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 · French Way · From León to Santiago de Compostela
- Camino (Francés) QB (Queensland Ballet) ~ Guided *TREK*
- Camino (Francés) LUXE VIP ~ Guided *COACH*TREK*
- Camino de Santiago · Way of St. James · Portuguese Way · From Tui to Santiago de Compostela
- Walk the Camino de Santiago
- Camino de Santiago
- Walking the Camino de Santiago
- Camino de Santiago From Oviedo - 16 days
- Camino de Santiago (Francés) Guided *TREK* (All Inclusive)
- Camino de Santiago · Way of St. James · French Way · From Roncesvalles to Santiago de Compostela
Walk the famous Camino Francés from León to Santiago de Compostela over 15 days, climbing to Cruz de Ferro at 1,500m before heading down through chestnut forests to medieval Molinaseca. Cross into Galicia at O Cebreiro to see ancient stone pallozas, then continue through quiet hamlets like Triacastela on this 300km pilgrimage.
Duration 15 days Destinations Leon, Villadangos del Paramo, Astorga, Rabanal del Camino, Molinaseca, Villafranca del Bierzo, O Cebreiro, Triacastela, Sarria, PortomarinSee all destinations Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Physical Rating Moderate Distance 165 mi Operator CAMINO DE SANTIAGO RESERVAS From
- US$1,401
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 $6,902
10% Off- US$6,212You save $690
Walk the final 100km of the Camino Frances from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela over 5 days, covering stages like the 24.3km Portomarin to Palas de Rey route through oak and eucalyptus forests. You'll handle moderate terrain averaging 20km daily with guides providing support while a luxury coach transfers your luggage.
Duration 16 days Destinations Burgos, Ponferrada, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Roncesvalles, Zubiri, Puente la Reina, Estella, Viana, Logrono, NajeraSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Moderate Distance 856 mi Operator Climbing Mountains From
10% Off- US$21,569
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
10% Off- US$1,051
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 $1,850
20% Off- US$1,480You save $370
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$6,948
The varied terrain of Northern Spain awaits with 2-6km daily walks. Vineyard paths in La Rioja, historic locks along Canal de Castilla, and the iconic Cruz de Ferro landmark lead to wooded trails ending in Santiago.
Duration 8 days Destinations Bilbao, Puente la Reina, La Rioja, Laguardia, Burgos, Astorga, Molinaseca, O Cebreiro, Samos, MelideSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Moderate Distance 582 mi Operator Just You From
20% Off- US$3,249
This 16-day trek follows the legendary Camino Primitivo, tackling the tough Puerto del Palo summit before dropping down to the Salime Reservoir Dam. You'll walk through small Asturian mountain villages like Berducedo and Pola de Allande, then cross into Galicia at Alto del Acebo, covering 295km through forests, valleys, and historic towns.
Duration 16 days Destinations Oviedo, Grado, Salas, Tineo, Pola de Allande, Berducedo, Grandas, Lugo, Melide, ArzuaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 12+ Distance 150 mi Operator On The Go Tours From $2,490
20% Off- US$1,992You save $498
Camino de Santiago (Francés) Guided *TREK* (All Inclusive)
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Memorable and 'full tour' Camino experience with a great guide giving invaluable tips and endless pinch me moments.”
Scott, traveled in April
The challenging terrain from Roncesvalles to Santiago spans 700km of historic trails. The path leads through Cruz de Ferro ascent and Galician hills, featuring expert hiking guides, traditional albergue stays, and 29 dinners.
Duration 33 days Destinations Roncesvalles, Zubiri, Pamplona, Uterga, Puente la Reina, La Rioja, Estella, Torres del Río, Viana, LogronoSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Operated in English, Spanish Distance 536 mi Operator Climbing Mountains From $6,461
10% Off- US$5,814You save $646
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
10% Off- US$3,772
What people love about Hiking & Trekking Tours in Northern Spain
- Camino (Francés) LUXE VIP ~ Guided *COACH*TREK*
A wonderful Tour that meant we could experience the Camino with the combination of vehicle travel, sightseeing, a history journey along the pilgrim way, a chef supported culinary experiences , as well as walk the Camino Way for the last five days and experience a challenge that was so well supported and organised, both on the walk as well as for the more luxury phase . The itinerary and places we visited and toured, offered once in a lifetime type experiences for me personally in terms of the dining and truly luxury food experiences , as well as the sightseeing and a variety of opportunities to bond as a group, as we entered Camino walking days which were amazing. I felt well cared for in terms of organisation, and encouraged and advised along the way so my husband and I could achieve our goal of completing the walk. excellent Tour
- Camino de Santiago (Francés) Guided *TREK* (All Inclusive)
Memorable and “full tour” Camino experience with a great guide giving invaluable tips and endless pinch me moments. If you’re looking for a well balanced adventure trek with the security of an experienced guide that can be as invisible or inclusive as you need then Climbing Mountains is a great option. Highly recommend. Will do more.
- Walk the Camino de Santiago
Our tour guide Marco was exceptional. Marco had incredible knowledge of the area we hiked through and always had our best interests at heart.
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.