• For 2024 Pilgrims: €50,- donation = 1 year with no ads on the forum + 90% off any 2024 Guide. More here.
    (Discount code sent to you by Private Message after your donation)
  • ⚠️ Emergency contact in Spain - Dial 112 and AlertCops app. More on this here.

Search 69,459 Camino Questions

Via del la Plata in early Sept - who else will be there.

Rita Flower

Veteran Member
Time of past OR future Camino
2022 Via del la Plata
While I never worried about walking CF alone in 2006 I am beginning to wonder if I will be the only person walking up through the middle of Spain in early Sept - and have had thoughts / questions around safety.
I have even considered doing another route but my inner guidance keeps returning me to VDLP.
I am starting in Seville but not sure of the exact date yet. There is one person posted as starting on 5 Sept but I don't think I will get there by then.
Would love some info on numbers of pilgrims on that route so far this year.
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
I wish you all the best but you won't see me there early in September. Far too likely to be very hot. I've walked the VdlP twice - once starting in October and the second time in January. There were days in my first walk in October where temperatures reached well into the thirties. Are you fully committed to your start date?
 
I agree with @Bradypus. I’ve walked the Vdlp, but always starting in springtime. September is likely to be very hot. You can find other similar opinions on this older thread. Average high temperature in Sevilla in September is 90 F /32 C. I know there are some forum members who love walking in the heat — if you’re not one of them, I’d say it’s not the best idea for you.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
I wish you all the best but you won't see me there early in September. Far too likely to be very hot. I've walked the VdlP twice - once starting in October and the second time in January. There were days in my first walk in October where temperatures reached well into the thirties. Are you fully committed to your start date?
I agree with @Bradypus. I’ve walked the Vdlp, but always starting in springtime. September is likely to be very hot. You can find other similar opinions on this older thread. Average high temperature in Sevilla in September is 90 F /32 C. I know there are some forum members who love walking in the heat — if you’re not one of them, I’d say it’s not the best idea for you.
Thank you for your advice. I live in Sydney Australia and so am familiar with the heat. In fact these days we often consider 30 degrees to be not so bad and over 35 to be hot. However I don't think I want to walk in temps over 35 degrees. I have friend who walked in September about 8 years ago and found it hot but manageable.
Having said that I can see this year in Spain is pretty unbearable in terms of heat at the moment. I was hoping it would cool down a bit by September. My return home from Europe is booked for 30 Nov so I can delay my start date. Will see how it goes.
Anyway thanks again for your advice.
 
I agree with @Bradypus. I’ve walked the Vdlp, but always starting in springtime. September is likely to be very hot. You can find other similar opinions on this older thread. Average high temperature in Sevilla in September is 90 F /32 C. I know there are some forum members who love walking in the heat — if you’re not one of them, I’d say it’s not the best idea for you.
So what Camino would you recommend for September - October - in Spain?
 
New Original Camino Gear Designed Especially with The Modern Peregrino In Mind!
So what Camino would you recommend for September - October - in Spain?

I recently made these suggestions to someone who was looking for a cooler camino:

Though northern Spain is due for a heat wave this week, I personally would start in the north — there’s the Lebañiego/Vadiniense, the Olvidado from Bilbao (which would be my first choice, and then in Ponferrada you could take the Invierno rather than the Francés), the Viejo from Pampona, or one of the northern Portuguese routes, such as the Caminho Portugues Interior from Viseu or the Geira from Braga. All of these routes have good information here on the forum, from members who have walked recently. I don’t see Primitivo on your list either, which would be another good choice, IMHO.

However I don't think I want to walk in temps over 35 degrees.
If you are comfortable up to that temperature, the Vdlp may be just fine for you. My reaction was based on my own comfort range. You could plan to start in Sevilla, and then have a back-up plan in case it looks like it is going to be killer-hot when you get there. Public tranasportation in Spain is so excellent, and you have a lot of time, so that would work.
 
I am thinking of the VDLP for my next Camino and while I wont be there this September I will be interested in your observations Rita. Hope it all works out for you. Buen Camino.
 
In fact these days we often consider 30 degrees to be not so bad and over 35 to be hot. However I don't think I want to walk in temps over 35 degrees.
We have hot summers where I live too - last year we reached 46C/115F one day. But I don't do long hikes or walks when it's over around 32C/90F. I stay inside my air conditioned house!
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
I walked the Via in March/April this year. I was afraid of the solitude and the lack of services. I spent a number of days alone but every night there was company wherever I stayed. Since the Via is longer and has fewer places to stay and fewer bars etc. you tend to see the same people or meet new people at every stop; so you get the best of both worlds. I did it in March/April because of the summer heat so there were fewer people on the road but there were definitely enough. Don't depend on this site to gauge how many people will be there. I only encountered one other person on this forum before I left. And although I enjoyed the ease of meeting many native English speakers on my other Caminos, I really enjoyed meeting Germans and Spaniards and French people who I had to struggle to get to know. Suffice all of this to say that if you are willing to put up with the heat, you will probably find the Via to your liking.
 
As I have already walked the first half of the camino in April/May, I will walk the second part of the Via de la Plata in September, starting from Salamanca. I think (hope) that from Salamanca onwards, temperatures will be lower than in Andalucia and Extremadura.
 
I walked the Via in March/April this year. I was afraid of the solitude and the lack of services. I spent a number of days alone but every night there was company wherever I stayed. Since the Via is longer and has fewer places to stay and fewer bars etc. you tend to see the same people or meet new people at every stop; so you get the best of both worlds. I did it in March/April because of the summer heat so there were fewer people on the road but there were definitely enough. Don't depend on this site to gauge how many people will be there. I only encountered one other person on this forum before I left. And although I enjoyed the ease of meeting many native English speakers on my other Caminos, I really enjoyed meeting Germans and Spaniards and French people who I had to struggle to get to know. Suffice all of this to say that if you are willing to put up with the heat, you will probably find the Via to your liking.
Thanks Tom. In reading the thoughts of others I have become more confirmed in my decision to walk the Via but now feel completely flexible in my approach - funny how the Camino angels work.
Forexample, I was planning to walk every step as I have the time and was planning to do stage 3 in two parts with the help of a taxi pick up and a drop off the next day. Thanks to another reply here I now think a taxi to the park entrance and walk the second half only seems perfect. After all I will be walking around 1000k.
And with that more flexible mind set all of a sudden the Via has again become the adventure that it really is rather than some sort of self imposed challenge.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
We have hot summers where I live too - last year we reached 46C/115F one day. But I don't do long hikes or walks when it's over around 32C/90F. I stay inside my air conditioned house!
Hi Trecile
I recently read about the 'Camino umbrella'. I plan to get a good reflective umbrellawith a pack attachment. It is said to give an extra 5k per day and helps with water.
Look out for some posts in Sept to hear how I manage.
 
I walked the Via in March/April this year. I was afraid of the solitude and the lack of services. I spent a number of days alone but every night there was company wherever I stayed. Since the Via is longer and has fewer places to stay and fewer bars etc. you tend to see the same people or meet new people at every stop; so you get the best of both worlds. I did it in March/April because of the summer heat so there were fewer people on the road but there were definitely enough. Don't depend on this site to gauge how many people will be there. I only encountered one other person on this forum before I left. And although I enjoyed the ease of meeting many native English speakers on my other Caminos, I really enjoyed meeting Germans and Spaniards and French people who I had to struggle to get to know. Suffice all of this to say that if you are willing to put up with the heat, you will probably find the Via to your liking.
PS. Thanks for other info about numbers of pilgrims. I love to walk alone in the day and equally love company in the evening. Seems like this Camino will give me both.
 
I would do the Norte during that time period. The weather should be good and the summer tourists will be gone.
Thanks Trecile. Would love to do the Norte but I am no spring chicken and I think the ups and downs would be too much for my knees.
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
Thanks to everyone for your helpful comments and perspectives. They have helped clarify my decision. I will delay my start to after mid September, carry my umbrella, take a taxi as needed and enjoy the adventure.
I am happy for you to close this thread now.
:):):)
 
Hi Trecile
I recently read about the 'Camino umbrella'. I plan to get a good reflective umbrellawith a pack attachment. It is said to give an extra 5k per day and helps with water.
Look out for some posts in Sept to hear how I manage.
I have an umbrella like the one that Ivar carries. It's the heaviest single item in my backpack, but well worth its weight on hot sunny days.

