VDLP APRIL 2016...Seville...Who's starting out on the camino in April?

[Pilgrim Rick]

Hi Guys,

I walked the Camino Frances from St Jean to Santiago in October 2014 with a very good friend.
I can't even begin to describe what an amazing experience it was for me and my friend too, considering every aspect, it was truly a life changing discovery. 780kms of discovery on your journey in life.
I have decided to walk the Via De La Plata in April next year and I am starting to gather information and make the mental, physical, and practical planning steps that are necessary.
John Brierley THANK YOU!! You made my walk last year so comfortable and enjoyable and your guides are truly the best available and worth every penny.
Sadly though as far I know John does not have a book that covers the VDLP.

If anyone can suggest a book that comes anywhere close John Brierley's Camino Frances guide book I would be most appreciative. A guidebook is essential in my humble opinion.
Also, if there are any Peregrino's walking this Camino next year and would like some company starting out I would be very keen to meet you, as next year I will be walking alone.

If I can help you in any way or share any of my own experience let me know.

Well done if you have read my post to here !! )

Best wishes for a Buen Camino

Pilgrim Rick

 

[Pilgrim Rick]

Oh, I forgot to add, a big thank you to Ivar for creating managing and nurturing this Forum.
P.S Ivar Ive sent you my order for passports and covers along with a badge celebrating my successful completion of the Camino Frances !!

 

[Chris Day]

Hi Pilgrim Rick. It sounds like you undertake a similar planning process to me.

JB's book for Frances is great to have, but sadly there isn't anything quite as good in English for VdlP thatI have been able to find...so it's a case of pulling together several sources I think.

Gerald Kelly's "Walking Guide to the Via de la Plata and the Camino Sanabres" is one such source. I have that as an ebook. Coupled with an App "Wise Pilgrim - Via de la Plata" and the Forum's resource - a 12 page review of stages, distances and places to stay - I feel I have enough to go with. The Forum's resource has been updated for the current year and is a 2015 version of what was previously available.

The Wise Pilgrim App I found to be great for the Frances Route, but the VdlP edition has been released as a "work in progress" for now, but is still pretty good.

I set off on April 4th and from what you say, like you, always like at least starting out and setting off on Day 1 in the company of a fellow Pilgrim....let me know if you date coincides.

I hope the above info helps.
Buen Camino
Chris

 

[Pilgrim Rick]

Hi Pilgrim Rick. It sounds like you undertake a similar planning process to me.

JB's book for Frances is great to have, but sadly there isn't anything quite as good in English for VdlP thatI have been able to find...so it's a case of pulling together several sources I think.

Gerald Kelly's "Walking Guide to the Via de la Plata and the Camino Sanabres" is one such source. I have that as an ebook. Coupled with an App "Wise Pilgrim - Via de la Plata" and the Forum's resource - a 12 page review of stages, distances and places to stay - I feel I have enough to go with. The Forum's resource has been updated for the current year and is a 2015 version of what was previously available.

The Wise Pilgrim App I found to be great for the Frances Route, but the VdlP edition has been released as a "work in progress" for now, but is still pretty good.

I set off on April 4th and from what you say, like you, always like at least starting out and setting off on Day 1 in the company of a fellow Pilgrim....let me know if you date coincides.

I hope the above info helps.
Buen Camino
Chris

Hi Chris

Thank you for getting in touch.
I've just ordered Walking guide to the via de la plata and the Camino sanabres by Mr Gerald Kelly
I'm hoping there will be some useful information to get me started at least
I'd probably spend a day or two in Seville and then gently start the walk
I'm in no rush and health and stamina are an important part of your journey as you know.
I did have a fair few aches and pains when I finished the Camino last year!!!)
I am a little anxious that the VDLP does seem to have attracted a few non positive comments I would say of course that every walk will attract both positive and not positive posts.

Chris do stay in touch and lets see if our dates tally up it would be great to have a fellow Pergrino to start out with!


Rick

 

[Pilgrim Rick]

PILGRIMS LEAVING SEVILLE FOR VDLP APRIL 2016
1) CHRIS DAY
2) PILGRIM RICK

Please feel free to add your name details or enquiries

 

[musicman]

If you are in Seville before your Camino starts - go to Triana and the local Confraternity office; open in the evenings,check times on Internet.There we bought a guide for a few Euros in English that they publish; a flip over that is quite useful.Great T shirts,too!

 

[Pilgrim Rick]

Wow. That's great advice. Many thanks music man I will definitely check it out.

 

[Pilgrim Rick]

Wow. That's great advice. Many thanks music man I will definitely check it out.

By the way Musicman when did you travel the VDLP ? What are your thoughts about this Camino?
Any problems along the way? Difficult? Easy? What about the distance between the villages and places to stay?

 

[Pangloss]

Hi Rick, I walked from Zafra to Santiago from mid-April to mid May this year. It was a great time to walk the VdlP and I really enjoyed it . I used Gerald Kelly's guide which I found very clear and up to date. If you are carrying a smartphone you may want to download an app called" Via de la Plata" prepared by Melanie Radzicki McManus. Its from 2012, so sometimes it was a little out of date but it makes up for that with the photos, descriptions and useful route maps. If your Spanish is passable, or if you are prepared to devote a little time to translation ( I did this and I am not a Spanish speaker) there is a very good guide to be found at www.caminodesantiago.consumer.es/los-caminos-de-Santiago/via-de-la-plata.

Patrick

 

[Pilgrim Rick]

Hi Patrick,

thanks so much for posting. Ive bought Gerald Kelly's book and I agree it will be a useful companion. Sadly missed though is John Brierley's detailed information with elevations and coloured riute system etc. That being said its a great start and I will be happy to top this up with additional information as I need. I may try Ivars app for iPhone etc and see if I can work with this.
I'm excited about walking in April...are you free? )

Buen Camino

 

[jjarnold]

Hi

PILGRIMS LEAVING SEVILLE FOR VDLP APRIL 2016
1) CHRIS DAY
2) PILGRIM RICK

Please feel free to add your name details or enquiries

Sydney Jen: although setting out easter (end March)

 

[jjarnold]

Hi Chris and rick
Well i hope to see you both on route. I am planning to set out on easter saturday a few days ahead of you perhaps. I shall keep following the post to see who else might be around
Jen

 

[Pilgrim Rick]

Hiya
Thanks for posting.
I am planning to set off from Seville on the 1st April ( April fools day !! )
Stay in touch perhaps we will all meet up at some point.
Buen Camino

 

[mcopeland]

My husband and I plan to set off in mid to late April. Still don't have the exact date figured out.
Mary

 

[NicP]

I'm aiming to set out around Monday 10th April... Could be a few days earlier- not sure yet. Will see how things pan out...

 

[Pilgrim Rick]

Hi there Nicp and mcopeland thanks for posting Well done for making a decision to begin your Camino.
It looks as though we now have a few more pilgrims starting out in April.
I'm very looking forward to getting started...
Please stay in touch and let everyone know how you progress.

Buen Camino

 

[murraydv]

Hi Guys,

I walked the Camino Frances from St Jean to Santiago in October 2014 with a very good friend.
I can't even begin to describe what an amazing experience it was for me and my friend too, considering every aspect, it was truly a life changing discovery. 780kms of discovery on your journey in life.
I have decided to walk the Via De La Plata in April next year and I am starting to gather information and make the mental, physical, and practical planning steps that are necessary.
John Brierley THANK YOU!! You made my walk last year so comfortable and enjoyable and your guides are truly the best available and worth every penny.
Sadly though as far I know John does not have a book that covers the VDLP.

If anyone can suggest a book that comes anywhere close John Brierley's Camino Frances guide book I would be most appreciative. A guidebook is essential in my humble opinion.
Also, if there are any Peregrino's walking this Camino next year and would like some company starting out I would be very keen to meet you, as next year I will be walking alone.

If I can help you in any way or share any of my own experience let me know.

