with the aid of Santiago Ways.

Autumn

In the autumn instability returns and with it precipitations can increase. However, the abundant vegetation of this area sees as its leaves fall and all the landscapes are tinged with beautiful colours. So it is the favourite time for nature lovers but we will have to be very careful with potential rains.

Winter

In Winter there are few pilgrims who are encouraged to make the Camino de Santiago in general. This affects also the Camino del Norte, on which the influx falls considerably. However, there is the possibility to take advantage of the Christmas break to complete our route.

While this would not be advisable for paths such as the Camino Primitivo, the mildness of temperatures on the Camino del Norte helps us also be able to complete it during this time of year.

Yes: If you do not do it with Santiago Ways keep in mind that most accommodations, including private ones, close their doors during this season.

Guide to the places you cannot miss on the Camino del Norte from Santander

We Have also prepared a selection of sites of great interest to enter the Camino del Norte from Santander. Among them, there are not only places of historical, cultural and artistic interest but also some recommended restaurants on the route as well as the accommodation where you will rest with Santiago Ways.

Places of interest

First we want to talk about the different points of interest that exist in this route related to the heritage, culture and history of the area.

Arce (Piélagos)

Arce is a town belonging to Piélagos, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain when you visit on this route between Santander and Ribadesella. Among its attractions, we must highlight the Palacio de los Marqueses de la Conquista Real, a magnificent building from the Middle Ages with a view over the valley that it dominates.

Santillana del Mar

This town is popular for good reasons. It must be said that, as we mentioned among the reasons to make the Camino de Santiago from Santander, is the beauty of the urban areas that we pass through. This beauty is especially reflected in this municipality.

Apart from its old town, of unequalled beauty and perfect to be carried along its streets, we will also be able to plan our route to visit the Altamira Caves, located near this wonderful corner.

Llanes

Finally, Llanes is a beautiful town in the Principality of Asturias. It has a fishing tradition and therefore we can say that its port is the absolute star of its architecture and disposition with its unmistakable colourful houses.

It is a stop in which you should take some time also to try some of its specialities in one of the restaurants that we will discuss later.

Where to sleep – The best hotels

With Santiago Ways you'll be in the best hands especially at the time of your break. Throughout the year you will be able to book with us and stay in the best hotels along the whole route from Santander to Ribadesella. Here we leave some examples.

Where to eat – The best restaurants

We have also prepared a selection of the best restaurants where you can enjoy rich and generous gastronomy typical of the lands of Cantabria and Asturias. Here are our recommendations.

Restaurante Gran Duque

Located in Santillana del Mar, this restaurant has excellent value for money with which we will be able to enjoy the main specialities of Cantabrian cuisine. Highly recommended to put a golden brooch to our visit to this beautiful town.

Sidrería El Antoju

If you want to taste one of the richest drinks in the province of Asturias, we cannot miss this cider house located in the municipality of Llanes. In it, we will also be able to delight in some specialities of local gastronomy such as seafood, from the land and from the mountain.

Restaurante El Texu

To finish with good taste on our pilgrimage, we recommend this restaurant with a family atmosphere in Ribadesella. Very cosy and at the same time with a great menu and an excellent deal for all who visit it. You can't miss it if you finally do the Camino de Santiago with Santiago Ways.

Origin of the Camino del Norte from Santander to Ribadesella

The Camino del Norte has its origin in the Middle Ages. It was the route that many pilgrims chose to stay close to the coast and avoid the possible wars that occurred during the times of the "Reconquista". However, when the Camino Frances was becoming more popular, it was taking prominence for being less rugged than the Camino del Norte.

Thus, this route was long forgotten until fortunately and for all lovers of beauty, it has since recovered and has come back with more strength than ever.

The Camino de Santiago from Santander with Santiago Ways

Ideal footwear for the Camino del Norte from Santander

Other sections of the Camino del Norte

• San Sebastián - Bilbao
• Bilbao - Santander
• Santander - Ribadesella
• Ribadesella - Villaba
• Villalba - Santiago de Compostela

Other users’ opinions about the Camino del Norte from Santander to Ribadesella

We also want to offer you the opinions of other people who have already done with us the Camino de Santiago so that you can know first-hand your impressions and encourage yourself to live this unforgettable experience.

Santiago Ways

4.9

Winston Fernandez

I used Santiago Ways on my first Camino in March this year. The trail that I did was from Vigo to Santiago de Compostela. The experience was truly fantastic ….. mainly because of Santiago Ways.My contact person at Santiago Ways was Vanessa Veiga. Right from the onset Vanessa was extremely helpful , sensitive and very attentive to all my requests. She responded swiftly to all my mails. She selected the right hotels which were excellent and the luggage always arrived on time.I am planning my second Camino next April and I would continue to use Santiago Ways and in particular Vanessa. Thanks a million Vanessa and continue the good work to all the pilgrims who want to experience a true Camino.Winston FernandezKuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Marion Tilley-Vyner

Santiago Ways made it possible for me to do the pilgrimage. At 69 I did not like the idea of staying in a hostal, I like a bit of privacy and comfort! And I could not have done the walking while carrying my luggage. Adriana at Santiago Ways helped me work out my route and booked hotels and luggage transfers. Also, having them there in case I had any problems, was very reassuring. Adriana was only a phone call away. I recommend using Santiago Ways for anyone having doubts about doing the pilgrimage - they make it so much easier!

