Jane from Maine, USA

[janemaryokeefe]

Hello! I'll call myself "Jane from Maine". I'm traveling to Paris June 19th and will travel for about 15 days(Eurailpass) along the east side of France, south and then west to Carcassonne to Oloron. I believe that St.JPdeP is within 20 miles from Oloron. I was under the impression that once you got your pilgrim card, the auberges/hostels would find you a place to stay-----as long as you were a pilgrim and walking--------even if they were full! I realize it's summer, but having to make advanced reservations schedules you, so that there isn't much leeway if you get tired and decide to take an extra day on the trail. Would appreciate any advice. I'm 60 but in fairly good shape. Some posts I've read say that sneakers will give you enough support for this hike. I would think that if it's steep, hiking boots would lend more support. Thanks for any advice!
Does anyone have the email address for the "L'Esprit du Chemin" auberge?
Looking forward to reading more posts. Am getting psyched to start my trip!

 

[Deirdre]

Hello, Jane,
Welcome to the forum! Here is the website for LEspirit du Chemin. http://www.espritduchemin.org/EC/LEsprit_du_Chemin.html

You will probably get a million replies regarding footwear. I've worn hiking shoes and Tevas. I liked the Tevas, but think that perhpas they didn't offer enough support to my feet and ankles on very rough terrain or through the mountains. I found that my legs got very tired. But at least I didnt' have blisters!

There is also a ton of information here regarding walking the Francés in the summer. I've done it twice - both times in summer and if you avoid the large cities and albergues at the "end of the etaps" according to the guide books, you can gerenrally find a place without a problem. If you "follow the crowd" and stay strictly to the etapas as outlined in the popular guide books, you will have a much more difficult time.

Buen Caminio,