• Get your Camino Frances Guidebook here.
  • 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

83 years young

skydiva

Member
Time of past OR future Camino
Frances-Finisterre 2018
Frances + Portugues 2022
As a companion on the Camino Frances (from OCebreiro to Santiago) to my new friend and now-adopted uncle: 83 year old Francis, I was struck by how walking the Camino, through the eyes (and pace) of an elder, has re-opened my eyes to the beauty of slowing life down to what others may deem a snail’s pace. In the beginning I was somewhat impatient and not really understanding the full depth of our journey. My first camino in 2018 from SJPdP was not quick by any means but I averaged 22km a day over 42 walking days. It was a tough and pleasurable/love-hate long haul. But I kept going like the effervescently smiling — when not crying — energizer bunny (with debilitating blisters and a built in limp). And the miles flew by at a pace that felt doable each and every day. This journey just ended was more of a mental experience that involved a different level of commitment to mine and Francis’s well-being, through the rain, sun and surprisingly cold days. The end result was similar. A joyous journey that culminated in spectacular memories, beautiful connections and a renewal to my love of all things Camino, including the people from and my lessons learned along the Way.

I implore anyone that feels that they are uncertain or unable to walk the Camino, to consider this experience as an undertaking of resilience and beauty that is not defined by the kilometres walked but rather the journey in itself as a moment by moment unfolding of wonder, breath and gratitude. Giving oneself the grace to allow for an experience like no other, with no particular expectations, is a gift that will transform you regardless of age or fitness.
 

Attachments

  • D52152CA-BF29-414E-BF52-BAB687DA05B7.jpeg
    D52152CA-BF29-414E-BF52-BAB687DA05B7.jpeg
    1.1 MB · Views: 3,042
Last edited:
St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
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,-
While only 73, I agree with you on the slower aspects. Last year, I had to face the reality that I couldn't walk 15-18 miles a day any longer without the pleasure going out of the walk. Once you realize that, and cut back to 10-12 max you have more of a day to just sit back and absorb where you are, who you are, and what your priorities are. Still, not looking forward to cutting back anymore. Just glad I can still walk a Camino.
 
As a companion on the Camino Frances (from OCebreiro to Santiago) to my new friend and now-adopted uncle: 83 year old Francis, I was struck by how walking the Camino, through the eyes (and pace) of an elder, has re-opened my eyes to the beauty of slowing life down to what others may deem a snail’s pace. In the beginning I was somewhat impatient and not really understanding the full depth of our journey. My first camino in 2018 from SJPdP was not quick by any means but I averaged 22km a day over 42 walking days. It was a tough and pleasurable/love-hate long haul. But I kept going like the energizer bunny. And the miles flew by at a pace that felt doable each and every day. This journey just ended was more of a mental experience that involved a different level of commitment to mine and Francis’s well-being, through the rain, sun and surprisingly cold days. The end result was similar. A joyous journey that culminated in spectacular memories, beautiful connections and a renewal to my love of all things Camino, including the people from and my lessons learned along the Way.

I implore anyone that feels that they are uncertain or unable to walk the Camino, to consider this experience as an undertaking of resilience and beauty that is not defined by the kilometres walked but rather the journey in itself as a moment by moment unfolding of wonder, breath and gratitude. Giving oneself the grace to allow for an experience like no other, with no particular expectations, is a gift that will transform you regardless of age or fitness.
Really, really resounds with me. That is so much my experience, too, in walking the two caminos I have walked. First one at 74 then76 and am determined again to walk after my 80th in a few months. thanks for posting.
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
While only 73, I agree with you on the slower aspects. Last year, I had to face the reality that I couldn't walk 15-18 miles a day any longer without the pleasure going out of the walk. Once you realize that, and cut back to 10-12 max you have more of a day to just sit back and absorb where you are, who you are, and what your priorities are. Still, not looking forward to cutting back anymore. Just glad I can still walk a Camino.
Thanks for this comment, John. You put it so well. I'm 72 and appear to have slowed down considerably since Porto Caminho in 2019. Now heading to Oviedo for two weeks of walking and hope to do the Porto again in the spring. Back story: I was laid up with a painful right hip that ortho said wasn't ready for replacement. That wasn't my question! I wanted to be back on camino. My doc agreed to prescribe a Chiropractor. Within 7 weeks of work on two scoliosis areas, my hip stopped hurting. I was lightly trekking along glacier in Iceland, without pain. Your words capture exactly how I feel now. All I wanted was to get back on Camino and let the walk take over, at whatever pace I can rise to.
 
Beautifully written.

I never walked that fast, only did 20 km max any given day. I walked more for time than for distance. Wherever I was after 5/6 hours, that was the end of the "stage." I then settled in to my albergue, enjoyed the town or village, and rested.

