Walking the Path of Tradition: A Guide to Hiking the Camino del Norte and Camino Portugués

The Camino de Santiago, or “Way of Saint James,” is a network of pilgrimage routes leading to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain, where tradition holds that the remains of Saint James the Apostle are buried. Among the many Caminos, the Camino del Norte and the Camino Portugués stand out for their unique routes, rich history, and scenic beauty. Each offers a distinct experience for hikers, from the rugged coastline of northern Spain to the charming villages of Portugal and Galicia. This guide provides an overview of what to expect on the Camino del Norte and the Camino Portugués, helping prospective pilgrims understand the challenges, highlights, and cultural treasures that make these routes unforgettable.

Understanding the Camino del Norte

The Camino del Norte, or “Northern Way,” stretches along Spain’s northern coast, starting in the Basque city of Irún and running through Asturias, Cantabria, and Galicia before arriving at Santiago de Compostela. This route is approximately 510 miles (820 kilometers) and takes around five to six weeks to complete, depending on the pace and specific starting point. Known for its breathtaking coastal views and mountainous terrain, the Camino del Norte is a challenging but rewarding option for those seeking an alternative to the more popular Camino Francés.

Compared to other Caminos, the Camino del Norte is quieter and less crowded, offering a more solitary and reflective experience. Its scenic coastal route is filled with striking landscapes, charming fishing villages, and lush forests. Hikers will encounter steep ascents, especially in the Basque Country and Asturias, so physical preparation is essential. The Northern Way is ideal for those who seek a more rugged and less tourist-oriented journey, as it maintains a sense of authenticity with fewer large towns and more unspoiled natural landscapes.

The Camino Portugués: An Accessible and Scenic Journey

The Camino Portugués, or “Portuguese Way,” is the second most popular Camino route. It offers a gentler and often shorter alternative to the Camino del Norte. The main starting points are Lisbon and Porto, with the route from Lisbon covering approximately 380 miles (610 kilometers) and the route from Porto around 150 miles (240 kilometers). Many hikers opt to start in Porto for a manageable two-week journey, though starting in Lisbon allows for a more extended pilgrimage.

The Camino Portugués traverses beautiful countryside, historic cities, and charming Portuguese and Galician villages. The route is generally less strenuous than the Camino del Norte, making it accessible to a wide range of hikers. It passes through significant cultural landmarks such as the city of Porto, the Templar town of Tomar, and the medieval city of Tui on the Spanish-Portuguese border. The Portuguese Way provides:

• A scenic and immersive experience.
• Blending coastal views with lush vineyards.
• Rolling hills.
• Ancient stone paths.

This route is ideal for those seeking a balance between natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural immersion.

Preparation and Fitness for Both Routes

Hiking the Camino del Norte or Camino Portugués requires physical preparation, as both routes involve extended days of walking and varying terrain. While the Camino del Norte is considered more challenging due to its mountainous sections and rugged coastlines, the Camino Portugués still requires endurance, as hikers will cover long distances each day.

To prepare for either route, prospective pilgrims should engage in regular walking, gradually increasing distance and load to mimic the conditions on the trail. Strengthening the legs, core, and back muscles is essential, especially for the more physically demanding Northern Way. Choosing appropriate footwear is crucial, as both routes include paved sections, dirt paths, and uneven terrain. A well-fitted pair of hiking boots or trail shoes with proper ankle support will help prevent blisters and injuries.

Additionally, a lightweight backpack with essentials and good-quality gear, including a sleeping bag and weather-appropriate clothing, will contribute to a comfortable journey.

Navigation and Accommodation

Both the Camino del Norte and the Camino Portugués are well-marked, with yellow arrows and scallop shell symbols guiding hikers toward Santiago de Compostela. Despite these markings, having a guidebook or digital map on the phone can be helpful, especially in less populated areas where signage may be sparse.

Accommodation along both routes primarily consists of allergies, which are inexpensive pilgrim hostels offering basic facilities. Allergies are often shared dormitories with bunk beds, providing an affordable option for hikers on a budget. In more popular areas, such as Porto and Santiago, it is wise to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons. Private rooms and small hotels are also available in many towns, providing more comfort and privacy for those who prefer it. While the Camino del Norte has fewer accommodation options in some rural sections, the Camino Portugués generally has a well-developed infrastructure, especially between Porto and Santiago.

Scenic Highlights of the Camino del Norte

The Camino del Norte offers some of the most beautiful and varied scenery of any Camino route. Starting in Irún, hikers will find themselves immersed in the Basque Country’s rugged coastline, passing through San Sebastián, where sandy beaches and scenic promenades create a relaxing atmosphere. Further along, the route enters Cantabria and Asturias, regions known for their lush greenery, fishing villages, and dramatic coastal cliffs.

