Origin
Destination
Distance
24.00 km
Duration
6.00 h
Difficulty
Moderate
Descent
30 m
Stage of the Camino
Stage Description
First stage of the Northern Way inland, leaving the coast to enter the rural valleys of Bizkaia. From Deba begins a continuous and demanding ascent through oak and beech forests to the hermitage of Calvario, followed by an undulating route halfway up the slope. The landscape changes radically: scattered Basque farmhouses, meadows, livestock and deep silence. We pass by the hermitage of San Miguel de Arretxinaga, a jewel of rural Romanesque architecture with three natural rocks as an altar. Arrival at Markina-Xemein, a stately village known as 'the University of the cesta-punta'. About 24-25 km of solitary and demanding stage.
This stage marks a radical change in landscape. The Camino leaves the coast to venture into the interior mountains of Biscay. It is a hard day, with a medium mountain profile and constant ups and downs. The route passes through a rural landscape of great beauty, with pine forests and isolated farmhouses. It's an episode of solitude and introspection that requires excellent physical preparation. Arrival at Markina-Xemein village in a quiet valley is the reward after a hard day's effort.
Last updated: 22/08/2026
Where to Sleep
Accommodations in this Stage
Find the perfect place for your rest in Deba o Markina-Xemein.
HIRU UHINAK HOTEL
Agroturismo Donibane
Arriola Txiki
Casa Rural Satzu
Eleizondo
Txindurri Iturri
Zubeltzu Torre
Hotel Kanala
Agroturismo Erlete Goikoa -ESTAMOS EN EL CAMINO DE SANTIAGO -WE ARE ON THE CAMINO DE SANTIAGO- SENDERISMO-RUTAS Y BICICLETA
Agroturismo Sidreria Txindurri Iturri
Casa Rural Goikola
Perlakua Saka
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