Spain El Camino de Santiago Hiking
Bilbao, Spain to Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Highlights:
- Embark across northern Spain on one of the world's most epic hiking pilgrimages
- Tour the bustling town of Pamplona, famous for its annual Running of the Bulls spectacle
- Marvel at the fascinating historic sites of Santiago de Compostela
Important Trip Details:
This is a strenuous hiking trip with average hikes of 10 miles per day. There is only significant elevation gain on two days (Day 2 & 8). The terrain and trails are in good condition with some sections of paved roads as we cross through villages from time to time. You need to be in good condition to be comfortable on this trip.
Minimum Age: 18
- Adventure and Active
- Hiking/Trekking
- Religious and Spiritual
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Day: 1, duration: 1
Hotel des Pyrenees
Arrambide Hotel des Pyrenees is a charming 4-star hotel located in the heart of the enchanting Basque village of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and facing the citadel. Its 18 quiet and comfortable rooms feature a flat screen TV, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. There is a large pool and garden at the rear of the property for relaxing after a day of adventure, and the gourmet restaurant boasts Basque specialties.Day: 2, duration: 1
Hotel Roncesvalles
A welcome respite after walking the Camino de Santiago, Hotel Roncesvalles features well-appointed, modern rooms in a restored medieval monastery that retains much of its original character. Amenities include private bathrooms, TVs, hair dryers, and free Wi-Fi. The restaurant offers hearty breakfasts to fuel up hikers.
Day: 3, duration: 1Hotel Tres Reyes
Ideally located only a short distance from the city center, the upscale Hotel Tres Reyes is a perfect homebase for exploring Pamplona. Spacious, modern rooms come equipped with private bathrooms, minibars, LED televisions, telephones, safes, A/C, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel boasts a bar, cafe, restaurant, swimming pool, and fitness center.
Day: 4, duration: 1NH Collection Palacio de Burgos
This elegant hotel, housed in a Gothic church erected in the 16th and 17th centuries, sits at the heart of Burgos. Guests are only a short walk from the UNESCO-protected Burgos Cathedral, as well as the city's other attractions and restaurants. Modern amenities abound at this historic property, including a fitness center, sauna, rooftop terrace, and free Wi-Fi.
Day: 5, duration: 1Hotel Real Monasterio San Zoilo
Set in a spectacular 10th-century monastery, the sophisticated Hotel Real Monasterio San Zoilo is a short walk from Rio Carrion. The individually decorated rooms seamlessly blend historic details, like exposed brick and original archways, with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi. The hotel features a charming bar and a Castilian restaurant, as well as a beautiful cloister and peaceful gardens.
Day: 6, duration: 1Hotel Real Colegiata de San Isidoro
Located in the heart of Leon's historic quarter, the Hotel Real Colegiata San Isidoro consistently wows guests. As a converted monastery built in to the city's Roman walls, the hotel oozes Romanesque elegance with its brick walls, frescoes, and cloistered corridors. Its comfortable rooms are stylish and clean, with modern amenities and private bathrooms. The hotel also has a royal pantheon, museum, and collegiate library.
Day: 7, duration: 1Parador de Villafranca del Bierzo
Framed by the Ancares Mountains, Parador de Villafranca del Bierzo offers modern accommodations in the El Bierzo district. Its Galician-style exterior, clad in stone and slate, is offset by lovely flower-filled grounds, which provide unobstructed views of the verdant mountains. The parador also has indoor and outdoor pools and an ice fountain.
Day: 8, duration: 1Parador de Monforte de Lemos
Set in a beautiful 17th-century, neoclassical building that was once a monastery, this parador is ideally located in historic Lugo. Enjoy a stroll around the property's tranquil cloister with elegant carved stonework. Comfortable rooms offer air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Other amenities include laundry service, a hot tub, fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
Day: 9, duration: 2Parador de Santiago de Compostela
Travel back in history with a stay in this grand hotel — originally a royal hospital built in the 15th century — in the center of Obradoiro Square. Four-poster beds, brocade linens, warm woods, and rich velvets adorn the comfortable rooms. The restaurant serves a delicious menu of Galician-style food, although endless culinary delights await outside the hotel.
