Camino De Santiago Adventure

  • 9 Days
  • Avg Group Size: 12
  • Activity Level 3
    • Activity Level 3

      Those who take on our Level 3 tours are looking for more challenging hikes that will raise their heart rate.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: Bilbao
  • Trip End: Santiago de Compostela
Camino De Santiago Adventure 457x530 1

Discover hidden coves, traverse rolling green hills and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure as you conquer the Camino de Santiago in Northern Spain.

On this 9-day hiking adventure, you'll hike some of the most breathtaking scenery and oldest trails of Spain as you explore the Camino de Santiago.

Each day brings new landscapes, from the architectural wonders of Bilbao, to the golden sand beaches, quaint villages and mountain trails of Asturias to the woodland paths, ancient ruins and rugged coastline of Galicia. The Camino del Norte and the Camino Primitivo are sure to impress. Yet, the journey holds so much more than scenery. Trek in the footsteps of pilgrims, who, for thousands of years, made their way along the same routes to the tomb of the apostle St. James. As you hike, you'll be met with rich traditions still very much alive today in these Celtic regions, and upon reaching Monte de Gozo, you'll feel firsthand the astonishing site of Santiago de Compostela.

When your Northern Spain hiking journey comes to a close at Cape Finisterre, there's no doubt the Camino de Santiago will leave a lasting impression in your heart.

Download Our Handy Trip Itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

Camino de Santiago ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Bilbao Trip End: Santiago de Compostela

Download our Handy Trip itinerary

Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip

  • Day 1Explore Bilbao

  • Day 2Hike the coastal trails of the Camino del Norte

  • Day 3Continue hiking on the Camino del Norte. Transfer to Oviedo

  • Day 4Begin hiking along the Camino Primitivo

  • Day 5Hike remote and forested trails of Camino Primitivo

  • Day 6From the Camino Primitivo to the Camino Frances.

  • Day 7Hike to Plaza del Obradoiro

  • Day 8Hike to Cape Finisterre and enjoy the lighthouse before a celebratory farewell dinner

  • Day 9Enjoy a final breakfast, say your goodbyes

  • Day 1

    Explore Bilbao

    #57398

    Our adventure begins in the dynamic port city of Bilbao. Here, you'll meet your guides and fellow travelers at 5:30 pm at the joining hotel. After a short orientation, we'll head down to the Estuary of Bilbao and enjoy a pleasant stroll along the water and through the marvelous old city center packed with architectural wonders.

    Tonight, you'll sample authentic Basque cuisine at a local eatery.
    Accommodation: Hotel Barceló Nervión, Bilbao
    Meals: Dinner

  • Day 2

    Hike the coastal trails of the Camino del Norte

    #57399

    Today you get your first taste of the stunning Costa Verde. After departing Bilbao we’ll drive along the dramatic Atlantic coast, passing through Cantabria on our way to the Celtic region of Asturias for our first hike following the Camino del Norte. Our delightful coastal trail leads across gently undulating terrain, through oceanside meadows and forests scattered along the rugged coastline.

    We'll continue on to our overnight base in the former whaling port of Llanes. A short walking tour through the town's labyrinth of streets brings us to the town's former fish auction house. Next door we'll enjoy lunch at a seafood and cider tavern with views over the marina. After lunch, we'll continue hiking along the Camino, a spectacular seaside route following scenic clifftop paths among green meadows, linking golden beaches and sandy coves.  

    Accommodation: Hotel Don Paco, Llanes
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 11.2 miles (18 kilometers), 5 hours 15 minutes
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,033 feet (315 meters) ascent 

  • Day 3

    Continue hiking on the Camino del Norte. Transfer to Oviedo

    #57400

    Today we continue our hike on the Camino, following coastal paths through elegant green meadows, alongside hidden coves and across stunning beaches. En-route we'll pass by Spanish civil war defensive structures and some surprising dinosaur footprints.

