At a Glance
Embark on a soul-stirring pilgrimage hike on this 6-day guided walk along the Camino de Santiago's Camino del Norte, traversing the breathtaking landscapes of Spain's Basque Coast, Cantabria, and Asturias. Follow ancient footsteps along the untamed northern frontier as hidden trails weave through wind-carved bluffs, alpine passes, and seaside splendour. Your journey will reveal sweeping panoramas of the Picos de Europa, lead you to the legendary Covadonga Lakes—fabled birthplace of Spain's Christian Reconquista—and guide you on a dramatic coastal hike through the 'Cliffs of Hell'. This tour reveals the wild heart of northern Spain, from its soaring peaks to its spectacular shores.
Your adventure begins in Bilbao, leading you to the historic port of Castro Urdiales before you trace the pilgrims' path. Ascend into the breathtaking Picos de Europa, discovering the ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 5 nights accommodation in 4 and 5 star hotels on a twin share basis
- Meals as specified
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio
- Park and other entry fees
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
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THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Your journey begins at Bilbao Airport (Bo. Gaztañaga, 48180 Loiu, Biscay, Spain). Your Trip Leaders will meet you out front. Please come dressed in your hiking clothes and have your luggage ready. It's also a good idea to bring a daypack with your rain gear and any other essentials you'll need for today's hike. Your main luggage will be transported to our hotel. ¡Bienvenido a España! This week, we will explore Cantabria and Asturias, two beautiful regions in northern Spain, as we travel a portion of the Camino de Santiago. This ancient network of pilgrimage routes has been walked by pilgrims since the Middle Ages and is renowned for its spiritual significance, stunning landscapes, and rich history. From Bilbao, we'll shuttle to the historic town of Castro Urdiales for lunch at a local seafood restaurant. Afterward, we'll explore its old streets and picturesque port. You'll have the option for a short walk to a castle and lighthouse offering dramatic ocean views, and we'll see the Santa María de la Asunción Church, a notable Gothic structure. |
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Following our town visit, we'll set out on the Camino for our first hike of the week, passing traditional pilgrim hostels and green countryside. A shuttle will then take us to our hotel, the Parador de Limpias. Settle into your room in this early 20th-century palace, once a summer residence of King Alfonso XIII. Explore the gardens, or relax with a drink while enjoying views of the Asón Valley. This evening, we will have a welcome reception followed by a gourmet dinner featuring fresh, high-quality Cantabrian coastal ingredients. |
Parador de Limpias, Limpias 
Lunch, Dinner  |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: This morning, a scenic shuttle will transport you to the Picos de Europa to explore Covadonga, a site of immense historical importance to both Asturias and Spain. It is said to be the location where King Pelayo led the first successful resistance against the Moorish invasion in 722, often finding refuge in the area's natural caves. Following his victory, Pelayo attributed his success to the Virgin Mary, which inspired King Alfonso I to build a chapel and monastery in her honour. This landmark, dedicated to Our Lady of Covadonga, remains a revered spiritual site. Your hike begins at Lake Enol, set amidst rugged peaks and lush meadows. Take a moment to absorb its tranquil beauty before embarking on scenic trails, where you may encounter wild cows, horses, and native birds as you make your way to a traditional cider tavern in Covadonga. |
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This afternoon, a shuttle will take you to the small village of Cofiño and your next hotel, the Pueblo Astur Eco-Resort Hotel & Spa. This enchanting retreat is nestled in the foothills of the Picos de Europa. Unwind among the elegant stone buildings and admire the hotel's impressive private art collection, which includes Salvador Dalí's notable Newton sculpture. Indulge your senses with a visit to the expansive spa, take a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the mountains, or descend into the impressive wine cellar before savouring an upscale Asturian dinner at your leisure in the hotel's restaurant. (Please note that spa treatments are not included in the trip price, and advance reservations are recommended). |
Pueblo Astur Eco-Resort Hotel & Spa, Cofiño (5*)
Breakfast, Lunch  |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Today, we'll step away from the Camino to explore the Picos de Europa, a stunning mountain range that stretches across Cantabria, Asturias, and Castile and León. Our hike begins at Alto del Fitu, a well-known viewpoint offering expansive views of the Cantabrian Sea and the limestone peaks of the Picos de Europa. From there, well-marked trails will lead you through meadows and forests as you ascend Pico Pienzu, the highest peak in the Sierra del Sueve. For those seeking a challenge, the trail continues to the summit, where a large wooden cross provides a perfect spot for a packed lunch with 360-degree views of the mountains and coastline. After lunch, we will descend, keeping an eye out for the native Asturcones—wild horses that roam freely in these hills. In the afternoon, a shuttle will return you to the hotel, where you can enjoy its luxurious amenities, including an infinity pool, a full-service spa, and an outdoor hot tub perfect for an evening soak. |