Well done if you have read my post to here !! )

Best wishes for a Buen Camino

Pilgrim Rick

Rick. It is a wonderful Camino and I intend to do the whole Via de la Plata when I have 5 or 6 weeks of free time. Right now, I am doing one week per year in May, and carry on where I left off on the previous visit. So, next May, I will begin walking again in Calzada de Bejar and hope to do about 250 klm in the week. I have a big choice to make on day 1 in 2016. Whether to travel the relatively short distance (20 klm) to Fuenterroble or carry on to the next stop, San Pedro de Rozados, which would mean walking 49 klm in the day. You will enjoy the experience, although some parts are very quiet, especially in the first few weeks. Concentration on the markers is important and it is easy to lose your way from time to time. I invested in a hiking GPS (Dakota 20) which I bought on Ebay. It certainly comes in handy, even if it is only to put my mind at ease, knowing that I am at least heading towards my intended destination. Overall, the Via de la Plata is a hotter Camino and temperatures can get pretty high, especially when you get into May, when it can reach the high 30's. I would be happy to share any information on my journey so far, which is about 440 klm into the Camino. My email address is david.murray@fmc.com.

 

[NicP]

49 km in a day - that sounds like a pretty long and hard day to me! I think I'll be taking things a little easier - not sure that my level of fitness is up to such a long days yet... what a great idea to spend a week each year on the camino until its completed... that's certainly something I'd consider if only I were a little closer to Europe. I'm blessed to have around 8 weeks to get from Seville to Santiago.

Speaking of levels of fitness, any idea what most people manage to compete in terms of distances each day? I'm a great believer in the idea that one should only walk as far as one feels comfortable walking in a day, however I'm also aware that the distance between viable overnight stopping points is much more variable and often greater on the VDLP than it is on some other caminos (such as the Frances). I'm also keen to try and get fit enough that can enjoy the experience as much as possible, and not suffer too much. Any ideas about what the estimated maximum distance between overnight stopping points might be on the VDLP? I want to be sure that I can get there!

Also - I've read many different things about what people do in order to physically prepare for their camino. So far I've been trying to walk 3-4 days a week, between 6-10km a day, and intend to increase my distances on 1-2 days a week out to 20km walks in the lead up to my camino in April. Can anyone give any other advice on physical preparation? I know some people say that you dont need to do anything at all, just arrive and walk - for me, the idea of the camino as a catalyst to actually do some exercise is something I like, and walking is fun, so this works. Anything else which might make the camino more comfortable and increase the odds of completing it would be gratefully received though!

 

[jjarnold]

Hi Nicp - see you are a fellow antipodean. seems you shall have plenty of time for the VdLP with 8 weeks. I did the camino frances, averaging 20kms a day and this was quite manageable for even a person of distinctly average fitness who did no particular preparation and had two bad knees!. I started out with days of 10-15 kms only to ease myself gently, but soon found that 10 kms before breakfast stop was quite easy. My best advice is to allow yourself to walk each day stopping or continuing as you feel and as the camino demands rather than being committed to a daily plan. This camino i am expecting to average 25 kms a day (since it is 1000kms with 6 weeks), being now in possession of two new knees! I hope to run into you next spring on the path.

 

[MileHighPair]

49 km in a day - that sounds like a pretty long and hard day to me! I think I'll be taking things a little easier - not sure that my level of fitness is up to such a long days yet... what a great idea to spend a week each year on the camino until its completed... that's certainly something I'd consider if only I were a little closer to Europe. I'm blessed to have around 8 weeks to get from Seville to Santiago.

Speaking of levels of fitness, any idea what most people manage to compete in terms of distances each day? I'm a great believer in the idea that one should only walk as far as one feels comfortable walking in a day, however I'm also aware that the distance between viable overnight stopping points is much more variable and often greater on the VDLP than it is on some other caminos (such as the Frances). I'm also keen to try and get fit enough that can enjoy the experience as much as possible, and not suffer too much. Any ideas about what the estimated maximum distance between overnight stopping points might be on the VDLP? I want to be sure that I can get there!

Also - I've read many different things about what people do in order to physically prepare for their camino. So far I've been trying to walk 3-4 days a week, between 6-10km a day, and intend to increase my distances on 1-2 days a week out to 20km walks in the lead up to my camino in April. Can anyone give any other advice on physical preparation? I know some people say that you dont need to do anything at all, just arrive and walk - for me, the idea of the camino as a catalyst to actually do some exercise is something I like, and walking is fun, so this works. Anything else which might make the camino more comfortable and increase the odds of completing it would be gratefully received though!

NicP: It sounds like you are right on track. I would only caution against "over-training" before you leave for your camino. I do think some training is important, but if a training injury occurs, then it can mess up plans before you even leave home, and this is especially disturbing if tickets have been purchased. It is several months before you leave, so don't over do it! As for the Camino itself, we averaged almost exactly 20km/day on both Camino Frances trips, but it seems that the VdlP might require a bit more, at least on several days. Buen Camino!

 

[Hikoi]

I'm preparing to set out from Seville in April. I was planning on starting after spending Holy Week in Seville, but I'm unable to do that now. I can't decide whether to leave in early April, around the second week, or wait a little and leave around the 19th! I'm hoping for better weather later, but who knows what might happen! Preparations are well underway and I'm in danger of overthinking things! Camino fever...!

 

[jjarnold]

I'm preparing to set out from Seville in April. I was planning on starting after spending Holy Week in Seville, but I'm unable to do that now. I can't decide whether to leave in early April, around the second week, or wait a little and leave around the 19th! I'm hoping for better weather later, but who knows what might happen! Preparations are well underway and I'm in danger of overthinking things! Camino fever...!

Hi Hikoi
keep in touch if you do set out from seville in holy week - since i will be doing the same
see you on the road
jen

 

[george.g]

Just booked a flight into Jerez and plan to start walking from Cadiz, I plan to do the usual search of the usual places for info, but has anyone any special info they would like to pass on?
ie, on day one do you have to follow the bay round or is it possible to walk over the bridge to Puerto Real.
This years camino is going to be Cadiz - Seville - Granja - Tabara - Santiago - Finisterre.
I will leave Seville on the morning of the 16 April, if anyone would like a walking amigo for a few days then let me know.
Regards.
George.

 

[Sailor]

. . . on day one do you have to follow the bay round or is it possible to walk over the bridge to Puerto Real . . .

George, this is a good question and I have a lot of interest on the answer from any of our forum members walking La Via Augusta in the past. I have checked the satellite map and I see two bridges, one on CA-35 (Puente de la Constitucion de 1812, this is the closest one to Plaza de La Catedral), and one on CA-36 (Puente Jose Leon de Carranza, this one is to the South of Puente de la Constitucion de 1812)).
-- Puente Jose Leon de Carranza is not open for walking based on what I read on a couple of articles (you can verify this information when you get to Cadiz, or wait for inputs from our forum members).
-- Puente de la Constitution de 1812 is new, was due to be inaugurated on 9/24/15 based on the attached newspaper article. As per the article this bridge will be open for walking ("Una vez se inaugure el próximo jueves el puente, los ciudadanos podrán caminar por el viaducto.") (again, you can verify this information when you get to Cadiz, or wait for inputs from our forum members).
-- Both bridges connect to CA-35 at around Barriada Rio San Pedro, not too far from Puerto Real.

Link to the article (in Spanish, which is my lingua materna):
http://www.elmundo.es/andalucia/2015/09/20/55fecf8b46163ff6628b4572.html

Good luck on La Via Augusta and Via de la Plata, y que la luz de Dios alumbre su camino.

