Hi folks,
Like Eli, I walked the
Camino Frances in ’04. In ’06, I walked Le Puy-en-Velay to St.Jean. ’08 was a failed re-attempt at the Frances (stopped in Burgos with knee problems), but managed St.Jean - Santiago again last year.
As you all seem very aware, this summer is going to be ridiculously overpopulated on the main route. As such, I wouldn’t even begin to contemplate the idea of trying it. I’ve given some thought to the Camino del Norte, but have settled on the ‘Plata’ as a more interesting alternative. As I’ll be walking in July/August, I realise that it’d probably be quicker to wrap myself in tinfoil and squeeze into the nearest oven, but, unfortunately, the dates govern me, rather than vice-versa.
I was quite surprised by one aspect of what I read on this forum’s posts; that regarding pilgrim numbers on the ‘Plata’. For me, a large part of the pleasure of the camino is the peace and quite that it affords (not that a social element isn’t also essential). I’d assumed that, by opting for the ‘Plata’, I’d be able to skirt the crowds. Judging by the posts, it appears that this may not be so.
I’d be very interested to hear (and appreciative of hearing) of recent ‘Plata’ caminos, with regard to the numbers of ‘boots on the ground’, and whether it’s either rare or commonplace to find oneself walking for hours at a stretch, without seeing another soul.
Related to this issue, the
Camino Frances, typically, has its busiest period during July/August. Scanning the posts, I’m curious as to whether this may not be the case for the ‘Plata’.
As a final (but very important) point, I’d appreciate any advice regarding a suitable guidebook. On my first Frances camino, I used the Bethan Davies & Ben Cole volume, which I found very useful. I’ve seen that they’ve written one for the ‘Plata’ also, but it seems that this hasn’t been updated for six years. Another option comes from Alison Raju, but this was published in 2005. As a (fairly) regular peregrino, I’m aware of the frequency of changes, regarding all manner of factors along the route, and the resultant need for up-to-date info. Therefore, if anybody has any advice, regarding an up-to-date guide, or any opinion as to the best available at present, it’d be greatly appreciated.
My thanks, in advance, for your assistance,
J