Walking alone...

[Carla Day]

Walking Alone...I am planning the journey alone in April... I am an experienced hiker walker Rambler so not bothered about the journey, but are there plenty to meet for conversation along the way?

 

[wayfarer]

Walking Alone...I am planning the journey alone in April... I am an experienced hiker walker Rambler so not bothered about the journey, but are there plenty to meet for conversation along the way?

Yes, no end of people to meet along the way.
Have a great Camino.

 

[Tincatinker]

Carla, welcome to the forum. While it is possible to spend time on your own on the Frances it usually requires an effort. You will find plenty of company when you want it. Indeed Liverpudlian aficionados of the Camino have their own song about it - " you'll never walk aloooone". Buen Camino

 

[burritobear9]

I walked alone this summer and had plenty of solitude, however there were many special times with new friends along the Way.

Enjoy your journey.

Cheryl

 

[SYates]

Plenty of people to meet (sometimes if you want to or not ;-) ) have a look here to get an idea about numbers: http://peregrinossantiago.es/esp/servicios-al-peregrino/informes-estadisticos/
Just a word of caution, the Camino is not your usual lonely, all nature through-hike, it is a completely different kind of beast ;-) There are a few lonely bits, but mostly you will pass through villages / towns (or at least inhabited countryside). Buen Camino! SY

Walking Alone...I am planning the journey alone in April... I am an experienced hiker walker Rambler so not bothered about the journey, but are there plenty to meet for conversation along the way?

 

[Kathy F.]

People to meet??
Yes. Oh, yes.

 

[Harington]

Walking Alone...I am planning the journey alone in April... I am an experienced hiker walker Rambler so not bothered about the journey, but are there plenty to meet for conversation along the way?

When you say "the journey", presumably you mean the Camino Francés? if so, you will meet hundreds, if not thousands. Most people I've met on the CF, Primitivo and VdlP say that it is far preferable to walk alone. That way you have the freedom to walk and talk with whom you choose - or not; and there is always jolly company in the evenings in the albergues. Many who walked in groups, or in twos with friends or partners, spoke of the tensions that all too easily arise - speed, interests, jealousies etc. I have always walked alone, and have always felt very blessed indeed by those I've met.

 

[StuartM]

If you want solitude then just match the average pace and you can be alone as long as you dont stop. If you want company then sit down for ten minutes and you'll get it.

Both are easy to find. Dont mistake solitude for privacy though, privacy is in very short supply.

I made a promise early on to talk to everyone I met or passed. Some people make it clear they dont want company so all you need to do is be sensitive to that. Most folk are happy to spend time talking about the most eclectic subjects and often very personal revelations. The vast majority of modern pilgrims I met were not the contemplative navel gazing type it gets portrayed as. Most people were fairly affable and usually happy for the encounters. As I suspect it was centuries ago.

 

[MichaelB10398]

Put any fear aside; you will enjoy walking alone amongst a host of pilgrims both seen and unseen. That is the beauty of the Way; you will find as much companionship as you wish and yet be able to retain time for walking in solitude.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Some people make it clear they don't want company so all you need to do is be sensitive to that.

An excellent point. If a pilgrim does not immediately respond to your approach, do not take it personally. At dinner they may be the most accommodative of companions. Several Forum members in the past have taken rejection extremely seriously allowing it to ruin their camino because the camaraderie did not live up to their expectations. If you read through the posts here, you will find many who actively seek solitude, so they may not be ready for a protracted conversation during the day. That often changes after a shower and some rest! At the peak in August, the applicants for a compostela number 2,500 a day, quite a group from which to find compatible companions and conversation. It is a smorgasbord of personalities from which to browse!

Buen camino!

 

[JohnMcM]

An excellent point. If a pilgrim does not immediately respond to your approach, do not take it personally. At dinner they may be the most accommodative of companions. Several Forum members in the past have taken rejection extremely seriously allowing it to ruin their camino because the camaraderie did not live up to their expectations. If you read through the posts here, you will find many who actively seek solitude, so they may not be ready for a protracted conversation during the day. That often changes after a shower and some rest! At the peak in August, the applicants for a compostela number 2,500 a day, quite a group from which to find compatible companions and conversation. It is a smorgasbord of personalities from which to browse!

Buen camino!

Nice way with words Falcon.
Buen Camino

 

[StuartM]

An excellent point. If a pilgrim does not immediately respond to your approach, do not take it personally. At dinner they may be the most accommodative of companions. Several Forum members in the past have taken rejection extremely seriously allowing it to ruin their camino because the camaraderie did not live up to their expectations. If you read through the posts here, you will find many who actively seek solitude, so they may not be ready for a protracted conversation during the day. That often changes after a shower and some rest! At the peak in August, the applicants for a compostela number 2,500 a day, quite a group from which to find compatible companions and conversation. It is a smorgasbord of personalities from which to browse!