 

[Jun Meng]

PILGRIMS LEAVING SEVILLE FOR VDLP APRIL 2016
1) CHRIS DAY
2) PILGRIM RICK

Please feel free to add your name details or enquiries

Wanna do it!!! Jun Meng

 

[CanPete]

George, this is a good question and I have a lot of interest on the answer from any of our forum members walking La Via Augusta in the past. I have checked the satellite map and I see two bridges, one on CA-35 (Puente de la Constitucion de 1812, this is the closest one to Plaza de La Catedral), and one on CA-36 (Puente Jose Leon de Carranza, this one is to the South of Puente de la Constitucion de 1812)).
-- Puente Jose Leon de Carranza is not open for walking based on what I read on a couple of articles (you can verify this information when you get to Cadiz, or wait for inputs from our forum members).
-- Puente de la Constitution de 1812 is new, was due to be inaugurated on 9/24/15 based on the attached newspaper article. As per the article this bridge will be open for walking ("Una vez se inaugure el próximo jueves el puente, los ciudadanos podrán caminar por el viaducto.") (again, you can verify this information when you get to Cadiz, or wait for inputs from our forum members).
-- Both bridges connect to CA-35 at around Barriada Rio San Pedro, not too far from Puerto Real.

Link to the article (in Spanish, which is my lingua materna):
http://www.elmundo.es/andalucia/2015/09/20/55fecf8b46163ff6628b4572.html

Good luck on La Via Augusta and Via de la Plata, y que la luz de Dios alumbre su camino.

"I checked the satellite map" ; in my books = over preparation... Leave some things unchecked and ' roll with the punches ' , that's my recommendation ...

Bueno Camino !!

 

[george.g]

Hi Pete,
Just goes to show the different approach each of us has to preparing for a camino, I like and enjoy making my own guide book, printing maps etc, etc its part of the fun, and builds anticipation.
I have found on previous caminos, those people having a bad time have usually been those who prepared least?
Regards
George

 

[CanPete]

Hi George, I understand what you are saying and appreciate your POV.
My experience has been that the 'unknown' increases the likelihood of new experiences as one is not fixed on acting out on what has been pre-planned. I've walked alongside folks that were stuck on completely sticking to what they had set out to do before starting and, in my modest opinion, they lost out on experiences that presented themselves on the way.

The fact that I don't pre-plan other than the basics does not exclude me from enjoying the anticipation. I fully agree with you though that prep with gear and 'walking shape' is of high importance ; after some previous long distance walking I believe I've got this covered (knock on wood).

Cheers !

Pete

 

[Sailor]

. . . in my books = over preparation . . .

Thanks Pete for your comments. We use different books (possibly with the same results). Que la luz de Dios alumbre su camino.

 

[Nikki-ki-yay]

If I have the money and if I get time off from work I'm probably gonna start last week in March.
Need some positive in my life.

 

[Sailor]

Good on you Nikki. In my military units we used to call this PMA (positive mental attitude). Good luck with your planning and execution, y que la luz de Dios alumbre su camino.

 

[Richard Schwartz]

Pilgrim Rick, I also start walking on April 1. My e-mail address is rschwa9966@gmail.com. I arrive in Seville on March 30. Let's circle back closer to that time. Would love to say hello in Seville. Cheers, Richard

 

[SafariGirl]

Hi Rick and all other peregrinos/as looking at doing the Via de la Plata in Springtime. I was planning to set off in March, but have now decided on April in the hope of better weather and higher temperatures.

One of my considerations has been whether this route is going to feel too isolated & solitary as I walk it alone, so it's good to hear of others also planning to walk then. I very much hope we get the chance to meet in person on the way.

All the best

Michele

 

[Richard Schwartz]

Michelle, take note of my e-mail address, above, and if you're going to be in Seville on March 30 or 31, let me know. I start walking April 1.
Cheers,
Richard

 

[Chris Day]

Hi Rick and all other peregrinos/as looking at doing the Via de la Plata in Springtime. I was planning to set off in March, but have now decided on April in the hope of better weather and higher temperatures.

One of my considerations has been whether this route is going to feel too isolated & solitary as I walk it alone, so it's good to hear of others also planning to walk then. I very much hope we get the chance to meet in person on the way.

All the best

Michele

You echo my thoughts on the solitude aspect of this route...walking alone in the company of others is good - that is having fellow pilgrims around. There is a group of four (of which I am one) setting off together on Monday 4th April. I know one - a Canadian - from this year's Frances Camino; another is a someone from this forum plus a friend who has also decided to join... They are both Canadians too. You are welcome to join the party, if it's that date you are setting off. It's a great time of year to walk the VdlP by all accounts.

 

[SafariGirl]

Michelle, take note of my e-mail address, above, and if you're going to be in Seville on March 30 or 31, let me know. I start walking April 1.
Cheers,
Richard

Thank you Richard I certainly will. Appreciate the contact and I'll be in touch if our dates tally when my plans are firmer.

All the best

Michele

 

[SafariGirl]

You echo my thoughts on the solitude aspect of this route...walking alone in the company of others is good - that is having fellow pilgrims around. There is a group of four (of which I am one) setting off together on Monday 4th April. I know one - a Canadian - from this year's Frances Camino; another is a someone from this forum plus a friend who has also decided to join... They are both Canadians too. You are welcome to join the party, if it's that date you are setting off. It's a great time of year to walk the VdlP by all accounts.

Hi Chris,

Many thanks for this response. I suddenly feel much more confident about walking the Via de la Plata now knowing I have people I can link up with on the way. I've yet to decide my definite departure date but will be in touch again if they coincide. And look forward to meeting you on the way.

All the best

Michele

 

[murraydv]

49 km in a day - that sounds like a pretty long and hard day to me! I think I'll be taking things a little easier - not sure that my level of fitness is up to such a long days yet... what a great idea to spend a week each year on the camino until its completed... that's certainly something I'd consider if only I were a little closer to Europe. I'm blessed to have around 8 weeks to get from Seville to Santiago.

Speaking of levels of fitness, any idea what most people manage to compete in terms of distances each day? I'm a great believer in the idea that one should only walk as far as one feels comfortable walking in a day, however I'm also aware that the distance between viable overnight stopping points is much more variable and often greater on the VDLP than it is on some other caminos (such as the Frances). I'm also keen to try and get fit enough that can enjoy the experience as much as possible, and not suffer too much. Any ideas about what the estimated maximum distance between overnight stopping points might be on the VDLP? I want to be sure that I can get there!

Also - I've read many different things about what people do in order to physically prepare for their camino. So far I've been trying to walk 3-4 days a week, between 6-10km a day, and intend to increase my distances on 1-2 days a week out to 20km walks in the lead up to my camino in April. Can anyone give any other advice on physical preparation? I know some people say that you dont need to do anything at all, just arrive and walk - for me, the idea of the camino as a catalyst to actually do some exercise is something I like, and walking is fun, so this works. Anything else which might make the camino more comfortable and increase the odds of completing it would be gratefully received though!

Rick
First, I would recommend a book
"Walking Guide to the VIA DE LA PLATA and the CAMINO SANABRES from Seville to Santiago" (January 2015 edition) by Gerald Kelly". I see that there us a copy on EBAY at the moment (from Australia) for about $22 AU. Also available on Amazon.

Additionally, I would recommend a GPS map http://www.wikiloc.com/wikiloc/view.do?id=6428044
Make it full screen and zoom in at different locations . You could take screen shots to use as a guide on the walk.

Other advice? any time that I came across anybody who was held up during the walk, it was almost always because of problems with their feet, blisters etc. So, it is well worth preparing and looking after that in order to avoid problems. Do a lot of research on accommodation options. You might not be able to predict where you will be each night, but at least have an idea of your options. Are you walking alone?
Dave

 

[ratyoke]

Hello. I will be starting the VdlP from Sevilla in mid April. Haven't decided on the exact date yet. This will be my first Camino. I'm looking forward to it.

 

[SafariGirl]

Hello. I will be starting the VdlP from Sevilla in mid April. Haven't decided on the exact date yet. This will be my first Camino. I'm looking forward to it.