 
Thanks Tom. In reading the thoughts of others I have become more confirmed in my decision to walk the Via but now feel completely flexible in my approach - funny how the Camino angels work.
Forexample, I was planning to walk every step as I have the time and was planning to do stage 3 in two parts with the help of a taxi pick up and a drop off the next day. Thanks to another reply here I now think a taxi to the park entrance and walk the second half only seems perfect. After all I will be walking around 1000k.
And with that more flexible mind set all of a sudden the Via has again become the adventure that it really is rather than some sort of self imposed challenge.

That is a very common suggestion and a common thing to do. I had planned to do just that but walked with someone instead. If it is a nice day, the walk on the road is actually quite nice. It is beautiful and there is very little traffic. Having said, make it a game day decision. It is a long stretch and it is early so cutting out the road section makes sense. Whatever you do, do not cut out the park. It is absolutely beautiful.

I don't know if you saw this, but here are a few comments on my Camino.

Via de la Plata (with a Sanabres finish)

You have to let the path shape you – there are some stretches you are going to have to do that you do not want to and there are some places you are going to have to stay that you may not like. This means you are going to have longer, +30k days and sometimes some shorter 10k days. It also means that you may have to pay more for nicer accommodation or stay in an albergue you hadn’t planned on.

There is not a lot of traffic on the Via. I befriended 30 or 40 people, but that was pretty much everyone I encountered. I went on my own but travelled with a new Camino friend for three weeks at the beginning and another friend for 9 days at the end. I was in and out of various groups over the 40 days and I often checked up on people who I had travelled with for short periods of time. When I arrived in Santiago I met only one or two of all of these people in the two days I was there. I did however, receive end of Camino celebratory texts from many people before and after my arrival.

There are a lot of late middle aged men on the Via. It sort of makes sense because it is the Camino for more experienced pilgrims who have time on their hands. There are younger folk but they are often stuck listening to chat about pensions and arthritis.

Way marking arrows are generally really good throughout the Via. Central Seville is very poorly marked and there are some spots where you really need something to guide you other than the arrows.

Accommodation on the Via is not expensive. Municipal and Xunta (Galicia) albergues are often less than 10€. Private albergues are between 10 and 15€. The Galician albergues are absolutely spectacular with the notable exception that their kitchens usually have very little in the way of pots and cutlery etc. During March and April of 2022 I was on the top bunk twice and someone was on my top bunk twice. This was partly because of the time of year and the remnants of Covid rules.

Casa Rurals, especially if you are with someone else, are a great alternative to albergues – they are relatively cheap and are a huge step up from albergues (attached bathroom, towels, sheets, soap). They usually cost around 40€ for two people.

Although Casa Rurals are a nice alternative to albergues, they are best used as a treat. You will find your community at the albergues where you will easily meet people. It is difficult to do this when you stay in a room by yourself or with a Camigo. On the Via, at least in the slower times, you will get to know everyone unless you prefer being more solitary.

Lunch is a complicated thing on the Via, or its not. Because services are not as abundant you often have to plan ahead more carefully. The easiest thing to do is buy and carry food (bread, meat, cheese, hummus, fruit, yoghurt…) to eat on the trail.

Dinners are less complicated than lunch as you usually plan to be somewhere with a restaurant, bar or good grocery store. There are menus del dia in most places and many albergues have really good kitchen facilities.

Weekends are always tricky but are even more so on the Via because you have less flexibility. You will often have to plan two days ahead of time because services often close after 2 on Saturday and are fully closed on Sunday.

Good route and location apps (Buen Camino, Mapy.cz) are great ways to make sure that you are definitely on the right path. Be aware though that at times these apps follow their own Via. They are almost always very accurate, but they sometimes leave out optional routes.

Gronze is a fantastic website for general information and maps of stages, it is particularly good for accommodations and it is, for the most part, up to date. Take a look at what other apps and sites (Wise Pilgrim, Gerald Kelly’s CaminoGuide…) have to offer and choose one that you feel comfortable with.

Internet and cell service is generally good most places. European pilgrims will have no problems with their home service. Canadians will fall in love with the price, coverage and service available for very, very little compared to home. I bought 28 days of service through Vodafone for 15€ that included 50G of data and 800 minutes of long distance. With that I didn’t really have to use the free Wi-Fi in bars and albergues.
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
That is a very common suggestion and a common thing to do. I had planned to do just that but walked with someone instead. If it is a nice day, the walk on the road is actually quite nice. It is beautiful and there is very little traffic. Having said, make it a game day decision. It is a long stretch and it is early so cutting out the road section makes sense. Whatever you do, do not cut out the park. It is absolutely beautiful.

I don't know if you saw this, but here are a few comments on my Camino.

Via de la Plata (with a Sanabres finish)

You have to let the path shape you – there are some stretches you are going to have to do that you do not want to and there are some places you are going to have to stay that you may not like. This means you are going to have longer, +30k days and sometimes some shorter 10k days. It also means that you may have to pay more for nicer accommodation or stay in an albergue you hadn’t planned on.

There is not a lot of traffic on the Via. I befriended 30 or 40 people, but that was pretty much everyone I encountered. I went on my own but travelled with a new Camino friend for three weeks at the beginning and another friend for 9 days at the end. I was in and out of various groups over the 40 days and I often checked up on people who I had travelled with for short periods of time. When I arrived in Santiago I met only one or two of all of these people in the two days I was there. I did however, receive end of Camino celebratory texts from many people before and after my arrival.

There are a lot of late middle aged men on the Via. It sort of makes sense because it is the Camino for more experienced pilgrims who have time on their hands. There are younger folk but they are often stuck listening to chat about pensions and arthritis.

Way marking arrows are generally really good throughout the Via. Central Seville is very poorly marked and there are some spots where you really need something to guide you other than the arrows.

Accommodation on the Via is not expensive. Municipal and Xunta (Galicia) albergues are often less than 10€. Private albergues are between 10 and 15€. The Galician albergues are absolutely spectacular with the notable exception that their kitchens usually have very little in the way of pots and cutlery etc. During March and April of 2022 I was on the top bunk twice and someone was on my top bunk twice. This was partly because of the time of year and the remnants of Covid rules.

Casa Rurals, especially if you are with someone else, are a great alternative to albergues – they are relatively cheap and are a huge step up from albergues (attached bathroom, towels, sheets, soap). They usually cost around 40€ for two people.

Although Casa Rurals are a nice alternative to albergues, they are best used as a treat. You will find your community at the albergues where you will easily meet people. It is difficult to do this when you stay in a room by yourself or with a Camigo. On the Via, at least in the slower times, you will get to know everyone unless you prefer being more solitary.

Lunch is a complicated thing on the Via, or its not. Because services are not as abundant you often have to plan ahead more carefully. The easiest thing to do is buy and carry food (bread, meat, cheese, hummus, fruit, yoghurt…) to eat on the trail.

Dinners are less complicated than lunch as you usually plan to be somewhere with a restaurant, bar or good grocery store. There are menus del dia in most places and many albergues have really good kitchen facilities.

Weekends are always tricky but are even more so on the Via because you have less flexibility. You will often have to plan two days ahead of time because services often close after 2 on Saturday and are fully closed on Sunday.

Good route and location apps (Buen Camino, Mapy.cz) are great ways to make sure that you are definitely on the right path. Be aware though that at times these apps follow their own Via. They are almost always very accurate, but they sometimes leave out optional routes.

Gronze is a fantastic website for general information and maps of stages, it is particularly good for accommodations and it is, for the most part, up to date. Take a look at what other apps and sites (Wise Pilgrim, Gerald Kelly’s CaminoGuide…) have to offer and choose one that you feel comfortable with.

