Anonymous wrote:The Camino trail? Camino means trail…

Camino de Santiago

The Camino trail? Camino means trail…

A 71 year old friend just walked it; they planned their stops along the way; but walked on their own (with her daughter). Looked fabulous.

I've never done it but my neighbors actually wrote this book: https://www.amazon.com/Village-Guide-Hiking-Camino-Santiago/dp/0984353356

I've not personally read it (yet) but they are a lovely, down-to-earth family so I definitely trust their recommendations.

I’ve done part of the main path. There are some good blogs that explain how to do it. Most people start at the French border, go over the Pyrenees , and to Santiago. I think getting over the pass in the Pyrenees is the most physically challenging. Most of the route you go through a village every 5km, so there’s frequent access to food and water. Signage is great and we found it easy to follow. Most people stay in the pilgrim refugios for the community and cost effectiveness, but there seemed to be plenty of inns and apartments to rent if you wanted your own space with laundry and AC.

Do you plan on staying in hotels or hostels? How much of it do you plan on doing?

The Pilgrim House in Santiago is a good stop: https://www.pilgrimhousesantiago.com/

I watched a YouTube video of a couple who walked from Portugal. Fewer people. Or you could go to Le Puy in central France.

Andrew McCarthy wrote a great book on doing the walk with his son. The audio book version is great. Walking With Sam.

Did you use a tour company or plan it yourself? Which route? Did you feel safe? How much of it did you hike? If you were doing it as a pilgrimage, did it feel spiritual?