Hello John, Best of luck with your first Camino. Hopefully we'll get the chance to meet along the way. All the best Michele

 

[handzondeck2]

Hi Guys,

I walked the Camino Frances from St Jean to Santiago in October 2014 with a very good friend.
I can't even begin to describe what an amazing experience it was for me and my friend too, considering every aspect, it was truly a life changing discovery. 780kms of discovery on your journey in life.
I have decided to walk the Via De La Plata in April next year and I am starting to gather information and make the mental, physical, and practical planning steps that are necessary.
John Brierley THANK YOU!! You made my walk last year so comfortable and enjoyable and your guides are truly the best available and worth every penny.
Sadly though as far I know John does not have a book that covers the VDLP.

If anyone can suggest a book that comes anywhere close John Brierley's Camino Frances guide book I would be most appreciative. A guidebook is essential in my humble opinion.
Also, if there are any Peregrino's walking this Camino next year and would like some company starting out I would be very keen to meet you, as next year I will be walking alone.

If I can help you in any way or share any of my own experience let me know.

Well done if you have read my post to here !! )

Best wishes for a Buen Camino

Pilgrim Rick

Hi Pilgrim Rick and any other pilgrim deciding to walk the Via de la Plata next year.
I have walked the Via de La Plata 3 times 2006, 2011 and more recently last year (2015). This is my favourite route and I have walked various caminos in Spain. Everytime I walk the VldP I start in mid April as the weather is almost perfect for walking.
If you want a guide book (although not essential as it adds to the weight) you can pick one up from Hotel Simon in Seville for around 11Euros.
However, you can also create your own. If you go to http://www.godesalco.com/plan/plata you can plan your itinerary and print it off. A very good resource planning tool. Also the mundicamino and eroski websites have good information even though they are in Spanish. Also check out the resource section of this forum for available accommodation.
There was one big day after Salamanca about 36km and I would recommend pre-booking the albergue if you are going to walk that distance. Be warned there is no shade as the route has changed dramatically so at least 2 litres of water is recommended.
Every other time I had no trouble with accommodation although the route has major changes towards Lubian due to the AVE and every available accommodation was booked so I ended up in the next town. Do not despair accommodation is readily available on route. I only prebooked the one after Salamanca and no other problems with accommodation were encountered. Besides new accommodation is popping up along the route all the time.
Last year was a crazy year for walking and extremely hot so at least 2 litres of water on the longer distances is recommended. Weather wise it was great only one / two days of rain however, I would still recommend wet weather gear. The albergue near the Embalse de Alcontarra was closed when I walked and the privado was 18 Euros (bed/private shower and breakfast). Also there is a new albergue in Grimaldo for about 12 Euros (bed and breakfast) worth the visit and a place to rest.
I will check my journal for further information if required.
Let me know Sharon.
PS I took 42 days to walk from Seville to Santiago at a leisurely pace as it's not a race. Remember it's your camino and do it your way.

 

[handzondeck2]

Here is the link for available VldP accommodation (August 2015) from the resource section:
https://www.caminodesantiago.me/com...-accommodation-guide-version-august-2015.408/

 

[SYates]

Thanks a lot @handzondeck2 for the info and tips! Feliz Navidad! SY

 

[SafariGirl]

Hi Pilgrim Rick and any other pilgrim deciding to walk the Via de la Plata next year.
I have walked the Via de La Plata 3 times 2006, 2011 and more recently last year (2015). This is my favourite route and I have walked various caminos in Spain. Everytime I walk the VldP I start in mid April as the weather is almost perfect for walking.
If you want a guide book (although not essential as it adds to the weight) you can pick one up from Hotel Simon in Seville for around 11Euros.
However, you can also create your own. If you go to http://www.godesalco.com/plan/plata you can plan your itinerary and print it off. A very good resource planning tool. Also the mundicamino and eroski websites have good information even though they are in Spanish. Also check out the resource section of this forum for available accommodation.
There was one big day after Salamanca about 36km and I would recommend pre-booking the albergue if you are going to walk that distance. Be warned there is no shade as the route has changed dramatically so at least 2 litres of water is recommended.
Every other time I had no trouble with accommodation although the route has major changes towards Lubian due to the AVE and every available accommodation was booked so I ended up in the next town. Do not despair accommodation is readily available on route. I only prebooked the one after Salamanca and no other problems with accommodation were encountered. Besides new accommodation is popping up along the route all the time.
Last year was a crazy year for walking and extremely hot so at least 2 litres of water on the longer distances is recommended. Weather wise it was great only one / two days of rain however, I would still recommend wet weather gear. The albergue near the Embalse de Alcontarra was closed when I walked and the privado was 18 Euros (bed/private shower and breakfast). Also there is a new albergue in Grimaldo for about 12 Euros (bed and breakfast) worth the visit and a place to rest.
I will check my journal for further information if required.
Let me know Sharon.
PS I took 42 days to walk from Seville to Santiago at a leisurely pace as it's not a race. Remember it's your camino and do it your way.

Really useful info and tips hanzondeck2. Many thanks for sharing!

 

[handzondeck2]

No problems. Feel free to ask me if you need anymore info as I'll need to drag out my journal especially near Caparra as the route is quite long.

 

[SafariGirl]

No problems. Feel free to ask me if you need anymore info as I'll need to drag out my journal especially near Caparra as the route is quite long.

Thanks a lot - will do. Planning (such as it will be) begins in earnest in January. Have a good New Year

 

[handzondeck2]

Hi SafariGirl

Here is a brief breakdown of the second half that I wrote for some friends who had already walked the first half from Seville to Salamanca with me this year and will return to complete the second half from Salamanca next year.

1.You can catch the bus to Calzada de Valdunciel and then walk to El Cubo de la Tierre del Vino. I recommend staying at Albergue F&M privado 12 Euros and right on the camino. Hospitaleros are very pilgrim friendly. The reason for this is the stretch from Salamanca to Calzada de Valdunciel then El Cubo de la Tierre del Vino is very dry with nothing to see. That will give you a 20 km day. If you time the buses you can probably skip this stage and bus directly to El Cubo de la Tierre del Vino. I would recommend the shorter walk as it is very boring with no shade.

2.Zamora: nice albergue and lovely city.

3.Tabara: reports of the albergue are very good but a little off the camino. I stayed at El Robles 18 Euro with breakfast. The camino route then takes you back the way you came in and around the town due to the train works.

4.Santa Marta de Tera: very pilgrim friendly 12 Euros. Buy supplies on the way to the albergue.

5.Rionegro del Puente: great albergue right on the camino in the centre of town.

6.Mombuey: small albergue fills up quick. Don't reserve in the hotel. WALK ON.

7.Asturianos: bad reviews of the albergue and sleeping on mats on the floor. I went to Puebla de Sanabria - Albergue Casa Luz (reserve in advance) by bus after walking from Mombuey. A lot of pilgrims did that. There are two routes out of town. I went over the mountain and not the road. Nice walk.

8.Lubian: reconsider the albergue and stay in the Casa Rural as the albergue is out of the town and fills up quickly. I had to walk on to the next town 12 km which has a very nice hotel with pilgrim rates. (I'll check my journal for the phone number)

9.A Gudina: albergue OK get a bottom bed if you can. Small kitchen but close to everything. Buy food for your walk the next day

10.Campobecerros: Be careful on the steep downhill to town as there are lots of loose rocks. Albergue ok supplies blankets. No kitchen. Small town with limited supplies. Two bars.

11.Laza: good albergue about 500km out of town. Good facilities.

12.Steep climb 900metres to Luis’s albergue in Albergeria (scallop shell shop). (Donativo)

13.Vilar de Barrio: good albergue and small kitchen. Close to small shops.

14.Xunqueira de Ambia: good albergue 1 km out of town but on the camino. Small kitchen

15.Ourense: good albergue and close to everything. Small kitchen

16.Cea: good albergue but has automatic lights which can disrupt your sleeping. I would get a bed in the corner and if there is no-one else around (i.e. not full) get some blankets to block out the light. Take a bottom bed.

17.Route to Oseria good and hilly.

18.Castro Dozon: good albergue with small kitchen. Good meal in town before albergue.