Internet and cell service is generally good most places. European pilgrims will have no problems with their home service. Canadians will fall in love with the price, coverage and service available for very, very little compared to home. I bought 28 days of service through Vodafone for 15€ that included 50G of data and 800 minutes of long distance. With that I didn’t really have to use the free Wi-Fi in bars and albergues.
Thank you for that fabulous summary and reminder of general Camino and specific Camino Via observations. Much appreciated.
😀🙏🏼
 
Thank you for that fabulous summary and reminder of general Camino and specific Camino Via observations. Much appreciated.
😀🙏🏼
I was originally planning to start around 03 September tho was very wary of heat and decided to postpone it and made plans to do some other things. I’m wavering now as I really fancy doing it!!! Too much looking at old photos! I would have until mid Octoberish to do it so a very slow start and early short days (I know this may be tricky logistically) and then speed up and do some long days as I get further north may be possible. I would want to walk Seville to Santiago and also not skip stages so it would be tight but it’s sort of back on radar! Likely o May have changed my mind again by tomorrow but will have a look at it. I am quite slow but am capable of doing quite a few 40kms days if I am motivated and ‘need to do it’
 
That is a very common suggestion and a common thing to do. I had planned to do just that but walked with someone instead. If it is a nice day, the walk on the road is actually quite nice. It is beautiful and there is very little traffic. Having said, make it a game day decision. It is a long stretch and it is early so cutting out the road section makes sense. Whatever you do, do not cut out the park. It is absolutely beautiful.

I don't know if you saw this, but here are a few comments on my Camino.

Via de la Plata (with a Sanabres finish)

You have to let the path shape you – there are some stretches you are going to have to do that you do not want to and there are some places you are going to have to stay that you may not like. This means you are going to have longer, +30k days and sometimes some shorter 10k days. It also means that you may have to pay more for nicer accommodation or stay in an albergue you hadn’t planned on.

There is not a lot of traffic on the Via. I befriended 30 or 40 people, but that was pretty much everyone I encountered. I went on my own but travelled with a new Camino friend for three weeks at the beginning and another friend for 9 days at the end. I was in and out of various groups over the 40 days and I often checked up on people who I had travelled with for short periods of time. When I arrived in Santiago I met only one or two of all of these people in the two days I was there. I did however, receive end of Camino celebratory texts from many people before and after my arrival.

There are a lot of late middle aged men on the Via. It sort of makes sense because it is the Camino for more experienced pilgrims who have time on their hands. There are younger folk but they are often stuck listening to chat about pensions and arthritis.

Way marking arrows are generally really good throughout the Via. Central Seville is very poorly marked and there are some spots where you really need something to guide you other than the arrows.

Accommodation on the Via is not expensive. Municipal and Xunta (Galicia) albergues are often less than 10€. Private albergues are between 10 and 15€. The Galician albergues are absolutely spectacular with the notable exception that their kitchens usually have very little in the way of pots and cutlery etc. During March and April of 2022 I was on the top bunk twice and someone was on my top bunk twice. This was partly because of the time of year and the remnants of Covid rules.

Casa Rurals, especially if you are with someone else, are a great alternative to albergues – they are relatively cheap and are a huge step up from albergues (attached bathroom, towels, sheets, soap). They usually cost around 40€ for two people.

Although Casa Rurals are a nice alternative to albergues, they are best used as a treat. You will find your community at the albergues where you will easily meet people. It is difficult to do this when you stay in a room by yourself or with a Camigo. On the Via, at least in the slower times, you will get to know everyone unless you prefer being more solitary.

Lunch is a complicated thing on the Via, or its not. Because services are not as abundant you often have to plan ahead more carefully. The easiest thing to do is buy and carry food (bread, meat, cheese, hummus, fruit, yoghurt…) to eat on the trail.

Dinners are less complicated than lunch as you usually plan to be somewhere with a restaurant, bar or good grocery store. There are menus del dia in most places and many albergues have really good kitchen facilities.

Weekends are always tricky but are even more so on the Via because you have less flexibility. You will often have to plan two days ahead of time because services often close after 2 on Saturday and are fully closed on Sunday.

Good route and location apps (Buen Camino, Mapy.cz) are great ways to make sure that you are definitely on the right path. Be aware though that at times these apps follow their own Via. They are almost always very accurate, but they sometimes leave out optional routes.

Gronze is a fantastic website for general information and maps of stages, it is particularly good for accommodations and it is, for the most part, up to date. Take a look at what other apps and sites (Wise Pilgrim, Gerald Kelly’s CaminoGuide…) have to offer and choose one that you feel comfortable with.

Internet and cell service is generally good most places. European pilgrims will have no problems with their home service. Canadians will fall in love with the price, coverage and service available for very, very little compared to home. I bought 28 days of service through Vodafone for 15€ that included 50G of data and 800 minutes of long distance. With that I didn’t really have to use the free Wi-Fi in bars and albergues.
This is so useful! Really appreciate you taking the time to write this!
 
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
I am planning on VDLP starting about mid-September with a friend I met on Frances in 2019. We have not settled on a start day yet, but I am guessing about the 15th (I retire on the 10th). I live in the Northern Plains of US which is either very cold or very hot. After days of 35-39C it will cool to 29 tomorrow. Frankly, I hate it. Makes for good training though. My Camino partner is an Aussie living in Viet Nam. I am concerned for the first few weeks from Seville. Will need to be smart and patient. I very much appreciate all the observations.
 
I am planning on VDLP starting about mid-September with a friend I met on Frances in 2019. We have not settled on a start day yet, but I am guessing about the 15th (I retire on the 10th). I live in the Northern Plains of US which is either very cold or very hot. After days of 35-39C it will cool to 29 tomorrow. Frankly, I hate it. Makes for good training though. My Camino partner is an Aussie living in Viet Nam. I am concerned for the first few weeks from Seville. Will need to be smart and patient. I very much appreciate all the observations.
Looks like there are a few of us deliberating about the Via. 😊👍🏽
John, your tentative dates are similar to mine. We may meet in Seville or on the way. I will post my start date in the forum when it is confirmed.
Buen Camino
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Because so few pilgrims walk the VdLP when it is so hot it might be a good idea to confirm that the albergues will actually be open for your timeframe
 
Because so few pilgrims walk the VdLP when it is so hot it might be a good idea to confirm that the albergues will actually be open for your timeframe
Thank you. I will check in closer to the date. I am praying for a cool change foe the whole of Spain.
 
That is a very common suggestion and a common thing to do. I had planned to do just that but walked with someone instead. If it is a nice day, the walk on the road is actually quite nice. It is beautiful and there is very little traffic. Having said, make it a game day decision. It is a long stretch and it is early so cutting out the road section makes sense. Whatever you do, do not cut out the park. It is absolutely beautiful.

I don't know if you saw this, but here are a few comments on my Camino.

Via de la Plata (with a Sanabres finish)

You have to let the path shape you – there are some stretches you are going to have to do that you do not want to and there are some places you are going to have to stay that you may not like. This means you are going to have longer, +30k days and sometimes some shorter 10k days. It also means that you may have to pay more for nicer accommodation or stay in an albergue you hadn’t planned on.

There is not a lot of traffic on the Via. I befriended 30 or 40 people, but that was pretty much everyone I encountered. I went on my own but travelled with a new Camino friend for three weeks at the beginning and another friend for 9 days at the end. I was in and out of various groups over the 40 days and I often checked up on people who I had travelled with for short periods of time. When I arrived in Santiago I met only one or two of all of these people in the two days I was there. I did however, receive end of Camino celebratory texts from many people before and after my arrival.

There are a lot of late middle aged men on the Via. It sort of makes sense because it is the Camino for more experienced pilgrims who have time on their hands. There are younger folk but they are often stuck listening to chat about pensions and arthritis.

Way marking arrows are generally really good throughout the Via. Central Seville is very poorly marked and there are some spots where you really need something to guide you other than the arrows.

Accommodation on the Via is not expensive. Municipal and Xunta (Galicia) albergues are often less than 10€. Private albergues are between 10 and 15€. The Galician albergues are absolutely spectacular with the notable exception that their kitchens usually have very little in the way of pots and cutlery etc. During March and April of 2022 I was on the top bunk twice and someone was on my top bunk twice. This was partly because of the time of year and the remnants of Covid rules.

Casa Rurals, especially if you are with someone else, are a great alternative to albergues – they are relatively cheap and are a huge step up from albergues (attached bathroom, towels, sheets, soap). They usually cost around 40€ for two people.

Although Casa Rurals are a nice alternative to albergues, they are best used as a treat. You will find your community at the albergues where you will easily meet people. It is difficult to do this when you stay in a room by yourself or with a Camigo. On the Via, at least in the slower times, you will get to know everyone unless you prefer being more solitary.

Lunch is a complicated thing on the Via, or its not. Because services are not as abundant you often have to plan ahead more carefully. The easiest thing to do is buy and carry food (bread, meat, cheese, hummus, fruit, yoghurt…) to eat on the trail.

