What is terrain like Hondarrabia to Pasaia?

[Gone Walking]

Hello All, I am new to this forum and walk so please bear with me if i’ve posted under the wrong topic.
Four of us (2 x middle aged couples) are walking the coastal route from Bidart to San Sebastián in mid June next year. I have the 4 maps which I obtained from this forum (very helpful).

My only concern is the part from Hondarrabia to Pasaia. What is the terrain like? Reason being is my friend has a dodgy knee. But will have poles, knee support and ibuprofen! She really wants to complete this bit and we are more than happy to take our time, just thought i’d check if there is an easier route or is this the only option going over the mountain coastal path?
Many thanks

 

[NualaOC]

Hi @Gone Walking, there's a helpful post about this, written by forum member @Dave on the Northern Caminos Facebook Page. You'll need to scroll down - it's dated 27th June 2016.

Here's what he says about the three possible routes (he also posted some good photos):
Today (Monday), I had glorious weather to make the walk from Irún/Hondarribia--twice! In the guidebook, we outline the two most common routes, going up and over Mt. Jaizkibel or to the left of it on a flatter, shadier track. The third is the GR-121 and it hugs the coastline from Hondarribia for the first 10km or so, before climbing up, up, up to rejoin the Camino. It makes for a much longer walk to Pasaia--roughly 25km total--but there are some great views.

Hope this is helpful. Happy planning and Buen Camino!

 

[Kanga]

We took the “alpista” route as described in The Northern Caminos guidebook (Cicerone). It was glorious and well worth it.

 

[intrepidtraveler]

IMO, if your friend has knee issues, you might be better off taking the "low road." No point in overdoing it on your first day and risking an injury that could end your Camino.

 

[Gone Walking]

Many thanks for your help. I think we may opt to do the “low road” as suggested by intrepidtraveler. Is this route sign posted with the Camino signs or is the route available online somewhere and where does it start in Hondarrabia?
And just one more question... how long is this route approximately?
Once again thanks for your help and patience

 

[LesBrass]

We walked this just a few days ago. We're on day 6 of the Norte. It's stunning but tough and we both agreed the terrain is difficult.

Walking up to the Sanctuary, just before the path splits, the trail is uneven and partly washed away. Once on the high route, there is an initial very steep hill to get you onto the high path... but whilst there's a lot of 'up' that trail is actually very nice and comfortable to walk on... and the views are amazing.

However coming down was different and we found hard. Lots of rocks and tree stumps and uneven track... Not ideal if you have knee or ankle problems. We did just take our time and it was fine but I would say be cautious. And also it's exposed so take a hat, scarf or umbrella for shade!

I'm glad we took that route and i would do it again but I would stop at Pasaia and not go on to San Sebastian! We were exhausted when we reached San Sebastian.

Ps did I mention the veiws? Stunning! Enjoy your walk.