Tammy Shain

Vanessa was awesome and we loved Santiago Ways! We had a group of 8 college friends that were all around 50-years old. The deciding factor in choosing Santiago Ways was the group discount offered for groups of 6 or more. All other companies threshold for a discount was 10 people. Vanessa and the staff were awesome to work with throughout the process. We did the five day hike from Sarria to Santiago. We requested superior accommodations in places that were on the trail. The accommodations were top notch and 4 of the 5 places were directly on the trail. The exception was our night in Lavacolla in which we were .4 miles off the trail. It was our choice to stay in that location in order to have a shorter walk to Santiago on our final day so we could make the noon mass. We were pleasantly surprised at how clean each place was and they all had great bar and restaurant choices in close proximity - with the exception of Lavacolla so we recommend eating on-site - it was very good.

Sandi Frost Steensma

We had an excellent experience on the Camino with Santiago Ways. We had 14 women and everything was wonderful. We enjoyed the hotels, loved the daily luggage transport and the food was terrific. Santiago Ways communicated throughout our trip. We felt well-supported when we needed to make changes. Thank you!!

Beatriz Beltranena

Santiago Ways is excellent they exceeded my expectations!! they do a great JOB and we had a "Buen Camino" in part thanks to them... lovely hotels.. flawless bag transfers and great great service!!! I would totally recommend them and please look for Vanessa she is the best.

Jan Schubert

My family and I used Santiago Ways to organize our recent pilgrimage from Lisbon to Porto. They did an excellent job booking us (as much as possible) into wonderful, small, family-run hotels and coping with the many changes dictated by "group" travel. In addition, one of us was traveling by bicycle whilst the rest were walking, necessitating even more planning which Santiago Ways did with patience and grace. We recommend using Santiago Ways for Camino support and planning!!! Jan Schubert

Jill Scher

My family and I (6 of us) just finished walking the Lisbon to Porto section of the Camino Portuguese. It was a wonderful experience for us. The hotels we were booked into were well chosen and the food was great. We also found the path to be well marked making way finding fairly easy. A great relief as we had heard it was not well marked. Our luggage was efficiently transferred each day and everything ran very smoothly. Thank you Santiago Ways! We would definitely recommend your services to our friends. Jill

Kenneth E. Nowell

Santiago Ways made my memorable hike trouble-free. I had excellent hotels, tasty breakfasts, dependable baggage forwarding, informative advance information, and a dependable drive to deliver me to Sarria. I really appreciate their attention to detail!

Margo Gosia Barker

We booked our El Camino with Santiago Ways and we were very lucky to have Silvia as our agent. She did a fantastic job organizing our trip, always promptly responding to our inquiries, impeccable English, all accommodations that she arranged for us were great, and our luggage was always delivered to the next location timely, before our arrivals to sites. I would definitely recommend Santiago Ways and ask for Silvia to be your representative.

Patricia Bazán

This trip changed my life in ways I could not describe! I knew the hiking was going to be a challenge, but Santiago Ways made it so easy to plan and execute. They are truly the best and I am already planning my next trip with Santiago Ways and would not think of going anywhere else. Silvia Rivera was particularly helpful in the planning, as she answered all my questions patiently, and help me through the process. Great job, Guys, and I will see you next year!

Roberto Canto

Have just finished El Camino de Santiago from Sarria with the help of Santiago Ways. They have been extremely accesible from day one. The transfer of the luggage throught the five days was impecable, always finding the luggage in the room on every stage of the way. The food and lodging was very acceptable. If I were to do it again I would not hesitate to contact them once more for their assistance! "Buen camino".

Edmee Flores

Our experience with Santiago Ways was flawless. We highly recommend this outfit for your Santiago way experience. A perfect 10!

Barbara Melinska

Very nice experience. Good and professional organization.Nice and friendly environment during the event. Recommended 100 %. Saludos para Jose 😉

Hanna Ringel

Simply put - an incredible experience! This agency looks after every last detail. I walked the last 100 km of the Camino with their help and I definitely want to go back soon and do a longer part of the route. When that happens (which I hope is soon) I'll definitely be using Santiago Ways again! Thanks for everything.

Next Reviews

Photos and videos of the Camino del Norte from Santander to Ribadesella

Finally, we leave you some pictures and videos of the Camino so you can get an idea of everything that awaits you on this route.

The Camino de Santiago with Santiago Ways

Other Caminos de Santiago

• Camino Frances
• Camino Portugues
• Camino Portugues coastal route
• Camino del Norte
• Camino de Finisterre
• Camino Ingles
• Camino Primitivo
• Camino Lebaniego
• The Way of Lighthouses
• The Via de la Plata

Here you can see all the stages of the Camino de Santiago.

In Santiago Ways, we will advise you on which route of the Camino de Santiago is the best fit for you.

Other ways to complete The Camino de Santiago

• The Camino de Santiago in an organized group
• The Camino de Santiago with a dog
• The Camino de Santiago on bike
• The Camino de Santiago as a couple
• The Camino de Santiago at Easter

The quietest Caminos de Santiago

• Camino de Santiago from Sarria
• Camino de Santiago from Roncesvalles
• Camino de Santiago from Tui
• Camino de Santiago from Baiona
• Camino de Santiago from Ferrol