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Stage of the Camino

Bayonne to Saint-Jean-de-Luz

From Bayona To Saint-Jean-de-Luz

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Origin

Bayona

Destination

Saint-Jean-de-Luz

Distance

28.30 km

Duration

7.00 h

Difficulty

Media

Ascent

50 m

Stage of the Camino

Stage Description

First day of the Camino del Norte for those starting in France. The stage starts in Bayonne (Baiona in Basque), the historic capital of the French Basque Country, and follows the Basque coastline through Anglet and Biarritz, famous for its beaches and surfing tradition. After Biarritz, the road passes through Bidart and Guéthary, two seaside villages overlooking the Bay of Biscay, before descending to Saint-Jean-de-Luz, a former whaling port located in a sheltered bay. The route is 25-26 km long, mostly coastal, with a gentle profile except for the occasional steep climb between villages. The signposting is discreet in French territory.
For pilgrims who decide to continue along the Silver Way towards Astorga, the stage up to Benavente is a long journey across the plain. The profile is very favorable, almost flat, allowing for comfortable walking. The landscape is dominated by irrigated fields, thanks to the proximity of the Esla and Órbigo rivers. The path runs on dirt tracks and local roads in a tranquil environment. Arrival at Benavente marks the end of the stage. This important city, a crossroads of routes since ancient times, boasts a notable heritage. Notable landmarks include the Torre del Caracol, the only remnant of the old castle-palace of the Pimentel family, now part of the Parador de Turismo. Also worth visiting are the Romanesque church of Santa María del Azogue and the church of San Juan del Mercado. Benavente is a city with a great range of services and an animated atmosphere, ideal for a well-deserved rest.

Last updated: 15/05/2026

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