Santuario de Guadalupe
Camino del Norte
The Santuario de Guadalupe sits on the hillside above the coast, maintained by an Italian fraternity. Hours are limited — if you find the door open, step in. The 16th-century sanctuary houses a Black Virgin, discovered on this hillside by two children according to local tradition. Ship models hang from the ceiling, placed by sailors grateful for the Virgin's protection on the dangerous Cantabrian seas.
Behind the sanctuary, a side road leads to the well-concealed Forte de Guadalupe. Built in the late 19th century, it carries the distinction of being one of the last fortifications of its kind ever constructed — and one of the first rendered obsolete by aircraft.
The climb up from the coast is steep — 600 meters of ascent to the Jaizkibel ridge. Carry water and food. The alternative Purgatorio route follows the ridgeline to the 545 m Jaizkibel peak, with ocean views on a clear day.
ATTENTION: Do not underestimate the steep climb of 600 meters to the summit of the Jazkibel, take plenty of water and something to eat with you and keep in mind that you will be on the way for several hours to the next place.
La Virgen de Guadalupe is celebrated on September 8th.
The way from the Santuario splits into three, one road and two trails. There is a sign and a map illustrating the differences. The official camino follows a trail just to the south of the ridge line, while an alternative known as the Purgatorio Route follows along the ridge line. Both routes are through fairly remote mountainside. The Purgatorio route reaches 645m at the Jaizkibel peak and offers views of the ocean. The descent into town brings you directly to the main road, a narrow street that hugs the coastline. On your right is the small boat landing and the ferry across the harbor to San Pedro.
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