19.Lalin-Bendoiro-Laxe: check to see if albergue is open. Might have to take a hostel.

20.Silleda / Bandeira: new hostel very pilgrim friendly.

21.Outeiro/A Vedra: No facilities. Small kitchen however, they do meals at pilgrim prices.

22.Santiage de Compostella: reserve both arrival and second time in now. I'll find the address for you and send in my next email. 23 Euros per night with a great breakfast

 

[murraydv]

Hello. I will be starting the VdlP from Sevilla in mid April. Haven't decided on the exact date yet. This will be my first Camino. I'm looking forward to it.

Best of luck. Are you doing the whole thing from start to finish?

 

[ratyoke]

Best of luck. Are you doing the whole thing from start to finish?

Yes, if everything goes well.

 

[C clearly]

You can catch the bus to Calzada de Valdunciel and then walk to El Cubo de la Tierre del Vino.

Can you tell me what bus company serves this route? I see that Alsa goes from Salamanca to Zamora. Can one request to get off in Calzada deValdunciel?

 

[MikeJS]

I’m planning to start the VdlP in Apr/May 2016. Date to be confirmed and I will plan in earnest once I book the flight!

 

[Chris Day]

I’m planning to start the VdlP in Apr/May 2016. Date to be confirmed and I will plan in earnest once I book the flight!

Hi - I'm along the coast from you. I hope the dates come together and we bump into each other perhaps on VdlP this year. I'll watch out for your start date, if you post it. I fly out of Gatwick on April 3rd. Buen Camino!

 

[SafariGirl]

Hi SafariGirl

Here is a brief breakdown of the second half that I wrote for some friends who had already walked the first half from Seville to Salamanca with me this year and will return to complete the second half from Salamanca next year.

1.You can catch the bus to Calzada de Valdunciel and then walk to El Cubo de la Tierre del Vino. I recommend staying at Albergue F&M privado 12 Euros and right on the camino. Hospitaleros are very pilgrim friendly. The reason for this is the stretch from Salamanca to Calzada de Valdunciel then El Cubo de la Tierre del Vino is very dry with nothing to see. That will give you a 20 km day. If you time the buses you can probably skip this stage and bus directly to El Cubo de la Tierre del Vino. I would recommend the shorter walk as it is very boring with no shade.

2.Zamora: nice albergue and lovely city.

3.Tabara: reports of the albergue are very good but a little off the camino. I stayed at El Robles 18 Euro with breakfast. The camino route then takes you back the way you came in and around the town due to the train works.

4.Santa Marta de Tera: very pilgrim friendly 12 Euros. Buy supplies on the way to the albergue.

5.Rionegro del Puente: great albergue right on the camino in the centre of town.

6.Mombuey: small albergue fills up quick. Don't reserve in the hotel. WALK ON.

7.Asturianos: bad reviews of the albergue and sleeping on mats on the floor. I went to Puebla de Sanabria - Albergue Casa Luz (reserve in advance) by bus after walking from Mombuey. A lot of pilgrims did that. There are two routes out of town. I went over the mountain and not the road. Nice walk.

8.Lubian: reconsider the albergue and stay in the Casa Rural as the albergue is out of the town and fills up quickly. I had to walk on to the next town 12 km which has a very nice hotel with pilgrim rates. (I'll check my journal for the phone number)

9.A Gudina: albergue OK get a bottom bed if you can. Small kitchen but close to everything. Buy food for your walk the next day

10.Campobecerros: Be careful on the steep downhill to town as there are lots of loose rocks. Albergue ok supplies blankets. No kitchen. Small town with limited supplies. Two bars.

11.Laza: good albergue about 500km out of town. Good facilities.

12.Steep climb 900metres to Luis’s albergue in Albergeria (scallop shell shop). (Donativo)

13.Vilar de Barrio: good albergue and small kitchen. Close to small shops.

14.Xunqueira de Ambia: good albergue 1 km out of town but on the camino. Small kitchen

15.Ourense: good albergue and close to everything. Small kitchen

16.Cea: good albergue but has automatic lights which can disrupt your sleeping. I would get a bed in the corner and if there is no-one else around (i.e. not full) get some blankets to block out the light. Take a bottom bed.

17.Route to Oseria good and hilly.

18.Castro Dozon: good albergue with small kitchen. Good meal in town before albergue.

19.Lalin-Bendoiro-Laxe: check to see if albergue is open. Might have to take a hostel.

20.Silleda / Bandeira: new hostel very pilgrim friendly.

21.Outeiro/A Vedra: No facilities. Small kitchen however, they do meals at pilgrim prices.

22.Santiage de Compostella: reserve both arrival and second time in now. I'll find the address for you and send in my next email. 23 Euros per night with a great breakfast

Hi Handzondeck2,

Apologies for the amount of time it's taken me to acknowledge this very comprehensive reply and information...have had to focus on other things...but am now happily able to start thinking about my next Camino again .

This is great and will certainly help me a lot.

Much appreciated.

All the best

Michele

 

[Sherryn]

No problems. Feel free to ask me if you need anymore info as I'll need to drag out my journal especially near Caparra as the route is quite long.

Hi All, tickets booked and heading to Spain to start mid-April. Loving all the input in this forum - thank you everyone for so generously sharing your insights and advice.

handzondeck2 I see you're from Syd, I'm in Melb! I'm going around the same time you did so I'd greatly appreciate your thoughts re: sleeping bag as I'll need to buy one for the trip. ie how warm was the weather and the accommodation? Any other must-have purchases? I'm in preparation mode as the sales are on

Many thanks in advance to anyone who would like to add their thoughts to my question.
Buen Camino
Sherryn

 

[camino07]

Hi All, tickets booked and heading to Spain to start mid-April. Loving all the input in this forum - thank you everyone for so generously sharing your insights and advice.

handzondeck2 I see you're from Syd, I'm in Melb! I'm going around the same time you did so I'd greatly appreciate your thoughts re: sleeping bag as I'll need to buy one for the trip. ie how warm was the weather and the accommodation? Any other must-have purchases? I'm in preparation mode as the sales are on

Many thanks in advance to anyone who would like to add their thoughts to my question.
Buen Camino
Sherryn

Hi Sherryn,I'm from Perth
I walked from mid April in 2012 and had a mixture of hot and very cold weather. I needed my down sleeping bag. .9 Kg .So comfy! If I was buying now would probably try one a little less heavy. Hard to guess the weather..

 

[Sherryn]

Hi Sherryn,I'm from Perth
I walked from mid April in 2012 and had a mixture of hot and very cold weather. I needed my down sleeping bag. .9 Kg .So comfy! If I was buying now would probably try one a little less heavy. Hard to guess the weather..

Many thanks Camino007. I know weather is out of our hands, but appreciate your input! Thanks!!

 

[SafariGirl]

Hi All, tickets booked and heading to Spain to start mid-April. Loving all the input in this forum - thank you everyone for so generously sharing your insights and advice.

handzondeck2 I see you're from Syd, I'm in Melb! I'm going around the same time you did so I'd greatly appreciate your thoughts re: sleeping bag as I'll need to buy one for the trip. ie how warm was the weather and the accommodation? Any other must-have purchases? I'm in preparation mode as the sales are on

Many thanks in advance to anyone who would like to add their thoughts to my question.
Buen Camino
Sherryn

Hi Sherryn, I also need to buy my sleeping bag so will be interested in any replies to this question. I start at the beginning of April but I'm in no hurry, so hopefully we'll meet at some point on the way. Buen Camino! Michele

 

[mla1]

I'm leaving end of March and plan to take a very light down sleeping bag (the lightest Sea to Summit one - I think it is TR I or something like that) and a silk liner. I used this combination last year and it gives you lots of options. But - I should also say that there were nights in May in France (very warm day time temperatures) in very old stone buildings when I used both the liner and the sleeping bag and wore merino wool longjohns and still froze.

