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During the several caminos I’ve walked, I’ve observed my mind provides the greatest challenge - to walk faster, farther and sooner than my body can handle.
Whether it’s because of the adrenaline that powers everyone early in a Camino or from wanting to ‘keep up’ with an interesting group or...
The CF has the most infrastructure tailored to the pilgrim - plenty of places to stay, easy way finding, lots of English spoken, etc.
Be wary of your training, daily long distances with a loaded pack can create crippling tendinitis, etc even for the most fit walkers. I’ve witnessed marathoners...
although my symptoms of vertigo (viral cause) are a lot less than several years back, it can be a challenge.
I have walked many Caminos and the symptoms occasionally get worse But I’ve become familiar with what works for me.
if you haven’t consulted with a balance physio therapist, that person...
I have foot challenges as well and Hoka has been my ‘go-to’ for over 4 years. I have accepted that they a short life span ( approx 500km) - less on hard surfaces- asphalt, concrete, cobble & more on trail surfaces. I’ve concluded the comfort outweighs purchasing 2-3 pairs per year.
Dry bags keep the dry in and the moisture and bugs out. They are great to take your stuff to the shower and stay dry. They make a great’purse’ in a pinch. You can strap them in the outside your pack and know your stuff is protected. They act as compression bags. I use the utra light...
Just a few things to take into account when planning wardrobe..
Are you a ‘cold’ person or a ‘warm’ person .. I tend to be “cold” so long sleeves are my go-to
Spain is a cold country with a hot sun. When the sun goes down or before the sun rises (after 7:30 am or 8am) or it is a cloudy day it...
The Norte is known for its ‘ups & down’- especially in the Basque region (up to Bilbao) Would suggest you check on website gronze.com which shows the routes and the elevation profiles to do the comparison.
I use maps.me along with the Camino route downloads from Santiago.nl/downloads. I then use maps.me to pinpoint my accommodation for the night .. helps me to get to my destination at the end of a long day.
Buen Camino
Many many pilgrims walk from Sarria to Santiago so they can walk the 100km to obtain their Compostela. Starting before Sarria may provide you a taste of the Camino before the larger number of pilgrims begin walking. Sunrise is earlier in the May/June (6-ish) vs 7:15-7:30-ish in September. Any...
It really depends how long you will be walking. Merino can be worn for several days without washing. Some synthetic clothes tend to ‘bake in’ the smell after a while even with frequent washing. I encountered someone who washed their shirt daily but after a few weeks, you could smell that shirt...
It rains most days especially in the Basque Country whether it’s a light mist, fast downpour, a gentle shower or all day. The albergues have news paper to stuff in your boots which works well. I was kitted out in rain jacket, rain pants, pack cover , waterproof stuff bags but regretted not...
I walked the Norte starting from Irun. I flew to Madrid than took a flight to San Sebastián. The airport is actually in Irun so I walked from the airport to my accommodations.
I’m a frequent solo female camino hiker in my late 60’s and have used technology to advise my family at home of my whereabouts without my having to constantly contact everyone. I use an IPhone, perhaps others can advise how this can be done on an Android phone. The first three tips do not...
As others have said - comfort and fit when fully loaded is one of the most important things to consider.
Another important consideration is total of your kit and backpack are also important. ( larger backpacks weight more)
Are you a minimalist or maximalist with your clothes and equipment? It...
You can also purchase ibuprofen gel at the local pharmacies( it is behind the counter) which is a good generic substitute however be mindful of the dosage. The Spanish version tends to be stronger.
Would agree. It’s the descent that is the challenge. Knees and shins beware ! Slow, steady and preferably with trekking poles. I saw some folks descending by the road which brings a traffic hazard.
Molinaseca is a beautiful place and worth the overnight stay.
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