First time on the Camino in April 2022

[Nick Barlow]

Good afternoon. Currently making plans for my first Camino on the Camino Frances starting from SJPP sometime in early April. Currently working out various travel options between Eurostar and SNCF to work out the exact date I'll start! Already found interesting information on this forum, so looking forward to meeting people here and en route.

Have done long walks before - did John O'Groats to Land's End in 2006 - but this will be a different experience again, I'm sure.

 

[philleethomas]

I'm doing my 2nd Camino after a 3-year hiatus from SJPP 9th June. Buen Camino!

 

[Susan Peacock]

Good afternoon. Currently making plans for my first Camino on the Camino Frances starting from SJPP sometime in early April. Currently working out various travel options between Eurostar and SNCF to work out the exact date I'll start! Already found interesting information on this forum, so looking forward to meeting people here and en route.

Have done long walks before - did John O'Groats to Land's End in 2006 - but this will be a different experience again, I'm sure.

Congratulations! I have started two of Camino’s on April 14. It is a beautiful time of year to go. You will need to be flexible as to your route as it’s a pretty good chance you won’t be able to take the Napoleon route in early April. The Valcarlos route is historic and nice too. On both my April Camino’s, the route was closed when I arrived in SJPdP and we were notified the morning of departure that we could take the Napoleon. The people at the Pilgrims Office are wonderful and informed as to the weather conditions. I would suggest that you have reservations in SJPdP, Orisson if you plan to stop or if you walk to Roncesvalles in one day and will get there late. Roncesvalles was full by late afternoon on both of my spring Camino’s. I would also reserve in Zubiri as it too was full. Never fear things ease up after Pamplona. Also keep in mind that if you are traveling near the Easter Holidays this will impact the number of pilgrims and accommodations.
Also, pack for all types of weather. I walked in heavy snow at Cruz de Fero on May 12th and was in short sleeves picnicking by the river a few days later….. it is truly my favorite season to walk. Buen Camino

 

[Nick Barlow]

Thank you - my expectation is that I'll be on the Valcarlos route for that first day, but you never know what the weather will allow for! I've now booked travel etc, so will be starting on April 6th if all goes well.

 

[Sue127]

Thank you - my expectation is that I'll be on the Valcarlos route for that first day, but you never know what the weather will allow for! I've now booked travel etc, so will be starting on April 6th if all goes well.

Buen camino - enjoy!