Buen camino!

I remember saying hi to someone coming out of Rabanal one morning last October and she made it clear she didn't want to talk so I moved on. The next day we ended up walking together for hours, she turned out to be Australian and had not been coping well in the mountain cold. We went on to become really good friends after that.

It is all about respecting that people are there for them not for you. There are no rejections, just wrong expectations. Move on, other folks aren't your entertainment.

You will meet people by the truckload. Dont worry about it, let it happen.

 

[homa_bird]

I found the Camino to be the perfect social setting. Myriad numbers of the awesome-est people you could ever hope to pass time with, ready and willing to be a lifelong friend, and everyone, i mean EVERYONE seems to understand when it's time for you to be alone. It was one of the most seamless, easiest social situations I've ever been in. No one seemed overly eager to cajole you to go out at night, or join a group and be bonded for ever, walking alone was immediately understood and respected. In most situations, you didn't hardly need to ask to join a table of pilgrims at a meal, i felt always welcome to crash the party; or you could sit off to one side, stare quietly into your ruby red wine and contemplate the universe to your hearts content.

 

[Theresa]

Walking Alone...I am planning the journey alone in April... I am an experienced hiker walker Rambler so not bothered about the journey, but are there plenty to meet for conversation along the way?

I will also be walking alone in April. And, from posts here, so are a few others.

It seems we will be walking alone, together.

Tee

 

[Mark M]

Of course there are hundreds and I would say you will meet more than you want at times. I would go so far as say there were many people I talked to and was friendly with and enjoyed them being at the various stops during the day and evening - and I still can't remember their name. There just seemed so much to talk about with them regarding the Camino, the country and the experience that conversations just seemed to flow effortlessly. Quite frankly I don't recall anyone calling me by name either - it was just an open discussion that never seem to end until you finished the journey. I hope that makes sense.

Me

AKA Mark

It makes sense. Thank you for sharing your reflections and observations.

 

[thehappyhermit]

I think that I would be happy to have folk around me while walking, not necessarily walking with them although that would be good at times. My feeling is that I would want to be quiet at times so happier in smaller albergues or even a private room. What are other quiet folks feelings on this? Reading seems to imply that many are looking to form Camino families to walk with in large groups, not my thing, which is maybe why I would opt to walk alone - although I don't know when.
the Happy Hermit

 

[Magwood]

I think that I would be happy to have folk around me while walking, not necessarily walking with them although that would be good at times. My feeling is that I would want to be quiet at times so happier in smaller albergues or even a private room. What are other quiet folks feelings on this? Reading seems to imply that many are looking to form Camino families to walk with in large groups, not my thing, which is maybe why I would opt to walk alone - although I don't know when.
Elizabeth - the Happy Hermit

I expect that pilgrims who talk of bonding with others to form a 'family' do not expect or actually want to walk every day in a large group. Sometimes you walk with various people in a group, in two's or three's and bump into other friends at pit stops and at the end of the day, where you will share a meal and enjoy each other's company over a wine or two.

If you want some quiet time during your day's walk, just say to those you are with that you want some space and that you will meet up with them at the end of the day. There is no pressure to do anything other than what feels right for you at any particular time.

I walked with my daughter but we had different paces, so would often walk our own walk for a few hours and meet up when it as time for a break.

I am looking forward (albeit with some anxiety) to walking alone next year and hope to forge some interesting friendships along the way.

.....Camino Frances with my daughter: http://magwood.wordpress.com

 

[alansykes]

If solitude appeals to you, as it does to some people, then off season on the VdlP is ideal. Last year I saw no other pilgrims between Guillena and Alcuescar, or from Fuenterroble to Ourense, and hardly any anywhere. The ones I did fall in with were all good company in different ways, and if there were no other pilgrims, usually a friendly local would strike up a conversation in the bar in the evening or at a coffee break - you are sufficiently rare to be an object of curiosity. Of course it could be a bit lonely in the albergues, but the lack of snoring, bed races, 3am noises etc compensated.

 

[MargaretWilson]

Walking Alone...I am planning the journey alone in April... I am an experienced hiker walker Rambler so not bothered about the journey, but are there plenty to meet for conversation along the way?

We started in St.Jean PP and came across a lot of solo walkers. It's really up to the person as to how much socialising they want, and in our case, how slowly they wanted to walk. You will meet plenty of people!

 

[Jnlee99]

As a typical solitude walker by choice, the interactions with other pilgrims were 'just right'. Folks were polite and helpful, and non intrusive when I choose to reflect inwards while walking.

