Best time to walk the Camino Lebaniego (San Vicente de la Barquera to San Miguel de Escalada)

The ideal months to start the Camino Lebaniego (also known as the Camino Vadiniense) are May, or mid August to early October. This window usually sidesteps the wettest Atlantic spells on the Cantabrian coast, avoids lingering snow or sloppy sections in the Picos-side valleys, and dodges the fiercest heat on the León plain.

You’ll move quickly through three climates: damp and changeable by the sea, cooler and unsettled in the interior valleys, then drier and sunnier across Castile and León. The timings below match that rhythm so you get steadier footing and more comfortable days.

May (late spring sweet spot)

• Why it’s good: Long days, fresh greens, wildflowers, comfortable temperatures, and snow is usually gone from the road passes and valleys you’ll use. Showers still pass through, but breaks of sun are common.
• What to watch: Rain is more frequent in Cantabria and around Potes; pack a light shell and be ready for wet mornings and clearing afternoons. Nights can still be cool inland.

Mid to late August (heat easing, mountains friendly)

• Why it’s good: The hottest spell on the León side is starting to ease, while the mountain sections feel settled and mostly dry. Trails are firm, river levels are lower, and afternoons are bright.
• What to watch: It can still be hot on exposed stretches between Riaño, Cistierna, and Mansilla—start early, carry extra water, and use shade breaks. Thunderstorms can pop up after hot days.

September to early October (stable, comfortable, and scenic)

• Why it’s good: Warm but not harsh on the plateau, pleasant in the valleys, and fewer downpours than deep autumn. Clear mornings, gentle afternoons, and early autumn color as you near San Miguel de Escalada.
• What to watch: The first Atlantic fronts start to return in October, especially near the coast, so expect occasional wet days. Daylight shortens—plan your stages a touch shorter.

June and July (fine for many, but variable)

• June: Fresh and green with a mix of sun and showers; great walking temps, but pack for rain, especially in Cantabria and the interior valleys.
• July: Long, bright days, yet heat builds in Castile and León. It’s still doable with early starts and siestas, but exposed stretches can feel tough in the afternoon. Storms may break the heat.

Late October to April (for hardy walkers only)

• Expect frequent rain on the coast, cold snaps inland, and a real chance of snow or icy mornings around Portilla de la Reina and Riaño in winter. Days are short, and some rural lodging may close or keep limited hours. If you go, bring proper cold-weather gear and keep plans flexible.

In short: pick May, mid–late August, September, or early October for the best balance of dry trails, comfortable temperatures, and reliable days across this coast-to-plateau journey.

Of course, while these recommendations provide a solid starting point, everyone's preferences and circumstances are unique. For example, if you prefer walking in the cooler morning hours to avoid midday heat, you might prioritize dates with drier conditions. On the other hand, if you are more accustomed to colder climates, you may choose to avoid hotter periods - even if it means encountering more rain. Our search tool allows you to customize your journey to align with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible experience on the Camino.

Furthermore, if your plan differs from walking the standard stages from San Vicente de la Barquera to San Miguel de Escalada, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.