Camino Frances in November?

Damien Reynolds said:

Hi friends. Been awhile. But I always come back.

So let's just say I now have a lot of time on my hands.

Thinking about an impromptu camino in November. I'll fly out to Madrid, train to Leon, walk from there. Its a path I've followed many times so not worried about how do deal with the walk / equipment... should I be worried about the weather/accommodations?

I typically spend 3/4 of my nights in the wonderful cheap hotels.

Any sage advice would be appreciated.

Damien

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Hi Damien, I have walked the Frances Nov/Dec. Weather wise expect anything and dress accordingly (layers). I'm sure you know the score. I was lucky weather wise. Many foggy and cold mornings then crisp cold but bright sunshine. Sometimes even warm enough to sit outside and eat (with a coat on). Some snow on the higher levels but not much. The odd storm, but short duration, back to sunny. Not much rain overall.

Albergues open in all the main stages (warm and toasty), some open in tiny places but you may have to ring/hunt the hospitalera. In the smaller ones they only put the heating on if someone turns up (freezing). Bring a sleeping bag. Not sure about hotels, never used one, but I guess open in bigger places. Check Gronze. Many cafes shut except in bigger towns. But I always found somewhere.

And it was stunningly beautiful and really quiet and relaxing!

Enjoy and Buen Camino
Davey

Unsure of hotels, but the below website (active from 1 Nov each year) will list the majority of open albergues which is helpful:

I second all of Davey Boyd’s comments above. They also turn the water fountains off at some point after the peak season has ended. So I recommend to carry a few more snacks and a bit more water than usual and you’ll be fine.