 

[Sherryn]

Hi Sherryn, I also need to buy my sleeping bag so will be interested in any replies to this question. I start at the beginning of April but I'm in no hurry, so hopefully we'll meet at some point on the way. Buen Camino! Michele

Looking forward to connecting along the way Michelle

 

[Sherryn]

I'm leaving end of March and plan to take a very light down sleeping bag (the lightest Sea to Summit one - I think it is TR I or something like that) and a silk liner. I used this combination last year and it gives you lots of options. But - I should also say that there were nights in May in France (very warm day time temperatures) in very old stone buildings when I used both the liner and the sleeping bag and wore merino wool longjohns and still froze.

Thanks for the input Mla1. Much appreciated! I'm thinking layers and options is the way to go Buen Camino!

 

[handzondeck2]

Hi All, tickets booked and headingto Spain to start mid-April. Loving all the input in this forum - thank you everyone for so generously sharing your insights and advice.

handzondeck2 I see you're from Syd, I'm in Melb! I'm going around the same time you did so I'd greatly appreciate your thoughts re: sleeping bag as I'll need to buy one for the trip. ie how warm was the weather and the accommodation? Any other must-have purchases? I'm in preparation mode as the sales are on

Many thanks in advance to anyone who would like to add their thoughts to my question.
Buen Camino
Sherryn

Hi Sherryn and others walking the VldP
Lightweight sleeping bag (750gm) as most albergues have blankets. 2 liter water bladder a must for the long distances, pack rain poncho for Galicia. I walked in shorts most of the time, had one lightweight fleece and some very lightweight quick dry tops. Wore boots and gaiters (cloth type from Lowes) to keep out the stones on the dirt trails (you'll be surprised how many small stones can work their way into your boots) Small basic first aid kit, whistle, dry sacks for electronics and passport/journal etc. Had a small bum bag for camera and essentials. Guide book not necessary as I made my own from the eroski, mundicamino, route planner from the godesalco website and various from this forum (downloaded everything to my kindle which eliminated the paperwork). Picked up the credential at Hotel Simon in Seville. They have a guidebook for 11 euros not bad value but like I said I made my own which formed part of my journal. Feel free to PM me for any other info. Sharon aka Handzondeck2

 

[Sherryn]

Hi Sherryn and others walking the VldP
Lightweight sleeping bag (750gm) as most albergues have blankets. 2 liter water bladder a must for the long distances, pack rain poncho for Galicia. I walked in shorts most of the time, had one lightweight fleece and some very lightweight quick dry tops. Wore boots and gaiters (cloth type from Lowes) to keep out the stones on the dirt trails (you'll be surprised how many small stones can work their way into your boots) Small basic first aid kit, whistle, dry sacks for electronics and passport/journal etc. Had a small bum bag for camera and essentials. Guide book not necessary as I made my own from the eroski, mundicamino, route planner from the godesalco website and various from this forum (downloaded everything to my kindle which eliminated the paperwork). Picked up the credential at Hotel Simon in Seville. They have a guidebook for 11 euros not bad value but like I said I made my own which formed part of my journal. Feel free to PM me for any other info. Sharon aka Handzondeck2

Sincerest apologies for the late acknowledgement and show of appreciation for this information Sharon, especially as it's gold!! Many thanks for your detailed response.
Can I confirm, did you go in April/May or another time of year? Love the idea of walking in shorts and just wondering what sort of temperatures you encountered (day and night).

 

[CanPete]

The magic of google . . .

http://www.accuweather.com/en/es/seville/306733/april-weather/306733

 

[mla1]

The magic of google . . .

http://www.accuweather.com/en/es/seville/306733/april-weather/306733

This made my day. That looks perfect!!!

 

[handzondeck2]

Sincerest apologies for the late acknowledgement and show of appreciation for this information Sharon, especially as it's gold!! Many thanks for your detailed response.
Can I confirm, did you go in April/May or another time of year? Love the idea of walking in shorts and just wondering what sort of temperatures you encountered (day and night).

Hi Sherryn I walked in late April and finished in earl June. The weather was great with only a few days of rain. During the day the temps were around 30 degrees Celsius and about 18 degrees Celsius at night. Great weather for walking. My total pack weight (incl. food and water) was 13 kg. not too heavy. I drink a lot of water so I carried 1.5-2 liters daily which equates to about 2kg. Water is a rarity on the longer stretches and for food during the day I had some light snacks (fruit and nut trail mix), apples, etc. Someimes I made my own sandwiches the night before walking.

 

[chinasky]

I'll leave Sevilla on may the first, arriving in the city on 30th of april!

 

[CanPete]

I'll leave Sevilla on may the first, arriving in the city on 30th of april!

Now that'll be a long Camino ! Approx. 3 km a day (1000:365) . . . the more I think of it the more I like it !
Enjoy !

 

[chinasky]

Now that'll be a long Camino ! Approx. 3 km a day (1000:365) . . . the more I think of it the more I like it !
Enjoy !

LOL. I think/hope to arrive in Santiago at the beginning of june

 

[CanPete]

LOL. I think/hope to arrive in Santiago at the beginning of june

:0), I figured as much, when I first read your post I thought 'the city' was Santiago . . . .
Buen Camino !!

 

[Oso]

My wife and I arrives in Seville march 29 and will start out after some sightseeing probably March 31

 

[mla1]

My wife and I arrives in Seville march 29 and will start out after some sightseeing probably March 31

Oso - I will be a day or two ahead of you. Perhaps we will cross paths.
Buen camino.
Mary Louise

 

[Oso]

Mary Louise
Buen Camino
We will be somewhere behind you. Hope seeing you along the way.

 

[MikeJS]

My flights are now confirmed. I fly into Seville on 19 Apr so start the VdlP on 20n Apr. Hope to see some of you on the way!

Mike

 

[jjarnold]

My flights are now confirmed. I fly into Seville on 19 Apr so start the VdlP on 20n Apr. Hope to see some of you on the way!

Mike

My flights too confirmed. I land in Seville on March 22nd and shall head off march 26th
sadly too early to see you on the route Mike, but hopefully will meet some other fellow peregrinos
jen

 

[jjarnold]

Hi Sherryn and others walking the VldP
Lightweight sleeping bag (750gm) as most albergues have blankets. 2 liter water bladder a must for the long distances, pack rain poncho for Galicia. I walked in shorts most of the time, had one lightweight fleece and some very lightweight quick dry tops. Wore boots and gaiters (cloth type from Lowes) to keep out the stones on the dirt trails (you'll be surprised how many small stones can work their way into your boots) Small basic first aid kit, whistle, dry sacks for electronics and passport/journal etc. Had a small bum bag for camera and essentials. Guide book not necessary as I made my own from the eroski, mundicamino, route planner from the godesalco website and various from this forum (downloaded everything to my kindle which eliminated the paperwork). Picked up the credential at Hotel Simon in Seville. They have a guidebook for 11 euros not bad value but like I said I made my own which formed part of my journal. Feel free to PM me for any other info. Sharon aka Handzondeck2

Hi Sharyn. what season were you walking? I am leaving 25 march and was expecting quite cool conditions. approx 15 degrees for much of the route

 

[jjarnold]

Hi Pilgrim Rick and any other pilgrim deciding to walk the Via de la Plata next year.

However, you can also create your own. If you go to http://www.godesalco.com/plan/plata you can plan your itinerary and print it off. A very good resource planning tool. Also the mundicamino and eroski websites have good information even though they are in Spanish. .

Hoping for some help with these sites: i see mention that someone managed to download them to their kindle to avoid carrying printed paper. I realise this will make me sound very e-illerate, but how can i do that?
thanks Jen

 

[mla1]

Hi Sharyn. what season were you walking? I am leaving 25 march and was expecting quite cool conditions. approx 15 degrees for much of the route

Hi Jen, I am going to be a few days behind you. I will be starting on the Tuesday. Perhaps we will cross paths.
A little while ago someone posted a link to average temperatures in Seville in April - the averages were about 22 degrees. With lots of sun. Fingers crossed!
Mary Louise

 

[handzondeck2]

Hi jjarnold I walked mid April to late May. Conditions were great for walking. Not to cold. Check out my other posts under handzondeck2. Good luck planning.

