Is there an albergue for sale/rent on the camino?

[Rosie and Marianne]

Dear pelgrims and friends,

Does anybody know if there is an albergue for sale or for rent on the camino (preferably in or near to Saint Jean Pied de Port)?
We seriously want to start one. We have been talking about it for years and we feel that the time has come to just "take the step".

Some 3 weeks ago we were in Saint Jean Pied de Port for a couple of days with our mother, to give her a glance and let her experience what it is like. She now totally understands why we are so into the camino (walking, talking, meeting people from all over the world, enjoying the beauty, the experiences, etc. etc.).
She has alzheimer (we just heard that a week ago) and she forgets a lot, but everything we have experienced in Saint Jean Pied de Port is still fresh in her mind, her eyes start to twinkle and she gets a big smile when she talks about it )

Thanks to you all and we wish you a Buen Camino )))

Big hugs from us!

 

[Sullykerry]

Before you contemplate buying or renting out an albergue you need to check out the medical situation if your mother will be coming with you.

Last year there was a hospitalera, a Brazilian, who managed an albergue in Los Arcos. She mentioned (perhaps in frustration) that she was trying to sell her place and return to Brazil. I made a note of this in my logbook as the comment was unique as I never heard anything like this along my Camino last year.

You don't say where you are located. I am sure if you contact the local real estate agencies you can find out more information

 

[mspath]

Here are some properties currently for sale in SJPdP.
Tap on the photo for a brief description in French.

Happy house hunting and good luck!

 

[Sullykerry]

One last recommendation: Before you expend any money to rent or buy an albergue why not try volunteering as a hospitalero through your local chapter of the Confraternity of St. James. You may find that after two or three weeks that managing an albergue isn't what you really thought.

 

[movinmaggie]

One last recommendation: Before you expend any money to rent or buy an albergue why not try volunteering as a hospitalero through your local chapter of the Confraternity of St. James. You may find that after two or three weeks that managing an albergue isn't what you really thought.

It is an excellent suggestion by sulllykerry about volunteering first. And I would do it for a year. Having been in the marketing end of hotel business for years and with several friends who owned a B&B, the charm of it all can soon wear thin. But….I loved the hospitality sector. It can be very rewarding and I for one would not want to poo poo anyone's dream. I would do the same; volunteer first. Wish you well.