Arrive in Gijón a lively city known for its maritime history and vibrant culture. Its historic old town, Cimavilla, boasts charming narrow streets, ancient churches, and lively plazas. Gijón’s stunning San Lorenzo Beach and bustling marina are perfect spots to soak up the local vibe. Enjoy outstanding seafood and the lively atmosphere of Gijon in preparation for tomorrow’s walk.

Accommodation: Gijón

You’ll kick off your Northern Camino from Gijón to Ribadeo, winding through a beautiful rural landscape and exploring the Ría de Avilés along the way. This stage is packed with interesting cultural spots, like the 5,000-year-old necropolis at Monte Areo and the fairy tale stories and ambience of Carreño’s Fuente de Les Xanes. You’ll wrap up today’s walk in Avilés, a city with an amazing town centre where you can check out the Marqués de Ferrera and García Pumarino palaces, along with the Church of San Nicolás de Bari.

Walk: 24km / 4.5 to 5.5hrs / moderate
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Aviles

You’ll head towards the coastal town of Salinas, then continue through peaceful rural landscapes. Along the way, you’ll cross a few rivers, adding to the charm of the route. As you walk, you’ll arrive at Muros de Nalón, a picturesque spot surrounded by green meadows and the beautiful mountain scenery that defines northern Spain’s coastline. Muros de Nalon has an iconic beach, Playa de Aguilar, with its golden sands and clear waters, which is a must-visit location. Muros de Nalón’s quiet streets, traditional houses, and welcoming atmosphere make it a delightful spot to relax after your day’s walk.

Walk: 22 km / 4 to 5 hrs
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Muros de Nalon

The route winds through lush green meadows and coastal forests, scattered with quaint little hamlets. As you walk, you’ll pass through the village of Ballota. This small, tranquil spot offers stunning ocean views and a good place to rest amongst the traditional stone houses. It also offers stunning views from the dramatic cliffs that stretch all the way to Cadavedo.

Walk: 19 km / 6 to 7 hrs
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Cadavedo

In Cadavedo, you’ll see the Villademoros Tower, a striking medieval structure that was built in the 13th century. This impressive stone structure served as a defensive fortification and lookout point mainly protecting the people from pirates. From there, the path takes you through scenic inland landscapes until you reach Luarca, often called the whitest town on the Asturian coast, renowned for its lovely bridges and gorgeous beaches. You will want to visit the Hermitage of the Virgen Blanca and the elegant Palace of the Marquises of Ferrer. The marina is also a good place to visit and relax after your walk.

Walk: 19 km / 4 to 5 hrs
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Luarca

The route heads away from the coast, meandering through peaceful rural and wooded tracks until you reach Villapedre, where you’ll find another quaint church that is dedicated to St. James the Apostle. From there, you’ll pass through the charming villages of Villaoril and La Colorada before arriving in Navia. This interesting little place famous for being the birthplace of Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos 1744-1811), who was a prominent Spanish Enlightenment figure, known for his roles as a statesman, writer, philosopher, and reformer. Navia also proudly claims to have the title of the surfing capital of Spain.

Walk: 19 km / 4 to 5 hrs
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Navia

You’ll start by crossing the bridge over the Navia River and heading into the little town of La Caridad. From there, you’ll follow local roads that lead you to Tapia de Casariego, a town known for its fishing and canning heritage. Be sure to explore the fishing quarter of San Sebastián, or take a stroll through La Guardia for stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea from the Os Cañois viewpoint

Walk: 24 km / 4.5 to 5.5 hrs
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Tapia de Casriego

This scenic stage takes you past your last groups of stunning beaches, and also hidden coves and picturesque viewpoints. Make your way to the lighthouse at the mouth of the Eo River which marks the border between Asturias and Galicia. Crossing the Los Santos Bridge, you’ll step into Galicia and arrive in Ribadeo, known for its impressive “Indian houses” and beautiful natural surroundings. These elegant mansions were built by locals who made their fortunes in the Americas during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Walk: 13 km / 3.5 to 4.5 hrs
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Ribadeo

Depending on your onward travel plans, you can spend the morning exploring further before heading off on your journey home, most likely to Santiago ( 3 to 4 hrs by bus) or back to Gijon ( 2 hrs by bus). You could go to Lugo (on the Primitivo Camino) 90 km away which is lovely walled city well worth visiting and well connected to transport.

Of course, there is the option to stay on and walk the remainder of the way to Santiago.

Meals: Breakfast