Dinners are less complicated than lunch as you usually plan to be somewhere with a restaurant, bar or good grocery store. There are menus del dia in most places and many albergues have really good kitchen facilities.

Weekends are always tricky but are even more so on the Via because you have less flexibility. You will often have to plan two days ahead of time because services often close after 2 on Saturday and are fully closed on Sunday.

Good route and location apps (Buen Camino, Mapy.cz) are great ways to make sure that you are definitely on the right path. Be aware though that at times these apps follow their own Via. They are almost always very accurate, but they sometimes leave out optional routes.

Gronze is a fantastic website for general information and maps of stages, it is particularly good for accommodations and it is, for the most part, up to date. Take a look at what other apps and sites (Wise Pilgrim, Gerald Kelly’s CaminoGuide…) have to offer and choose one that you feel comfortable with.

Internet and cell service is generally good most places. European pilgrims will have no problems with their home service. Canadians will fall in love with the price, coverage and service available for very, very little compared to home. I bought 28 days of service through Vodafone for 15€ that included 50G of data and 800 minutes of long distance. With that I didn’t really have to use the free Wi-Fi in bars and albergues.
Note to self....do not talk about pensions or sore knees.
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
While I never worried about walking CF alone in 2006 I am beginning to wonder if I will be the only person walking up through the middle of Spain in early Sept - and have had thoughts / questions around safety.
I have even considered doing another route but my inner guidance keeps returning me to VDLP.
I am starting in Seville but not sure of the exact date yet. There is one person posted as starting on 5 Sept but I don't think I will get there by then.
Would love some info on numbers of pilgrims on that route so far this year.
Another question. I am planning to give myself 8 weeks (56 days) or thereabouts to walk VdlP. I will have an additional bag I want to send to Santiago by Correos. However I believe they only hold bags in Santiago for 45 days.
What advice would you give for a midway stopping point. I could send my bag there, take a day or two rest break when I get there, and then send the bag on to Santiago.
 
I am planning to give myself 8 weeks (56 days) or thereabouts to walk VdlP. I will have an additional bag I want to send to Santiago by Correos. However I believe they only hold bags in Santiago for 45 days.
What advice would you give for a midway stopping point. I could send my bag there, take a day or two rest break when I get there, and then send the bag on to Santiago.
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
I am planning to give myself 8 weeks (56 days) or thereabouts to walk VdlP. I will have an additional bag I want to send to Santiago by Correos. However I believe they only hold bags in Santiago for 45 days.
What advice would you give for a midway stopping point. I could send my bag there, take a day or two rest break when I get there, and then send the bag on to Santiago.
Did you know that Ivar has a luggage storage service? You can just send the bag from Sevilla to him in Santiago and he will hold it till you get there. Much easier than doing a pick-up and re-send midway, IMHO.

Details on this thread: http://www.casaivar.com/luggage-storage-in-santiago-de-compostela/

There are so many monumental cities worth a long visit that it’s almost impossible to choose. Sevilla, Cáceres, Mérida, Salamanca, Zamora and Ourense are all wonderful!

I agree with @gns about Salamanca’s Plaza Mayor. After a rain in the late afternoon sun it is just gorgeous. Actually, it’s pretty darn gorgeous in any weather or any time of day!
 
Another question. I am planning to give myself 8 weeks (56 days) or thereabouts to walk VdlP. I will have an additional bag I want to send to Santiago by Correos. However I believe they only hold bags in Santiago for 45 days.
What advice would you give for a midway stopping point. I could send my bag there, take a day or two rest break when I get there, and then send the bag on to Santiago.
I think Ivar will hold a bag longer for you if you send it to Casa Ivar in Santiago http://www.casaivar.com/luggage-storage-in-santiago-de-compostela/
 
St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
What advice would you give for a midway stopping point. I could send my bag there, take a day or two rest break when I get there, and then send the bag on to Santiago.
If you would rather not do the big city thing, (not exactly a rest), I would say Baños de Montemayor. There's a really comfortable albergue, nice eating and the fabulous baths. That is my idea of a rest.
And I think Baños is almost exactly half way.
P6180510.jpeg I think I took this from the albergue
 
If you would rather not do the big city thing, (not exactly a rest), I would say Baños de Montemayor. There's a really comfortable albergue, nice eating and the fabulous baths. That is my idea of a rest.
And I think Baños is almost exactly half way.
View attachment 128531 I think I took this from the albergue
Oohhh thank you! I am also not that attracted to the bigger towns. This sounds perfect.
 
Down bag (90/10 duvet) of 700 fills with 180 g (6.34 ounces) of filling. Mummy-shaped structure, ideal when you are looking for lightness with great heating performance.

€149,-
I am planning to give myself 8 weeks (56 days) or thereabouts to walk VdlP. I will have an additional bag I want to send to Santiago by Correos. However I believe they only hold bags in Santiago for 45 days.
What advice would you give for a midway stopping point. I could send my bag there, take a day or two rest break when I get there, and then send the bag on to Santiago.
Cáceres
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
I am in Salamanca right now, after walking the Camino (not VDLP) and is working my way back to Madrid. It is a lovely city and would make a good rest stop for pilgrims. It is a big city, but it does not feel like it.
Thank you. On my first Camino I thought I woul spend a couple of nights in Leon. I enjoyed my afternoon of exploration but after a night of listening to the Festa celebrations 🎉🎶🤡🎉 outside the window of my pensioń (the noise stopped at 3, the street cleaning machine started at 5) I couldn't wait to get out to the country again. 🤣😂😅 and never was I so happy to get to the relative quiet of some albergue snoring.
PS. In the morning I realised there was one of those louvre things on the window that would have blocked a lot of noise. The things we learn on Camino.
 
Hi everyone.
Thanks so much. Love to you all and to Ivar's luggage service.
Now I have a list of excellent stopping places - Cáceres, Mérida, Salamanca, Zamora and Ourense with Salamanca as the logistical winner. And also Baños for the baths which I vaguely knew about.
One plan for the luggage was to send warmer things to a point along the way for the second half of the route. So I don't have to carry a fleece etc through the hot weather out of Seville. I guess I could still do that in a smaller package.
Any thoughts?
 
Oohhh thank you! I am also not that attracted to the bigger towns. This sounds perfect.Hi Rita,

I endorse Banos. There are great large town options (Caceres/Salamanca/Zamora) for a rest day if you like the larger towns. Banos is really nice, great Municipal Alberque, lovely town and I think (arguably of course) one of the best scenic days on the VDP when you leave, especially with fresh snow on the mountains. I didn't get the thermal baths (which were not hot !) but still an experience. As always my stay there may be coloured due to the great companion pilgrims and perfect weather after fresh snow :)
 
Very light, comfortable and compressible poncho. Specially designed for protection against water for any activity.

Our Atmospheric H30 poncho offers lightness and waterproofness. Easily compressible and made with our Waterproof fabric, its heat-sealed interior seams guarantee its waterproofness. Includes carrying bag.

€60,-
I am planning to give myself 8 weeks (56 days) or thereabouts to walk VdlP. I will have an additional bag I want to send to Santiago by Correos. However I believe they only hold bags in Santiago for 45 days.
What advice would you give for a midway stopping point. I could send my bag there, take a day or two rest break when I get there, and then send the bag on to Santiago.
May have missed it but what time of year are you looking to do it ??
 
It gets significantly colder from Salamanca so it may make sense to send your warmer gear onto here to collect and your post Camino gear to Ivar. You will need to take more then one rest day on this only Camino, sometimes you can work out your stops so you only have short walk into a major city and a short walk the next day meaning you can max out your time checking out points of interest without actually loosing a days walking.

There is plenty of restful solitude on the VdlP so you tend to want to soak up a bit of history at the larger places, they cities are not that big. I wouldn't miss Merida for anything and the Museums and Ruins here are definitely worth an extra day or two. Salamanca looks like it has been carved out of Russian fudge and its wonderful to watch it glow in the late afternoon sun. The baths at Banos are a bit disappointing, more of high tech spa then relaxing place to soak, there is a restored Roman Bath in a rural casa 14km past Merida which is better. Zamora is a real gem and the hot pools in Ourence are an excellent place to soak away Camino pains befor heading up and down in the final section into Santiago.