Start out like an old man so you can finish like a young man, that's my motto. It hasn't failed me yet (fingers crossed).
 
What a beautiful role you played for your friend! Thank you so much for sharing your story! Your experience inspires me to offer myself to an elder (ha! I am 66...) to do a slow walk on the Camino...especially if otherwise they would not be able to do it. I have walked 5 Caminos and despite knowing better, I rush myself, get caught up in comparisons with other pilgrims and external timelines. It would be as beneficial to me as (hopefully!) to my companion. Ultreia!
 
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,-
As a companion on the Camino Frances (from OCebreiro to Santiago) to my new friend and now-adopted uncle: 83 year old Francis, I was struck by how walking the Camino, through the eyes (and pace) of an elder, has re-opened my eyes to the beauty of slowing life down to what others may deem a snail’s pace. In the beginning I was somewhat impatient and not really understanding the full depth of our journey. My first camino in 2018 from SJPdP was not quick by any means but I averaged 22km a day over 42 walking days. It was a tough and pleasurable/love-hate long haul. But I kept going like the energizer bunny. And the miles flew by at a pace that felt doable each and every day. This journey just ended was more of a mental experience that involved a different level of commitment to mine and Francis’s well-being, through the rain, sun and surprisingly cold days. The end result was similar. A joyous journey that culminated in spectacular memories, beautiful connections and a renewal to my love of all things Camino, including the people from and my lessons learned along the Way.

I implore anyone that feels that they are uncertain or unable to walk the Camino, to consider this experience as an undertaking of resilience and beauty that is not defined by the kilometres walked but rather the journey in itself as a moment by moment unfolding of wonder, breath and gratitude. Giving oneself the grace to allow for an experience like no other, with no particular expectations, is a gift that will transform you regardless of age or fitness.
Seems like you have gained wisdom from your first Camino. Well done.
 
€2,-/day will present your project to thousands of visitors each day. All interested in the Camino de Santiago.
As a companion on the Camino Frances (from OCebreiro to Santiago) to my new friend and now-adopted uncle: 83 year old Francis, I was struck by how walking the Camino, through the eyes (and pace) of an elder, has re-opened my eyes to the beauty of slowing life down to what others may deem a snail’s pace. In the beginning I was somewhat impatient and not really understanding the full depth of our journey. My first camino in 2018 from SJPdP was not quick by any means but I averaged 22km a day over 42 walking days. It was a tough and pleasurable/love-hate long haul. But I kept going like the energizer bunny. And the miles flew by at a pace that felt doable each and every day. This journey just ended was more of a mental experience that involved a different level of commitment to mine and Francis’s well-being, through the rain, sun and surprisingly cold days. The end result was similar. A joyous journey that culminated in spectacular memories, beautiful connections and a renewal to my love of all things Camino, including the people from and my lessons learned along the Way.

I implore anyone that feels that they are uncertain or unable to walk the Camino, to consider this experience as an undertaking of resilience and beauty that is not defined by the kilometres walked but rather the journey in itself as a moment by moment unfolding of wonder, breath and gratitude. Giving oneself the grace to allow for an experience like no other, with no particular expectations, is a gift that will transform you regardless of age or fitness.
What a splendid experience! And thanks for including the photo, your smiles are heartwarming.
 
Thank you 'old' folk for your encouraging posts today.
I will be 74 in April next year and am intending to do my first Camino Frances about that time although I'm not sure about the dates as I don't relish crowds or hot weather.
I do live in Cornwall, that is south west Uk.so have no problem with rain!
I did read on previous posts that the Camino get busy towards the end of May. So I am up for some advice about the options, please.
Once again thank you all for your posts which go from helpful to really funny I wanted to put hilarious but couldn't spell it.
Bless you all, I am going to call myself Kernow Mike as in Cornwall.
 
Follow the weather but starting towards the end of April may be your best bet. If you start in SJP, be sure to stay the night in Orisson. Or just start on the other side of the Pyrennes.
I usually start early, esp if it is hot. This usually allows me to be finished about 2 PM. Once you get an idea of how far you can/want to go, if it loois like you can’t make your distance by 2 PM, and it looks busy, locate a private albergue in advance (in the guidebook) to make a reservation 1 day ahead.
 
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,-
While my friend and I walked the Frances 'by the book' and took 600 pictures between us. When we got back and reviewed our trip, I decided that the 'by the book' was just getting from point A to point B and although the Camino was the best trip of my life. I will do the Slow Frances in about 63 days next year to experience the culture and people more. I'll be 76 then.
Thanks for your post and your work.
 
