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I walked in July as guidebook said many albergues were only open July and August. From Bilbao experienced overcrowding due to number of young people who were using it as cheap accommodation rather than a pilgrimage. Aggravated by them partying into night. I went onto Primitivo and problem gone.
I would favour starting at Irun, which is practical from the point of view of flying from UK to Biarritz and getting bus to Hendaye. I started from Irun at 1pm and arrived at the delightful albergue at Pasajes de San Juan at 5pm. Hard walking but if you take your time should be ok for your wife...
I started from Irun on 5 July 2014 walking the Norte and then the Primitivo. Until I reached Santander I found that there were a large number of young pilgrims walking relatively short stretches more as a holiday than a pilgrimage. Most were delightful company but could be very noisy into the...
Arrived Irun mid-day and was concerned that I may not get a bed at Pasajes De San Juan. Arrived at 5pm and I was the first there! Feet did suffer in first 3 or 4 days due to stoney paths, particularly on first day. Blisters on toes but soon healed. Fortunately I am fit, being a long distance...
To encourage the youngsters considering the Norte/Primitivo route, I started from Hendaye on 5 July and arrived Santiago on 31 July, walking the complete distance. I am 71 years old and confess that at times I was a trifle weary. I was on my own except that I walked on a number of days with...
Arriving Irun mid-day 5 July to start Camino. Plan to stay Pasaia Donibane first night. Walked Francais in September 2012 and looking forward to new challenge. Just a young lad of 71!
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