CN13 - Santander - Santillana del Mar - 37 Km

Stage from Santander to Santillana del Mar: A Camino of History and Beauty

The stage from Santander to Santillana del Mar is one of the most interesting and historically rich routes of the Camino de Santiago. On this journey, pilgrims will enjoy stunning landscapes, historical monuments, and a route that, while not too long, presents various challenges. It is one of the most emblematic stages of this path to Compostela, especially due to its passage through villages with great cultural wealth.

Starting the Camino from Santander

The stage begins at the plaza dedicated to Bishop Eguino y Trecu, located at the foot of the Cathedral of Santander. From here, we follow the streets Calvo Sotelo, Burgos, and Alameda Segunda, until we reach Cuatro Caminos. From this point, we head towards the Hospital de Valdecilla and continue along Avenida de Cajo, leaving the city via the Campogiro crossing.

Progressing Towards the Barrio de Lluja

The Camino continues through Campón and the industrial area of the region. As we move forward, we arrive at the Church of San Lorenzo in Peñacastillo, an excellent reference point. From there, we take Adarzo Street and follow a field path that runs parallel to the railway line. This route will take us to Lluja, where we continue to the San Cibrián to Bezana Road.

Continuing Towards Santa Cruz de Bezana

After leaving Lluja, the Camino continues to the Church of Santa Cruz de Bezana, where we proceed towards the cemetery, an excellent reference for changing direction. After about 350 meters, we take a left turn and continue towards Mompía, passing by the Church of the Rosario. At this point, we head towards CA-303 and later follow a bike lane until we reach the roundabout that connects with CA-304, heading towards Boo de Piélagos.

Advancing Through the El Vivero District and the Natural Park of the Dunes

Once in Boo de Piélagos, the Camino moves through the El Vivero district and continues towards the Natural Park of the Liencres Dunes. Here, pilgrims can enjoy the beauty of the coastal landscape and pine forests before reaching the Church of Santa María in Arce, located near the estuary of Mogro.

Crossing the Estuary of Mogro and Arrival at Arce

From Arce, the Camino continues along a small street that leads us to the N-611 road. Here, we turn right towards Oruña, passing by the Church of Santa Eulalia. This is a crucial stretch on the Camino de Santiago, as it is where several historic routes converge towards Compostela.

Final Stage: Santillana del Mar

The final stretch of the stage takes us to Santillana del Mar, one of the most iconic destinations on the Camino de Santiago. This medieval town is famous for its Colegiata de Santa Juliana and its perfectly preserved historic center. Here, pilgrims can relax and enjoy its architecture, including the gothic towers and the Palace of Velarde, while reflecting on their journey towards Compostela.