CN ROUTE 2. Bilbao to Santander

The stretch between Bilbao and Pobeña offers us a beautiful and varied journey, with a mix of urban landscapes, coastal views, and rural countryside. This section of the Camino del Norte is relatively short, making it a popular choice for those who want to experience the route without committing to longer stages.

Starting in Bilbao, a vibrant city known for its modern architecture and cultural landmarks like the Guggenheim Museum, we leave the urban environment behind and head towards the coast. We will take the subway to travel from Bilbao to Portugalete where we get our first glimpses of the sea, before heading into the rural landscapes of the Basque Country. The route quickly transitions into green hills, forests, and small villages, offering a sense of peace and connection to nature.

As the path moves towards Pobeña, the terrain becomes more rugged, with some moderate climbs and descents. The route offers stunning views of the Bay of Biscay, with dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches along the way. The final stretch into Pobeña is particularly picturesque. 

Pobeña is a small village located in the Basque Country. It is known for its stunning coastal scenery and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet getaway.

One of the main attractions in Pobeña is its beautiful beach, Playa de Pobeña, which offers fine sand and clear waters. The surrounding cliffs add to the charm, creating a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature. The beach is also well-known for its peaceful vibe, which is a nice contrast to more crowded coastal areas in the region.

In addition to the beach, Pobeña is close to several natural sites and hiking trails. For example, the Boca del Río, a coastal area where the river meets the sea, provides a wonderful environment for walking or birdwatching. The views of the Bay of Biscay and the nearby mountains are truly breathtaking. Nature lovers will also appreciate the nearby Serantes Mountain, which offers excellent hiking routes and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

For history enthusiasts, the village is home to several traditional Basque houses, some of which date back centuries. These buildings, along with the charming streets and quiet atmosphere, give us a glimpse into the local culture and history, before continuing our pilgrimage.

The section from Pobeña to Castro Urdiales is an engaging part of this route, combining both coastal beauty and the charm of small Basque towns.

The journey begins in Pobeña, a quiet village known for its beach and coastal beauty. The route immediately heads along the scenic coastline, with rugged cliffs on one side and views of the sea on the other. We can enjoy a relatively moderate but scenic path, with plenty of opportunities to take in the natural surroundings, including the lush green hills and the Atlantic Ocean.

As we head towards Castro Urdiales, the path takes us through small towns and picturesque landscapes. The route passes through charming forests, rocky coastal terrain, and some farmland. The trail is well-marked, and we can expect to encounter fellow travelers along the way. The path can be a little challenging in some parts, with short ascents and descents, but the reward is the stunning coastal panoramas and the serenity of the area.

Upon reaching Castro Urdiales, we are greeted by the beauty of this historic town, which is a popular stop for pilgrims. Castro Urdiales is known for its medieval architecture, including the impressive Church of Santa María de la Asunción, a striking Gothic-style church perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, it is one of the most iconic landmarks in the town.

Just a short walk from the church is the Castle of Castro Urdiales, located near the waterfront, as well as the church. The town has a rich maritime history, and its harbor, with its picturesque fishing boats and seafood restaurants, provides a lovely place to rest after a day of walking.

Another must-see in Castro Urdiales is the Puente de Hierro (Iron Bridge), a striking metal bridge built in the 19th century. It spans the river and connects the old town with the newer parts of Castro Urdiales. Its unique design, with its iron structure and arched spans, makes it a popular spot for photographers.

The Camino del Norte between Castro Urdiales and Laredo is a scenic and relatively short stretch of the Camino de Santiago. This route takes us along the stunning northern coastline of Spain, offering both beautiful sea views and a taste of the rural Basque countryside.

Leaving Castro Urdiales, the path heads west along the coast. The first part of the route takes us through small villages and rural areas, with farmland and lush green fields stretching out on either side. As we leave the town behind, we will walk through the Brazomar Beach area and continue along the rocky coastline, which offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. The trail is well-marked and provides a peaceful atmosphere, away from busy roads, allowing us to fully enjoy the natural surroundings.

As we move towards Laredo, the landscape gradually changes. We will encounter more rugged cliffs and valleys, as well as stretches of forest. The path climbs in some areas, offering panoramic views over the coastline, including several charming beaches along the way. One of the highlights of this section is the view of Castillo de Buceo, an ancient castle on a hilltop overlooking the sea, which makes for a great photo opportunity.

Upon reaching Laredo, we are welcomed by the town's rich history and beautiful beaches. Laredo is known for its long sandy beach, Playa de Laredo, which stretches for several kilometers and is one of the most popular beaches in the region. The town also boasts impressive historic buildings, such as the Church of Santa María de la Asunción, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. Laredo’s charming old town, with its narrow streets and traditional houses, is a lovely place to explore after a long day of walking.

The stretch from Laredo to Noja is a beautiful section of the Northern Way, and one of the most scenic routes along this stretch involves taking the ferry from Laredo to Santoña, adding an extra dimension to the journey. This variant of the Camino offers a mix of coastal beauty, charming towns, and a relaxing boat ride, making it a truly unique experience for us.

