Begin your journey in San Sebastián, one of Spain’s most beautiful coastal cities, nestled between green hills and golden bays. With its elegant old town, world-class food scene, and iconic La Concha beach, San Sebastián blends urban energy with seaside charm. Spend time exploring the cobbled lanes of the Parte Vieja, climb Monte Urgull for sweeping views, or enjoy pintxos and cider in a buzzing bar. This is the perfect place to soak in Basque culture and prepare for the days ahead.

Climb steeply out of San Sebastián, leaving the city behind as the trail rises through forested hills and opens to spectacular views of the rugged Basque coastline. Follow quiet lanes and ridgelines before descending into Zarautz, a long beachfront town with a lively promenade. If continuing to Getaria, a charming fishing port with medieval towers and seafood restaurants, the path hugs the ocean and undulates gently across cliffs and vineyards. The route is varied, with woodland tracks, coastal roads, and exposed viewpoints that offer unforgettable scenery from start to finish.

Head inland through vineyards and quiet country roads, with the trail weaving between green hills, hamlets, and occasional ocean glimpses. The path rolls steadily upward and down through shady forests and peaceful farmlands, offering both solitude and sweeping views across the Bay of Biscay. Arrive in Deba, nestled beside the river and known for its relaxed beachside charm. This stage offers a moderate challenge with a balanced mix of forest paths, rural asphalt, and a few sustained climbs and descents.

Begin with a challenging climb out of Deba, as the Camino del Norte leaves the coast behind and delves into the remote heart of the Basque Country. The route leads through dense oak and eucalyptus forest, past scattered farmhouses and ancient stone walls, creating a sense of stepping back in time. With few towns or services along the way, this is one of the most peaceful and physically demanding stages so far. Arrive in Markina-Xemein, a traditional Basque town tucked into a wooded valley. The terrain is rugged and largely unpaved, with extended forest stretches and steep gradients that require sure footing.

The path undulates through rolling hills, forests, and remote valleys, dotted with rustic churches and crumbling farm buildings. Though elevation changes are steady rather than steep, the cumulative effort makes it a rewarding day. As you approach Gernika, a place of deep cultural and political significance, the terrain softens and the atmosphere shifts. Be sure to visit the Peace Museum, the Basque Assembly House, and the iconic oak tree, symbols of Basque autonomy. The walk blends quiet farm tracks with forest paths and paved lanes near town.

Climb sharply out of Gernika on shaded tracks that thread through quiet farmland and pine forest. The trail rises and falls across open ridgelines and pastoral meadows, offering glimpses of distant mountains and, eventually, the outskirts of Bilbao. Pass rural chapels and scattered caseríos (farmhouses) as you descend into Lezama, a small town with a strong footballing legacy. The terrain is a mix of compact gravel paths, forest trail, and tarmac, with long stretches of tranquillity between small villages.

Today’s walk begins gently but soon climbs to the Monte Avril ridgeline, offering panoramic views of Bilbao and the green basin that surrounds it. Descend steadily through residential neighbourhoods and leafy urban parks as the city draws nearer. Enter Bilbao via the Casco Viejo, a bustling old town filled with markets, architecture, and lively energy. Whether visiting the Guggenheim Museum or enjoying a final round of pintxos, this is a vibrant place to end the first week. The day is shorter but includes a noticeable climb, followed by a mostly paved and urban descent into the city centre.

Stage 1 comes to an end in the vibrant city of Bilbao. Whether you’re wrapping up your walk here or gearing up to continue along the Camino del Norte, take a moment to reflect on the journey so far. With its riverfront walks, striking architecture (hello, Guggenheim), lively Casco Viejo, and legendary pintxos bars, Bilbao is a fitting place to pause. Rest, soak in the Basque spirit, and celebrate how far you’ve come—the next stage awaits.