Stage of the Camino

Deba to Markina-Xemein

From Deba To Markina-Xemein

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Origin

Deba

Destination

Markina-Xemein

Distance

24.00 km

Duration

6.00 h

Difficulty

Media

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.

The branch of the Via de la Plata that starts from Madrid begins with a totally urban stage. The goal is to leave the great metropolis in a southern direction. The path starts from the center of Madrid and passes through the city, seeking the axes and parks that facilitate departure. It's an asphalt journey that requires patience from the pilgrim. The route leads to the Cerro de los Ángeles in Getafe. This place has great symbolic value, as a monument marks the point traditionally considered the geographical center of the Iberian Peninsula. At its summit is the Hermitage of Our Lady of the Angels and a monument to the Sacred Heart. Arrival in Getafe, an important city in southern Madrid, is the end of the stage. It offers all necessary services for the pilgrim and a well-deserved rest after the long urban walk.

Last updated: 15/05/2026

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