CP late December- January

[NZjim]

I’m planning on walking the CP late December through January. Any pitfalls for that time of year? Things to coinsider? Best route from Lisbon?

 

[roving_rufus]

I did Lisbon to Porto in September but injured my ankle and returned in January to walk Porto to SdC (precovid in 2019). North of Porto was straightforward enough and found an albergue to stay nearly every night even in January - i think this section is a perfect winter camino! The Lisbon to Porto section has less pilgrims (as alot only start at Porto,) which means less pilgrim facilities in general, however unlike the CF you are walking through towns that are not so dependent on pilgrims meaning that bars etc will be open. Budgeting for private rooms some nights would be wise as some albergues are seasonal, and other albergues ×
will need to be rung in advance to book - have a look at Gronze to see. From Lisbon to Porto there are some longer days of 30km which can be trickier in winter months due to length of daylight and it may be more difficult to split as it depends on whether intermediate accommodation will be open.
There are no mountains to cross like on CF which makes winter walking on CP easier, but ice, rain, storms are all possible so come prepared.

 

[Friend from Barquinha]

I’m planning on walking the CP late December through January. Any pitfalls for that time of year? Things to coinsider? Best route from Lisbon?

Just a warning--that is the time of year, for that area, that has the absolutely worst weather. We are about 100 km north of Lisboa, and subject to the same weather patterns.

This November through late January was the first time we'd stayed in Barquinha over Christmas and January. It was cold and rainy most of the time, with the occasional sunny day. Also, for the first several days (walking-wise) out of Lisboa, there is little or no shelter, and few stops available, during the day. You might want to consider a different route, if that's the only time you can choose.

Otherwise--serious rain gear, umbrella, waterproof boots/shoes as you'll be walking through agricultural areas. And it can be quite cold as well, so maybe merino/similar undergarments. The older Portuguese buildings have very little insulation, so your nights will likely be coolish, as well.

Sorry to be such a "downer," but of our times spent in the area, maybe 10 longish trips over the last 5 years, this last one was the worst, weather-wise (though great in many other aspects .)