Two excellent pieces of advice, thank you. I probably will start towards the end of April and allow my legs along with the environment to set the pace. For me it is to be a pilgrimage not a race where I am looking to learn something about what the future holds for me. Never too old to learn.
My children think I am mad!!!
 
Two excellent pieces of advice, thank you. I probably will start towards the end of April and allow my legs along with the environment to set the pace. For me it is to be a pilgrimage not a race where I am looking to learn something about what the future holds for me. Never too old to learn.
My children think I am mad!!!
I found it really challenging to not get caught up in the excitement of others, and think ‘what am I missing?’. It starts when they pack their bags hurriedly in the wee hours of the morning. And then when they whisked by along the way, sometimes with a quick hello chat but usually just a passing Buen Camino. Much to my companions amusement, I would marvel at his sprightly young age and they would often be amazed and retort ‘if only I could walk the Camino at your age, I would be so blessed.’ He was often tickled. Do that to woman and she would ‘Buen slap’ you 😂 methinks.
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
Transport luggage-passengers.
From airports to SJPP
Luggage from SJPP to Roncevalles
Really, really resounds with me. That is so much my experience, too, in walking the two caminos I have walked. First one at 74 then76 and am determined again to walk after my 80th in a few months. thanks for posting.
Hi there
You can and eill do it again -
My husband and I walked the Camino Frances May/June 2022
- I am in my 80th year and my husband in his 83rd year what an unbelievable adventure - we had so much , laughter, adventures, new friends, in awe of the breathtaking scenery, achieved so much more than we ever dreamt of , but most of all love - and celebrated our 60th wedding anniversary along the way

We plan to walk our 3 rd May Camino 2023
Go with your dreams
HRR
 
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,-
Hi there
You can and eill do it again -
My husband and I walked the Camino Frances May/June 2022
- I am in my 80th year and my husband in his 83rd year what an unbelievable adventure - we had so much , laughter, adventures, new friends, in awe of the breathtaking scenery, achieved so much more than we ever dreamt of , but most of all love - and celebrated our 60th wedding anniversary along the way

We plan to walk our 3 rd May Camino 2023
Go with your dreams
HRR
My hero’s!
 
As a companion on the Camino Frances (from OCebreiro to Santiago) to my new friend and now-adopted uncle: 83 year old Francis, I was struck by how walking the Camino, through the eyes (and pace) of an elder, has re-opened my eyes to the beauty of slowing life down to what others may deem a snail’s pace. In the beginning I was somewhat impatient and not really understanding the full depth of our journey. My first camino in 2018 from SJPdP was not quick by any means but I averaged 22km a day over 42 walking days. It was a tough and pleasurable/love-hate long haul. But I kept going like the effervescently smiling — when not crying — energizer bunny (with debilitating blisters and a built in limp). And the miles flew by at a pace that felt doable each and every day. This journey just ended was more of a mental experience that involved a different level of commitment to mine and Francis’s well-being, through the rain, sun and surprisingly cold days. The end result was similar. A joyous journey that culminated in spectacular memories, beautiful connections and a renewal to my love of all things Camino, including the people from and my lessons learned along the Way.

I implore anyone that feels that they are uncertain or unable to walk the Camino, to consider this experience as an undertaking of resilience and beauty that is not defined by the kilometres walked but rather the journey in itself as a moment by moment unfolding of wonder, breath and gratitude. Giving oneself the grace to allow for an experience like no other, with no particular expectations, is a gift that will transform you regardless of age or fitness.
Your last paragraph is beautifully stated. I have just finished walking the Norte route and am in a bit of a daze as to how to « define » it as friends and family ask how was it. « A moment by moment unfolding of wonder, breath and gratitude « Lovely. And for my camino, apt. Thanks.
 
I tend to read quite a lot of posts, but rarely reply. This one, however, was lovely, and warrants a response. Thanks @skydiva. All being well (stars aligning, etc), on 16 September 2023 (delayed from 2022), two days after my 71st birthday, my wife and I will depart Sevilla for the 1,000 klms north to SdC.
 