Pueblo Astur Eco-Resort Hotel & Spa, Cofiño (5*)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: After two days in the mountains, we'll return to the Camino del Norte this morning, walking a mix of seaside trails and leafy inland paths from Colunga to Villaviciosa. This easygoing hike reveals a layered history, with 150-million-year-old ichnites (fossilized dinosaur footprints) alongside traditional houses and churches from the Middle Ages. |
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Our route ends in the rural village of Villaviciosa, where we will stop for a picnic lunch featuring local Asturian cuisine. Afterward, we'll shuttle to Palacio de Luces, a boutique hotel set within an elegantly restored 18th-century palace. Unwind amid tranquil gardens or a refreshing dip in the pool and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Tonight, we dine at a local Asturian sidrería. Asturias is Spain’s cider heartland, producing over 80% of the country's supply. This traditional drink is a cornerstone of Asturian culture, and you'll have the chance to pair it with tapas for an authentic local experience. |
Palacio de Luces, Luces (5*)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: After a leisurely breakfast, you'll embark on a breathtaking hike along the Acantilados del Infierno, or the "Cliffs of Hell." Here, you'll discover dramatic arches and towering rock formations where seagulls and cormorants nest. Your walk leads you to the Cuerres recreational area, which offers panoramic views of the Bufones de Pría, a series of blowholes that send seawater surging into the air. After taking in the cliffside beauty, your path will weave through lush forests before descending into the charming coastal town of Ribadesella. You'll have time for lunch on your own near the village's vibrant fishing port. This afternoon is yours to enjoy. You might choose to indulge in the hotel's elaborate spa or find a quiet corner in the palatial estate to relax with a glass of wine and a good book. This evening, we'll gather for a farewell drink before a modern gastronomic dinner inspired by Asturian tradition, featuring exquisite shellfish, local beef, and farm-fresh vegetables. |
Palacio de Luces, Luces (5*)
Breakfast, Dinner  |
Level 1, Approx. 5km (3 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 30m (100 ft) This morning, you have the choice to set out early from the hotel for one last ramble through the countryside. Your destination is the village of Llastres, a charming collection of cliffside fishermen's houses, narrow streets, and a traditional fishing port offering stunning seaside views. If you prefer a more leisurely morning, you may sleep in and join the group for a final breakfast at the hotel before we all shuttle to Santiago de Compostela. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
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Breakfast Accommodation
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure point is Bilbao, Spain. Meet trip leaders at 9.30a.m at Bilbao Airport located at Bo. Gaztañaga, 48180 Loiu, Biscay, Spain
- The finish point is Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Your trip ends at 3.30p.m. at The Santiago de Compostela train station, located at Rúa do Hórreo, 75, A, 15702 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
- The closest airport to Bilbao is Bilbao Airport (BIO), located approximately 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) north of the city centre. We recommend either flying directly to Bilbao or into Paris, then from Paris to Bilbao Airport (BIO).
Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. Do not schedule your flights until your reservation is confirmed.
Spain's Atlantic coast enjoys a moderate climate with summertime temperatures that are usually quite comfortable. However, this region is prone to variable weather, including heat and year-round rain that can strike at any time of the day. In order to make your trip as enjoyable as possible, please come prepared for rain and cooler temperatures. Waterproof, breathable rain gear is a must; a sweater or light jacket for evenings is highly recommended.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 2-4.
Level 1, 2-5 hours, 3-8km (2-5 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 244m (800 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 6-11km (4-7 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 396m (1300 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 8-14km (5-9 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 610m (2000 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 10-18km(6-11 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 914m (3000 ft)
Level 5, 5-7 hours, 11-21+ km (7-13+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1219m (4000+ ft)
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
In the genuine spirit of expedition travel, we encourage exploration and adventure offering flexibility in challenging environments. This itinerary is only a guide and is subject to change due to weather, sea and other conditions beyond our control.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