 

[Hikoi]

Hi Jen - I'm leaving Sevilla on April 6th, so probably wont run into you on the camino. Here's how I send pdfs to my kindle - and the kindle app on my iPhone too (better resolution for maps etc.) Someone may have messengered this to you already or you may already know this.

Sign in to Amazon.com (or amazon.com.au) then go to your Account (right hand side)
Click on Manage your content and devices
Find the right Kindle email for your device usually xxx@kindle.com
Go to godelesco – make a pdf and email it to your kindle email

Using Your Send to Kindle Email Address

You can send documents to your Fire tablets, Kindle e-readers and supported Kindle reading apps by emailing them to your Send to Kindle email address.
To be delivered successfully, an email can contain up to 25 attachments and can be sent to up to 15 distinct Send to Kindle email addresses. The total size of your documents should be 50 MB or less.
Tip: If the total size of your documents is greater than 50 MB, they can be compressed into a ZIP file. ZIP files are automatically opened by the conversion service, converted to Kindle format, and stored in your content library.
To send documents using your Send to Kindle email address:
1. Ensure that the sender's email address has been added to your Approved Personal Document Email List. See Add an Email Address to Receive Documents.
2. Verify that your document is a supported file type. See Kindle Personal Documents Service.
3. Attach your document to a new email, or forward an existing email with the document attached, to your Send to Kindle email address.
Tip:

i. Type "Convert" in the subject of the email to convert your document to the Kindle format before it is delivered to your devices and your Kindle Library in the Manage Your Content and Devices page.
ii. If you would like to ensure the original format of a PDF file when using Kindle Personal Documents Service, we recommend keeping the original PDF format when sending to your Kindle email address.
If your device or reading app is unable to connect wirelessly at this time, we will attempt to deliver your document(s) for up to 60 days.

This last is from the Amazon website.

Hope this helps

Patrick

 

[CanPete]

FIVE WEEKS TO GO .... EVERYONE READY ???

Can't wait . . .

Buen Camino !!

 

[Wiley L]

Hi All, tickets booked and heading to Spain to start mid-April. Loving all the input in this forum - thank you everyone for so generously sharing your insights and advice.

handzondeck2 I see you're from Syd, I'm in Melb! I'm going around the same time you did so I'd greatly appreciate your thoughts re: sleeping bag as I'll need to buy one for the trip. ie how warm was the weather and the accommodation? Any other must-have purchases? I'm in preparation mode as the sales are on

Many thanks in advance to anyone who would like to add their thoughts to my question.
Buen Camino
Sherryn

Sherryn - I am doing VDLP mid April. We will get to Seville on April 14th - traveling with my friend Julio. Do you have a start date? Wiley

 

[Wiley L]

PILGRIMS LEAVING SEVILLE FOR VDLP APRIL 2016
1) CHRIS DAY
2) PILGRIM RICK

Please feel free to add your name details or enquiries

Coyote Man - April 14
Julio (down by the school yard) April 14

 

[Undermanager]

In my excitement at finally making a decision at which camino to do, and booking the flight and hotel today, I never noticed this thread! Will be in Seville on 31st March to pick up a Credential, staying just one night and then off in the morning on April 1st from the cathedral after breakfast. I hope to see some of you on the way.

Undermanager

 

[Faye Wilson]

PILGRIMS LEAVING SEVILLE FOR VDLP APRIL 2016
1) CHRIS DAY
2) PILGRIM RICK

Please feel free to add your name details or enquiries

Hello, I've just decided to walk the VDLP and this will be my first ever trip so I'm currently trying to figure out how it all works, what equipment I need, hostels etc. I've been reading this forum and have some great ideas now.
I will be travelling alone but some of the posts I have read have indicated that females may get harassed and we should always consider our safety.
Obviously, I'm sure 99% of the time everything is fine but it would be great to know a few other people on the route who want to share this incredible experience.

I will arrive in Seville on 11th April 2016 PM and intend to stay 3 nights to have a look around and enjoy Seville as I've heard its a lovely place. I will be setting out on my trip on 14th April 2016.

It would be lovely to meet some wonderful individuals, even if it's just to share a dinner or drink in the evenings.
Good luck to all and hope to meet you on the trip.
Faye Wilson

 

[ajp]

Hi


Sydney Jen: although setting out easter (end March)

Also leaving Seville in April: Alan Peterson and Bill Whyte

 

[ajp]

Hello, I've just decided to walk the VDLP and this will be my first ever trip so I'm currently trying to figure out how it all works, what equipment I need, hostels etc. I've been reading this forum and have some great ideas now.
I will be travelling alone but some of the posts I have read have indicated that females may get harassed and we should always consider our safety.
Obviously, I'm sure 99% of the time everything is fine but it would be great to know a few other people on the route who want to share this incredible experience.

I will arrive in Seville on 11th April 2016 PM and intend to stay 3 nights to have a look around and enjoy Seville as I've heard its a lovely place. I will be setting out on my trip on 14th April 2016.

It would be lovely to meet some wonderful individuals, even if it's just to share a dinner or drink in the evenings.
Good luck to all and hope to meet you on the trip.
Faye Wilson

Hi Faye, I just added my name and the name of another friend to your list of people starting out of Seville in April /16. I will be walking out on April 4th, so may see you on the trail at some point. Have a great walk!
Alan Peterson

 

[ajp]

Hi SafariGirl

Here is a brief breakdown of the second half that I wrote for some friends who had already walked the first half from Seville to Salamanca with me this year and will return to complete the second half from Salamanca next year.

1.You can catch the bus to Calzada de Valdunciel and then walk to El Cubo de la Tierre del Vino. I recommend staying at Albergue F&M privado 12 Euros and right on the camino. Hospitaleros are very pilgrim friendly. The reason for this is the stretch from Salamanca to Calzada de Valdunciel then El Cubo de la Tierre del Vino is very dry with nothing to see. That will give you a 20 km day. If you time the buses you can probably skip this stage and bus directly to El Cubo de la Tierre del Vino. I would recommend the shorter walk as it is very boring with no shade.

2.Zamora: nice albergue and lovely city.

3.Tabara: reports of the albergue are very good but a little off the camino. I stayed at El Robles 18 Euro with breakfast. The camino route then takes you back the way you came in and around the town due to the train works.

4.Santa Marta de Tera: very pilgrim friendly 12 Euros. Buy supplies on the way to the albergue.

5.Rionegro del Puente: great albergue right on the camino in the centre of town.

6.Mombuey: small albergue fills up quick. Don't reserve in the hotel. WALK ON.

7.Asturianos: bad reviews of the albergue and sleeping on mats on the floor. I went to Puebla de Sanabria - Albergue Casa Luz (reserve in advance) by bus after walking from Mombuey. A lot of pilgrims did that. There are two routes out of town. I went over the mountain and not the road. Nice walk.

8.Lubian: reconsider the albergue and stay in the Casa Rural as the albergue is out of the town and fills up quickly. I had to walk on to the next town 12 km which has a very nice hotel with pilgrim rates. (I'll check my journal for the phone number)

9.A Gudina: albergue OK get a bottom bed if you can. Small kitchen but close to everything. Buy food for your walk the next day

10.Campobecerros: Be careful on the steep downhill to town as there are lots of loose rocks. Albergue ok supplies blankets. No kitchen. Small town with limited supplies. Two bars.

11.Laza: good albergue about 500km out of town. Good facilities.

12.Steep climb 900metres to Luis’s albergue in Albergeria (scallop shell shop). (Donativo)

13.Vilar de Barrio: good albergue and small kitchen. Close to small shops.

14.Xunqueira de Ambia: good albergue 1 km out of town but on the camino. Small kitchen

15.Ourense: good albergue and close to everything. Small kitchen

16.Cea: good albergue but has automatic lights which can disrupt your sleeping. I would get a bed in the corner and if there is no-one else around (i.e. not full) get some blankets to block out the light. Take a bottom bed.

