From Irún to San Sebastián

Today's route is a fast-paced adventure that runs from the historic city of Irun, witness of important historical events, to the beautiful San Sebastian (Donostia). The route runs through forests and dense forest trails, although with the occasional slope, will make your route present some spectacular natural scenery.

We begin our journey on the Northern Way, leaving Irún to head towards one of the most beautiful cities in the Cantabrian region: San Sebastián (Donostia).

There is no better way to start than by crossing the Santiago Bridge, a natural border over the Bidasoa River. After walking along the promenade and wandering through the city, we find our next landmark at the church of Our Lady of Juncal. We continue by crossing the train tracks to enter a paved path among the Marismas de Txingudi, considered one of the richest wetlands in northern Spain.

From here, we continue towards the neighborhood of Arkolla, where the hermitage of Santiagotxo is located. Our next point of reference is the sanctuary of Guadalupe, which offers spectacular views of the mouth of the Bidasoa, with Hondarribia and Hendaye in the background. We advance along a path of nearly 10 km that skirts mount Jaizkibel among oaks and chestnuts typical of the Atlantic vegetation.

Subsequently, the GI-3440 road leads us to Pasajes de San Juan. From here, we cross by boat to Pasajes de San Pedro and head towards the lighthouse of La Plata. We then enter a coastal path with stunning panoramas of the Cantabrian Sea.

After skirting mount Ulía, we begin our descent with unique views of La Concha bay. We will enter the Gipuzkoan capital via the Zurriola promenade, concluding the day in the heart of the historic old town.

Things to consider

Given the physical demands of the elevation changes, some pilgrims choose to split the stage into two sections, staying overnight at the shelter in Pasajes de San Juan (17 km from Irún) before completing the journey to San Sebastián the following day.

Places of interest

• Hermitage of Santa Elena and Church of Juncal (Irún)
• Shrine and Fortress of Our Lady of Guadalupe
• Mount Urgull and Castle of the Mota (San Sebastián)
• Seafront promenade and La Concha beach
• Palace and gardens of Miramar
• Comb of the Wind

Typical dishes

• Chicken a la irunense
• Pintxos in the Old Town (an essential gastronomic experience)
• Txangurro a la donostiarra
• Marmitako with bonito
• Bacalao al pil-pil and cod tortilla
• Guipuzcoan cider