You can never outguess the weather! Starting mid-March to mid-April is good. If you've done those other Caminos you'll be fine. Just be prepared for long stretches between stops, food or water.
OR, if you have the time, walk the Primitivo to Melide. It joins the Frances there, and gets busy. Take the bus back to Ponferrada and walk the Invierno! They're both worth it!
I'm glad I walked it last spring, but wouldn't do it again. I didn't mind the solitude, but the long - some days over 30k - without ANYTHING, even water - or any place to stop or sit weren't enjoyable. I like the small villages, cafe con leche and second breakfast!
If you love the camaraderie, then I wouldn't recommend the Via de la Plata. It is often very solitary with many long stretches. Have you considered the Primitivo? I agree about timing - not very many pilgrims in the middle of winter. And yes, there's only one time for your first time. Reconsider...
Agree! I walk in my neighborhood and hike in the mountains nearby. And I don't want to spend more time driving than hiking, either!! I'm very happy with the hikes near me and not always looking for new or harder trails.
In 2021, we walked from SJPP to Burgos, then bussed to Oviedo. We couldn't choose between the Primitivo and the Invierno. So we bussed back to Ponferrada from Santiago and did them both!
I walked this year starting in Sevilla April 19. The first couple of weeks were HOT, then it got cold and windy. The terrain isn't difficult by and large, but the stages are long without stops for water or food and no way to make them shorter.
I found that it was best to leave behind those "luxury" or "just in case " things. I never really needed them. You can always buy things.
Water weight is water weight, bladder or bottle. I like the bladder to keep easily hydrated. You can fill it as much as you need. Buen Camino!
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