02/10/25
Yes, it starts in France and continues in Spain, along the coast, passing through fishing villages and reaching the large cities of the north.
It is the path to the sunset, to the magic of dusk and the Celtic gods. As old as pre-Roman cultures, the Way of Saint James has been the emblem of northern Spain for many centuries. A route that crosses the north coast and visits every village, facing the sea, between mountains, in search of that last sun on the coast of Galicia, towards Finisterre, or the end of the earth.
The best thing is that Pais Vasco by Ignacio works in those same places that the Way passes through. If you visit the Basque Country with us, you will be doing a small part of a great pilgrimage, adding more magic to your visit.
Starting with the hills and Mount Jaizkibel, the first Spanish mountain on the northern route, or French route. This fishing village is the heart of our tours, where the guide lives and walks. That's why we encourage you to trust us, whether you're doing the entire route or interested in the history of generations who have walked these path before us, the same history we tell you on our tours.
The most iconic towns along the route are:
Hondarribia: the most beautiful town in the Basque Country according to National Geographic, and one of the best in Spain in terms of culture, medieval architecture, and good food. The route usually starts at the French border, in Irún, at the train station, or at San Sebastián airport, next to Hondarribia. From there, the route heads towards the highest mountain, before descending towards San Sebastián.
We advise you not to skip a visit to this medieval village.
link here to book ur tour : https://www.paisvascobyignacio.com/services/day-walk-hondarribia
recommadations :
The hostel is located between Hondarribia and Irún:
https://www.gronze.com/foros/camino-norte/albergues-en-hondarribia
https://www.gipuzkoa.eus/es/web/gazteria/equipamientos/albergues/albergue-hondarribia
Pasaia-Pasajes: After climbing the mountain, where you can see clearly the border between France and Spain, you descend to this Basque fishing village where Victor Hugo, the French writer, stayed and wrote that if it was in Italy, this village would be much more touristy, comparing it to Venice.
Hostel available:
San Sebastián: One of the tourist gems of northern Spain, if not the most beautiful. Culture and gastronomy in a clean city, perfect for spending a few days and then keeping on your way.
The hostel is located at the top of the mountain, overlooking the sea and with unique views of the entire bay.
Zarautz: a Spanish surfing paradise in its own right. Here, mountains and sea come together in the most classic style of Basque geography. The small town blends its old town with surfing culture along a sandy beach that changes with the tide.
Hostel:
https://www.alberguescaminosantiago.com/camino-del-norte/albergues/pais-vasco/albergue-de-peregrinos-de-zarauz-guipuzcoa-camino-del-norte/
Getaria: the birthplace of Txakoli, the white and smooth wine of the Basque Country, is located in the hills facing the sea in this small town, behind Zarautz.
Hostel:
https://www.gronze.com/pais-vasco/guipuzcoa/getaria/albergue-akarregi-kanpaia
Bilbao: A mandatory stop to rest and feel Basque modernity. Cutting-edge museums, mountains everywhere, and modern streets alongside medieval ones. A walking tour is the perfect complement to the pace of the Camino.
There are several hostels, depending on the season. In winter, some are usually closed, so it is advisable to check in advance:
Remember that you can ask us any questions you may have about alternative routes that enter and leave each of these urban centers. We are counting on you to extend your trip with a private tour to reveal the history and nature in detail.
We'd love to hear from you and be happy to help!
Ignacio F.A.A.
