Camino de Norte

[bofirithe]

Hi, I'm walking the northern route in may staring on the 1st. I've previously walked the Camino Francais, 3 years ago. Does anyone have any tips or recommendations? I've read a lot on it but haven't spoken to many people who've actually done it!

 

[MKalcolm M]

The Norte is a fantastic camino, I walked it in May/June last year and loved it. It is however very different from the Frances, and can be more challenging with longer days, less choice of where to stay and lack of cafes at a time and place where you need a coffee. If you think of it as a totally different experience and be open to what comes along, then you have the potential to really enjoy it. The hospitaleros at the alberges are usually well informed as to what your choices are for the next days walking, which often involves a simple choice eg walking 18km of 24km. There tends to be fewer pilgrims, but often a very good bond between them forms, and the camraderie is one of the best things of the camino. Prepare for a different experience, be open to what comes along and just follow the yellow arrows and you'll have a ball. Buen Camino!

 

[johns]

hi starting on the 5th may from irun myself.good walking.

 

[camino07]

I'm starting from Irun on 20th May and very avidly reading about others experiences. Keep them coming please! My Northern Camino's guide book is already dog-eared with all my notes.

 

[martz c]

My fiancee and i start the north on the 1st of may from san sebastian we might see you along the way!!
Have fun and enjoy!

 

[Xara712]

The Norte is a fantastic camino, I walked it in May/June last year and loved it. It is however very different from the Frances, and can be more challenging with longer days, less choice of where to stay and lack of cafes at a time and place where you need a coffee. If you think of it as a totally different experience and be open to what comes along, then you have the potential to really enjoy it. The hospitaleros at the alberges are usually well informed as to what your choices are for the next days walking, which often involves a simple choice eg walking 18km of 24km. There tends to be fewer pilgrims, but often a very good bond between them forms, and the camraderie is one of the best things of the camino. Prepare for a different experience, be open to what comes along and just follow the yellow arrows and you'll have a ball. Buen Camino!

I am from Scotland and would very much like to do the Norte and just wondering if you flew to Biarritz to start the journey. Thanks

 

[MKalcolm M]

Hi Catriona,
I flew from Edinburgh to Stanstead, then from there to Biarritz, arriving early afternoon, and caught a bus from the airport to Hendye, then the local commuter train to Irun. Feel free to contact me if I can be of any help. M

 

[Xara712]

Hi Catriona,
I flew from Edinburgh to Stanstead, then from there to Biarritz, arriving early afternoon, and caught a bus from the airport to Hendye, then the local commuter train to Irun. Feel free to contact me if I can be of any help. M

Hi M
Thank you for the information, I haven't decided yet what I am doing/going, so may be in touch in the future. Catriona

 

[Niconish]

Im starting august 5th from Irun! I know, i know, it is a longg way off )

 

[Niconish]

I will have 15 walking days and should be ending in santander... Should i get my flights/bus/train bk to Madrid now or is it easy enough to get a train or bus back when i am at santander?

 

[Trishkerry]

Hi .im walking the Norte route flying front London Standstead to biarritz on 27th May and setting off on 28th from Irun . Walked the Frances last May and now i am totally hooked. Enjoy and who knows i May even see u along the way.

 

[mralisn]

Walked the CN in '10 and will return shortly. Flying into Madrid, short flight to San Sebastian, then very small bus ride to Irun. The same as 4 years ago. This is a great walk and something entirely different than the Camino Frances.

Keep smile,
Simeon

 

[martz c]

We are in San Sebastian now enjoying food and vino before we head off on the adventure of a lifetime!! A couple of more days to go at the Tryporly Hotel then we are off!
Buen Camino