Day 50 – Camino Del Norte (1)

Today we head to the airport and make our way to Bilbao, Spain. After making our way to our guest house we will have a night to rest before beginning our hike. Some have asked what this Camino hike is like – here is a short description.

The Camino del Norte, also known as the Northern Way or Coastal Route, is a historic pilgrimage trail that traces the rugged and breathtakingly beautiful northern coast of Spain, from the French border in Irun to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia.   

The Camino del Norte hugs the Cantabrian Sea, offering pilgrims a unique blend of coastal beauty, lush landscapes, and a more challenging, yet rewarding, terrain. It’s considered one of the more physically demanding routes, characterized by its undulating hills and frequent ascents and descents, particularly in the initial stages traversing the Basque Country and Asturias. 

The route showcases a diverse array of landscapes:

• Dramatic Coastline: breathtaking coastal cliffs, secluded beaches, and charming fishing villages along the Bay of Biscay. 
• Lush Greenery: The region is renowned as “Green Spain” due to its verdant hills, fertile valleys, and forests.
• Challenging Mountains: The route’s proximity to the Cantabrian Mountains means encountering significant elevation changes and rewarding climbs with sweeping views. Beyond the stunning scenery, the Camino del Norte immerses pilgrims in the distinct cultures and traditions of the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia.

The Camino del Norte offers a more tranquil experience compared to the bustling Camino Francés, offering solitude and a deeper connection with nature and themselves. While the infrastructure might be slightly less developed than the Francés, we can still find welcoming albergues, hostels, and other accommodations along the way. The route is well-marked with the traditional yellow arrows and scallop shells, guiding the way through varying terrains. 

The Camino del Norte is more than just a physical challenge; it’s a journey for the body, mind, and soul. It’s an opportunity to connect with the landscape, fellow pilgrims, and yourself, finding peace and personal growth amidst the stunning beauty of Northern Spain. 

Lord willing, we will make our way to “Santiago de Compostela,” which translates to “Saint James of the Field of Stars” or “Saint James of the Well-Ordered Burial Ground”.  The city holds the tomb of St. James the Greater, one of Jesus’ apostles. Pilgrims have been traveling to Santiago de Compostela for centuries to visit his shrine.

One of the funny quotes I heard Merritt say to his sisters, “I don’t know what Dad and I are going to talk about for 25 days and 416 miles.” Ha, yes son, I hope some of those miles are quiet 🤪.

Time to roll, up up up and away we go.