Northern Way Bilbao to Oviedo Cycling Tour

Arrive in the vibrant Basque city of Bilbao and take time to soak up its dynamic atmosphere. Indulge in the region’s renowned cuisine, explore the charming old town, and stroll along the riverside promenade. If time allows, a visit to the iconic Guggenheim Museum is highly recommended. Before setting off on your Camino journey, be sure to collect the first stamp in your pilgrim’s passport.

Begin your cycling journey by departing Bilbao, riding through urban landscapes toward Portugalete. From there, a dedicated cycle path guides you to the shores of La Arena beach, where the majestic Cantabrian Sea first comes into view. Continue your ride along a breathtaking cliffside route, transitioning from the Basque Country into the picturesque region of Cantabria. This scenic coastal trail ultimately brings you to Castro Urdiales, a captivating town celebrated for its beautiful harbor and rich history. Upon arrival, take the opportunity to wander its historic streets and savor the fresh, local seafood.

Continue your ride along the spectacular northern coastline, with the Bay of Biscay accompanying you throughout the day. This scenic stage passes a mix of sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, wooded sections, and lush inland valleys. Although the distance is relatively short, the route features constant ups and downs with moderate gradients, including some stretches on unsurfaced roads. You finish in Laredo, famed for its long golden beach — an ideal place to unwind, recharge, and enjoy the fresh sea air.

Today begins and ends with two short ferry crossings — first from Puntal de Laredo to Santoña, and later from Pedreña to Santander, arriving just steps from the striking Centro Botín in the heart of the city. Between these crossings, the route follows a scenic stretch through green countryside and picturesque villages, passing the long beaches of Salvé (Laredo), Berria (after Santoña), and Helgueras-Trengadín (Noja). The ride then turns inland through San Miguel de Meruelo and Güemes before easing into a flatter final section near the sandy shores of Langre and Somo. Santander welcomes you with a vibrant mix of culture, maritime history, and coastal elegance — a memorable highlight along your journey.

Leaving Santander takes some time, as the city stretches across a peninsula surrounded by water and expands primarily in one direction. Gradually, the urban landscape gives way to rolling hills and surprisingly peaceful countryside, following scenic alternatives to the official Camino route. The day ends in the enchanting medieval town of Santillana del Mar, widely considered one of the most beautiful villages in Cantabria.

Today’s stage is long and varied, combining rolling green hills with occasional returns to the Cantabrian coastline. In Comillas, admire striking Modernist architecture, including El Capricho, one of Antoni Gaudí’s earliest works. As you continue toward Unquera, the route crosses several bridges over marshlands and estuaries, with the largest just before reaching the lively fishing town of San Vicente de la Barquera.

In the second half of the day, the route turns inland. While the individual climbs are moderate — with no single ascent exceeding 100 meters — the constant ups and downs accumulate to around 1,125 meters of elevation gain, creating a strong sense that the nearby mountains are drawing ever closer.

The first stop today is Colombres, where the impressive Quinta Guadalupe stands out as you approach town. This grand villa is one of several residences built in the 19th century by the Indianos — emigrants who returned from the Americas with considerable wealth and introduced an extravagant architectural style to the region. Leaving Colombres, the gentle presence of the ocean accompanies you as the route passes through charming fishing villages, offering an authentic glimpse into Asturian culture.

After Andrín, a notable climb leads to a rewarding descent into Llanes, a lively coastal town known for its historic quarter, bustling summer terraces, working fishing port, and distinctive artistic breakwater. Continuing onward, you ride past beautiful beaches such as Palombina, Torimbia, and San Antolín — particularly popular during the summer months. The route then turns inland once more, crossing quieter rural landscapes and several railway level crossings before reaching Ribadesella, a coastal town celebrated for its prehistoric caves and maritime character.

Today’s stage is relatively short yet rewarding, featuring several climbs that open up superb coastal and countryside views. Along the way, you pass a string of inviting beaches — including Santa Marina in Ribadesella, Vega, the more secluded Arenal de Morís, La Espasa, and La Isla — perfect for a refreshing swim if time allows.

Near Colunga, you may choose to make a short detour to the Jurassic Museum (MUJA) or visit Playa de la Griega, where fossilized dinosaur footprints can still be seen. The route then turns further inland, crossing the mountainous landscapes typical of Asturias, with apple orchards, green meadows, and small rural hamlets. You finish the day in Villaviciosa, known as the “Apple Capital” of the region and celebrated for its traditional cider production.

Today you leave the ocean behind as you make your final approach to Oviedo, completing your journey at the doorstep of the Gothic Cathedral of San Salvador. Shortly after departing Villaviciosa, consider a visit to the remarkable pre-Romanesque church and Romanesque monastery of Valdediós before tackling the day’s main challenge — a steep 260-meter ascent to Alto de la Campa. From the summit, a long descent carries you toward the market town of Pola de Siero and gradually closer to the outskirts of Oviedo.

To prolong the peaceful rural atmosphere, the route follows a quieter alternative to the official Camino, avoiding busier roads for as long as possible. Eventually, the landscape transitions from countryside to city as you enter Oviedo, where the magnificent cathedral stands as a symbol of Asturias’ deep connection to the Camino since the 9th century. The city offers a welcoming atmosphere, excellent restaurants, and numerous traditional sidrerías — a fitting place to celebrate the end of your pilgrimage.

After breakfast, your journey concludes, marking the end of your cycling adventure along the Northern Way.