    When hunger strikes, we'll stop for lunch at a lovely inlet then transfer to Oviedo, the capital of Asturias. Here, we'll learn about the relics of the Kingdom of Asturias on a guided tour of San Salvador Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage complex. You'll even have the chance to see the Cloth of Oviedo, which is believed to have been wrapped around Jesus' head in the tomb.
    Accommodation: NH Oviedo Principado, Oviedo
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 7 miles (11.2 kilometers), 3 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 755 feet (230 meters) ascent 

  • Day 4

    Begin hiking along the Camino Primitivo

    #57401

    The scenery changes today as we begin our hike along the Camino Primitivo, the oldest of all the Camino pilgrimage routes. Trading in the beach for forest and sand for pastureland, we'll hike towards Tineo, set high in the hills above the Narcea River valley.

    After a break for a well-deserved and picturesque lunch, we'll continue hiking through dense forest until we reach an abandoned 12th-century Benedictine Monastery that once played an important role in providing aid and support to pilgrims on their way to Santiago. We'll take time to explore the ruins before transferring to our hotel in Tineo.
    Accommodation: Hotel Palacio de Meras, Tineo
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 10.3-12.8 miles (16.6-20.6 kilometers ), 5-6 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,350 feet (400 meters) ascent, 1,590 feet (485 meters) descent 

  • Day 5

    Hike remote and forested trails of Camino Primitivo

    #57402

    Be sure to have your camera ready as today we embark on perhaps the most spectacular section of the entire Camino Primitivo. Our hike takes us uphill through one of Spain's most uninhabited regions until we reach an isolated pass showcasing 360-degree views of mountain forests and green hillsides. Be sure to keep your eye out for wild horses grazing nearby! After taking time to enjoy the views, we descend to a tiny ridgetop hamlet and medieval chapel.

    At the hike’s end, we transfer to the tiny parish of Berducedo for a well-deserved lunch. We finally enter Galicia on our way to Lugo, whose 3rd-century Roman walls surrounding the old town are a UNESCO World Heritage site. On arrival, the rest of the day is free time for you to rest, relax, and explore the twisting streets of this fascinating city . Dinner is on your own tonight. 

    Accommodation: Gran Hotel de Lugo, Lugo
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    Hiking: 6.9 miles (11.1 kilometers), 4.5 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,182 feet (665 meters) ascent, 1,689 feet (515 meters) descent 

  • Day 6

    From the Camino Primitivo to the Camino Frances.

    #57403

    This morning we’ll begin by touring Lugo’s historic walls and visiting its renowned cathedral before setting out on our final hike along the Camino Primitivo. Today, we meander through fairytale-like forest paths and into tiny hamlets scattered across the Galician countryside. We'll stop for lunch in Melide, a town where the Camino Primitivo and Camino Frances merge into a single Way.

    If your stomach isn't already grumbling, hunger is sure to strike as soon as you smell the freshly baked pastries and almond cakes ever so apparent in Melide's historic centre. After, we'll continue along the Camino through grand oak forests before calling it a day.

    Accommodation: Pazo de Eidian or Pazo de Sedor, Melide
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 6-7.9 miles (9.6-11.8 kilometers), 3-3.5 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 755-935 feet (230-285 meters) ascent, 558-705 feet (170-215 meters) descent

  • Day 7

    Hike to Plaza del Obradoiro

    #57404

    We start the day off right with our first hike on the Camino Frances. We'll see many more pilgrims this morning compared to the previous day's solitude. Afterward, we transfer to Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy), located on the outskirts of Santiago de Compostela. Here, just like the pilgrims, you'll see your first glimpse of the city's famous cathedral spires. Our hike then continues to Plaza del Obradoiro, Santiago's grandiose square. Take time this afternoon to explore the city and sit down for a relaxing lunch on your own.

    If you'd like, you can rejoin the group for a tour with a local guide and attend a pilgrim's mass at the cathedral. You may even get to witness the swinging of the Botafumeiro, which is one of the largest incense censers in the world.

