dpatterson0516
Member
- Time of past OR future Camino
- Camino del Norte
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Interesting, are there more surfers than peregrinos in October? Most of the surfers will be in camper-vans not sleeping in the albergues / hostals / hotels, surely?Norte accommodations also become problematic in October when the swells come in and tiny coastal town hostels are besieged by itinerant surfers…bro….
Hi D,Hola! I plan to hike my first Camino in Septemberf. I am leaning toward the Camino Del Norte due to the gorgeous ocean scenery, the vertical challenges and the smaller crowds. It seems the costs--especially for accommodation are significantly higher on CN than CF. Has anyone experienced both of these routes recently? How much more would a full 825 km trip (35-40 days) cost on CN over CF? Thanks.
I didn't walk it recently but back in 2017. What you said about costs being higher than on CF was true even then. Mind you, September is still high season in many vacation resorts you pass (and in many you would probably look for a bed for night) on the way. So costs and also availability might be a concern. I had to walk quite a few more kms than I wanted to quite a few times even when I didn't look for only albergues but was ready to pay for pensions or cheaper hotels, too. But, the way was beautiful, memorable, worth any difficulties that might come your way. My first camino was CF which was (as the 1st camino always is) the top but I loved Norte, Primitivo, and especially Via Podiensis just as well. Not so much C. Portuges from Lisbon though.Hola! I plan to hike my first Camino in Septemberf. I am leaning toward the Camino Del Norte due to the gorgeous ocean scenery, the vertical challenges and the smaller crowds. It seems the costs--especially for accommodation are significantly higher on CN than CF. Has anyone experienced both of these routes recently? How much more would a full 825 km trip (35-40 days) cost on CN over CF? Thanks.
Thank you. I've settled on the CN without tent! I used to have a recurring dream about a small hiker's tent and a large vintage canvas tent. When I asked my therapist why I was having this dream she said "you're too tense". (Old joke that works better verbally!)Hi D,
I walked the Norte (40 days from Irun to Santiago) in July and August in 2019. I don't understand any description of any of the many routes as "sightseeing with kinetic energy." In my understanding, the spirituality of every Camino emanates first and foremost from within yourself, and secondarily from whatever Camino you are led to walk. May you also find, as so many of us have, each special, precious soul you meet along the way to be your divine appointments to bless you on your journey. The reasons you gave for choosing the Norte are valid. Without question, you will get your gorgeous ocean scenery, the vertical challenges, and the smaller crowds." I did the walk for between $24-$30/day. I realize prices have risen, but I would encourage you not to make your decision on the potential difference of a few dollars per day one way or the other. I also encourage you to walk with a tent (REI has one called Milo that weighs 2 pounds). This will be a wonderful option anywhere along the Camino, but especially if you find yourself without lodging or want to camp next to the ocean and arise at dawn with a view (attached) that continues to inspire awe each time I view it. May God bless each step of your Camino knowing that it began the moment you knew in your heart, "I have to walk the Camino De Santiago!"
Thanks. I am looking for an adventure and open to what awaits!The Norte costs more.
How much is hard to give you an estimate on, because it depends on how you choose to do it. The Albergue prices are comparable between the two routes, but food and incidentals are higher on the Norte. The quality is also higher on the Norte. Private accommodations (hotels/hostals/Cr's) are much higher on the Norte. The big difference is that on the Frances, you are on a pilgrim focused route with most services geared toward pilgrims. On the Norte, you're just another backpacker walking through a busy tourist destination.
Nobody can help you choose a destination, because the choice is dictated by WHY you are walking. If this is a sightseeing tour coupled with a more kinetic physical challenge, the Norte is for you. If this is a spiritual journey of self discovery or a religious pilgrimage, everyone should walk the Frances first.
Thanks. I've checked the elevation profiles in my guidebook and I am cautiously optimistic.I have done both routes. I would warn against being advised about going up and down "mountains". Generally it is just up and down fairly small hills (my opinion only) more so on the Norte than the Frances. Look at profile maps of the routes and this will clearly show the difference between the two routes. The Norte is only slightly more difficult than the Frances. Just avoid the peak summer months when accommodation costs are at a premium in places such as San Sebastian and Bilbao. Outside these months, I found costs only 10 to 15 per cent above the Frances.
Thanks for laughing Trecile! I needed that. By the way Cannon Beach is one of my favorite places on the planet.Thank you. I've settled on the CN without tent! I used to have a recurring dream about a small hiker's tent and a large vintage canvas tent. When I asked my therapist why I was having this dream she said "you're too tense". (Old joke that works better verbally!)
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