In Asturias, hikers will encounter some of the most challenging sections of the route as they navigate the mountainous terrain near Gijón and Avilés. The ascent is well worth it, as the views from the hilltops provide stunning panoramas of the Bay of Biscay. The city of Oviedo, located inland, is an important pilgrimage destination with its Gothic cathedral and rich history. As the trail continues westward into Galicia, hikers will notice a shift in scenery, with rolling hills, forests, and ancient stone villages leading the Way toward Santiago.

Cultural Treasures of the Camino Portugués

The Camino Portugués provides an immersion into both Portuguese and Galician culture. Starting in Lisbon, hikers will encounter a blend of Roman and Moorish architecture alongside vibrant plazas and historic monasteries. The route from Lisbon passes through towns like Santarém, known for its Gothic architecture, and Tomar, a former stronghold of the Knights Templar. Porto, with its medieval district, riverside cafes, and famous port wine cellars, is another cultural highlight.

As the route crosses into Spain, hikers are greeted by the medieval town of Tui, marking the start of the Galician section. From Tui to Santiago, the Camino Portugués takes hikers through a series of traditional Galician villages, where they can experience local customs, sample regional cuisine, and witness ancient festivals. Galician hospitality is renowned, and the people along the Camino Portugués are known for their warm welcome to pilgrims. The journey through these culturally rich areas provides a deeper understanding of the region’s history and traditions, making it a truly enriching experience.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

Weather in Camino del Norte and Camino Portugués can vary widely depending on the time of year and specific regions. The best times to hike either route are spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when temperatures are mild and the trail is less crowded. Summer can be hot, particularly on the Camino Portugués, where inland temperatures can become uncomfortable for long hikes. However, the northern coast on the Camino del Norte offers cooler temperatures, making it a suitable summer option.

Winter hiking is possible, though less common due to colder temperatures, shorter days, and limited albergue availability, particularly on the Camino del Norte. Rain is frequent in the northern coastal areas, especially in spring and fall, so hikers should be prepared for wet weather. Rain gear, including a waterproof jacket and pack cover, is essential for both routes, especially on the Camino del Norte, where coastal rain showers are shared.

Food and Local Cuisine

Food on both the Camino del Norte and Camino Portugués is a delightful aspect of the journey, offering an opportunity to sample regional specialties and savor the culinary heritage of Portugal and Spain. Along the Camino del Norte, Basque and Asturian cuisine features prominently, with dishes like pintxos (small snacks similar to tapas), fresh seafood, and hearty stews. Asturias is famous for its cider, which is traditionally poured from a height to aerate the drink. Galician cuisine, found on both routes, is known for its seafood dishes, such as pulp a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) and empanadas.

The Camino Portugués offers the flavors of Portuguese cuisine, including grilled sardines, bacalhau (salted cod), and caldo verde (green soup). Porto, in particular, is known for its port wine, a must-try for hikers passing through. In Galicia, hikers can enjoy traditional dishes that reflect the region’s agricultural and fishing heritage. Sharing meals with fellow hikers is a common tradition on the Camino, fostering camaraderie and adding to the sense of community that defines the pilgrimage experience.

The Pilgrim Experience: Spirituality and Personal Growth

Hiking the Camino del Norte and Camino Portugués is more than a physical journey; it is also an opportunity for personal and spiritual growth. While the Camino has religious origins, many hikers embark on it for personal reasons, seeking a sense of purpose, reflection, or simply a break from the demands of everyday life. The trail provides time and space to disconnect from modern distractions, connect with nature, and reflect on one’s values and priorities.

For many, the pilgrimage experience fosters a sense of community and shared purpose. Hikers from around the world come together, forming bonds over shared meals, conversations, and the challenges of the trail. The Camino has a way of bringing out the kindness and generosity in people, as fellow pilgrims support each other in times of need. Reaching Santiago de Compostela is often an emotional moment as hikers reflect on the journey they have completed and the insights they have gained along the Way.

The Camino del Norte and Camino Portugués offer distinct yet equally rewarding paths to Santiago de Compostela. Each route presents its own set of challenges and highlights, from the rugged coastline of northern Spain to the picturesque towns of Portugal. Hiking these Caminos is a test of physical endurance, mental resilience, and open-heartedness, providing an unforgettable experience for those who embark on the journey.

For those drawn to the Camino del Norte, the beauty of Spain’s northern coast and the solitude of the path make it a profoundly contemplative and scenic pilgrimage. The Camino Portugués, with its cultural richness and gentle landscape, offers a blend of history, community, and spirituality that appeals to hikers of all backgrounds. Whether choosing the Northern Way or the Portuguese Way, hiking the Camino is a journey that leaves a lasting impact, filled with moments of beauty, connection, and personal discovery. The Camino is not merely a path to a destination but a journey of transformation, connecting hikers to a timeless tradition and a global community of pilgrims.