Origin
Destination
Distance
25.40 km
Duration
6.50 h
Difficulty
Moderate
Ascent
40 m
Stage of the Camino
Stage Description
Inland stage through the rural heart of Bizkaia. From Markina-Xemein, the route follows the course of the Artibai River and passes through Bolibar and the monastery of Zenarruza (Ziortza), a 15th century monument that is still an active Cistercian monastery and offers accommodation to pilgrims. After an ascent through forests we descend to the Oka valley to Gernika-Lumo, symbolic city of the Basque people, historic seat of the Casa de Juntas and known worldwide for the bombing of 1937 immortalized by Picasso. Stage of about 24-25 km with undulating profile and lots of Atlantic forest.
The stage from Markina-Xemein to Gernika-Lumo is a 25km journey that continues through the mountains of Vizcaya. The route starts in Markina-Xemein (90m) and follows a mainly descending profile, with some undulations, until the city of Gernika-Lumo (10m). The route passes through the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a natural environment of great value. It is an enjoyable walk that allows you to enjoy the scenery and arrive in time to explore the destination city. The arrival at Gernika-Lumo, the symbol of peace, is a loaded stage with history and emotion. This stage combines gentle exercise with rich historical experience, a perfect balance on the North Way.
Last updated: 22/08/2026
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