CN12 - Güemes - Santander - 14 Km

Stage of the Camino de Santiago: Guemes to Santander

The stage between Guemes and Santander presents one of the most interesting decisions for pilgrims: crossing the bay of Santander by boat or walking around it. Both options offer different experiences, but both are equally attractive for those seeking to complete the Camino de Santiago along this coastal route.

Route Options: Walking or by Boat

Upon leaving Guemes, pilgrims face a geographical dilemma: cross the bay of Santander by boat or continue walking along the coast. If we choose the boat, the journey starts from the Somo pier. Alternatively, if we opt to walk, the route takes us through beautiful rural landscapes close to the coast.

Route on Foot: Guemes to Galizano

From the Guemes albergue, the Camino continues towards Galizano, following the local road CA-443. Along this route, we pass through the villages of Gargollo, Río Negro, and Linderrio, until we reach the CA-141. After walking about 400 meters along this road, we divert onto CA-440, an inland road that leads us to the center of Galizano, passing by the Health Center and the Church of Nuestra Señora de Galizano, which is located in the village's main square.

Galizano to Latas: Following the Camino

From the Church of Galizano, we take CA-440 and head towards a left fork that leads to a bike lane. This lane runs parallel to CA-441 until we reach Somo. During this stretch, it's recommended to stop at the Santuario de Santa María de Latas, a place of great spiritual significance for pilgrims, offering blessings and a resting spot for those who visit.

Latas to Somo: Coastal Path

After leaving the Santuario de Latas, the Camino continues through a junction towards Loredo. Here, the pilgrim should turn left at a fork, passing through villas and descending towards Somo. This section ends in the urban area of Somo, a picturesque coastal village famous for its vast beach that extends to the bay of Santander.

Somo to Santander: Boarding the Boat

From Somo, pilgrims can choose to take the boat to Santander. Regular line ferries constantly cover the route between Somo and the Cantabrian capital, offering spectacular views of the bay of Santander. The boat ride lasts about 20 minutes and provides a quick and scenic way to reach the city.

Arrival in Santander: Urban Route

Once we disembark at the Santander pier, we turn left towards the Jardines de Pereda. From there, we walk along Paseo de Pereda and Avenida Calvo Sotelo until we reach the Cathedral of Santander. Continuing along the same avenue, we arrive at the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, where we find Ruamayor Street, which leads to the Albergue Santos Mártires, a resting place for pilgrims.