It is worth doing some research into the route as sometimes it's not till you get back that you walked past a place you may have wanted to check out, other times you are just in the right place at the right time. Take your breaks where you find them, enjoy your walk.
 
It gets significantly colder from Salamanca so it may make sense to send your warmer gear onto here to collect and your post Camino gear to Ivar.
I agree that it can get a lot colder from about Salamanca.. In 2015, left Sevilla about September 6, some of the days were very hot. By October 2, around Rionegro del Puente, it was very cold in morning (for a weather wimpy Californian). I bought a cheap watch cap and pair of gloves. That said, I don't think I would complicate my logistics for cold weather gear in September / October - all you really probably need is a light fleece, a warm cap (or buff), and a pair of gloves. ¡Buen Camino!
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
I want to send to Santiago by Correos. However I believe they only hold bags in Santiago for 45 days.

One plan for the luggage was to send warmer things to a point along the way for the second half
Check how long the post office at the half-way point will hold luggage. I understand that post offices on the most popular pilgrim routes will hold pilgrim bags for a few weeks, but when I walked VDLP about five years ago, the limit was two weeks.

Assuming that the situation is unchanged - After two weeks, the post office will no longer store the bag. It will be sent to the return address that the sender put on the package. In the absence of a return address, it will be trashed. Since two weeks doesn't get you half way I suggest making a reservation for a hotel in a city (say, Salamanca or Caceres) and put the hotel address (with your reservation number) as the return address. Call ahead to confirm with the hotel that they will hold your luggage.

** Be aware that your belongings will be en route to the city that you chose for a day or two, then in storage at the post office for 14 days, then en route to your return address for a day or two. Your things will be inaccessible when it is en route from one place to another, and when the post office is closed (e.g. on holidays). With a little planning, you can identify the best place to send your things.
 
Last edited:
I am planning to give myself 8 weeks (56 days) or thereabouts to walk VdlP. I will have an additional bag I want to send to Santiago by Correos. However I believe they only hold bags in Santiago for 45 days.
What advice would you give for a midway stopping point. I could send my bag there, take a day or two rest break when I get there, and then send the bag on to Santiago.
Dear Rita, We were on the Via March to May. We sent our suitcase from Seville to Merida through Correos for about Euro 25, they will keep it for 15 days but you can have it there longer if you pay for more. We asked for Lista de Correos or Poste Restante, wrapped it in cling wrap for safety and off it went. We then sent it from Merida to another large town along the way.
 
The 2024 Camino guides will be coming out little by little. Here is a collection of the ones that are out so far.
Check how long the post office at the half-way point will hold luggage. I understand that post offices on the most popular pilgrim routes will hold pilgrim bags for a few weeks, but when I walked VDLP about five years ago, the limit was two weeks.

Assuming that the situation is unchanged - After two weeks, the post office will no longer store the bag. It will be sent to the return address that the sender put on the package. In the absence of a return address, it will be trashed. Since two weeks doesn't get you half way I suggest making a reservation for a hotel in a city (say, Salamanca or Caceres) and put the hotel address (with your reservation number) as the return address. Call ahead to confirm with the hotel that they will hold your luggage.

** Be aware that your belongings will be en route to the city that you chose for a day or two, then in storage at the post office for 14 days, then en route to your return address for a day or two. Your things will be inaccessible when it is en route from one place to another, and when the post office is closed (e.g. on holidays). With a little planning, you can identify the best place to send your things.
Thank you for details that I hadn’t even considered. 🙏
 
I agree that it can get a lot colder from about Salamanca.. In 2015, left Sevilla about September 6, some of the days were very hot. By October 2, around Rionegro del Puente, it was very cold in morning (for a weather wimpy Californian). I bought a cheap watch cap and pair of gloves. That said, I don't think I would complicate my logistics for cold weather gear in September / October - all you really probably need is a light fleece, a warm cap (or buff), and a pair of gloves. ¡Buen Camino!
Thanks @Latecomer I think I have worked out some lightweight layers while heading into winter here is Sydney. And checked temps. We have had some 6 degree Celsius mornings. I am wondering about a lightweight sleeping bag. Not sure if accomodation in Galicia is likely to have blankets. Any tips?
 
It gets significantly colder from Salamanca so it may make sense to send your warmer gear onto here to collect and your post Camino gear to Ivar. You will need to take more then one rest day on this only Camino, sometimes you can work out your stops so you only have short walk into a major city and a short walk the next day meaning you can max out your time checking out points of interest without actually loosing a days walking.

There is plenty of restful solitude on the VdlP so you tend to want to soak up a bit of history at the larger places, they cities are not that big. I wouldn't miss Merida for anything and the Museums and Ruins here are definitely worth an extra day or two. Salamanca looks like it has been carved out of Russian fudge and its wonderful to watch it glow in the late afternoon sun. The baths at Banos are a bit disappointing, more of high tech spa then relaxing place to soak, there is a restored Roman Bath in a rural casa 14km past Merida which is better. Zamora is a real gem and the hot pools in Ourence are an excellent place to soak away Camino pains befor heading up and down in the final section into Santiago.

It is worth doing some research into the route as sometimes it's not till you get back that you walked past a place you may have wanted to check out, other times you are just in the right place at the right time. Take your breaks where you find them, enjoy your walk.
Bless you @hel&scott
I like to balance research with discovery and happily don’t seem to regret ‘missing something’ as the delight of my discoveries is so wonderful. However I am incredibly grateful for your post and clarification. I feel so much more interested and curious about exploring the larger towns now. And thanks for the clarification about the Roman baths / hot springs.
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
I am planning to give myself 8 weeks (56 days) or thereabouts to walk VdlP. I will have an additional bag I want to send to Santiago by Correos. However I believe they only hold bags in Santiago for 45 days.
What advice would you give for a midway stopping point. I could send my bag there, take a day or two rest break when I get there, and then send the bag on to Santiago.
I would recommend Zamora. Nice city plenty of hotels that would accommodate you.
 
Thanks @Latecomer I think I have worked out some lightweight layers while heading into winter here is Sydney. And checked temps. We have had some 6 degree Celsius mornings. I am wondering about a lightweight sleeping bag. Not sure if accomodation in Galicia is likely to have blankets. Any tips?
Rita, I have just completed the VDLP first week of June, while some Albergues do have blankets some do not. Additionally the standard of blanket provided varies. I would recommend a light weight sleeping bag, some of the higher sections of the via can get cold at night. I took one full rest day, and 3 half rest days, < the half days were short distance days, so starting walking at 0700 and finished by 1200. I especially did this during the first 3 weeks. Buen Camino
 
Rita, I have just completed the VDLP first week of June, while some Albergues do have blankets some do not. Additionally the standard of blanket provided varies. I would recommend a light weight sleeping bag, some of the higher sections of the via can get cold at night. I took one full rest day, and 3 half rest days, < the half days were short distance days, so starting walking at 0700 and finished by 1200. I especially did this during the first 3 weeks. Buen Camino
@Dodger thank you - I was just going to ask about a sleeping bag again. I would like to start before 10 Sept and expect to be up in Galicia by mid October - I imagine it might be getting cold up there by then and I know the standard of blankets can vary greatly.
 
St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
I will also post our dates when decided. I hope we meet.
Hello Rita,
Our dates are set. Samantha (Sam) and I meet in Madrid Sep 6. Two nights in Madrid then 3 nights in Seville. Plan is to start VDLP Sep 11.
We are both getting ready with walks with our pack in heat, her in Viet Nam and me in South Dakota. My summer is routinely 31-37C and I choose hot part of day, other than when walking in Badlands National Park. It is much like the VDLP stages with zero services. There is nothing but rock formations and an occasional rattlesnake for what seems like forever. It is beautiful, but requires careful preparation like VDLP.
 
Hello Rita,
Our dates are set. Samantha (Sam) and I meet in Madrid Sep 6. Two nights in Madrid then 3 nights in Seville. Plan is to start VDLP Sep 11.
We are both getting ready with walks with our pack in heat, her in Viet Nam and me in South Dakota. My summer is routinely 31-37C and I choose hot part of day, other than when walking in Badlands National Park. It is much like the VDLP stages with zero services. There is nothing but rock formations and an occasional rattlesnake for what seems like forever. It is beautiful, but requires careful preparation like VDLP.
I was due to start early September but have cancelled due heat as not used to the temps you are! Wishing you all the best! .
 
