Pilgrims leaving Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

The Camino de Santiago is a popular pilgrimage route that spans across several countries and has multiple starting points. The most common and traditional starting point is the French Way, which begins in St. Jean Pied de Port, a small town in the Pyrenees mountains of France.

Starting in St. Jean Pied de Port will allow you to experience the full 800-kilometer journey across northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela. However, if you don’t have enough time or resources, you can choose to start from other points along the route.

Other popular starting points include Roncesvalles, a town on the Spanish side of the Pyrenees, or Sarria, a town in Galicia that is approximately 100 km away from Santiago de Compostela. Sarria is a great option if you’re short on time because completing the final 100 km of the route will still qualify you for the Compostela, a certificate of completion of the pilgrimage.

Ultimately, the best place to start the Camino de Santiago will depend on your preferences, time constraints, and travel logistics. Consider researching different starting points and routes to determine which one aligns best with your needs and interests.

Camino fields in springtime outside Grañón.

The best time of year to walk the Camino de Santiago depends on several factors, such as your preferences, weather, and the number of other pilgrims on the trail. The most popular time to walk the Camino is from May to September, but there are pros and cons to each season.

Spring (March to May): The weather is mild, and the landscape is green and lush, but there may still be some rain and cooler temperatures. The trail is also less crowded during this time, making it easier to find accommodations and enjoy a more peaceful pilgrimage.

Summer (June to August): This is the most popular time to walk the Camino, but it can also be the most crowded and hot. The upside is that the days are longer, and there are more social events and pilgrim gatherings along the way.

Fall (September to November): The weather is cooler, and the crowds are thinner, making it a great time to walk the Camino if you prefer a more solitary experience. The fall colors are also beautiful, and the weather is generally mild, but there may be some rain.

Winter (December to February): The Camino is less crowded during the winter months, and you can experience the trail in a different way. However, it can be quite cold and snowy in some areas, and many of the albergues (pilgrim hostels) may be closed.

Ultimately, the best time of year to walk the Camino de Santiago is the time that works best for you and your preferences. It’s a personal journey, and the Camino will provide its own unique experiences, regardless of the season.

Staying in albergues on the Camino de Santiago is a popular choice for many pilgrims who walk the Camino. There are several reasons why people choose to stay in albergues:

1. Cost-effective: Albergues are usually the cheapest accommodation option available along the Camino. They typically offer a bed in a shared dormitory room, which is a great option for pilgrims on a budget.
2. Camaraderie: Staying in an albergue can be a social experience, as you get to meet other pilgrims from around the world. Sharing a dormitory room with other pilgrims can lead to friendships and a sense of community.
3. Convenience: Albergues are often located in the heart of the towns and villages along the Camino, making them a convenient option for pilgrims who want to rest for the night without straying too far from the trail.
4. Authentic experience: Staying in an albergue can be a way to experience the traditional pilgrim lifestyle, which has been a part of the Camino for centuries.

Overall, staying in albergues on the Camino de Santiago can be a unique and memorable experience, offering budget-friendly accommodation, social connections, and a sense of tradition and history.

The Camino de Santiago is a long-distance pilgrimage route that requires careful planning to ensure you have everything you need for the journey. Here are some essential items you should consider packing in your backpack:

1. Comfortable and sturdy backpack
2. Hiking boots or shoes with good support and cushioning
3. Lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for warm and cool weather
4. Rain gear including a waterproof jacket, pants, and a poncho
5. Sleeping bag suitable for the season and climate
6. Quick-drying towel
7. Basic toiletries including a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo
8. Sunscreen and insect repellent
9. First aid kit with essential items such as plasters, painkillers, and blister treatment
10. Walking poles to reduce strain on your legs and joints
11. Water bottle and hydration system
12. Snacks such as energy bars, nuts, and fruits
13. A guidebook or map of the route
14. A passport or ID card
15. A camera or phone to capture your memories along the way.

It’s important to note that the weight of your backpack is crucial to your comfort and success on the journey. You should aim to pack light, carrying only the essentials to avoid strain and fatigue. Additionally, many pilgrims choose to send their luggage ahead to their next destination and carry only a small daypack with essentials for the day.

The proper backpack size for a 25-kilometer hike per day will depend on a variety of factors, such as the duration of the hike, the weather conditions, the gear and equipment you need to carry, and your personal preference.

