Camino de Santiago

[Bruisername]

Hi. I’ve seen threads on this before but am rubbish at searching. I’m thinking of doing the last bit from Siarra on my own and have a few questions

• how easy is it to get there from the UK?
• when is the best time of year?
• would you recommend going through a company to arrange hotels etc?
• does it feel safe on your own?
• how hard is it to do in a week?

thanks in advance to all!!

There was a thread under 'chat' this Spring called '2 weeks to go to my big solo adventure and starting to lose my nerve'. I'm sorry I don't know how to link . The poster walked what may have been the full length (not quite sure on this) but it took her several weeks and she gave quite regular updates, plus she explained how she had booked her accommodation, what she had packed, what she ate etc

It might be easier for you to search for it knowing the title .

My dad has just completed the Camino for the second time. He walked the full length of Camino Frances last year and has just got home from the Camino del Norte. Asked him for his advice!

1. As he did the full route he couldn't advise on getting to Siarra, but a quick look online suggests you could get a flight to Madrid and then a direct train.
2. Popular times are May-June and September-October when accommodation can often be fully booked. Both times he walked in July-August. Less popular time, no problem with accommodation but very hot. Early morning starts 05.00am essential to avoid heat and finish walking by 13.00.
3. He did it all himself by downloading Buen Camino app from Google Play. Booking ahead not essential but you can do for peace of mind. Most hostels accept reservations by email, WhatsApp or booking.com, but some don't accept bookings and are just first come first served. Best to communicate in Spanish using Google translate as English is not widely spoken outside of the cities.
4. Absolutely safe. You may walk alone but you will not be alone. Many people in front and behind. Its a good path well waymarked, cannot get lost. In unlikely event of falling over or twisted ankle others will help you. Pilgrims are very happy people and will always help each other. Many women young and old are walking on their own, complete safety and there are always other people around.
5. To qualify for a certificate you must walk a minimum of 100km, or 62 miles, finishing at Santiago. If you only have one week, popular starting points are Sarria (Camino Frances), Ferrol (Camino Ingles), and Lugo (Camino Primitivo). All possible to do in six days walking, maybe less if you are fit.

Enjoy your walk, it is extremely rewarding. Remember to get your Credencial del Peregrino (Pilgrim passport) at the first place you start from, otherwise pilgrimage is not recognised and you will not be able to stay in the albergues (hostels) which are for pilgrims only, not tourists.

If you have any more questions he's happy to help, or there is a forum where you may find many of your questions have already been asked: https://www.caminodesantiago.me/

Here's the thread @ShinyAppleDreamingOfTheSea referred to https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/_chat/5032932-2-weeks-to-go-to-my-big-solo-adventure-and-starting-to-lose-my-nerve

Best of luck OP.

Thanks! Reading that thread makes me feel 100km is a wimp out!!

wondering if another part of the route would be better as this last leg seems busy

Heh well based on reading that thread I'd be doing that flat bit in the middle @Bruisername (and 100km is definitely not a wimp out).