Starting from Sevilla on the 21st March 2024

[Miaka]

I know probably starting just before Semana Santa is not the best choice, but I figured I will be in smaller towns for most of the SS and only arrive in Merida on the Saturday before Easter so I am kind of safe.

Is anyone else leaving around that time? I am getting excited about my trip, looking at books and apps, reading a lot about what people advice. Fingers crossed for not too much rain. Semana Santa is bothering me a bit because I will be going into Zafra and Merida during it and from what I see most of the albergues are municipal so I assume I cannot book, but I guess I will have to see once I am there.

 

[geraldkelly]

You'll be fine in Zafra and Merida. Both have albergues which are reserved for pilgrims.

 

[Rita Flower]

The albergue in Zafra is great. Pilgrims only so should have plenty of room.
Mérida was problematic for me. The albergue was closed for the night I arrived due to ‘family demands’ and it was a Saturday night and there was some sort of event on and it’s a popular tourist town!!!
It took quite a me a while to find a bed but I eventually stayed at the Hostal Aquiducta Los Milagros which was perfect. I ended up staying two nights and resting up for the next leg of the journey.
I read someone else had the same experience of the Merida Albergue being closed for the one night they were in town - so in that case, I would probably ring up to confirm or take advantage of a night or two in a hostel as Merida has absolutely stunning Roman ruins.
Buen Camino

 

[Miaka]

You'll be fine in Zafra and Merida. Both have albergues which are reserved for pilgrims.

Good to know, thank you!
My fear was that i heard a lot of people use SS for doing a bit of the camino, but I kinda assumed as it will be towards the end (Saturday before Easter) that I arrive in Merida that I should be fine. Thanks for the reassurance!

 

[Miaka]

The albergue was closed for the night I arrived due to ‘family demands’ and it was a Saturday night and there was some sort of event on and it’s a popular tourist town!!!
It took quite a me a while to find a bed but I eventually stayed at the Hostal Aquiducta Los Milagros which was perfect. I ended up staying two nights and resting up for the next leg of the journey.

This is really good information, thank you! I will make a note to remember to call ahead to check if they will be open and also I well mentally prepare myself for trying to find alternate accommodation haha Fortunately it's a short day so I will have ample amount of time

 

[dansk pilgrim]

I am starting in Sevilla on march 20. so we may meet on the way.
I have booket acomodation in Merida for the easter weekend to be sure.

 

[Miaka]

I am starting in Sevilla on march 20. so we may meet on the way.

Oh, I am arriving on the 20th and leaving the 21st but I do plan to take some longer days so I might catch up to you! Would be great to meet on the camino ^^