Camino del Norte - San Sebastian to Bilbao - Slow Walk

Make your own way to the coastal city of San Sebastian – one of Spain’s top tourist destinations. San Sebastian is famous for its stunning beaches and culinary scene and has more Michelin stars per square metre than any other city in the world. Its open air sculptures make the entire city feel like a work of art. After checking in, your day is free to relax or explore the delights of this vibrant destination. A visit to the cobblestoned old town and Plaza de la Constitución is not to be missed, as are its two most famous beaches Playa de la Concha and Playa de Ondarreta and its picturesque bay front promenade.

Follow the winding shoreline as you leave San Sebastián, with the trail passing through lush green landscapes and rolling hills, offering lovely glimpses over charming valleys and meadows. Stroll along the beautiful Playa La Concha promenade, where a colourful tunnel will lead you to the peaceful Ondarreta beach. The route then takes you along an ancient 12th-century path through vineyards, with a serene stop at the Hermitage of San Martín, where you can pause and take in the tranquil surroundings before heading on to Orio, a quaint fishing town known for its beautiful beaches and delicious seafood.

Meals: B

The walk from Orio to Getaria takes you along coastal paths, gentle ascents, and descents through lush green hills, offering stunning views of the Bay of Biscay. Hikers will pass through peaceful forests, traditional Basque farmhouses, and dramatic coastal cliffs. Along the way, you’ll visit Zarautz, a haven for surf enthusiasts, known for its beautiful beach, historic old town, and excellent restaurants. The route ends in Getaria, a charming fishing village famed for its txakoli vineyards and as the birthplace of famous sailor Juan Sebastián Elcano.

Meals: B

With a short distance today, hikers can enjoy a leisurely start, take a swim or two in the ocean, and sample the local txakoli. Leaving Getaria, the trail follows the coastline, offering panoramic views of the sea and rugged cliffs. The path meanders through peaceful farmland and along scenic coastal routes, allowing ample time to soak in the beauty of the Basque landscape. As you near Zumaia, the striking cliffs and iconic flysch rock formations begin to emerge. Zumaia itself is a delightful town, renowned for its picturesque old town, stunning beaches, and impressive geological formations along the cliffs.

Meals: B

The walk from Zumaia to Deba is a gentle and scenic route, ideal for soaking in the beauty of the Basque coastline. As you leave Zumaia, you’ll pass the iconic flysch rock formations, one of the region’s most striking features. The path meanders along beautiful beaches, including the famous Itzurun Beach, offering sweeping views of the cliffs and the sea. Approaching Deba, the trail descends along a picturesque coastal path, leading you to the charming town of Deba. Known for its historic old town, stunning beaches, and the Deba river estuary, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day’s walk.

Meals: B

This is the final day of coastal walking and promises to be a scenic highlight of your journey. The stage from Deba to Lekeitio offers a mix of dramatic clifftop paths and peaceful inland trails. It begins with a walk to Mutriku, known for its striking beaches and rugged coastline, before continuing along the shore to Ondarroa. After a climb to the hermitage of San Lourenzo and the clifftop hamlet of Azterrika, you’ll arrive in Lekeitio—a lively fishing village with colourful boats, local restaurants, and an impressive Gothic church.

*Local transport options are available to shorten the day’s hike if desired.

Meals: B

Following breakfast and one last look at the beautiful Basque coast, guests will make their way to Gernika. The bus journey from Lekeitio to Gernika takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes, with frequent departures throughout the day. This day serves as an unofficial rest day, allowing time to relax and explore. In Gernika, famously immortalised in Picasso’s painting “Guernica,” visit the iconic Gernika Tree, a symbol of Basque liberties, and the Church of Santa María. Wander the historic centre, explore the Gernika Peace Museum, and relax in Plaza Mayor. Guests can sample local dishes and shop for crafts at the markets.

Meals: B

Leaving Gernika, the path ascends and descends through the gorgeous green landscape of the Biscay countryside. Enjoy the beauty of rolling hills, charming hamlets and small villages. Along the way the trail passes through pretty woodland forests of oak which provide the perfect spot for a picnic or rest. Marvel at the beauty and engineering ingenuity of the medieval bridges near Lezama where you should take the opportunity to explore the village, with its traditional houses, towers and winding streets. 

Meals: B

The path from Lezama to Bilbao takes in several notable sites including the Romanesque Church of San Martin which stands testament to the region’s rich history and architectural heritage. The largely paved path today also passes the Tower of Malpica, an imposing medieval tower that once served as a defensive structure. As you approach Bilbao, the Basilica of Our Lady of Begoña stands proudly on a hilltop welcoming pilgrims to the city. The magnificent basilica is a pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin Mary and offers breathtaking views. Entering the city you will find yourself in the vibrant old quarter known as Casco Viejo where you can enjoy the old-world blend of bustling markets and modern city life.

Meals: B

You are free to check out of your hotel any time before 10am. If you’d like to explore Bilbao further, you can leave your bags with reception. Interested in more walking options from Bilbao? Consider extending your journey with our other Camino del Norte walking options!

Meals: B

• 9 nights accommodation, including hotels, small guesthouses and country houses, on a double/twin share basis
• Daily breakfasts
• Luggage transfer each day from hotel to hotel (1 x 18kg bag per person)
• Use of RAW Travel App, with maps of your hotel locations and emergency contact numbers
• Dedicated local support person in Spain for reassurance
• Pre-trip guidance and planning from experienced and dedicated RAW Travel staff
• RAW Travel luggage tags and hiker’s buff
• Native tree planted on your behalf

• Single supplement 
• Solo traveller surcharge if applicable for luggage transfers
• Peak season surcharge if applicable at time of booking
• Lunches and dinners
• Transfer from Lekeitio to Gernika
• Local buses or taxis if needed  
• Flights 
• Train tickets 
• Travel insurance
• Guidebooks or phrasebooks
• Arrival and departure transfers