Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in Northern Spain
Could you see yourself hiking northern Spain where it's surprisingly green? Picos de Europa's limestone peaks are dramatic, Basque Country's coastal paths are gorgeous, and the Pyrenees along the French border are challenging. These treks take you through landscapes that don't match Spain's sunny stereotypes at all. You'll eat pintxos, explore medieval villages, and hike picturesque trails with hardly anyone around.
10 best hiking & trekking Northern Spain tours
Compiled by
MelissaNorthern Spain travel expert at TourRadar
- Camino de Santiago · Way of St. James · Portuguese Way · From Tui to Santiago de Compostela
- Camino (Francés) QB (Queensland Ballet) ~ Guided *TREK*
- Walk the Camino de Santiago
- Camino De Santiago - The Way to Santiago (The last 115KM)
- Hiking the Camino de Santiago
- Signature: Walking Spain's Camino de Santiago National Geographic
- Camino de Santiago
- Camino de Santiago · Way of St. James · French Way · From O Cebreiro to Santiago de Compostela
- Camino de Santiago · Way of St. James · French Way · From Sarria to Santiago de Compostela
- Camino de Santiago · Way of St. James · French Way · From Roncesvalles to Santiago de Compostela
Duration 8 days Destinations Tui, O Porrino, Redondela, Pontevedra, Caldas de Reis, Padron, Santiago de Compostela Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Physical Rating Moderate Distance 59 mi Operator CAMINO DE SANTIAGO RESERVAS From
- US$1,739
Camino (Francés) QB (Queensland Ballet) ~ Guided *TREK*
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This trip has been a wonderful experience exploring this beautiful part of Spain.”
David, traveled in April
The Camino Francés' toughest sections include a 25km Pyrenees ascent from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port gaining 1,200m, then a 900m climb to O Cebreiro. You'll walk about 30km daily through the Meseta's grain fields, cross Alto de Perdon with its pilgrim statues, and head through oak and eucalyptus forests near Melide.
Duration 33 days Destinations Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Roncesvalles, Zubiri, Pamplona, Puente la Reina, Estella, Torres del Río, Logrono, Najera, Santo Domingo de la CalzadaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Distance 428 mi Operator Climbing Mountains From
- US$6,657
Diverse landscapes unfold from Sarria to Santiago. Forest trails lead past Santiago de Barbadelo church, up Sierra de Ligonde, and through Castro de Castromaior ruins. Medieval towns and ancient pilgrimage paths connect 20-29km daily walks.
Duration 7 days Destinations Sarria, Portomarin, Palas de Rei, Arzua, Pedrouzo, Santiago de Compostela Age Range Ages 15+ Distance 65 mi Operator Intrepid Travel From $1,895
20% Off- US$1,516You save $379
Northern Spain's landscapes unfold over 13-24km daily from Sarria to Santiago. The route crosses the Miño River in Portomarin, passes Roman settlements near Palas de Rei, and winds through forest paths to Melide.
Duration 9 days Destinations Sarria, Portomarin, Palas de Rei, Melide, Arzua, Pedrouzo, Santiago de Compostela Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Moderate Distance 65 mi Operator Interrailing Packages From
20% Off- US$662
Duration 8 days Destinations Sarria, Portomarin, Palas de Rei, Melide, Arzua, A Rua, Lavacolla, Santiago de Compostela Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Distance 59 mi Operator Contiki From
20% Off- US$1,729
Duration 9 days Destinations Bilbao, Haro, Burgos, Fromista, Boadilla del Camino, Carrion de los Condes, Sahagun, Leon, Hospital de Órbigo, AstorgaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Distance 460 mi Operator National Geographic Expeditions with G Adventures From
20% Off- US$8,699
The path winds from the Pyrenees Mountains to Galician hills, covering 13-20km daily. Highlights include Alto Pradela's summit, Playa de Langosteira beach to Finisterre lighthouse, and the medieval Puente de Obrigo bridge. Moderate hiking includes 1,400m elevation gain in the Pyrenees.
Duration 13 days Destinations Bilbao, San Sebastian, Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorry, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Roncesvalles, Zubiri, Pamplona, Santo Domingo de la Calzada, San Juan de Ortega, BurgosSee all destinations Age Range Ages 25+ Distance 575 mi Operator Caspin Journeys From
20% Off- US$7,297
You'll walk the last 150km of the French Way across Galicia, starting from O Cebreiro at 1,300m. The route takes you past Samos Monastery, one of Spain's oldest, then follows ancient stone paths from Sarria to Portomarin as you cross the Miño River valley. Stop in Melide to try pulpo a la gallega before reaching Monte do Gozo for that first glimpse of Santiago Cathedral.
Duration 9 days Destinations O Cebreiro, Triacastela, Sarria, Portomarin, Palas de Rei, Arzua, Pedrouzo, Santiago de Compostela Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Physical Rating Moderate Distance 85 mi Operator CAMINO DE SANTIAGO RESERVAS From
20% Off- US$1,083
You'll walk 113km through green Galicia on the French Way's final stretch, starting at the Romanesque church in Barbadelo and moving through the rebuilt stone village of Portomarin above Belesar reservoir. Eucalyptus forests line the path from Arzúa to O Pedrouzo, and you'll cross the medieval bridge over River Furelos in Melide before Santiago Cathedral appears at Monte do Gozo.