Very light, comfortable and compressible poncho. Specially designed for protection against water for any activity.

Our Atmospheric H30 poncho offers lightness and waterproofness. Easily compressible and made with our Waterproof fabric, its heat-sealed interior seams guarantee its waterproofness. Includes carrying bag.

€60,-
Hello Rita,
Our dates are set. Samantha (Sam) and I meet in Madrid Sep 6. Two nights in Madrid then 3 nights in Seville. Plan is to start VDLP Sep 11.
We are both getting ready with walks with our pack in heat, her in Viet Nam and me in South Dakota. My summer is routinely 31-37C and I choose hot part of day, other than when walking in Badlands National Park. It is much like the VDLP stages with zero services. There is nothing but rock formations and an occasional rattlesnake for what seems like forever. It is beautiful, but requires careful preparation like VDLP.
Hi @John_H
I think I will now be leaving Sevilla maybe a week or two later. The heat and other factors have impacted my dates. So sorry to miss you but it will be good to know you are on the Camino ahead of me.
 
While I never worried about walking CF alone in 2006 I am beginning to wonder if I will be the only person walking up through the middle of Spain in early Sept - and have had thoughts / questions around safety.
I have even considered doing another route but my inner guidance keeps returning me to VDLP.
I am starting in Seville but not sure of the exact date yet. There is one person posted as starting on 5 Sept but I don't think I will get there by then.
Would love some info on numbers of pilgrims on that route so far this year.
I start out on the 5th of September it will be my 4th Camino 2 x French way 1x Portugues way from Lisbon. I see this as much the same as when I walked the Portugues way, I did it at the same time of year and it can be hot mid day and afternoon, but many of the mornings were cool and ideal for walking. I walked with Matt who I met a New Zealander and he had no problems either Matt's sister walked from Seville at the same time to meet up in Santiago and she had no problems. Its straight forward stay cool wear a hat keep hydrated stop at a bar to take a beer and top up your water supply when you can. Don't bring anything that is not needed as extra weight in hot weather is never good. I hope you make and may be I will bump into you along THE WAY or in Santiago.
 
I start out on the 5th of September it will be my 4th Camino 2 x French way 1x Portugues way from Lisbon. I see this as much the same as when I walked the Portugues way, I did it at the same time of year and it can be hot mid day and afternoon, but many of the mornings were cool and ideal for walking. I walked with Matt who I met a New Zealander and he had no problems either Matt's sister walked from Seville at the same time to meet up in Santiago and she had no problems. Its straight forward stay cool wear a hat keep hydrated stop at a bar to take a beer and top up your water supply when you can. Don't bring anything that is not needed as extra weight in hot weather is never good. I hope you make and may be I will bump into you along THE WAY or in Santiago.
Folks who have recently done the VDLP or planning to do soon, how long did it take you or how long are you planning to take. After abandoning plans to do in Mid September I have got the urge again but best case number of days I would have Seville to SdC would be 35 - It seems border line doable , albeit tight with no contingency, and acknowledging the heat in south! Other option I have is to do Mid November but I kmow all about the weather. I would want to do whole thing and not skip stages.
 
Join our full-service guided tour and let us convert you into a Pampered Pilgrim!
Folks who have recently done the VDLP or planning to do soon, how long did it take you or how long are you planning to take. After abandoning plans to do in Mid September I have got the urge again but best case number of days I would have Seville to SdC would be 35 - It seems border line doable , albeit tight with no contingency, and acknowledging the heat in south! Other option I have is to do Mid November but I kmow all about the weather. I would want to do whole thing and not skip stages.
Hi
I am planning some big walks and hope to be complete in around 33 days I have combined a number of stages that look shorter but its still a good call. I have a little lee way but start walking on the 5th and want to be back in the Uk for the 7th October ,home for my daughters birthday.
 
Seventy plus days expected for our walk in the Spring of next year, but in absolutely no rush...and starting in Cadiz (which will likely add a further five days of enjoyment)! I suspect anything in the 30 odd day timeline would be really moving hard (as noted in comments here). Very thankful we have the time to explore and rest in some of the fantastic towns on this route, and take a bit of time to 'smell the roses', so to speak , of the VdlP. I am so looking forward to this pilgrimage!
 
Join our full-service guided tour and let us convert you into a Pampered Pilgrim!
@TravellingMan2022 I walked the Via de la Plata in January and February this year. Seville to Santiago via Ourense. It took me 33 days. That is quicker than most people would find comfortable. On long distance walks I usually average about 30km per day. 35 days is possible but only if you are prepared to walk some long stages.
Bradypus...quite amazing!! Wife and I walked the Frances last Nov/Dec in 32 days...so I can hardly imagine doing the VdlP in 33. That's great walking stamina on your part. Well done!
 
Seventy plus days expected for our walk in the Spring of next year, but in absolutely no rush...and starting in Cadiz (which will likely add a further five days of enjoyment)! I suspect anything in the 30 odd day timeline would be really moving hard (as noted in comments here). Very thankful we have the time to explore and rest in some of the fantastic towns on this route, and take a bit of time to 'smell the roses', so to speak , of the VdlP. I am so looking forward to this pilgrimage!
@TravellingMan2022 I walked the Via de la Plata in January and February this year. Seville to Santiago via Ourense. It took me 33 days. That is quicker than most people would find comfortable. On long distance walks I usually average about 30km per day. 35 days is possible but only if you are prepared to walk some long stages.
Congratulations! And amazed at what different human bodies can do. I didn't think this was possible. As an older tortious I am giving myself 56 days but will happily exchange stories with any hares I meet along the way.
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
Thanks for all your comments I was 70 in May so I am younger than some of you and older than most. I don't regard my walk as written in stone but is merely what I thought possible having looked at my previous walks as you all know the Camino provides and enables you to do what need to do. The enjoyment is not just the walking and the challenge but the people you meet and interact with themalong the way so I am not in any race I am looking to enjoy.
Buen Camino to all
Charles

Like Gift Quote Reply
Report
 
@TravellingMan2022 I walked the Via de la Plata in January and February this year. Seville to Santiago via Ourense. It took me 33 days. That is quicker than most people would find comfortable. On long distance walks I usually average about 30km per day. 35 days is possible but only if you are prepared to walk some long stages.
Fabulous and thank you, and to others for the very positive replies.
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
@TravellingMan2022 I walked the Via de la Plata in January and February this year. Seville to Santiago via Ourense. It took me 33 days. That is quicker than most people would find comfortable. On long distance walks I usually average about 30km per day. 35 days is possible but only if you are prepared to walk some long stages.
This is very encouraging. By any chance do you have your stages documented anywhere?

I found this

 
Last edited by a moderator:
This is very encouraging. By any chance do you have your stages documented anywhere?
I'm sorry but I didn't record my stages. I used a bivvy bag and slept outdoors for several nights to break up my journey into stages which suited me. So unless you intend to do likewise my stopping places would not be very helpful in any case.
 
Hi everyone
Thanks for all the support, great info and suggestions so far. So much appreciated.
Due to family commitments I will now begin much later than originally planned - around 24 September. I know it means that it will be wetter and cooler in Galecia but its sounds very similar to Sydney Australia right now. So I am getting used to walking on cooler days in the rain. And hopefully it will be cooler in Sevilla as well.
I have read a lot on other posts about booking ahead but apart from the first few days I am looking forward to taking one day at a time. At the moment I have no interest in the idea of phoning or 'WhatsApping' (a new verb 🤣) along the Way.
I will plan more carefully for the longer stages but thanks to Gronze I feel pretty confident in finding a bed as needed. And I have plenty of time to wander this Camino. What a blessing.
Looking forward to any replies or comments. It has been so good to 'talk things out' via the forum. Feeling very grateful. 🙏🏼
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
I'm sorry but I didn't record my stages. I used a bivvy bag and slept outdoors for several nights to break up my journey into stages which suited me. So unless you intend to do likewise my stopping places would not be very helpful in any case.
no worries - thank you for responding - I don't tend to document my own walks either!
 
