Newbie peregrino

[Woolydave]

Hello and Buen Camino to all. I am planning my first Camino next April but only have 6 - 7 days to do because of work and family comitments. I have heard the last "official" section on CF from Sarria to SDC is very busy and may pose some issues for accomodation, reflective walking, etc. I am thinking of maybe starting off at SJPDP then finish at Estella, as it may be quiter and provide less stress for accomodation. I'm assuming this will not qualify for the Compastela? I'm not too bothered if it doesnt as I do plan to complete the whole walk at some stage in the next 15 years . Thanks!

 

[C clearly]

I have heard the last "official" section on CF from Sarria to SDC is very busy and may pose some issues for accomodation, reflective walking, etc.

Unfortunately, so many people "have heard" only half the story. The section from Sarria (there is no "official" section) is NOT very busy in April (except for Holy Week leading to Easter Sunday). It is very busy in August.

 

[Turga]

I'm assuming this will not qualify for the Compastela?

That's correct. If you want a Compostela you could consider walking the Camino Inglés, you can easily do that in 6-7 days and that would qualify for a Compostela.

Buen Camino!

 

[joeytheboy]

That's correct. If you want a Compostela you could consider walking the Camino Inglés, you can easily do that in 6-7 days and that would qualify for a Compostela.

Buen Camino!

And its a very nice walk

 

[Woolydave]

Thanks, the Camino Inglés sounds interesting. I spent most of my time researching the Frances and forgot to look at the others, thankg again.

 

[J Willhaus]

Or start on the Sanabres or Portuguese 100 km from Santiago if you want a Compostella. Agree that the Ingles would also be a good choice.

 

[CarolamS]

I agree with walking the Camino Ingles. There is something nice about completing a whole Camino and finishing in Santiago. It will give you a chance to experience Camino life which will inform your future plans. You will meet plenty of other Pilgrims but no bicigrinos as it's too short for them. It might be short but it's certainly not a 'walk in the park', there are plenty of hills. Plus some lovely towns, countryside, sea views, even a beach. Hmm...happy memories.

 

[Paul McAmino]

As @J Willhaus has mentioned, the end of the Camino Sanabres, beginning in Ourense would be ideal. It would be plenty challenging, varied, and fit nicely into your time frame. This route also has the added benefit of its relative (to the Francés from Sarria) lack of crowds.
Whatever you choose, buen Camino.

Paul

 

[El Cascayal]

Take a peek at the Camino Portuguese starting from Valenca, Portugal across the river from Tui. There are several ALSA direct buses there from Santiago. The Variante Espiritual on this Camino has one of the most gorgeous stages leaving Armenteira that takes you walking along green woods along the river with multiple waterfalls. Incredible. Very doable 6-7d.