Erik Perez
Erik was born and raised in the Asturias region of northern Spain and has been leading MT Sobek globally since 1989. Erik holds the coveted IFMGA/UIAGM certification, which is the highest professional award attainable in mountaineering, and has written two guidebooks on hikes and climbs in the Picos de Europa. Erik studied Humanities at the University of Oviedo—the capital city of Asturias—and received an MA in History. He is passionate about sharing the landscapes and rich cultures of northern Spain with MT Sobek travelers.
Leo San Sebastian
Leo was born in the mountains of Spain’s Basque Country and made his home in Jaca, in the heart of the Pyrenees, where he spends his winters on backcountry skis. He has been guiding in the Pyrenees for many years, as well as in Nepal, Morocco, Tanzania, Peru, Chile, Venezuela, Pakistan, India, and the French Alps. He has also taught skiing in Colorado. He is an International Certified Mountain Guide (UIAGM) and a professional ski instructor (ISIA). Leo is fluent in English, French, and Basque.
Fernando Garrido Velasco
Fernando is a IFMGA Mountain Guide with an extensive backgrouond in mountaneering and guiding. He has hiked the Great Himlayan Trail from India, Sikkim, Buthan, Nepal and Pakistán over a period of 6 months. Fernando was the first man to ever climb to the peak of Cho Oyu (26,906') solo and in Winter. He holds the world record of permanence in altitude, remaining at the summit of Aconcagua (22,841') for 66 days; and he has climbed Aconcagua 40 times. Fernando has been guiding in the Alpes, Andes, Himalaya and Pyrenees and other Mountains in Spain for more than 40 years.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been leading journeys in Europe for more than 50 years and has decades of experience on this famous pilgrimage route across northern Spain.
Reason #02This 11-day adventure has been perfected to blend hiking and history, plus delicious cuisine and elegant accommodations. And, back-up coach support for those who need it.
Reason #03Guided by a top-notch team of local experts, hikers enjoy historical and cultural tours in ancient towns on the way to Santiago de Compostela.
ActivitiesModerate to challenging hikes through spectacular landscapes, paired with city, culture, and history tours.
LodgingRevamped medieval monasteries and historic buildings offer standard to high-class amenities, comfort, and warm hospitality.
ClimateSpring and fall mornings are cool but warm up to 75°F at midday, cooling back down to about 55°F in late afternoon.
Who will meet me on arrival at the Bilbao airport on Day 1?If you are flying into Bilbao the morning of Day 1, your guide will meet you directly after you exit customs and transfer you to the meeting point in Bilbao city center.
Do I have to do all of the hikes each day?No. Each day, there are several opportunities to shorten your hike by getting a lift from our support vehicle.
Can I wear walking/running shoes instead of hiking boots on this trip?Yes. In fact, for this trip, shoes are recommended over boots as boots are too heavy for this terrain.
Do I need hiking/trekking poles for this trip?No. This trip is easily done without hiking poles. The paths and roads are in excellent condition.
What’s the best way to train for this trip?Hiking is the best way to train for this trip. The most important aspect of your training should be time spent hiking versus elevation gain. This trip is very flat, so focus on distance.
Do I have to carry my own water on this trip?Yes, but there are several opportunities each day to refill your water bottles. A good day pack is a must for carrying water, snacks and extra layers on this trip.
What is the minimum age for this trip?The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.How hard is it to walk the Camino de Santiago?
The difficulty of walking the Camino de Santiago depends on factors like the chosen section, your level of fitness, and the distances you cover each day. While some stages may be more challenging due to terrain or inclines, many people of varying fitness levels successfully complete the pilgrimage. Mountain Travel Sobek rates our Camino de Santiago a Level 4, which is moderate to challenging.What is the best month to walk the Camino de Santiago?
The best months to walk the Camino de Santiago are typically considered to be May, June, and September. During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the trails are less crowded than in the peak summer months. July and August are typically too hot to enjoy this experience.Where do you sleep on the Camino de Santiago?
While there are a variety of accommodation options on the Camino de Santiago, we stay in very comfortable 4 and 5 star hotels and paradores throughout. In our experience, this is the best way to do the Camino de Santiago as it ensures that you sleep well and wake refreshed, ready to tackle the next section.
