Historical Path - San Martin del Camino

B

browneyedsusie

New Member

Time of past OR future Camino

Camino Frances April - June 2024

• Apr 11, 2024

• #1

I'm after some information on whether I should chose to walk from Leon to San Martin del Camino or by Villar de Mazarife. I've read that the way via San Martin is the historical path. Can anyone enlighten me please?

 

C clearly

Moderator

Staff member

Donating Member

Time of past OR future Camino

Most years since 2012

• Apr 11, 2024

• #2

The way to San Martin does not feel at all historical as you trudge along in sight of a highway. The route through Mazarife is much more pleasant.

 

L

Laurie Sanantone

I Don’t Know

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Time of past OR future Camino

202?

• Apr 11, 2024

• #3

Of all the miles husband and I have walked alongside Spanish roads, this route ranked near the worst. Folks at the bar in Villadangos told us about a pilgrim recently hit by a car on that road (2022). We’ve walked to Villar a couple of times, and as @C clearly says, it’s quite nice (and safer too!).

 

B

browneyedsusie

New Member

Time of past OR future Camino

Camino Frances April - June 2024

• Apr 11, 2024

• #4

Thank you for helping me make my choice.

 

O

OZAJ

Active Member

Time of past OR future Camino

Mozarabe/VdlP/Sanabres (2008) Norte (2009) Vezelay/Frances/Salvador/Primitivo (2010) etc.

• Apr 11, 2024

• #5

I have walked both routes. I believe San Martin is the historic route, but it is not the most pleasant.

 

Simperegrina

Active Member

Time of past OR future Camino

Frances 2023-24, Portugues Central, Invierno 2024

• Apr 11, 2024

• #6

Oh the Vilar every time.

Just one thing to be aware of: I walked Leon to Hospital del Obrigo via this route, and the distance is further than the apps or the guide books have it. No reason at all not to walk it, of course - just don’t be surprised by the difference!

There’s a great hostel with cafe bar in Oncina de la Valdoncina a few kms after you pick up this route at La Virgin del Camino - just when you might fancy a break.

 

mattythedog

Active Member

Time of past OR future Camino

2016-2023 and future caminos planned

• Apr 11, 2024

• #7

Well, the historical path got many portions paved over by Franco. If you like long straight path next to lots of commercial traffic, take it. The alternate is much quieter and goes through plenty of small villages with cafes and albergues.