17.Route to Oseria good and hilly.

18.Castro Dozon: good albergue with small kitchen. Good meal in town before albergue.

19.Lalin-Bendoiro-Laxe: check to see if albergue is open. Might have to take a hostel.

20.Silleda / Bandeira: new hostel very pilgrim friendly.

21.Outeiro/A Vedra: No facilities. Small kitchen however, they do meals at pilgrim prices.

22.Santiage de Compostella: reserve both arrival and second time in now. I'll find the address for you and send in my next email. 23 Euros per night with a great breakfast

Thanks for those suggestions. As far as accommodation in Santiago is concerned, in 2013 I stayed in a private room at the Seminario Menor, it was basic but the kitchen downstairs was well equipped with lots of eating area. It was quite quiet, ( I stayed there in mid October), and I would recommend asking for a private room for the small additional cost.

 

[Caminata]

Hi .....I am hoping to start mid to late May ....I know it will be hotter but its the first chance I can get away . I have walked the Frances , Portuguese , Norte , Primitivo and also from Le Puy To St Jean , so I am looking forward to this new Camino. Is anyone else starting around that time ?
I have not looked into flights yet from Australia , but if anyone has advice on the best city in Spain to fly into , it would be appreciated . I guess I would then get a local flight to Seville ?

 

[marathon coach]

Plan to arrive Seville on 10th of April. Will start VdlP on 12th.
Camino Frences May, 2014 and Camino Norte from mid May till mid June 2015

 

[CanPete]

Plan to arrive Seville on 10th of April. Will start VdlP on 12th.
Camino Frences May, 2014 and Camino Norte from mid May till mid June 2015

That explains your name 'Marathon Coach' ....

Buen Camino(s) !

 

[Undermanager]

So who else is off next Friday, 1st April? Very much ready to go now and looking forward to the journey.

 

[Kinohike]

My flights too confirmed. I land in Seville on March 22nd and shall head off march 26th
sadly too early to see you on the route Mike, but hopefully will meet some other fellow peregrinos
jen

Hi Jen,

I'll be arriving in Seville today, staying the night at oasis Packpackers, and starting the Camino on March 26th, so I'll probably see you! I originally had grand ambitions to do the Camino Mozarabe variant out of Granada but after 18km yesterday to Pinos Puente, I realized 1) nothing was open because Semana Santa and 2) my terrible Spanish was going to make my time there more difficult

So I've decided to walk the Mai. Variant!

Hope to see you all on the road!

Brian

 

[Richard Schwartz]

Hello, I've just decided to walk the VDLP and this will be my first ever trip so I'm currently trying to figure out how it all works, what equipment I need, hostels etc. I've been reading this forum and have some great ideas now.
I will be travelling alone but some of the posts I have read have indicated that females may get harassed and we should always consider our safety.
Obviously, I'm sure 99% of the time everything is fine but it would be great to know a few other people on the route who want to share this incredible experience.

I will arrive in Seville on 11th April 2016 PM and intend to stay 3 nights to have a look around and enjoy Seville as I've heard its a lovely place. I will be setting out on my trip on 14th April 2016.

It would be lovely to meet some wonderful individuals, even if it's just to share a dinner or drink in the evenings.
Good luck to all and hope to meet you on the trip.
Faye Wilson

Hi Jen,

I'll be arriving in Seville today, staying the night at oasis Packpackers, and starting the Camino on March 26th, so I'll probably see you! I originally had grand ambitions to do the Camino Mozarabe variant out of Granada but after 18km yesterday to Pinos Puente, I realized 1) nothing was open because Semana Santa and 2) my terrible Spanish was going to make my time there more difficult

So I've decided to walk the Mai. Variant!

Hope to see you all on the road!

Brian

Coyote Man - April 14
Julio (down by the school yard) April 14

I arrive in Seville on March 30 and start walking on April 1.

 

[Oso]

My wife and I will start tomorrow from Seville Hotel Simon. Anyone on the road at that time?

 

[Undermanager]

Hi Richard

I will be outside the front of the Cathedral at 8.00am on Friday 1st April if you or anyone else would like to begin the first few steps with some company .....

Dave

 

[Sherryn]

Sherryn - I am doing VDLP mid April. We will get to Seville on April 14th - traveling with my friend Julio. Do you have a start date? Wiley

Hi Wiley. Just found your message so apologies for my delayed response. I'm flying from Australia and arrive in Spain on April 15th. I have a lift to Seville that day if I can find reasonable accommodation (inflated prices due to the fiesta week). I was hoping to start walking on Mon, 18th April, because I believe the festival is meant to be great fun and I would like a day or two to get over my flight before starting walking. What date are you starting the walk? I could be tempted to leave earlier as I'd love to start out with someone but I realise you may be ready to hit the road before I am

 

[Sherryn]

Hello, I've just decided to walk the VDLP and this will be my first ever trip

I will arrive in Seville on 11th April 2016 PM and intend to stay 3 nights to have a look around and enjoy Seville as I've heard its a lovely place. I will be setting out on my trip on 14th April 2016.

It would be lovely to meet some wonderful individuals, even if it's just to share a dinner or drink in the evenings.
Good luck to all and hope to meet you on the trip.
Faye Wilson

Hi Faye. I'm starting out a couple of days after you (don't arrive from Australia until April 15th) but hope to connect along the way as it's my first Camino too. Buen Camino Sherryn

 

[SafariGirl]

Hello, I've just decided to walk the VDLP and this will be my first ever trip so I'm currently trying to figure out how it all works, what equipment I need, hostels etc. I've been reading this forum and have some great ideas now.
I will be travelling alone but some of the posts I have read have indicated that females may get harassed and we should always consider our safety.
Obviously, I'm sure 99% of the time everything is fine but it would be great to know a few other people on the route who want to share this incredible experience.

I will arrive in Seville on 11th April 2016 PM and intend to stay 3 nights to have a look around and enjoy Seville as I've heard its a lovely place. I will be setting out on my trip on 14th April 2016.

It would be lovely to meet some wonderful individuals, even if it's just to share a dinner or drink in the evenings.
Good luck to all and hope to meet you on the trip.
Faye Wilson

Hi Faye,
I think I'll be just ahead of you. I arrive Seville on 9th, have two nights booked there and may set out on the 11th or spend a few more days in Seville...will decide when I'm there. Either way, look forward to seeing you on the Way. Buen camino!
Michele

 

[Wiley L]

Hi Wiley. Just found your message so apologies for my delayed response. I'm flying from Australia and arrive in Spain on April 15th. I have a lift to Seville that day if I can find reasonable accommodation (inflated prices due to the fiesta week). I was hoping to start walking on Mon, 18th April, because I believe the festival is meant to be great fun and I would like a day or two to get over my flight before starting walking. What date are you starting the walk? I could be tempted to leave earlier as I'd love to start out with someone but I realise you may be ready to hit the road before I am

Sherryn - That is good news on the festival - and bad. As it turns out, now I don't get to Seville until the 14th. And I wanted to spend a full day there, like you to get acclimated. We should meet in Seville and make a plan. A Monday start sounds great, I will chat with my walking partner. Once I know where I am staying will let you know. Safe travels. Wiley

 

[Sherryn]

Sherryn - That is good news on the festival - and bad. As it turns out, now I don't get to Seville until the 14th. And I wanted to spend a full day there, like you to get acclimated. We should meet in Seville and make a plan. A Monday start sounds great, I will chat with my walking partner. Once I know where I am staying will let you know. Safe travels. Wiley

Sounds like a plan Wiley! There were a few (very inflated) hostel options I found on booking.com and a couple of options on Airbnb. In the end I decided it was worth it to enjoy the festival experience instead of staying in Madrid, a city I've been to before. Please do keep in touch and I'd love to make plans for Monday if that was going to work for you... Fireworks Sun evening are meant to be great