Merida to Santiago (19 days)

[remotefishingvillage]

is it possible to complete merida to santiago (via sanabria) in 19 days?

 

[amancio]

uff... we are talking the best part of 800 km, you will have days of over 50 km, and there are not so many towns to split the stages consistently, you will most likely find yourself choosing between doing 35 or 60 km in a day, with no point in between. Very optimistic, I find

 

[remotefishingvillage]

Ohhh okay thank you! I really appreciate this...

 

[Vaidotas]

It depends on your stamina. It's possible. I had a lot of luck to make this stretch solo in 16 days with heavy rains after Ourense last october. I've made some shortcuts and walked a lot on the empty roadsides when it was safe. However walking alone on the early morning / late evening is not a good idea, especially in Sanabria (because of dogs, I mean it). And there are unmentioned in the guides casa rural in bigger pueblos, so don't be afraid. Biggest distance between acomodation is 30 km.

 

[bsewall]

That's an average of 40 km a day with no rest days. You'd basically be running from town to town with little time to appreciate the scenery or the people. You'd be in a race not a pilgrimage.

 

[mmm042]

Hi.

It's certainly possible, but it all depends on your fitness level and preferred means of travel. I do a lot of long-distance running and hiking, so when I'm on trails like the VDLP I prefer to walk/run 40-50 km daily. I still find plenty of time to talk to others, nose around the villages, take loads of photos, etc. But if you're not super fit and/or used to covering long distances day after day, then it's probably not the best idea.

Melanie

 

[High Endeavours]

I took 24 days to walk that portion of the Plata from Sevilla this year plus additional rest days to see the things that were important to me. If you are carrying a full pack then 19 days, while doable, is probably pretty optimistic unless you are super strong, extremely fit, have perfect walking conditions, experience no injuries or delays and you don't really expect to stop and experience very much. Even then, as has been suggested, what's the hurry? Consider starting in Salamanca if you have less time...great access to there and a very nice place to begin. Many people do. Good luck with your planning.