In general, a backpack size of 30-40 liters should be sufficient for a day hike of 25 kilometers. This size can comfortably hold essentials such as food, water, first aid kit, navigation tools, and extra clothing layers.

If you plan to carry more gear, such as a tent, sleeping bag, stove, and cooking supplies, you may need a larger backpack. A backpack with a capacity of 50-70 liters would be more appropriate for a multi-day hike or a hike where you need to carry more gear.

It is important to note that regardless of the backpack size, it is essential to pack only what you need and keep the weight of your pack as light as possible to avoid unnecessary strain on your back and shoulders.

Walking the Camino Francés in springtime

Walking the Camino de Santiago is a journey that can bring great joy and fulfillment to those who undertake it. The camino is a network of ancient pilgrimage routes that lead to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, northwest Spain, where the remains of the apostle Saint James are said to be buried.

One of the joys of walking the camino is the opportunity to disconnect from the distractions and busyness of daily life and focus on the present moment. The camino is a time to reflect, meditate and connect with nature. Many people find that the experience of walking for several hours a day, with only the essentials, helps to clear the mind and simplify life.

Another joy of walking the camino is the sense of community and connection that develops among the pilgrims. Many people walk the camino alone, but by the end of the journey, they have made friends and formed bonds with other travelers from all over the world. The camino is a place where people from different backgrounds and cultures come together to share in a common experience.

The camino is also a journey of self-discovery, with the physical and mental challenges of the walk helping to build resilience and a sense of accomplishment. The camino is a way to challenge oneself, both physically and mentally, and to push one’s limits.

Finally, the camino is a journey through some of the most beautiful and historic parts of Europe. The routes pass through picturesque villages and towns, across rolling hills and through lush countryside, with the opportunity to experience the local culture, history and cuisine.

Overall, walking the Camino de Santiago is a unique and rewarding experience that can bring many joys and benefits to those who undertake it.

Closure of the camino due to the Covid-19 pandemic has wrought untold damage to the rural Spanish economy. Business were unable to open. One angel of the camino, Casa Susi, a donativo albergue in Trabadelo, desperately needs a new roof. Donate now to their Go Fund Me page by clicking on the link below.

https://gf.me/u/y735mk

As the cold winter months approach, pilgrims have fewer options in lodgings. Many albergues and hostals close during this season, waiting to open again near Easter. The following is a list of those albergues that are available for the winter pilgrimage. They are in order from east to west and contain information about closing dates and reservation requirements. This list is presented with information compiled from albergues invierno at aprinca.com and is valid as of November 16, 2018. Buen Camino!

VALCARLOS – Municipal

RONCESVALLES – Colegiata

ZUBIRI – Rio Arga reservation is recommended

URDANIZ – Acá y Allá   reservation is recommended

ARRE – Albergue Trinidad de Arre

PAMPLONA – Albergue de Pamplona  closing dates 24/12, 25/12, 26/12 and from 15/1 to 15/2 –  reservation is required

PAMPLONA – Hostel Hemingway  closing dates from 16/12

PAMPLONA –  Xarma Hostel  closing dates 24/12, 25/12 and from 31/12 to 10/1

PAMPLONA – Plaza Catedral closing dates 24/12, 25/12, 31/12, 1/1 and 7/1 January & February Sun.-Thurs. reserve only groups more than 5

PAMPLONA –Jesús y María  closing dates 22/12 to 8/1

UTERGA – Casa Baztán – reservation is required –  closing dates 23/12 to 15/1

MURUZÁBAL- Mendizábal  closing dates 14/11 to 1/12

PUENTE LA REINA – Estrella Guía –reservation is required

PUENTE LA REINA – Padres Reparadores

CIRAUQUI – Refugio Bidegain  Same day reservations

ESTELLA – Capuchinos Rocamador  closing dates 22/12, 23/12, 24/12, 25/12, 29/12, 30/12, 31/12 1/1, 4/1, 5/1, 6/1; and from 16/1 to 3/3

ESTELLA – La Hostería de Curtidores  reservation is recommended  reservation is required January & February