As we leave Laredo, we will pass through peaceful streets before making our way to the ferry terminal. The ferry ride is part of the Camino, and it offers a refreshing and leisurely break from walking. The ferry departs from the Puerto de Laredo, a busy harbor area, and crosses the Ría de Treto, a scenic estuary that separates Laredo from Santoña. The ferry journey is relatively short, taking about 20 minutes, but it offers beautiful views of the coastline, the estuary, and the surrounding hills.

Upon arriving in Santoña, we disembark and continue our Camino journey. Santoña is a lovely town, steeped in history and known for its fishing industry, especially for anchovies.

Santoña’s town center is charming, with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and a relaxed atmosphere. Here, we will find the Church of Santa María del Puerto, a beautiful example of Spanish Baroque architecture. We might want to take a moment to explore the town before continuing our journey.

The path continues towards Noja. This part of the walk is relatively flat and easy, making for a pleasant and tranquil journey through rural landscapes and coastal wetlands. The route takes us through quiet fields and salt flats, offering scenic views of the Marismas de Santoña nature reserve, where migratory birds gather. The wetlands are a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve and a key ecological area, making this section of the Camino especially attractive for nature lovers.

Upon arriving in Noja, we are greeted by a picturesque town with a mix of natural beauty and cultural landmarks. Aside from the beaches, Noja offers the Church of San Pedro and a few historic buildings, including the Palacio de Albaicín, a 17th-century mansion. The town is small but charming, with plenty of cafés and restaurants where we can rest and enjoy local specialties like seafood, particularly anchovies, which are a specialty of the region.

Noja’s laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal place to relax after the walk. We can spend some time walking along the beach or enjoying a meal in one of the many seaside restaurants, reflecting on the beauty of the Camino del Norte.

The Camino del Norte from Noja to Santander, with the ferry ride from Somo, is a unique and enjoyable part of the journey. It combines peaceful rural landscapes with the beauty of the coastline, followed by a relaxing boat ride across the bay, leading into the vibrant city of Santander.

The route remains mostly flat and easy to navigate, making it a comfortable stage for us before reaching Somo, a small coastal village that lies at the entrance of the Bahía de Santander.

Once we reach Somo, we will take the ferry to Santander, a short but scenic crossing over the Bay of Santander. The ferry ride takes about 20 minutes and offers spectacular views of the bay, with the city of Santander on one side and the green hills surrounding the bay on the other. From the ferry, we can see the Peninsula de la Magdalena, home to the famous Palacio de la Magdalena and a large park, as well as of the Sardinero Beach, which we can visit after arriving in Santander. The ferry is a relaxing way to transition from the countryside to the city, and it is a nice break from walking, allowing us to enjoy the sea breeze and panoramic views. 

Arriving in Santander, we are greeted by a bustling and vibrant city, the capital of Cantabria. The city is rich in history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. The Camino del Norte continues through the city, taking us to significant landmarks like the Palacio de la Magdalena, a majestic palace surrounded by gardens and overlooking the bay, and the Cathedral of Santander, a stunning historical site located in the heart of the old town.

Santander is also known for its waterfront and beaches, with Playa del Sardinero being one of the most famous. The city's Maritime Museum is a great place to learn about the region’s naval history, while the Mercado de la Esperanza provides a fantastic opportunity to sample fresh local produce, seafood, and regional specialties.

In addition to the historical and cultural attractions, Santander offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Cantabrian seafood to modern tapas bars, perfect for us looking to relax after a day’s walk.

If we have enough time, it is highly recommended to explore Santander, a city located on the northern coast of Spain, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and historical sites. As part of the Camino del Norte, it serves as an important stop for pilgrims making their way to Santiago de Compostela.

One of the city's highlights is the Palacio de la Magdalena, a beautiful palace set on the scenic Peninsula de la Magdalena. Originally the royal summer residence, it is now a cultural center and offers stunning views of the bay and the surrounding beaches. The Magdalena Beach is also nearby, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a swim in the crystal-clear waters.

Another must-visit spot is the Centro Botín, a modern art center located right on the waterfront. The building itself is an architectural marvel, designed by the famous Renzo Piano. Inside, we will find exhibitions ranging from contemporary art to photography, along with fantastic views of the city and the sea.

For those interested in nature, the Parque de las Llamas and Jardines de Pereda offer green spaces perfect for a walk or a moment of rest. The park is expansive, with peaceful lakes and walking trails, while the gardens provide a lovely spot for a break with views of the bay.

In the heart of the city, the Catedral de Santander is worth a visit. This Romanesque-Gothic cathedral is a reminder of the city's historical importance and a peaceful place to reflect. Close by, we will also find the Museo de Prehistoria y Arqueología, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

Finally, for those making the Camino, Santander’s port is an essential point. It is from here that many pilgrims embark on their journey, either by boat or train, heading further along the Camino del Norte. The bustling harbor area also has plenty of restaurants where we can enjoy fresh seafood before heading out on our next leg.

Santander is a perfect blend of coastal charm, cultural richness, and historical significance, making it a memorable stop along the Camino del Norte.