Camino de santiago

The pilgrim’s trail in Navarre  

Here, where the first yellow arrows appear amidst mountains and damp forests, the Camino de Santiago crosses Navarre, leaving behind centuries of history, hospitality and encounters. The landscape changes with every stage: from the Atlantic green of the Pyrenees to the open plains of the Central Zone and the vineyards heralding the south.

Along the route, medieval bridges, monasteries, historic centres and small villages accompany the pilgrim’s journey. The Way does not follow a single route, but rather a network of paths connecting valleys, traditions and different ways of understanding the leisurely journey.

Why walk the Camino de Santiago in Navarre?

Navarre is one of the main gateways to the Camino on the Iberian Peninsula. Its territory encompasses some of the most iconic sections of the entire Way of St James, both for the historical significance of its monuments and for the variety of landscapes it traverses. 

The route offers five distinct itineraries: the two branches of the French Way, the Baztan Way, the Ebro Way and the Sakana Way. Each has its own distinct character, ranging from the Pyrenean forests to the orchards of the Ribera.

In addition to its monumental heritage, the Way retains a strong tradition of hospitality. Hostels, churches, squares and small shops continue to form part of a culture linked to travel and encounters between walkers. In towns such as Roncesvalles, Puente la Reina or Estella-Lizarra, the past remains visible in the stone, whilst the local cuisine and everyday life keep the character of the region alive. 

Two people sitting on the riverbank, looking at the Pilgrims' Bridge in Puente la Reina.

The French Way

Nature, tradition, and tranquility along one of the most authentic routes of the Camino de Santiago.

Church of Santa María la Real in Sangüesa, featuring a Romanesque-Gothic ashlar stone tower and framed by vegetation.

The Aragonese Way

A journey through mountain ranges, villages, and heritage sites that revives one of the oldest Jacobean routes.

Monasterio de San Salvador de Leyre

The Baztan Way

An ancient pilgrimage route traversing mountains, heritage sites, and stunning landscapes.

Vertical limestone cliffs of the Sierra de Urbasa with a deciduous forest in autumn under a cloudy sky.

The Sakana Way

Heritage, nature, and tranquility on a historic Jacobean route that winds through rural landscapes and small villages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spring and autumn usually offer milder temperatures and particularly changing landscapes. During the summer, the Pyrenean stages are cooler, while in winter some mountain areas can have snow or more demanding weather conditions.

Prior experience is not essential. Many people do the Camino for the first time in Navarra thanks to the good signage and the network of available services. Even so, it is recommended to plan the stages based on physical fitness and available time.

The main access to the French Way is via Luzaide/Valcarlos or Sangüesa, from the Somport Pass. There are also other historic entrances such as the Baztan Way, which arrives from Urdazubi/Urdax, or the Ebro Way, which crosses the Navarrese Ribera from Cortes.

The Navarrese section of the French Way is usually divided into six or seven stages. The most common stages connect Orreaga/Roncesvalles, Zubiri, Pamplona, Puente la Reina, Estella-Lizarra, Los Arcos, and Viana.

The route passes through towns that are very different from each other. Auritz/Burguete preserves traditional Pyrenean architecture; Puente la Reina is known for its Romanesque bridge; Estella-Lizarra boasts an important monumental complex, and Viana maintains its historical character along the border with La Rioja.