Day: 1, duration: 1
Hotel des Pyrenees
Arrambide Hotel des Pyrenees is a charming 4-star hotel located in the heart of the enchanting Basque village of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and facing the citadel. Its 18 quiet and comfortable rooms feature a flat screen TV, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. There is a large pool and garden at the rear of the property for relaxing after a day of adventure, and the gourmet restaurant boasts Basque specialties.Day: 2, duration: 1
Hotel Roncesvalles
A welcome respite after walking the Camino de Santiago, Hotel Roncesvalles features well-appointed, modern rooms in a restored medieval monastery that retains much of its original character. Amenities include private bathrooms, TVs, hair dryers, and free Wi-Fi. The restaurant offers hearty breakfasts to fuel up hikers.
Day: 3, duration: 1Hotel Tres Reyes
Ideally located only a short distance from the city center, the upscale Hotel Tres Reyes is a perfect homebase for exploring Pamplona. Spacious, modern rooms come equipped with private bathrooms, minibars, LED televisions, telephones, safes, A/C, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel boasts a bar, cafe, restaurant, swimming pool, and fitness center.
Day: 4, duration: 1NH Collection Palacio de Burgos
This elegant hotel, housed in a Gothic church erected in the 16th and 17th centuries, sits at the heart of Burgos. Guests are only a short walk from the UNESCO-protected Burgos Cathedral, as well as the city's other attractions and restaurants. Modern amenities abound at this historic property, including a fitness center, sauna, rooftop terrace, and free Wi-Fi.
Day: 5, duration: 1Hotel Real Monasterio San Zoilo
Set in a spectacular 10th-century monastery, the sophisticated Hotel Real Monasterio San Zoilo is a short walk from Rio Carrion. The individually decorated rooms seamlessly blend historic details, like exposed brick and original archways, with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi. The hotel features a charming bar and a Castilian restaurant, as well as a beautiful cloister and peaceful gardens.
Day: 6, duration: 1Hotel Real Colegiata de San Isidoro
Located in the heart of Leon's historic quarter, the Hotel Real Colegiata San Isidoro consistently wows guests. As a converted monastery built in to the city's Roman walls, the hotel oozes Romanesque elegance with its brick walls, frescoes, and cloistered corridors. Its comfortable rooms are stylish and clean, with modern amenities and private bathrooms. The hotel also has a royal pantheon, museum, and collegiate library.
Day: 7, duration: 1Parador de Villafranca del Bierzo
Framed by the Ancares Mountains, Parador de Villafranca del Bierzo offers modern accommodations in the El Bierzo district. Its Galician-style exterior, clad in stone and slate, is offset by lovely flower-filled grounds, which provide unobstructed views of the verdant mountains. The parador also has indoor and outdoor pools and an ice fountain.
Day: 8, duration: 1Parador de Monforte de Lemos
Set in a beautiful 17th-century, neoclassical building that was once a monastery, this parador is ideally located in historic Lugo. Enjoy a stroll around the property's tranquil cloister with elegant carved stonework. Comfortable rooms offer air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Other amenities include laundry service, a hot tub, fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
Day: 9, duration: 2Parador de Santiago de Compostela
Travel back in history with a stay in this grand hotel — originally a royal hospital built in the 15th century — in the center of Obradoiro Square. Four-poster beds, brocade linens, warm woods, and rich velvets adorn the comfortable rooms. The restaurant serves a delicious menu of Galician-style food, although endless culinary delights await outside the hotel.
Erik Perez
Erik was born and raised in the Asturias region of northern Spain and has been leading MT Sobek globally since 1989. Erik holds the coveted IFMGA/UIAGM certification, which is the highest professional award attainable in mountaineering, and has written two guidebooks on hikes and climbs in the Picos de Europa. Erik studied Humanities at the University of Oviedo—the capital city of Asturias—and received an MA in History. He is passionate about sharing the landscapes and rich cultures of northern Spain with MT Sobek travelers.
Leo San Sebastian
Leo was born in the mountains of Spain’s Basque Country and made his home in Jaca, in the heart of the Pyrenees, where he spends his winters on backcountry skis. He has been guiding in the Pyrenees for many years, as well as in Nepal, Morocco, Tanzania, Peru, Chile, Venezuela, Pakistan, India, and the French Alps. He has also taught skiing in Colorado. He is an International Certified Mountain Guide (UIAGM) and a professional ski instructor (ISIA). Leo is fluent in English, French, and Basque.