Hi Rita,
I did mine in a comfortable 43 days in April/May which included a leisurely 4 days to Astorga from Granja to complete the VDP, and rest days for sightseeing in Merida, Caceres and Salamanca all of which were preceded or followed by short days. I also had a rest day in Seville after the 6 days from Cadiz. After Salamanca I didn't feel the need for a rest day although I did have a short day into Ourense. I did end up with a couple of 40k+ days, both unplanned. I have the stages recorded on Track my Tour. I go with an outline plan which I don't follow slavishly allowing for enjoyment of the way, catching any niggles early, places that take my fancy or to conform with acquaintances met along the way. I find it hard to stop once in the rhythm but there are some really great places to absorb along the VDP and when coming from even further down under want the maximum bang for my devalued buck ! I can recommend downloading the Wise Pilgrim App.

PS there are two minor conundrums. 1. Caceres to Canaveral and 2. Carcaboso to Aldeanueva del Camino.
The first one usually means a short 10km hop to Casar de Caceres as there is no accommodation from there to Canaveral despite what my 2022 guide book said ! Unfortunately this means you can't avoid the 34k day from Casar to Canaveral unless someone plugs the gap with an accommodation solution in between times. The second one there is a good solution. The Hostal Restaurante Asturias (Jarilla). This is effectively a roadside hotel with great food and good accommodation. I've seen it slagged off unjustifiably. It has a great BBQ grill and the staff were brilliant. You take a roughly 1.5km detour to get to it but you can then just parallel the road in the morning to link back up so it doesn't really cost you any great distance. There is also another scenic route/ex railway line you can take (via verde) from there to join the official VDP. They will even pick you up in their van if you need it. This means you are not forced into a 39k day and you don't miss anything of note. It also means a 22k-ish day to Banos de Montemayor the next day which is a far nicer town.
 
Last edited:
Hi Rita,
I did mine in a comfortable 43 days in April/May which included a leisurely 4 days to Astorga from Granja to complete the VDP, and rest days for sightseeing in Merida, Caceres and Salamanca all of which were preceded or followed by short days. I also had a rest day in Seville after the 6 days from Cadiz. After Salamanca I didn't feel the need for a rest day although I did have a short day into Ourense. I did end up with a couple of 40k+ days, both unplanned. I have the stages recorded on Track my Tour. I go with an outline plan which I don't follow slavishly allowing for enjoyment of the way, catching any niggles early, places that take my fancy or to conform with acquaintances met along the way. I find it hard to stop once in the rhythm but there are some really great places to absorb along the VDP and when coming from even further down under want the maximum bang for my devalued buck ! I can recommend downloading the Wise Pilgrim App.

PS there are two minor conundrums. 1. Caceres to Canaveral and 2. Carcaboso to Aldeanueva del Camino.
The first one usually means a short 10km hop to Casar de Caceres as there is no accommodation from there to Canaveral despite what my 2022 guide book said ! Unfortunately this means you can't avoid the 34k day from Casar to Canaveral unless someone plugs the gap with an accommodation solution in between times. The second one there is a good solution. The Hostal Restaurante Asturias (Jarilla). This is effectively a roadside hotel with great food and good accommodation. I've seen it slagged off unjustifiably. It has a great BBQ grill and the staff were brilliant. You take a roughly 1.5km detour to get to it but you can then just parallel the road in the morning to link back up so it doesn't really cost you any great distance. There is also another scenic route/ex railway line you can take (via verde) from there to join the official VDP. They will even pick you up in their van if you need it. This means you are not forced into a 39k day and you don't miss anything of note. It also means a 22k-ish day to Banos de Montemayor the next day which is a far nicer town.
Hi Rita,

Though it is far from certain I am hoping to start the VDLP in September possibly slightly earlier than you. I have a few logistical challenges to work through and also have concerns about the heat which I think will mean some very short and early days at the start and then probably some very long days middle and end as I think I will only have a max of 35 days or so so its going to be tough! i normally just turn and and walk but this one takes a bit more though and planning!!

Thank You
 
Very light, comfortable and compressible poncho. Specially designed for protection against water for any activity.

Our Atmospheric H30 poncho offers lightness and waterproofness. Easily compressible and made with our Waterproof fabric, its heat-sealed interior seams guarantee its waterproofness. Includes carrying bag.

€60,-
Hi Rita,
I did mine in a comfortable 43 days in April/May which included a leisurely 4 days to Astorga from Granja to complete the VDP, and rest days for sightseeing in Merida, Caceres and Salamanca all of which were preceded or followed by short days. I also had a rest day in Seville after the 6 days from Cadiz. After Salamanca I didn't feel the need for a rest day although I did have a short day into Ourense. I did end up with a couple of 40k+ days, both unplanned. I have the stages recorded on Track my Tour. I go with an outline plan which I don't follow slavishly allowing for enjoyment of the way, catching any niggles early, places that take my fancy or to conform with acquaintances met along the way. I find it hard to stop once in the rhythm but there are some really great places to absorb along the VDP and when coming from even further down under want the maximum bang for my devalued buck ! I can recommend downloading the Wise Pilgrim App.

PS there are two minor conundrums. 1. Caceres to Canaveral and 2. Carcaboso to Aldeanueva del Camino.
The first one usually means a short 10km hop to Casar de Caceres as there is no accommodation from there to Canaveral despite what my 2022 guide book said ! Unfortunately this means you can't avoid the 34k day from Casar to Canaveral unless someone plugs the gap with an accommodation solution in between times. The second one there is a good solution. The Hostal Restaurante Asturias (Jarilla). This is effectively a roadside hotel with great food and good accommodation. I've seen it slagged off unjustifiably. It has a great BBQ grill and the staff were brilliant. You take a roughly 1.5km detour to get to it but you can then just parallel the road in the morning to link back up so it doesn't really cost you any great distance. There is also another scenic route/ex railway line you can take (via verde) from there to join the official VDP. They will even pick you up in their van if you need it. This means you are not forced into a 39k day and you don't miss anything of note. It also means a 22k-ish day to Banos de Montemayor the next day which is a far nicer town.
Some good information here Bill…thanks 👍
 
Hi Rita,

Though it is far from certain I am hoping to start the VDLP in September possibly slightly earlier than you. I have a few logistical challenges to work through and also have concerns about the heat which I think will mean some very short and early days at the start and then probably some very long days middle and end as I think I will only have a max of 35 days or so so its going to be tough! i normally just turn and and walk but this one takes a bit more though and planning!!

Thank You
@TravellingMan2022 - I do hope our paths coincide at some point. I will definitely start slow, early mornings and short kms. And see how I go when my trail fitness improves. I hope you don't do it too tough. I am reminded that the journey is the Way and getting to Santiago is only part of the story and sometimes even the least part. Buen Camino 😀
 
Hi Rita,
I did mine in a comfortable 43 days in April/May which included a leisurely 4 days to Astorga from Granja to complete the VDP, and rest days for sightseeing in Merida, Caceres and Salamanca all of which were preceded or followed by short days. I also had a rest day in Seville after the 6 days from Cadiz. After Salamanca I didn't feel the need for a rest day although I did have a short day into Ourense. I did end up with a couple of 40k+ days, both unplanned. I have the stages recorded on Track my Tour. I go with an outline plan which I don't follow slavishly allowing for enjoyment of the way, catching any niggles early, places that take my fancy or to conform with acquaintances met along the way. I find it hard to stop once in the rhythm but there are some really great places to absorb along the VDP and when coming from even further down under want the maximum bang for my devalued buck ! I can recommend downloading the Wise Pilgrim App.

PS there are two minor conundrums. 1. Caceres to Canaveral and 2. Carcaboso to Aldeanueva del Camino.
The first one usually means a short 10km hop to Casar de Caceres as there is no accommodation from there to Canaveral despite what my 2022 guide book said ! Unfortunately this means you can't avoid the 34k day from Casar to Canaveral unless someone plugs the gap with an accommodation solution in between times. The second one there is a good solution. The Hostal Restaurante Asturias (Jarilla). This is effectively a roadside hotel with great food and good accommodation. I've seen it slagged off unjustifiably. It has a great BBQ grill and the staff were brilliant. You take a roughly 1.5km detour to get to it but you can then just parallel the road in the morning to link back up so it doesn't really cost you any great distance. There is also another scenic route/ex railway line you can take (via verde) from there to join the official VDP. They will even pick you up in their van if you need it. This means you are not forced into a 39k day and you don't miss anything of note. It also means a 22k-ish day to Banos de Montemayor the next day which is a far nicer town.
@Blister Bill - Thanks so much for the additional information. Very useful. My friend who walked VdlP as her first Camino said that a few times she had to go a bit off the trail to get accommodation and split up the longer stages.
It looks like you averaged 23 km per day (1000 / 43) which is a bit over my 'usual' average of 18-20 km per day.
Yes, coming from so far away I want to make the best of it - and I do have plenty of time. I am planning Finisterre and Muxia at the end. If I unexpectedly wiz along VdlP (haha) and still have spare days I can chill out on somwhere or walk some more somewhere.
 
