My Introduction first time, from NYC

[ddoyle]

Hello all,

I am thinking about doing the pilgrimage this July for the first time. I am thinking of the French way. I am hoping to have all of july to do this and would love any feedback about planning for July. I know it is a St James year and will be crowded but it when I can go. My plan is to fly to paris from NYC spend a day and night there and to take the train to St. Jean-Pied-du-Port and begin my walk. I would love to hear from anyone who is planning on going the same time.

Thanks

Don

 

[skilsaw]

Hi Don,
The Camino Frances from St. Jean pied de Port takes 31 walking days at 25 kms per day.
25 kms per day is a very common average pace.

If you must fit your travel days plus walking days into July, I suggest you walk from Logrono which takes about 25 days. Or walk from Burgos to have rest days and travel days in your schedule.
If you arrive in Santiago early, you can always go to Finisterre.

Of course, you can also walk a little further each day but I have found being compelled to average 30 kms per day is much more difficult than 25 per day. And it is normal to schedule in a couple of rest days or tourist days, just in case you need them.

I screwed up my calculations for walking the Via de la Plata this year and must average 25 kms per day with no rest days. On previous caminos I've scheduled a whole week of extra time and have found it very refreshing not to be rushed.

There is no single right answer.
Plan what you like, then go for it.

David, Victoria, Canada

 

[Deirdre]

Hello Don,
Welcome to the forum. I have walked twice in July - in 2007 and 2008. And I am hoping to walk again this summer - also July/Aug. The first time I began in Roncesvalles (July 19)and walked to Santiago in 30 days arriving in Santiago on Aug. 18. You should probably allow 1 - 2 more days for starting in SJPdP. I took no rest days, but neither did I race - if I needed to walk a shorter day here and there, I did. I had never "backpacked" in my life! the advice I was given (and I believe a number of experienced peregrinos will concur) was: average about 20 km per day the first week, about 25 KM per day the second week, and after that you can amble at your own pace - as much as you feel able to do.

The Camino is so personal - how much do you want to walk per day? How much do you want to do and see? In July, it is quite hot especially on the Meseta. I woke and walked early, usually finishing by 2 or 3 each day. The afternoon sun is nearly unbearable. Others I noticed, took a siesta during the day and walked farther into the evening. After my normal 8 hours of walking, I liked to relax, wash my things and explore the towns a bit, chat with other pilgrims and have an early, leisurely dinner before retiring. It is one way to do it . It is your pilgrimage.

Buen Camino,
Deirdre