ESTELLA – Ágora Hostel closing dates 30/11 to 28/2

ESTELLA – Municipal  closing dates 10/12 to 13/1

LOS ARCOS – La Fuente Casa de Austria  closing dates10/12 to 31/1

TORRES DEL RIO – Casa Mariela/H. San Andrés – ​closing dates 31/12 to 7/01

VIANA –Municipal

LOGROÑO – Municipal

LOGROÑO – Acogida parroquial Santiago El Real

LOGROÑO – Hostel  Entresueños  closing dates 10/12 to 18/1- Weekends only

NAVARRETE – El Cántaro reservation is recommended closing dates 20/12 to 5/1 and from 5/2 to 28/2            

NÁJERA  – Las Peñas

CIRUEÑA – Virgen de Guadalupe  reservation is required

SANTO DOMINGO DE LA CALZADA – Casa de la Cofradía del Santo

GRAÑON –Parroquial San Juan Bautista

GRAÑON  – Casa de las Sonrisas – reservation is required – closing dates 15/11 to 20/2 (except with reservations)

GRAÑON – Residencial Cuartel – reservation is required – closing dates 21/12 to 10/1

REDECILLA DEL CAMINO – Municipal San Lázaro

REDECILLA DEL CAMINO – Essentia

VILORIA DE RIOJA – Acacio y Orietta   reservation is required  closing dates from 16/12

BELORADO – Hostel.B  reservation is required –  closing dates 24/12, 25/12, 31/12 and 1/1

VILLAMBISTIA – Municipal San Roque  From 1/2 to 28/2 open only Sat. & Sun.

AGÉS – Municipal  Taberna de Agés  Closed Wednesdays

ATAPUERCA – La Hutte  reservation is recommended – closing dates 24/12, 25/12, 31/12 and 1/1

CARDEÑUELA DE RÍO PICO –Santa Fe closing dates 24/12 and 25/12  Closed Tuesdays except for groups reserving 5 or more reservation is required

BURGOS – Hostel Burgos  closing dates 24/12 and 31/12

BURGOS – Municipal Casa de los Cubos

TARDAJOS – La Casa de Beli  closing dates from 26/12

RABÉ DE LAS CALZADAS – Liberanos Domine – reservation is recommended– closing dates 1/12 to 10/12

HORNILLOS DEL CAMINO – Municipal  reservation is recommended –  closing dates 1/2 to 28/2

HONTANAS –  Municipal San Juan  reservation is recommended

HONTANAS – El Puntido  closing dates from 24/11 – reservation is recommended

CASTROJERIZ – A Cien Leguas

CASTROJERIZ – Municipal San Esteban

ITERO DE LA VEGA – Municipal

ITERO DE LA VEGA – Puente Fitero

BOADILLA DEL CAMINO –Titas

FRÓMISTA –Betania reservation is recommended

FRÓMISTA – Luz de Frómista – reservation is recommended – closing dates 20/12 to 8/1

POBLACIÓN DE CAMPOS – Municipal – closing date from 17/12

CARRIÓN DE LOS CONDES – Casa Espíritu Santo

CALZADILLA DE LA CUEZA – Camino Real

LEDIGOS – La Morena closing dates 24/12 to 3/1

TERRADILLOS DE LOS TEMPLARIOS –Jacques de Molay  closing dates 10/12 to 31/1

MORATINOS – Casa particular Peaceable Kingdom reservation is required – closing dates 24/11 to 4/12

MORATINOS – Albergue de Moratinos

SAHAGUN – Municipal  closing dates 25/12 to 1/1

SAHAGUN – Santa Cruz  closing date from 1/12

CALZADA DEL COTO – Municipal If no answer check at Supermarket

BERCIANOS DEL REAL CAMINO –Santa Clara

EL BURGO RANERO – Municipal Domenico Laffi

RELIEGOS – Municipal Don Gaiferos

MANSILLA DE LAS MULAS – Gaia – closing dates 23/12, 24/12 and 25 /12 & closing dates 1/2 to 28/2

MANSILLA DE LAS MULAS – Municipal  closing date 1/12 to 28/2

ARCAHUEJA –  La Torre  reservation is required

LEÓN – San Francisco de Asís – closing dates 25/12, 31/12 and 1/1

LEÓN – Monasterio Madres Benedictinas

LEON– Leónhostel-reservation is recommended –closing dates 21/12 to 9/1 (Open only Fri. & Sat. in Jan. & Feb.)

