Camino Norte Walk: Best Time and Accommodation Tips

[Christinamc]

Hi. I'm tentatively planning to walk Camino Norte from Irun to Bilbao (sadly, I have limited time) between April 28 and May 5th. Is this generally considered too early in the season and will I have accomodation issues? Weather issues at this time of year? Many thanks for any feedback. Christina

 

[trecile]

There are albergues on the Norte that don't open until May, June, or later, but there should be plenty of pensions, private hostels, etc.

 

[Christinamc]

Thanks all!!! Really appreciate the help and the prompt responses!

 

[davejsy]

Well this is green Spain, so it could potentially rain A LOT, but then again it might not. It's difficult to predict, but obviously more chance of rain than later in the summer, and probably less chance than before. Not sure I've helped!

 

[Vacajoe]

Okay, third time is the charm with this comment (thanks @trecile for the assist…TWICE!). May 1st is Labor Day in Spain (and throughout much of Europe), so expect disruption to normal operating hours for cafes, stores, and transportation. Lodging will be open, of course, because all of Spain will be on holiday with you! And if it’s warm, they will be headed to the coast where you will be walking. And unlike when it falls close to the weekend, May 1st is a Wednesday this year, so expect folks to take off the few days before or the few days after or both! You really may want to prebook this one since that is a busy area of the Norte and some of the usual pilgrim accommodations may not be up and running yet (check Gronze for those dates)

 

[Christinamc]

Well this is green Spain, so it could potentially rain A LOT, but then again it might not. It's difficult to predict, but obviously more chance of rain than later in the summer, and probably less chance than before. Not sure I've helped!

Thank you!!!