New Original Camino Gear Designed Especially with The Modern Peregrino In Mind!
As I have already walked the first half of the camino in April/May, I will walk the second part of the Via de la Plata in September, starting from Salamanca. I think (hope) that from Salamanca onwards, temperatures will be lower than in Andalucia and Extremadura.
We also walked to Salamanca in March, but are planning to walk from Salamanca from the start of September. We share your thoughts on temperature. Buen camino.
 
We also walked to Salamanca in March, but are planning to walk from Salamanca from the start of September. We share your thoughts on temperature. Buen camino.
We will leave Salamanca on 8th of September and hope for 'moderate' temperatures. Buen camino to you also.
 
While I never worried about walking CF alone in 2006 I am beginning to wonder if I will be the only person walking up through the middle of Spain in early Sept - and have had thoughts / questions around safety.
I have even considered doing another route but my inner guidance keeps returning me to VDLP.
I am starting in Seville but not sure of the exact date yet. There is one person posted as starting on 5 Sept but I don't think I will get there by then.
Would love some info on numbers of pilgrims on that route so far this year.
My sister, my cousin and I will be starting in Orense on September 10. Looks like it might be hot and rainy at the same time!
 
St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
If you would rather not do the big city thing, (not exactly a rest), I would say Baños de Montemayor. There's a really comfortable albergue, nice eating and the fabulous baths. That is my idea of a rest.
And I think Baños is almost exactly half way.
View attachment 128531 I think I took this from the albergue
@Peregrinopaul
I am staying in Aldeanueva tonight and realised Banos de Montemayor is coming up next. Thanks for the recommendation. I think it will be another short day for me and a splash in the baths. Yeah!!!
 
Hi Rita,
I did mine in a comfortable 43 days in April/May which included a leisurely 4 days to Astorga from Granja to complete the VDP, and rest days for sightseeing in Merida, Caceres and Salamanca all of which were preceded or followed by short days. I also had a rest day in Seville after the 6 days from Cadiz. After Salamanca I didn't feel the need for a rest day although I did have a short day into Ourense. I did end up with a couple of 40k+ days, both unplanned. I have the stages recorded on Track my Tour. I go with an outline plan which I don't follow slavishly allowing for enjoyment of the way, catching any niggles early, places that take my fancy or to conform with acquaintances met along the way. I find it hard to stop once in the rhythm but there are some really great places to absorb along the VDP and when coming from even further down under want the maximum bang for my devalued buck ! I can recommend downloading the Wise Pilgrim App.

PS there are two minor conundrums. 1. Caceres to Canaveral and 2. Carcaboso to Aldeanueva del Camino.
The first one usually means a short 10km hop to Casar de Caceres as there is no accommodation from there to Canaveral despite what my 2022 guide book said ! Unfortunately this means you can't avoid the 34k day from Casar to Canaveral unless someone plugs the gap with an accommodation solution in between times. The second one there is a good solution. The Hostal Restaurante Asturias (Jarilla). This is effectively a roadside hotel with great food and good accommodation. I've seen it slagged off unjustifiably. It has a great BBQ grill and the staff were brilliant. You take a roughly 1.5km detour to get to it but you can then just parallel the road in the morning to link back up so it doesn't really cost you any great distance. There is also another scenic route/ex railway line you can take (via verde) from there to join the official VDP. They will even pick you up in their van if you need it. This means you are not forced into a 39k day and you don't miss anything of note. It also means a 22k-ish day to Banos de Montemayor the next day which is a far nicer town.
I stayed in the Hostal Asturias. It was on the Spanish National Day so I was very happy to be bedded down with a restaurant downstairs. It was absolutely fine and meant I could really enjoy some shorter stages.
 
@Peregrinopaul
I am staying in Aldeanueva tonight and realised Banos de Montemayor is coming up next. Thanks for the recommendation. I think it will be another short day for me and a splash in the baths. Yeah!!!
There was alovely albergue in Baños that was upstairs above a museum of the VdlP. I just checked Gronze and it's the Albergue turistico. It looks like they have taken over the ground floor too, so maybe no museum now.
 
Down bag (90/10 duvet) of 700 fills with 180 g (6.34 ounces) of filling. Mummy-shaped structure, ideal when you are looking for lightness with great heating performance.

€149,-
I have fond memories of the place from 2012. Shared the albergue with one other peregrino, a Spanish gentleman, walking. (I was on a bike). He turned out to be the Professor of Sociology at Barcelona University, spoke excellent English, and was a fount of knowledge on all things camino. He suggested the baths.
He also insisted that I should stay at Fuenterroble, which I would have missed because I was doing two walk-stages per day. That turned out to be a wonderful experience, and remains my all-time favourite Albergue, still run by Fr Blas, I understand.
 
There was alovely albergue in Baños that was upstairs above a museum of the VdlP. I just checked Gronze and it's the Albergue turistico. It looks like they have taken over the ground floor too, so maybe no museum now.
I went there - all up hill- but it was ‘completo’ and this this hot tired woman had to ask for a seat before being led to the back yard to take a break. I wasn’t too impressed with the blank faces that greeted me there. But very glad it made me walk on to the best albergue ever in Puerto.
 
I went there - all up hill- but it was ‘completo’ and this this hot tired woman had to ask for a seat before being led to the back yard to take a break. I wasn’t too impressed with the blank faces that greeted me there. But very glad it made me walk on to the best albergue ever in Puerto.
...and then you had to get yourself over the pass, on the Roman road?
P6180525 (1).jpeg
My pic from 2012.
Don't know the albergue in P de B, but I remember the lovely track downhill from there, through the woods.
After Puerto de Bejar (1).jpeg
 
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-
Thank you for your advice. I live in Sydney Australia and so am familiar with the heat. In fact these days we often consider 30 degrees to be not so bad and over 35 to be hot. However I don't think I want to walk in temps over 35 degrees. I have friend who walked in September about 8 years ago and found it hot but manageable.
Having said that I can see this year in Spain is pretty unbearable in terms of heat at the moment. I was hoping it would cool down a bit by September. My return home from Europe is booked for 30 Nov so I can delay my start date. Will see how it goes.
Anyway thanks again for your advice.
I walked it in May and June, sone very hot days , but nothing that couldn’t be over come by an early start and litres of water
 
I walked it in May and June, sone very hot days , but nothing that couldn’t be over come by an early start and litres of water
A comfort factor for people like me is that on a bike you create your own breeze, which makes a big difference.
 
Technical backpack for day trips with backpack cover and internal compartment for the hydration bladder. Ideal daypack for excursions where we need a medium capacity backpack. The back with Air Flow System creates large air channels that will keep our back as cool as possible.

€83,-

Most read last week in this forum

Hi I am looking for my next Camino and like the look of this one starting in Seville. I am a solitary individual and comfortable with my own company. My last one was the camino Madrid which was...
I am posting daily blog style updates on Facebook that anyone can see and follow: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.8095032397178476&type=3 There are also video format stories visible on...
Hey folks. I started the Mozarabe from Almeria and took time out in Salamanca to do a 3 week Spanish course in USAL. The course was fine. 4 hours a day. For the first week we had an excellent...
Y’all, one week from today I get on the plane to fly to Sevilla. Growing anxiety. I will start El Camino on April 6. I hope to report progress here and continue to look for advice. How does...
Hello, First time posting but as Google hasn't been helpful I was hoping others here might be able to help with an odd query. I am considering the Via de la Plata from Seville via Sanabres as my...
Does anybody have any good ideas about secure carparking whilst doing the Vía de la Plata from Sevilla to Merida please?

❓How to ask a question

How to post a new question on the Camino Forum.

Forum Rules

Forum Rules

Camino Updates on YouTube

Camino Conversations

Most downloaded Resources

This site is run by Ivar at

in Santiago de Compostela.
This site participates in the Amazon Affiliate program, designed to provide a means for Ivar to earn fees by linking to Amazon
Official Camino Passport (Credential) | 2024 Camino Guides
Back
Top