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Seeking advice re most scenic section of the Norte for a mish mash walk

rwoman1

New Member
Time of past OR future Camino
Sept 2025
Hi,

new to this forum and new to the Camino and already so grateful for all the fabulous info here. Thank you all.

My husband and I (mid 60's) and my son are planning to walk some of the Northern route next year after a few days in San Seb. .we are thinking 200-400 km in total which will include the last 100 on the quieter path from Ourense.

I was curious which sections of the del Norte other pilgrims would recommend. We are keen to capture some of that spectacular coastline. We are all pretty fit for our age though not regular hikers, have already started training though. happy to train/bus between sections where this is possible.

Thanks in advance
 
Train for your next Camino (or keep the Camino spirit alive) on Santa Catalina Island
If you're already in San Sebastian, consider the segment Irun to Deba or Guernika. You could stay two nights in San Sebastian and take transit to Irun, then walk back to San Sebastian - that will save you carrying packs.

There is also an alternative route between Zumaia and Deba along the coast that is really spectacular:

 
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By all accounts the first week from Irun is often described as some of the most beautiful scenery, but also demanding walking on the Norte. It is a beautiful part of Spain.
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
If you're already in San Sebastian, consider the segment Irun to Deba or Guernika. You could stay two nights in San Sebastian two nights and take transit to Irun, then walk back to San Sebastian - that will save you carrying packs.

There is also an alternative route between Zumaia and Deba along the coast that is really spectacular:

Oh, this is perfect. Thank you so much
 
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Yes, follow the red and white GR from Zumaia to Deba along the World Heritage Basque Geopark coast. Very do-able from San Sebastian using the Euskotren.
Irun/Hondarrabia to San Sebastian over the summit of Jaizkibel is also fantastic. You could split this into two days.
 

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