Origin
Destination
Distance
24.70 km
Duration
6.00 h
Difficulty
Media
Ascent
30 m
Stage of the Camino
Stage Description
One of the most spectacular stages of the entire Northern Way. From Irun, the route ascends to Mount Jaizkibel, a natural vantage point 525 m above the Bay of Biscay with views of the French coast, the islands of Lapurdi and, on clear days, even the Landes. The descent leads to the fishing port of Pasaia, where the mouth is crossed in a short traditional boat (day service). After Pasaia, another coastal stretch and the entrance to Donostia/San Sebastián via Mount Ulía and Zurriola beach. It is a demanding 24-25 km due to the unevenness, compensated with an unforgettable Atlantic landscape.
The stage that connects Colmenar Viejo with Manzanares el Real is a day of great beauty that serves as an approach to the Sierra de Guadarrama. The path leaves urban surroundings and ventures into the Regional Park of the High Cuenca of the Manzanares. The profile is a gentle but constant ascent, gradually gaining height. The landscape is dominated by pastures with their fresh oaks and holm oaks, and spectacular granite formations of La Pedriza that cut across the horizon. The final stretch descends towards Santillana Dam. Arrival in Manzanares el Real is a gift for the eyes. This village, located at the foot of La Pedriza and by the dam, is dominated by its magnificent Castle of the Mendoza, a 15th-century fortress-palace that is one of Spain's best-conserved castles. A visit to it is indispensable. Manzanares is a perfect final stage to enjoy history and nature.
Last updated: 15/05/2026
Where to Sleep
Accommodations in this Stage
Find the perfect place for your rest in Irún o San Sebastián.
Akelarre - Relais & Châteaux
Hotel Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Sebastian
Axel Hotel San Sebastián - Adults Only
Barceló Costa Vasca
Catalonia Donosti
Eurostars Amara
Hotel Arbaso
Hotel Arima & Spa - Small Luxury Hotels
Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra
Hotel Ilunion San Sebastián
Hotel Palacio de Aiete
Hotel Villa Soro
Hotel Zenit San Sebastián
Lasala Plaza Hotel - Adults Only
NH Collection San Sebastián Aranzazu
Room Mate Collection Gorka, San Sebastián
Zenit Convento San Martin
Atalaia
Casa Rural Otxoenea
ETH Irún
Hotel Alcazar Irun
Hotel Urdanibia Park
Sercotel Hotel Europa
Casual de las Olas San Sebastián
Hotel Aitana
Ibis Irun
Apartamento Nicores Bidasoa
Casa Iparra Txiki Berri
Ederra By Basquelidays
Habitación turística en Irún
HOSTAL EUROPA pensión
Irún by Basquelidays
Letoh Letoh San Sebastián
Oiassoenea - Magnífica vivienda para familias y grupos en Irún
Pensión Bowling
Pensión Gema
Pensión Lizaso
Suites Mendibil Irun
TXORIENEA Rural
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