The North Camino (Stage 2)
From Bilbao to Santillana del Mar

We are in Bilbao, the beating heart of the Basque Country, where tradition meets cutting-edge design. Once an industrial powerhouse, the city has reinvented itself with world-class architecture and an irresistible food scene. A pintxo crawl through the Old Town (Casco Viejo) is a must before setting off on the Camino. Bilbao’s icons include the shimmering Guggenheim Museum, the grand Teatro Arriaga, and the Mercado de la Ribera, Europe’s largest covered market.

Arrival in Bilbao at the client’s expense. A boat trip along the Ría de Bilbao (€12) offers a fresh perspective on the city’s transformation. (Tickets here.) If you have time, a free walking tour will introduce you to the city’s history and hidden gems. (Tickets here.)

Fancy something different? Here’s a day trip to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, Game of Thrones’ famous “Dragonstone” – €49. (Tickets here.) Or why not cross into La Rioja for a wine tour and tasting – from €85. (Tickets here.)

For panoramic views, a ride on the Artxanda Funicular (€4) is well worth it. (Tickets here.) And if you’re curious about Basque cider traditions, this Cider House tour (€75) will give you a true taste of the region. (Tickets here.)

For more ideas in the Basque Country, check out this link. (Tickets here.) Accommodation in Bilbao.

Today’s stage takes you through Bilbao’s urban landscape, a contrast to the coastal and rural scenery ahead. You have two options: follow the official route or take the scenic path along the Nervión River, saving several kilometres. Your journey ends in Portugalete, where you’ll cross the impressive Vizcaya Bridge, the world’s oldest transporter bridge and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Activities:
🚢 Take a ride on the Vizcaya Bridge’s gondola for a unique perspective (€1.50). (Tickets here.)
🏰 Explore Portugalete’s Old Town, home to the Basilica of Santa María and its Gothic architecture.
🍷 Wind down with a pintxos tour or Basque wine tasting at a local tavern.

Accommodation in Portugalete.

Leaving Portugalete, you’ll enter Cantabria and return to coastal stretches of the Camino. Near Ontón, you’ll find two alternative paths: the official one or a shortcut along the national road. Your day ends in the picturesque fishing town of Castro Urdiales, known for its medieval charm and lively harbour.

Activities:
🏰 Visit Santa María de la Asunción Church, a stunning Gothic cathedral overlooking the sea.
🛥️ Take a short boat trip along the coast for views of Castro Urdiales from the water (€10). (Tickets here.)
🐟 Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the harbour’s traditional restaurants.

Accommodation in Castro Urdiales.

Today’s journey offers breathtaking views of the Cantabrian coastline and lush green valleys. While you can take a shorter route via the national road, the official Camino is recommended for its scenic beauty. An alternative path near La Magdalena saves around 3 km. Laredo, your final stop, is a popular seaside town with spectacular beaches.

Activities:
🏖️ Relax on Playa de La Salvé, one of Spain’s longest beaches.
⛪ Visit Puebla Vieja, Laredo’s historic quarter, with charming medieval streets.
🚤 Take a boat trip to Santoña if you arrive early (€5). (Tickets here.)

Accommodation in Laredo.

Depending on the season, you can either take a boat from El Puntal to Santoña (March–November) or follow the official inland route through Colindres. The most challenging part of the stage is Brusco Hill, a 100-metre ascent that can be tricky in wet weather. After passing the magnificent Noja Beach, you head inland toward Güemes.

Activities:
🚤 Santoña boat crossing (March–November, €2). (Tickets here.)
🐟 Stop in Santoña, famous for its anchovy production, and visit a local cannery.
🌿 Take a detour to Marismas de Santoña Natural Park, a paradise for birdwatchers.

Accommodation in Güemes.

Today’s short walk leads to Galizano, where you can choose between the official inland route or a spectacular coastal path with panoramic views. Both routes converge in Somo, from where a boat takes you across the bay to Santander, the elegant capital of Cantabria.

Activities:
⛵ Somo-Santander boat trip (€3). (Tickets here.)
🏖️ Stroll along the famous El Sardinero Beach.
🏰 Visit the Palacio de la Magdalena, a royal summer retreat with stunning sea views.
⛪ Explore Santander Cathedral, an impressive 13th-century landmark.

Accommodation in Santander.

After yesterday’s easy stage, today is a long but rewarding journey. The first section through Santander’s outskirts is unremarkable, but your destination makes up for it. Santillana del Mar, one of Spain’s most beautiful medieval towns, is a highlight of the Camino. Nearby, you’ll find the world-famous Altamira Caves and Museum, home to prehistoric cave paintings.

Activities:
🏰 Wander the cobbled streets of Santillana del Mar, a perfectly preserved medieval village.
🖼️ Visit the Altamira Museum, showcasing Spain’s most famous prehistoric art (€3). (Tickets here.)
🍷 Unwind with a Cantabrian cheese and wine tasting at a local bodega.

Accommodation in Santillana del Mar.

CHECK-OUT AND END OF OUR SERVICES.

• Bed & Breakfast in a double or single room with private bathroom;
• Transfer of rucksacks for each stage of the camino (max 20 Kg per rucksack or piece of luggage (only one piece per person);
• Accommodation along the Camino will be in: hotels (1* – 4*), rural guesthouses, hostels, pensiones;
• 24-hour telephone assistance;
• Map of the stages;
• Pilgrim’s credential;
• Travel insurance;
• Pilgrim’s scallop;
• Taxes included.

• Support car.
• Transfers IN/OUT

From €642 per person sharing

€993 single

• Half board supplement €31 per person per night
• Private transfers and/or support car during the route: please ask.
• Cancellation insurance: please ask.
• Extra excursions available en route, please ask.
• * FLIGHT DELAYS OR WAITING FOR LUGGAGE CLAIM: please ask for price per hour
• ** The prices published on this page come from one provider and are only meant to give you a rough idea of the potential cost.
• Transfer: Bilbao to Bilbao Airport €97 for 1-3 people
• Bilbao Airport to San Sebastian €282 for 1-3 people