 

[Mark M]

I found the Camino to be the perfect social setting. Myriad numbers of the awesome-est people you could ever hope to pass time with, ready and willing to be a lifelong friend, and everyone, i mean EVERYONE seems to understand when it's time for you to be alone. It was one of the most seamless, easiest social situations I've ever been in. No one seemed overly eager to cajole you to go out at night, or join a group and be bonded for ever, walking alone was immediately understood and respected. In most situations, you didn't hardly need to ask to join a table of pilgrims at a meal, i felt always welcome to crash the party; or you could sit off to one side, stare quietly into your ruby red wine and contemplate the universe to your hearts content.

Very well described. Thank you.

 

[Deleted member 32363]

Walking Alone...I am planning the journey alone in April... I am an experienced hiker walker Rambler so not bothered about the journey, but are there plenty to meet for conversation along the way?

Hello Carla, This is my first post! I'm Canadian living in S. India. My grandmother was from your town. I am planning on walking alone, in May. Posted my decision to FaceBook, my granddaughter (Vancouver, Canada) saw and responded saying she has wanted to do it ever since watching "The Way" with me a couple years ago. She phoned her mum, my daughter, who had just that morning, asked the universe for "the next long distance adventure". So even it they come with me, I know we will all periodically be alone as we walk our pace. I'm looking fwd to it and know if they do in fact come, it'll be a spiritual and consciousness expansion, for us all.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Established relations can be tested on a camino as they change. It will be worthwhile to discuss in advance how you will adjust to each others changing attitudes as you endure the stresses of walking. If someone will feel abandoned if she does not walk in lockstep (for example), you will want to know that in advance. You will have a great time regardless, but some advance thinking may make it even greater.
Buen camino.

 

[Phillypilgrim]

I agree with Falcon. I went alone, then my niece joined me for the last 6 days. It was an ideal balance. We really just lucked out, as our pace was the same and I was ready for non-stop talking and her lovely company. That said, walking with anyone also involves a lot of negotiating. Should we stop here? should we pee there? etc. Until meeting my niece, I spent each day on my own not having to negotiate any decisions and I LOVED that. In the evening I socialized. I was always grateful I went alone and will do so again. Now friends and other family members say they want to join me. If they are serious, I will sit down with them and make it clear...this is a solo pilgrimage, we can venture out together but everyone has to understand we may end up alone.
I made good friends with a woman who arrived with two others but ended up on her own. She did not like the "group think" and needed her space. We got along great & I miss her still!

 

[musicagl]

Although I "walked alone," I was never alone. I tended not to interact a lot with others while walking, except for "Buen Camino." However, there are lots of people on the Camino and you can easily join others for a few minutes, a few hours, or a few days. Or you can walk solo. The Camino offers you whatever degree of interaction you are comfortable with: completely solo, or with a group. I very much enjoyed the ability to trade stories with others at the end of the day, though. After a day of blissful solitude, human company is most welcome.

 

[Geralbc]

I will also be walking alone in April. And, from posts here, so are a few others.

It seems we will be walking alone, together.

Tee

I too will be walking alone in april!

Yes, we'll be walking alone, together, and so very happy!

Buen Camino
Geraldina

 

[puravidadarlene]

my husband and I are starting the camino on my 50th April 4, 2014...walking alone when you consider we are leaving all the kids and grandkids behind.....do I feel bad for saying that ... no I don't sorry

 

[Theresa]

Fantastic! Which route are you walking?

I head off from SJPDP on 21 march.

 

[Mary Power]

The french route, Starting in SJDP. Excited and nervous
Mary

 

[AnnieH61]

I walked alone from Pamplona to Burgos in March/April 2013 and I was alone but never lonely. It was so invigorating and interesting that I'm booked from the end of April this year and will attempt to walk from SJPdP to Santiago. You'll love it.
Buen Camino.

 

[Mary Power]

I walked alone from Pamplona to Burgos in March/April 2013 and I was alone but never lonely. It was so invigorating and interesting that I'm booked from the end of April this year and will attempt to walk from SJPdP to Santiago. You'll love it.
Buen Camino.

Thank you so much. I am sure I will love it. I have period of pure bravado intermixed with panic. Lets hope the bravado and excitement overides the panic!!!!!!!!!