Fernando Garrido Velasco
Fernando is a IFMGA Mountain Guide with an extensive backgrouond in mountaneering and guiding. He has hiked the Great Himlayan Trail from India, Sikkim, Buthan, Nepal and Pakistán over a period of 6 months. Fernando was the first man to ever climb to the peak of Cho Oyu (26,906') solo and in Winter. He holds the world record of permanence in altitude, remaining at the summit of Aconcagua (22,841') for 66 days; and he has climbed Aconcagua 40 times. Fernando has been guiding in the Alpes, Andes, Himalaya and Pyrenees and other Mountains in Spain for more than 40 years.
Inclusions
Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
Snacks and water between meals
Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
Baggage transfers and porterage
Exclusions
International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
Travel Protection Program
Personal expenses
Reason #01
MT Sobek has been leading journeys in Europe for more than 50 years and has decades of experience on this famous pilgrimage route across northern Spain.
Reason #02This 11-day adventure has been perfected to blend hiking and history, plus delicious cuisine and elegant accommodations. And, back-up coach support for those who need it.
Reason #03Guided by a top-notch team of local experts, hikers enjoy historical and cultural tours in ancient towns on the way to Santiago de Compostela.
ActivitiesModerate to challenging hikes through spectacular landscapes, paired with city, culture, and history tours.
LodgingRevamped medieval monasteries and historic buildings offer standard to high-class amenities, comfort, and warm hospitality.
ClimateSpring and fall mornings are cool but warm up to 75°F at midday, cooling back down to about 55°F in late afternoon.
Who will meet me on arrival at the Bilbao airport on Day 1?If you are flying into Bilbao the morning of Day 1, your guide will meet you directly after you exit customs and transfer you to the meeting point in Bilbao city center.
Do I have to do all of the hikes each day?No. Each day, there are several opportunities to shorten your hike by getting a lift from our support vehicle.
Can I wear walking/running shoes instead of hiking boots on this trip?Yes. In fact, for this trip, shoes are recommended over boots as boots are too heavy for this terrain.
Do I need hiking/trekking poles for this trip?No. This trip is easily done without hiking poles. The paths and roads are in excellent condition.
What’s the best way to train for this trip?Hiking is the best way to train for this trip. The most important aspect of your training should be time spent hiking versus elevation gain. This trip is very flat, so focus on distance.
Do I have to carry my own water on this trip?Yes, but there are several opportunities each day to refill your water bottles. A good day pack is a must for carrying water, snacks and extra layers on this trip.
What is the minimum age for this trip?The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.How hard is it to walk the Camino de Santiago?
The difficulty of walking the Camino de Santiago depends on factors like the chosen section, your level of fitness, and the distances you cover each day. While some stages may be more challenging due to terrain or inclines, many people of varying fitness levels successfully complete the pilgrimage. Mountain Travel Sobek rates our Camino de Santiago a Level 4, which is moderate to challenging.What is the best month to walk the Camino de Santiago?
The best months to walk the Camino de Santiago are typically considered to be May, June, and September. During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the trails are less crowded than in the peak summer months. July and August are typically too hot to enjoy this experience.Where do you sleep on the Camino de Santiago?
While there are a variety of accommodation options on the Camino de Santiago, we stay in very comfortable 4 and 5 star hotels and paradores throughout. In our experience, this is the best way to do the Camino de Santiago as it ensures that you sleep well and wake refreshed, ready to tackle the next section.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go. Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
About MT Sobek
This is where adventure travel began! Since our first Everest Base Camp trek in 1969, we’ve been connecting adventurers to the world through genuine, active and immersive experiences. We can’t think of anything more fulfilling than being outside and going deep into nature, exploring hidden places and getting to know local people. It’s what we love to do, so let us share it with you.
To feed your spirit of adventure, Mountain Travel Sobek offers a wide range of unique and perfectly paced itineraries led by incredible local guides. We keep groups small, usually fewer than 10 people, and seek out great food and characterful accommodations everywhere we go. Beyond the seamless logistics and careful attention to detail, our aim is to create a space for truly special moments in unforgettable places.
We are the Adventure Company—come explore with us.
