Camino del Norte - Gijon to Ribadeo

The port city of Gijon (Xixón) is the largest city in Asturias province. With approximately 3,000 years of fascinating history and an industrial past, Gijon today is a prosperous modern city on the Cantabrian Sea, known for its maritime pursuits, historical remnants, cheerful atmosphere, and its fine shopping and excellent cuisine. After arriving and settling into your accommodation, the remainder of the day is at leisure.

Today you have a full day at leisure to explore Gijon. Discover the charming old fisherman’s quarter known as Cimavilla. Stroll through its narrow streets, immerse yourself in the historic atmosphere, and marvel at the traditional architecture. Visit San Lorenzo Beach and explore the Plaza Mayor and the Campo Valdes area, with its historic palace and Roman Baths. If time allows, stop at one of Gijon’s interesting museums or galleries before sampling some local dishes, such as fabada Asturiana, a hearty bean stew. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the region’s famous cider and fresh seafood or satisfy your sweet tooth with traditional Asturian desserts like rice pudding (Arroz con Leche). Another delicious treat is the Pantortilla, a traditional Asturian dessert made with eggs, sugar, and lemon zest. For travellers with time and energy to explore further afield, it may be possible to make an optional day trip to the spectacular Covadonga Lakes, part of the wild Picos de Europa National Park area.

Meals: B

Today, you will experience a mix of urban and industrial landscapes before the trail gradually transitions from highways and roads to scenic pathways. You will walk on a combination of footpaths, roads, and hard compacted dirt, so be mindful of your feet on the harder surfaces. Hikers may choose to take a local bus to Camino Rebesou or local taxi to Monte Areo Park, to avoid walking through the city’s urban sprawl. 

Avilés is renowned for its shipbuilding past, historical heritage and well-preserved old town. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit two noteworthy attractions: the Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre, an architectural masterpiece designed by the Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer, and the Iglesia de Santo Tomás de Cantorbery (Church of Saint Thomas of Canterbury), an important religious site in Avilés. This church is a splendid example of Gothic architecture dating back to the 13th century.

Meals: B

Enjoy a lovely day of mostly inland walking, with just a short section near the coast as you pass Salinas. Passing the village of San Cristobel the trail continues through some sections of woodlands and tree lined paths before crossing the medieval bridge into El Castillo de San Martin. Continuing further along, San Esteban de Pravia is situated by the Nalón River and provides a nice place for a picnic. In El Pito visit San Salvador Chapel, the “Cathedral of Asturias” which features intricate stonework and a beautiful rose window. Another landmark worth visiting is El Pito is the Palacio de Selgas, a grand neoclassical palace surrounded by lush gardens. If you are not too tired, treat yourself to dinner in the coastal town of Cudillero, located nearby, showcasing fresh seafood as well as other regional specialties like Cachopo (breaded and stuffed veal) and Asturian cheeses.

Meals: B

After a few days of largely inland walking, you can also appreciate some views of the coastline as you hike the hilly terrain towards Ballota. The beautiful Concha de Artedo beach offers an opportunity to relax and soak your tired feet. Take time to enjoy the spectacular coastal landscapes nearby Castanares, including the rugged Playa del Silencio. Your destination Ballotta is a small but picturesque village, with traditional Asturian houses and a peaceful ambiance. It’s an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the tranquillity of the coastal setting – its sandy beaches with crystal clear water are popular destinations.

Meals: B

Enjoy a leisurely day’s walk with some hills and accompanied by some coastal scenery interspersed with stretches of green countryside. Pass by Cadavedo with its well preserved architecture. Previously a medieval whaling port, it is said to be one of the oldest villages in Asturias and was previously declared as the most beautiful village in the province. Outside the village there are numerous traditional horreos, which are regarded as significant cultural relics. The Playa de Cadavedo is also worth visiting.

The fishing town of Luarca, or ‘White town of the Green Coast’, is situated at the mouth of the Rio Negro. The busy town is known for its beautiful harbour lined with colourful fishing boats, and its setting surrounded by green hills. Its traditional maritime character is evident with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and traditional buildings of the ‘Fisherman’s Quarter’. Strolling through the streets, you can explore the local shops, cafes, and restaurants that showcase the region’s delicious seafood cuisine. Seven bridges span the river with the Puente del Beso (Bridge of the Kiss) being the most famous, due to the famous legend that gave the bridge its name. 

Meals: B

Today, the trail leads inland, passing through rolling hills, shaded forests, and some meadows. After a climb out of Luarca, the gently undulating terrain allows you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil countryside. Navia sits next to the Navia River, from which the town derives its name and serves as a backdrop to the town. Food enthusiasts will be delighted by the culinary offering which often features mouthwatering seafood dishes such as scallops and octopus, known as Pulpo.

Meals: B

Hopefully you are well-rested and ready to embark on this long walking day, although most hikers find it not too physically challenging, due to its more gentle terrain. Today’s journey holds special significance as it marks your final day following the coastline, before the trail turns inland for good as the Camino del Norte heads towards Santiago de Compostela. A memorable feature today as you arrive into Ribadeo is the Bridge of the Saints or Puente de los Santos, which spans the Eo River and marks the border between Asturias and Galicia. 

Meals: B

Today is free to explore Ribadeo and its surroundings. Definitely don’t miss a visit to the famous Praia das Catedrais (Playa de las Catedrales – Cathedrals Beach) located a short distance from the city. This stunning beach is renowned for its impressive rock formations and natural arches, which resemble the grandeur of cathedral interiors! 

Within the town, the Historical Quarter, the fascinating Barrio de San Roque and the area surrounding the Playa del Espana with its variety of architectural styles, are all worth exploring. Ribadeo is a great place for an introduction to Galician cuisine. Of course seafood is in abundance with octopus, lobster and squid amongst the dishes on offer – a tasting menu is a great way to sample a wide range of local dishes.

Meals: B

After breakfast, make your arrangements for onward travel to next destination.

Meals: B

• 9 nights accommodation including hotels, small guesthouses and country houses, on a double/twin share basis
• Daily breakfast
• Luggage transfer each day from hotel to hotel (1 x <20kg bag per person)
• Use of RAW Travel navigation APP during your Camino, with maps of your hotel locations and emergency contact numbers
• Local and Australian emergency contact numbers
• Dedicated local support person in Spain

• Single supplement $680
• Solo Traveller surcharge if applicable for luggage transfers
• Peak season surcharge if applicable at time of booking
• Lunches and dinners
• Local buses, trains, boats or taxis if needed  
• Flights 
• Train tickets 
• Travel insurance
• Guidebook and phrasebook
• Arrival or departure transfers