Booking hostels in advance

[Magnar Eagles]

Hullo, all. I'm planning on starting my first Camino Frances in mid-September from St Jean. Do people usually book their hostel spots in advance, and if so how many days ahead? Or, like my brother when he did his Camino, just rock up and see what is available when you are feeling tired?

 

[C clearly]

I don't think there is any data to show what is "usual." People do it all ways.

Many think it's wise to book your first night in SJPP. It is required to book if you want to stay in Orisson and might be a good idea for Roncesvalles in mid-Septrmber. Other than that, you can play it by ear and just book a day or 2 in advance, depending on the situation.

 

[SYates]

Hi and welcome to the forum @Magnar Eagles
Like @C clearly has written, the typical "bottleneck" is from SJPdP to Pamplona, normally booking one, max. two days ahead should be enough (with the exception of Orrisson which you need to book well in advance) after that it is easier to wing it ;-) Buen Camino, SY

 

[Peter Fransiscus]

Hi , when you want to stay in the Albergue Orisson you have to book it in advance .
For the rest of your journey watch it a few day's at the time.
And maybe when you approached Santiago you can book a few day's there aswell.
Wish you a wonderful time and a Buen Camino,Peter.

 

[Magnar Eagles]

Sage advice, many thanks.

 

[fraluchi]

Apart from the SJPP-Pamplona possible bottleneck (Orisson booking is a must), as you get along you should not have any problem in finding accommodation until +/- the third week of October. From that date onward, various albergues may close, reason for which you should take information at that time and book accordingly.

 

[Lisa HS]

It all depends on how you like to roll. For me, stopping several times a day to rest (and yes, down another cafe con leche) was crucial to my remaining uninjured. To make that possible, and not feel stressed about getting a bed, I always booked one day in advance (with a private albergue). I knew each morning where I would be that night. It made me feel so much more relaxed and confident. As for spontaneity, I never felt stuck with my decision. The few times I decided to change my plans, I just called and canceled, and they were always happy to accommodate. This is what worked very well for me...but many people I met and walked with preferred the "show up and see" method.

 

[FLEUR]

@Lisa HS I absolutely agree. As we walked the various stages and got more experience we mostly did the same as you.

 

[Jingles]

Hello, I'm starting from SJPP in early August, and I'm concerned about not getting a bed! how do you go about booking in advance please? Jean

 

[Lisa HS]

Hello, I'm starting from SJPP in early August, and I'm concerned about not getting a bed! how do you go about booking in advance please? Jean

Just phone any of the private albergues the day before. You will need a few words of Spanish, but only a few. I speak almost no Spanish, and I just used " Hola. ¿Tiene usted una cama para mañana?" They will say "uno momento....si...como se llama? " Then you give them your name and you're good to go. Easy peasy. BTW, you should have a reservation for Orisson NOW if you intend to stop there on the way over the mountains.

 

[Jingles]

Thanks Lisa, sorry if I sound dim, but how do I find the names and contact details of the albergues? Is this info online?

 

[Lisa HS]

Thanks Lisa, sorry if I sound dim, but how do I find the names and contact details of the albergues? Is this info online?

There are NO silly or dim questions! You will get a list of albergues at the Pilgrim's office in SJPdP. You should also have a guide book (there are many) that will have albergue suggestions. Also, look at this forum for people's suggestions as to their favorites. Last (but not least) I love the app at www.CaminoGuide.net. It's very simple to use and has most of the private and municipal/parochial albergues listed (although you will only be able to reserve ahead at the private albergues). I highly recommend it. Others might chime in here as to their favorite sources. Buen Camino!

 

[obinjatoo@yahoo.com]

Hullo, all. I'm planning on starting my first Camino Frances in mid-September from St Jean. Do people usually book their hostel spots in advance, and if so how many days ahead? Or, like my brother when he did his Camino, just rock up and see what is available when you are feeling tired?

I never booked in anywhere. It was fine. Ask yourself a simple question:
Am I walking a pilgrimage or am I on a cheap holiday?
The two are very different. Buen Camino!

 

[C clearly]

how do I find the names and contact details of the albergues?

Many of the private albergues are listed on booking.com, hotels.com, and other internet agencies.