 

[miguel_gp]

With due acknowledgement to GunnarW

 

[Shivers]

Hi everyone. Leaving SJPP 17th April bound for Santiago. Looks like most of you will be long gone

 

[Mary Power]

Hi everyone. Leaving SJPP 17th April bound for Santiago. Looks like most of you will be long gone

Hi leaving SJPP on the 19th of May 2014 bound for Santiago. I believe there is a constant flow of pilgrims

 

[weekjchammings]

Hi everyone. Leaving SJPP 17th April bound for Santiago. Looks like most of you will be long gone

Hi leaving SJPP on the 19th of May 2014 bound for Santiago. I believe there is a constant flow of pilgrims

Last year I started walking from Wales in the UK and only met 10 other walkers by the time I reached Bordeaux. But it was very very different once I reached SJPDP, in fact by the time I arrived in Santiago I had walked, talked had food & drinks with more than 36 different nationalities. Keep a note of the nationalities you meet, you may start alone but you will never be alone or finish alone in Santiago.
This year I will walk the VDLP. Ultreia & Buen Camino.

 

[Mary Power]

Last year I started walking from Wales in the UK and only met 10 other walkers by the time I reached Bordeaux. But it was very very different once I reached SJPDP, in fact by the time I arrived in Santiago I had walked, talked had food & drinks with more than 36 different nationalities. Keep a note of the nationalities you meet, you may start alone but you will never be alone or finish alone in Santiago.
This year I will walk the VDLP. Ultreia & Buen Camino.

Thank you so much for sharing . Stories like yours gives me inspiration and motivation. Your experience is exactly what I am hoping to find on my camino

 

[Jobie]

I plan on leaving SJPP around May 22. My husband is rather anxious that I will be walking by myself. Any words of encourage I can give him regarding my safety?

 

[weekjchammings]

I plan on leaving SJPP around May 22. My husband is rather anxious that I will be walking by myself. Any words of encourage I can give him regarding my safety?

Hello,
Of course he is rather anxious that you will be travelling alone, if the roles were reversed you would feel exactly the same that's because you are married. I don't believe it is any different for a man or a lady to be walking alone on the Camino. Nearly every pilgrim is going in the same direction heading for the same destination the tomb of St James in Santiago. On my 2 Caminos covering almost 2,500 miles I have walked with many other pilgrims male & female of all ages but with the one common purpose to help each other on the way. If you look at the stats it is almost 50/50 breakdown between male & female.
They say there is a walk of 500 miles in Northern Spain that may change your life, so I hope he likes & greets the new lady when you return home. I have yet to find anyone who can put the Camino into words, the only way is to do it yourself. Go, enjoy, mix with many nationalities it is the pure camaraderie which is the essence. If you are in anyway anxious take a good whistle with you and give it a good blow when needed to deter others. Although I would be very surprised if you need to use it.
L'ESPRIT DU CHEMIN opp. the pilgrims office SJPDP is a good Albergue to spend your first night and meet people, but you must reserve. Just Google it.
Ultreia & Buen Camino.

 

[lynnejohn]

Search on this site for some of the many threads on "women walking alone", and let him read the stories that women walking alone have shared.
Buen camino!

 

[Donna Sch]

If I am on the VDLP from mid-June through July, how many other pilgrims am I likely to come across? Unfortunately this may be the only time available to me in 2015 to do the Camino and I wonder how many other masochistic souls there are especially in the early stages out of Seville.

 

[weekjchammings]

If I am on the VDLP from mid-June through July, how many other pilgrims am I likely to come across? Unfortunately this may be the only time available to me in 2015 to do the Camino and I wonder how many other masochistic souls there are especially in the early stages out of Seville.

Hi,
Starting just after the Easter celebrations and hope to finish at Muxia, Finisterre mid June before it gets far too hot.

Ultreia & Buen Camino Keith.

 

[Hedley49]

Walking Alone...I am planning the journey alone in April... I am an experienced hiker walker Rambler so not bothered about the journey, but are there plenty to meet for conversation along the way?

On the Camino you are never alone. I started alone in April last year and met people that will be life long friends from day one.

 

[meriPNG]

I plan on leaving SJPP around May 22. My husband is rather anxious that I will be walking by myself. Any words of encourage I can give him regarding my safety?

Hi Jobie,

I'm sure you and your husband will find the peace in time for the start of your journey.
I'm leaving SJPDP May 16th. I am walking alone but from all the feedback I've had from a friend who walked the Camino last year and from all the wonderful stories I've read on this forum, I am so looking forward to walking alone sometimes, walking with new companions and enjoying the whole journey.
It's going to be an awesome journey!

Buen Camino!

 

[Labtails]

Yes, there will be others to walk with at times. Some spots are definitely more populated than others. You may want to be alone with your own thoughts some of the time. When you want company you will find it. Buen Camino.

 

[Deleted member 32363]

I walked alone from Pamplona to Burgos in March/April 2013 and I was alone but never lonely. It was so invigorating and interesting that I'm booked from the end of April this year and will attempt to walk from SJPdP to Santiago. You'll love it.
Buen Camino.

I'll be 3 days behind you.