Albergue de Peregrinos Convento del Carmen

Albergue de Peregrinos Convento del Carmen in Markina

Overview

Type: Albergue de Peregrinos Convento del Carmen is a traditional, pilgrims-only hostel located inside a historic convent, offering a quiet and atmospheric stay for walkers on the Camino del Norte. Its peaceful setting and communal Camino spirit make it a memorable stop after a demanding stage.
Location: Convento del Carmen, 48270 Markina-Xemein, Bizkaia, Spain — situated just off the Camino de Santiago route and a short walk from Markina’s centre, shops, bars, and essential pilgrim services.
Opened: Long-established albergue housed in a centuries-old convent building.
Accessibility: Accessible for pilgrims arriving on foot; some areas may require stair access due to the heritage structure.
Contact:
Phone: +34 946 167 041 (local contact / convent)
Email: N/A
Website: N/A

Facilities

Rooms / Beds: Large communal dormitory-style rooms with around 30–40 beds, typically in bunk format.
Prices: Donativo, supporting the continued running of the albergue.
Total Capacity: Medium to large, depending on seasonal availability.
Reservations: First-come, first-served; arrive early in summer months.
Pilgrim Credential: Required — accommodation for official Camino pilgrims only.
Operating Season: Generally open from spring to autumn.
Hours: Check-in usually begins mid-afternoon; closing and lights-out follow standard municipal albergue norms.

Amenities

• Shared bathrooms and showers.
• Simple communal dining or gathering area.
• Laundry sinks for handwashing clothes.
• Peaceful convent environment ideal for rest.
• Outdoor spaces for relaxing after the stage.
• Close to local restaurants and shops in Markina-Xemein.
• Traditional pilgrim welcome and community atmosphere.

Walker Insight

Albergue de Peregrinos Convento del Carmen is one of the more atmospheric stays on the **Camino del Norte**, thanks to its historic convent setting and calm surroundings. After the challenging terrain leading into Markina-Xemein, pilgrims appreciate the peaceful environment and the strong sense of Camino community fostered here.

It’s a simple albergue, but the spiritual and communal experience is what makes it special — a true reflection of the Camino’s traditional hospitality. Many walkers remember it as one of their favourite stops before continuing toward Gernika.

Good to Know

• Donativo-based, so contributions help support this historic pilgrim refuge.
• Arrive early in high season, as capacity can fill quickly.
• The convent setting offers a calm and quiet night’s rest.
• Shops, bars, and a supermarket are a short walk into town.
• Perfect for pilgrims seeking a traditional Camino experience.

Explore more accommodation options in Markina-Xemein.

We have also self-published a Camino Journal to help pilgrims capture every stage of their journey. Buen Camino!