    Dinner is on your own tonight, allowing you more time to explore the wonders of the city.
    Accommodation: Hotel Monumento San Francisco, Santiago de Compostela
    Meals: Breakfast

    Hiking: 5.9 miles (9.6 kilometers), 3 hours
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 730 feet (225 meters) ascent, 930 feet (385 meters) descent

  • Day 8

    Hike to Cape Finisterre and enjoy the lighthouse before a celebratory farewell dinner

    #57405

    This morning we'll delight our senses with an early visit to Santiago's bustling market, where an incredible selection of seafood, meat, vegetables, and fruit await. We'll then drive to Cape Finisterre, the final destination for many pilgrims who walked the Way of St. James. The cape is also the historical ‘Land's End’ reached by pagan pilgrimages predating Christianity. As we enjoy a hillside trail to the cape and lighthouse, take in the spectacular views of Costa da Morte (Coast of Death), so named for the innumerable shipwrecks over the centuries.

    After a hearty seafood lunch, we return to Santiago. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to discover the sights of the city. This evening we meet for a celebratory dinner at one of the area's finest restaurants.
    Accommodation: Hotel Monumento San Francisco, Santiago de Compostela
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Hiking: 3.2 miles (5.2 kilometers)
    Elevation Gain/Loss: 705 feet (215 meters) ascent, 410 feet (125 meters) descent

  • Day 9

    Enjoy a final breakfast, say your goodbyes

    #57406

    After a final breakfast, we'll say our goodbyes. You can choose to transfer on your own to Santiago's airport or continue your explorations of this fascinating region of Spain.
    Accommodation: Not applicable
    Meals: Breakfast

Camino de Santiago Adventure Departure Dates

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Included

  • Our own highly experienced guides and leader, with you from start to finish
  • Industry-leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
  • Your own ‘Account’, an online space with everything required for your adventure
  • Our knowledgeable Customer Service Team to answer your queries - just a phone call, email or chat away
  • Customer Service pre-trip phone calls to ensure you’re 'trip ready'
  • All accommodations for the duration of your trip
  • All meals except where indicated in the itinerary
  • Unlimited snacks to keep you fueled
  • Flights as outlined in the itinerary
  • All activities outlined in the itinerary
  • All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities, including bikes (where bike rides are applicable)
  • All gratuities for hotels, restaurants, and activities
  • All park and other entry fees
  • Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern, and comfortable!

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Useful Info

Where does the trip start?

On the first day of the trip we’ll meet you at Hotel Nervión at 5:30pm. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Bilbao, though you must make your own way to this pick-up point at the pre-designated time.

Is tipping expected in Europe?

Tipping is not expected in Europe however you might want to tip a little extra if you feel someone gave really fantastic service, but it's not really necessary. Many of our people also choose to tip their Active Adventures Europe trip leaders and local guides and we recommend USD$20 per day, per guest, per Trip Leader/guide. You are welcome to tip an equivalent amount in the local currency. There are plenty of ATM’s and banks in the larger towns of Europe.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends after breakfast and you're welcome to fly out any time. You'll need to make your own way to the Santiago de Compostela Airport, located 20 minute drive from the joining hotel.

What flights do you recommend?

Arrival: If you're flying in on the first day of the trip, we recommend arriving in Bilbao by 4pm.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Santiago de Compostela any time after breakfast for both domestic and international. If you are considering alternative flight times, please check with us.

What are the accommodations we stay at on this trip?

We have selected the accommodation on your trip for the stunning settings, unique character and adventuresome feel – it’s not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in Spain. We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable B&B’s, historic pilgrim lodges along the trail, that have been accommodating guests for centuries.

While there are laundry facilities in Tineo and Lugo, and also in Santiago at the end of the trip, they may not be convenient or there may only be one machine to service your entire group. We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do laundry a once during your trip, with the best time being during our stay in Santiago.

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You'll also want a good quality backpack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days.

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travelers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travelers who book within 120 days of departure, where there are no other solo travelers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement.

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

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