LEÓN  – Check in  – reservation is recommended

LEÓN  – Hostel Rua 35

SAN MARTÍN DEL CAMINO –Vieira

SAN MARTÍN DEL CAMINO –  La Casa Verde   closing date 23/11 to 28/2. 

VILLADANGOS DEL PÁRAMO – Albergue municipal  closing date 20/12 to 7/1

VILLAR DE MAZARIFE – Tío Pepe closing date 15/12 to 28/2

VILLAR DE MAZARIFE – Albergue de Jesús

HOSPITAL DE ÓRBIGO – La Encina –reservation is recommended– closing date 25/12 to 1/1

HOSPITAL DE ÓRBIGO – Parroquial Karl Leisner-San Juan Bautista  closed until 31/1

VILLARES DE ÓRBIGO – Albergue Villares de Órbigo  – closing date 17/12 to 1/2

SAN JUSTO DE LA VEGA  – Juli

ASTORGA – Siervas de María

SANTA CATALINA DE SOMOZA – San Blas –reservation is required – closing date 24/12, 25/12, 31/12 and 1/1, 5/1 and 6/1

RABANAL DEL CAMINO – Nuestra Señora del Pilar

EL ACEBO – La Casa del Peregrino-closing date 9/12 to 10/2.

MOLINASECA –Municipal San Roque reservation is required

PONFERRADA – Parroquial San Nicolás de Flue

PONFERRADA – Alea  closing date from 1/12

COLUMBRIANOS – San Blas  reservation is recommended – closing date 25/12 and 1/1

CAMPONARAYA – La Medina  closing dates 24/12 to 1/2

CACABELOS – La Gallega – closing dates 20/1 to 10/2 – reservation is recommended after 15/12

CACABELOS – El Molino – reservation is recommended –  Closed Tuesdays.

VILLAFRANCA DEL BIERZO – La Piedra closing date from 23/11

VILLAFRANCA DEL BIERZO – Leo – closing date from 19/12

AMBASMESTAS – Das Ánimas  reservation is recommended

VEGA DE VALCÁRCE – El Paso – reservation is recommended – closing date 10/12 to 15/3

RUITELAN – Pequeño Potala

O CEBREIRO – Xunta

HOSPITAL DA CONDESA – Xunta

ALTO DO POIO – Santa María do Poio reservation is recommended – closing dates 24/12, 31/12, 1/1 and 2/1

TRIACASTELA – Xunta

CALVOR – Xunta

SAMOS –  San Cristovo do Real – Xunta

SAMOS – Monasterio Benedictino

SARRIA – Xunta

SARRIA – Credencial – reservation is recommended 

SARRIA – La Casona closing dates 24/12, 25/12, 31/12 and 1/1 – reservation is recommended

SARRIA – Don Álvaro Closed 17/11, 24/11 – closing dates 17/12 to 17/1 – reservation is required January & February

SARRIA – Durmiento – closing date from 1/12

BARBADELO – Xunta

FERREIROS – Xunta

PORTOMARÍN – Xunta

PORTOMARÍN – Ultreia

PORTOMARÍN – Pons Minea

PORTOMARIN – Casona da Ponte

PORTOMARÍN – Folgueira

GONZAR – Xunta

O HOSPITAL DE LA CRUZ – Xunta

EIREXE – Xunta

OS CHACOTES – Xunta

PALAS DE REI – Xunta

PALAS DE REI – A Casina di Marcello  reservation is required – Closed until 3/1

PALAS DE REI  – Zendoira – reservation is required –  Closed Sundays closing dates 21/12 to 31/1

CASANOVA – Xunta

MELIDE – Xunta

MELIDE – Pereiro.  closing date 25/12 to 1/1

MELIDE –  Arraigos  – reservation is recommended – closing date 12/11 tol 26/11

RIBADISO – Xunta

ARZÚA – Xunta

ARZÚA – Vía Láctea – reservation is recommended

ARZÚA – De Camino   closing dates 14/11 to 19/11; 24/12, 25/12, 31/12, 1/1 and 6/1

O PINO – Xunta

PEDROUZO –  O Burgo – closing date 1/12 to 28/2

PEDROUZO – Cruceiro – reservation is recommended –closing date 10/12 to 28/2

MONTE DO GOZO – Xunta