Camino del Norte part 2: Oviedo - Santiago

Welcome to Oviedo, a city rich in history and alive with a vibrant pilgrim tradition. Stroll through the atmospheric old town and visit the Gothic Cathedral of San Salvador, where you can collect the first stamp in your pilgrim passport. Discover the local gastronomy in one of the many Sidrerías along Calle Gascona — a popular spot for both locals and pilgrims.

You leave Oviedo behind and cycle through green valleys and along the foothills of Mount Naranco towards the coast. Along the way, enjoy the peaceful rural scenery and changing landscapes. In Avilés, you’ll be surprised by the historic centre’s lively atmosphere and modern architecture, such as the Niemeyer Art Centre. End your day with dinner at the charming harbour.

The route follows the stunning coastline of the Costa Verde, offering views over rugged cliffs and traditional Asturian villages. Highlights include the River Nalón and the medieval Castle of San Martín, which overlooks the valley. After a climb, you reach the picturesque fishing village of Cudillero, where colourful houses cling to a steep hillside.

One of the most beautiful stages of the Camino takes you through the quiet Asturian countryside. Following the Camín Real de Las Ballotas, you’ll pass hidden beaches and charming villages such as Cadavedo. After a challenging climb, enjoy breathtaking views on the descent to Luarca, the “White town on the green coast”, known for its harbour and distinctive white buildings.

You begin with a loop inland, cycling through peaceful forests and rolling hills. Stop in Navia for a short break before continuing to Tapia, a village with a pretty harbour and the beautiful Penarronda Beach. After crossing the River Eo, you arrive in Ribadeo, a lively town with elegant mansions and inviting shopping streets.

Leave the coast behind and head into the green interior of Galicia. The route is hilly and demanding but rewards you with wide views and charming villages such as Vilanova de Lourenzá. Visit its impressive monastery church before continuing to Mondoñedo, a historic town home to the UNESCO-listed Cathedral Basilica La Asunción.

Today you climb to the plateau of Terra Chá, following quiet roads through scenic valleys. Along the way, you’ll pass picturesque villages like Abadín, perfect for a pause and a taste of local specialities. You finish in Vilalba, a town with a medieval character and remarkable landmarks, including the imposing Torre de los Andrade.

This varied stage takes you along paved roads, muddy paths, and through fairytale-like forests. Stop in Baamonde for a traditional Spanish bocadillo. The day ends at the impressive monastery of Sobrado dos Monxes — an iconic building with a long religious history and a peaceful setting that invites reflection.

The final stage leads you through Arzúa, where the Camino del Norte merges with the Camino Francés. Though this section is busier, there’s a special energy among the many pilgrims approaching their destination. From Monte do Gozo, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the cathedral of Santiago. Conclude your journey at the magnificent Plaza Obradoiro and the cathedral — an experience you won’t soon forget.

• Northern Spain has a mild climate. The best period to cycle this route is from May to September, with the most pleasant temperatures in spring and autumn.
• A monthly overview can be found on our climate page: Climate Northern Spain
• For a broader overview, you can also consult our general climate page: Climate Spain

• If you fly to Asturias Airport (Asturias Airport – Ranon, OVD), there is a regular shuttle service to the centre of Oviedo. Buses depart every hour on the hour. The journey time is approximately 45 minutes.
• If you arrive at another airport, such as Santander (SDR), Bilbao (BIO) or Valladolid (VLL), there are good bus connections to Oviedo.
• If you travel back to the airports of Asturias (OVD), Santander (SDR) or Bilbao (BIO), there is a morning bus from Santiago that takes you to Oviedo, Santander or Bilbao. The travel time to Oviedo is approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, to Santander 9 hours and 30 minutes, and to Bilbao 11 hours and 30 minutes.

• For this trip, difficulty level 3 is based on the use of an e-bike. If a regular trekking bike is used, the difficulty level is 4.
• Difficulty level 3 for touring holidays are cycling holidays that are well manageable for the average touring cyclist. The rides are not too long but can include some elevation gain. The route may include longer sections of unpaved terrain (gravel), but is always well rideable. There may be 1 or 2 days where the ride is somewhat longer and more demanding. On average, distances are between 30 and 50 kilometres per day and between 200 and 400 metres of elevation gain per day.
• Difficulty level 4 for touring holidays are cycling holidays for the experienced and well-trained touring cyclist. The rides are longer and include significant elevation gain. There may be 1 or 2 days where the ride is more demanding. On average, distances are between 50 and 70 kilometres per day and between 600 and 1000 metres of elevation gain per day.