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Have you looked after the accommodation options in Gronze?
https://www.gronze.com/camino-norte
I have walked in Norte during that time frame and yes, accommodation can be tight. San Sebastian and Deba are 2 bottlenecks, I experienced.
Congratulations, on completing your Camino, thanks for taking the time to keep us updated. You walked some long days and documented that a Norte in Winter, using a good number of Albergues is possible.
Enjoy Santiago, a nice celebratory lunch in San Martin Pinario, in a lovely setting, at...
Have a look at Gronze and read the reviews there...
One one occasion stayed in Pasajes and walked through San S.
On another stayed in San S in an inexpensive room in a "hostal" with a shared bathroom.
San S has a lot of "events", would recommend booking there.
Walked through Zarautz on both...
I have walked that section twice in Keen Newports. Many people were wearing low cut Merrels, Meindls, Scarpas, Hokas etc. A very few with mountaineering boots.
Bilbao, Bang in the city centre
Not sure why one might need freeze dried food in Spain?
Decathlon definitely sell decent gas stoves, etc.
Water in Spain is generally of a good quality ..
Did the same... Good option, take a good break in Deba. Izarbide uses WhatsApp for booking ahead.
Important you have supplies for the next day into Markina.
For the Norte recently, I used both Gronze and Wise Pilgrim.
Don't forget, "current information"(once on the Norte), from fellow pilgrims and at Albergues may trump any app or website!
Oh my God! Was there last week in the sunshine, but did have a very wet day walking earlier. That descent into Markina must have been something else.
Stay dry and keep that camera in a plastic bag!
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