Camino Del Norte - starting on 9th June in Irun

[Sandra Power]

Hi, I spent seven wonderful weeks last year walking the Camino Frances to Finisterre. This year I have three weeks to walk some of the Camino again and I am drawn to the Camino del Norte or Primitivo. Like many women this year who are planning to walk (or at least start) alone, however, I have some concerns and would like to know if there are any others out there planning to start in Irun on 9th June,
I would also be grateful for any advice on the most interesting sections of the Camino del Norte/Primitivo and how the terrain compares to the Camino Frances. I enjoyed the physical challenge last year but I am not an experienced walker and I understand that the terrain is a lot more challenging in places.

 

[ccag]

Hi Sandra!

I too am starting the Camino del Norte (& most likely Primitivo but still undecided) on June 9 and have a few concerns. I had originally planned on starting in Irun but am now contemplating starting in Bilbao as I'm not sure if I've allowed myself enough time (I fly out of Santiago on July 4 so it's only 26 days!) I'm second guessing this, however, mainly because I don't want to miss out on San Sebastián. I have heard of someone doing this route in 25 days but I have no idea of their fitness level. I'm physically fit, but have not been "training" with my backpack on. Any thoughts or insights from anyone who has done this before would be helpful! I hope our paths cross! Buen Camino either way.

 

[Peter Fransiscus]

Hi Sandra!

I too am starting the Camino del Norte (& most likely Primitivo but still undecided) on June 9 and have a few concerns. I had originally planned on starting in Irun but am now contemplating starting in Bilbao as I'm not sure if I've allowed myself enough time (I fly out of Santiago on July 4 so it's only 26 days!) I'm second guessing this, however, mainly because I don't want to miss out on San Sebastián. I have heard of someone doing this route in 25 days but I have no idea of their fitness level. I'm physically fit, but have not been "training" with my backpack on. Any thoughts or insights from anyone who has done this before would be helpful! I hope our paths cross! Buen Camino either way.

Hi, I don't know if it's helpful but it's about 800km in 25 days that's an average of about 32km. I can't help you there but I wish you well and a Buen Camino, Peter.