Duration 7 days Destinations Sarria, Portomarin, Palas de Rei, Arzua, Pedrouzo, Santiago de Compostela Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Physical Rating Moderate Distance 65 mi Operator CAMINO DE SANTIAGO RESERVAS From
20% Off- US$969
The legendary Camino Francés stretches 780km from Roncesvalles through the Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela's Plaza del Obradoiro. You'll climb to Alto del Perdón, head up Montes de Oca near Belorado, then reach Cruz de Ferro at the route's highest point before crossing the vast Meseta plains and finishing through green Galician forests.
Duration 36 days Destinations Roncesvalles, Zubiri, Pamplona, Puente la Reina, Estella, Los Arcos, Viana, Navarrete, Najera, Santo Domingo de la CalzadaSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Distance 404 mi Operator CAMINO DE SANTIAGO RESERVAS From
20% Off- US$3,820
What people love about Hiking & Trekking Tours in Northern Spain
- Camino (Francés) QB (Queensland Ballet) ~ Guided *TREK*
Chris curated an extraordinary experience for our group from Queensland Ballet. Our aim was to bring like-minds together to enjoy an adventure unlike any other and thanks to Chris, Javier and the Climbing Mountains ethos, we were not disappointed! The Camino is deeply personal but also all about a greater connection beyond ourselves. Chris and Javier thought of everything, not only with safety at heart but also with consideration of each person's needs and hopes. From the restaurants (a mix of Michelin and local champions) and the cultural highlights to the walking tips and the relaxed lunches waiting for us, Chris and Javier left no stone unturned. We started our journey as individuals and ended as a bonded family, walking into Santiago de Compostela as one, having shared extraordinary cuisine, culture, challenge, celebration and camaraderie. Queensland Ballet's Camino family will always share a special connection thanks to this unforgettable adventure together. Thank you Climbing Adventures!
- Walk the Camino de Santiago
I enjoyed every minute of the daily walks, great company and well organised thank you.
- Walking the Camino de Santiago (12 destinations)
Itinerary was good. Guide was excellent. Hotels a problem. These basic 2-star pñaces are below what I have experienced with Explore in the past. You are dropping well below your previous standards and are overcharging if this is the expectation. Sad.
What our customers ask about Hiking & Trekking Tours & Trips in Northern Spain
Where do hikers stay during multi-day treks in Northern Spain?
Northern Spain's hiking trails offer varied accommodation options that suit different budgets and preferences. The Camino de Santiago features a network of albergues (pilgrim hostels) alongside modest 2-3 star hotels. Hotel A Veiga in Samos serves as a typical example of mid-range lodging. For those exploring the Picos de Europa mountain range accommodations range from rustic mountain lodges to comfortable hotels such as La Posada del Duje in Tielve and Hotel Peña Castil in Sotres. According to a TourRadar traveler: "The accommodations typically varied but two were excellent - Hotel Gaudi and Pazo Sedor offered particularly comfortable stays."
When is the best time to go hiking in Northern Spain?
Peak hiking season runs from May through October with each region offering distinct advantages. The Picos de Europa shows its best face from July to September when mountain paths are clear and refuge huts operate at full capacity. For the Camino de Santiago April through October works well with May and September bringing pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds. Weather can be unpredictable as noted by one TourRadar traveler who experienced "4 seasons in one day in May" in the Picos so packing layers is essential.
What are the best hiking trails in Northern Spain for different skill levels?
The trails of Northern Spain accommodate all hiking abilities. In the Picos de Europa the Cares Gorge presents a moderate 24km route with 300m elevation gain while advanced hikers can tackle the technical Naranjo de Bulnes trek featuring an 800m climb. The Camino de Santiago offers easier walking such as the Sarria to Portomarin section covering 21km of gentle terrain. A TourRadar traveler describes the variety: "All the walks were different - up mountains through gorges down through valleys and forests with endless bridges to cross."
What are the food options available during Northern Spain hiking tours?
Regional cuisine forms an essential part of the Northern Spain hiking experience. The Picos area specializes in Cabrales blue cheese cordero al la menta and hearty fabada Asturiana. One TourRadar traveler notes: "The food at Hotel Torrecerredo was excellent from the breakfast through to the packed lunch and wonderful evening meals." Camino routes feature fresh coastal seafood and traditional Galician dishes. Most guided tours include breakfast dinner and local wine selections.
What support services are available during the hikes?
Organized tours typically provide essential hiking support. Services include luggage transport between stops detailed maps and expert guides. Camino tours handle pilgrim credentials and completion certificates. Picos expeditions often add vehicle backup and professional mountain guides. As one TourRadar traveler confirms: "Brilliantly organised and led by our Spanish guide who went above and beyond to ensure we all had a memorable experience."
What wildlife might I encounter while hiking in Northern Spain?
The diverse ecosystems of Northern Spain support rich wildlife populations. The Picos de Europa hosts golden eagles griffon vultures and nimble chamois. One TourRadar traveler recalls their highlight: "Spotting a chamois on the final day the eagles vultures and kites soaring overhead." Unique species inhabit specific areas from wall creepers in the Cares Gorge to various bird species in As Fragas do Eume Natural Park's Atlantic forest.