Touristic and territorial dimension of the ruta norte of the way of saint james in the Basque Country: different ideas, valuations and proposals for management of a multifaceted phenomenon

The Way of Saint James (which from hereon we shall refer to in the original Spanish-Camino de Santiago) is a multifaceted phenomenon, internationally projected and recognised: it forms part of an intangible cultural heritage but is also a centuries old route for pilgrimage, a territorial element which is symbolically highly valuable and a prestigious touristic product. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the characteristics and impact of the Ruta Norte (northern route) of the Camino de Santiago in the Basque Country, one of the itineraries that is increasingly becoming more popular as an alternative to the Camino Frances (the French way). Emphasis is placed on the territorial and touristic dimension and, in particular, on the image the main groups involved have of the Camino and how they value it. With this as our aim, the territorial framework and touristic infrastructure which articulate the route will be presented, as well as the main characters that comprise the demand for the route, with foreign pilgrims being paid special attention. After carrying out 195 surveys and interviews and extensive field work the main concepts and visions that people have of the Camino have been identified and the existing opportunities, threats, strengths and weaknesses have been comprehensively diagnosed with the resultant proposals for courses of action.