The focus is on reducing the risk of failure through being well prepared. 2nd ed.
Thank you 'old' folk for your encouraging posts today.
I will be 74 in April next year and am intending to do my first Camino Frances about that time although I'm not sure about the dates as I don't relish crowds or hot weather.
I do live in Cornwall, that is south west Uk.so have no problem with rain!
I did read on previous posts that the Camino get busy towards the end of May. So I am up for some advice about the options, please.
Once again thank you all for your posts which go from helpful to really funny I wanted to put hilarious but couldn't spell it.
Bless you all, I am going to call myself Kernow Mike as in Cornwall.
Mike I'm 74 and turn 75 next April - one of the 'old folk'.
Avoid walking in the heat. It's awful with a pack (even without one!). Start early in the Spring. We did the Le Puy route for the 2nd time starting on 28 March this year. Cool, beautiful, and the occasional day of snow.
Over the years we've grown to love the cold, and changeable weather.
Friends & acquaintances our age think we are mad. We think it keeps us sane. You're not "old" Mike. Barring accidents & illness, it is just a number.
Ignore it. Stay fit. Keep trekking. If you can punch through the occasional bout of fatigue then, eventually, (assuming you are inherently healthy - get a checkup) you will feel better than you did at 50.
Take it easy in the morning until you warm up.
If you live in Cornwall then I guess you are inherently tough anyway ;-)
best
Dan
P.S. not pretty - but this was my birthday in April this year - on the way to Ostabat
IMG_0281.jpeg
 
Last edited:
Join our full-service guided tour and let us convert you into a Pampered Pilgrim!
As a companion on the Camino Frances (from OCebreiro to Santiago) to my new friend and now-adopted uncle: 83 year old Francis, I was struck by how walking the Camino, through the eyes (and pace) of an elder, has re-opened my eyes to the beauty of slowing life down to what others may deem a snail’s pace. In the beginning I was somewhat impatient and not really understanding the full depth of our journey. My first camino in 2018 from SJPdP was not quick by any means but I averaged 22km a day over 42 walking days. It was a tough and pleasurable/love-hate long haul. But I kept going like the effervescently smiling — when not crying — energizer bunny (with debilitating blisters and a built in limp). And the miles flew by at a pace that felt doable each and every day. This journey just ended was more of a mental experience that involved a different level of commitment to mine and Francis’s well-being, through the rain, sun and surprisingly cold days. The end result was similar. A joyous journey that culminated in spectacular memories, beautiful connections and a renewal to my love of all things Camino, including the people from and my lessons learned along the Way.

I implore anyone that feels that they are uncertain or unable to walk the Camino, to consider this experience as an undertaking of resilience and beauty that is not defined by the kilometres walked but rather the journey in itself as a moment by moment unfolding of wonder, breath and gratitude. Giving oneself the grace to allow for an experience like no other, with no particular expectations, is a gift that will transform you regardless of age or fitness.
Beautiful. Simply put...the world is a better place with people like you in it...
 
implore anyone that feels that they are uncertain or unable to walk the Camino, to consider this experience as an undertaking of resilience and beauty that is not defined by the kilometres walked but rather the journey in itself as a moment by moment unfolding of wonder, breath and gratitude. Giving oneself the grace to allow for an experience like no other, with no particular expectations, is a gift that will transform you regardless of age or fitness.
Yes. Gracias. Merci. Thank you @skydiva. 🙏
 
Last edited:
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.
Last edited:
@Bradypus, thanks so much for sharing this remarkable story!
Maybe some of us retirees won't have to hang up our boots for a very long time yet.🤞I think we have a few forum members still walking Caminos at 80+🤔...shorter ones perhaps, but still going.
 
This Spring I finished my 4th Camino, this year being my 80th birthday. I definitely have slowed and easy 15 mile days are things of the past. However, the Camino Magic is still there.
Good for you , it's all about the walk and not about the speed. 🙏
 
Join our full-service guided tour and let us convert you into a Pampered Pilgrim!
I am always surprised that others are surprised that folks are still walking in their 80's. I walked my first camino in 2009 at 71 and have been walking ever since. Fitness is a much bigger factor than the number of years of breathing.:cool:

I have always carried my own pack (as a personal choice) and avoided transportation as much as possible.
 

Most read last week in this forum

My name is Henrik and I will be coming down to SJPdP from Sweden on March 26 and start walking on March 27. I don't really have any experience and I'm not the best at planning and I'm a little...
When I hiked the Frances Route this happened. I was hiking in the afternoon just east of Arzua. I was reserved a bed at an albergue in Arzua, so I had already hiked all the way from San Xulien...
I am finalizing my packing list for Frances, and do not want to over pack. (I am 71) I will be starting at SJPdP on April 25th to Roncesvalles and forward. I was hoping on some advise as to...
First marker starting from Albergue Monasterio de la Magdalena in Sarria (113.460 km) Start: 2023.9.29 07:22 Arrival: 2023.9.30 13:18 walking time : 26 hours 47 minutes rest time : 3 hours 8...
A local Navarra website has posted a set of photos showing today's snowfall in the area around Roncesvalles. About 15cm of snow fell this morning surprising pilgrims on the way...
Hi! I’m a first time pilgrim. Is it possible to take a taxi from Astorga to Foncebadon? Thanks, Felicia

❓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