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 (Francés) Guided *TREK* (All Inclusive)
- Camino de Santiago · Way of St. James · French Way · From Sarria to Santiago de Compostela
- Walk the Camino de Santiago
- Camino de Santiago
- Camino (Francés) QB (Queensland Ballet) ~ Guided *TREK*
- The Massif Central - hut-to-hut Hike in the Picos de Europa 8 Days
- Camino de Santiago From Oviedo - 16 days
- Camino de Santiago · Way of St. James · French Way · From Roncesvalles to Santiago de Compostela
- Camino de Santiago · Way of St. James · Primitive Way · From Lugo to Santiago de Compostela
- Camino de Santiago · Way of St. James · French Way · From O Cebreiro to Santiago de Compostela
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 $6,346
15% Off- US$5,394You save $952
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
15% Off- US$909
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 $1,785
15% Off- US$1,517You save $268
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
15% Off- US$6,982
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 $6,780
15% Off- US$5,763You save $1,017
Duration 8 days Destinations Bilbao, Fuente De, Picos de Europa National Park Age Range Ages 16+ Distance 199 mi Operator ASI Reisen From
15% Off- US$1,848
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 $2,380
20% Off- US$1,904You save $476
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$3,790
This 7-day self-guided trek goes through Galicia's spiritual heartland from Lugo to Santiago de Compostela. Shaded woodland paths wind through Melide, and meadows dotted with stone chapels appear near Arzúa before the penultimate stage to O Pedrouzo and then the cathedral. Carefully selected hotels and historic Galician pazos include breakfast, plus optional half-board dinners to try traditional regional cuisine.
Duration 7 days Destinations Lugo, Melide, Arzua, Pedrouzo, Santiago de Compostela Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Physical Rating Moderate Distance 58 mi Operator CAMINO DE SANTIAGO RESERVAS From
20% Off- US$657
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$1,027
What people love about Hiking & Trekking Tours in Northern Spain
- Camino de Santiago (Francés) Guided *TREK* (All Inclusive)
Talk to Chris about preparing for trek physically.
- Trekking the Camino de Santiago
Our trip on the Camino De Santiago was great! And a good value too. Our Guide David did a wonderful job by providing details and pointing out unique features along the Camino. David was very responsive to individual requests for assistance with little problems that pop up. David was very knowledgeable about local foods and special dishes and very helpful to those with special dietary needs. Everyone in our group enjoyed their journey on the Camino. Thank you Tour Radar and Thank you David. John Outfleet
- Walking the Camino de Santiago (including Melide)
Loved every step. Great experience with excellent guide, hotels, restaurants and of course, the spectacular Camino. I really appreciate the way the tour started before the last 100 km (where there are lots of people) because we trekked through beautiful quiet villages, long stretches of nature and it was a chance to feel like a real pilgrim with plenty of contemplative time, challenging hills to dig deep inside.
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.