Need some help thanks

[Abigail Kelly]

Hi guy's I am new to this site. In the last couple of years I have lost a lot of people including my mother. My aim always is to walk the Camino. I don't have a lot of time on this my first time (ten days); So far my options that I see to walk over the 100k is, Sarria-Santiago or Ferrol- Santiago.

I really want to try and avoid lots of people as I don't want to do the tourist thing. I will be travelling from Ireland. I have travelled solo a good few years ago thru Asia and I did the Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayas solo. I met people along the way which was great but it was a small bunch and we clicked. I am female, if anyone has any suggestions on routes that I could take I would really really appreciate it. I plan to leave in 6 weeks time. I am one of these people that don't spend months planning but kind of jump in when the time is right .. thanks guys for all help.

I have read so much on this web site about the labels that people are getting for not doing the whole pilgrimage that is so sad really

 

[GreatDane]

I have read so much on this web site about the labels that people are getting for not doing the whole pilgrimage that is so sad really

When those people (the labelers) can write me a check for wages and give me 6 weeks off at a time, then they can make sure I do my camino in one fell swoop just like they like it. Until then - tough beans to them!!!

 

[Mysticl]

I' recommend starting in Roncesvalles and just walk til you have to stop ...then make your way home .... If you walk again you can start where you left off .... It is quite a pretty stretch and quite a varied experience as well. Lots of folks do the Camino in stages especially if they live close enough that travel isn't such a huge expense. Lots of Germans for instance walk 2 weeks at a time and return year after year til done ... Then they start again you could actually start where ever you like, even St Jean pied de port in France but with only 10 days I think starting after the mountain crossing would give you a better feel for the Camino as a whole. There is no official start really just do what feels right ...

 

[gigibarry]

Hi, Abigail. I did the Camino Frances in stages and am in Ireland too. If you want to chat, send me a message and I'll help in any way I can.

 

[maraja]

Hi Abigail
Having done the Camino from St Jean to Los Arcos in 2015 We are now planning to resume our walk on 24th April hoping t get to Burgos this time ..we don't have 6 weeks to complete The Way .We flew from Dublin to Biarritz then Taxi to St Jean walked to Orrisan where we stayed overnight before crossing the Pyrenees to Rossaveilles.met some great people along the way..I don't think there is any necessity to plan too much as there are lots of places to stay en route..
Good luck Buen Camino

 

[Abigail Kelly]

Hi, Abigail. I did the Camino Frances in stages and am in Ireland too. If you want to chat, send me a message and I'll help in any way I can.

Thanks Barry, I might just take you up on that during the week. What stage did you start at?

 

[Abigail Kelly]

I' recommend starting in Roncesvalles and just walk til you have to stop ...then make your way home .... If you walk again you can start where you left off .... It is quite a pretty stretch and quite a varied experience as well. Lots of folks do the Camino in stages especially if they live close enough that travel isn't such a huge expense. Lots of Germans for instance walk 2 weeks at a time and return year after year til done ... Then they start again you could actually start where ever you like, even St Jean pied de port in France but with only 10 days I think starting after the mountain crossing would give you a better feel for the Camino as a whole. There is no official start really just do what feels right ...

Hi Mysticl, I just checked that out. It looks a lot like Ireland judging by the photos. Think from sjpp its 24 km. That not bad

 

[trecile]

Hi guy's I am new to this site. In the last couple of years I have lost a lot of people including my mother. My aim always is to walk the Camino. I don't have a lot of time on this my first time (ten days); So far my options that I see to walk over the 100k is, Sarria-Santiago or Ferrol- Santiago.

I really want to try and avoid lots of people as I don't want to do the tourist thing. I will be travelling from Ireland. I have travelled solo a good few years ago thru Asia and I did the Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayas solo. I met people along the way which was great but it was a small bunch and we clicked. I am female, if anyone has any suggestions on routes that I could take I would really really appreciate it. I plan to leave in 6 weeks time. I am one of these people that don't spend months planning but kind of jump in when the time is right .. thanks guys for all help.

I have read so much on this web site about the labels that people are getting for not doing the whole pilgrimage that is so sad really

You must be reading the wrong threads! I haven't been reading about people being labeled for only doing part of the Camino.

 

[KinkyOne]

Hi guy's I am new to this site. In the last couple of years I have lost a lot of people including my mother. My aim always is to walk the Camino. I don't have a lot of time on this my first time (ten days); So far my options that I see to walk over the 100k is, Sarria-Santiago or Ferrol- Santiago.

I really want to try and avoid lots of people as I don't want to do the tourist thing. I will be travelling from Ireland. I have travelled solo a good few years ago thru Asia and I did the Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayas solo. I met people along the way which was great but it was a small bunch and we clicked. I am female, if anyone has any suggestions on routes that I could take I would really really appreciate it. I plan to leave in 6 weeks time. I am one of these people that don't spend months planning but kind of jump in when the time is right .. thanks guys for all help.

I have read so much on this web site about the labels that people are getting for not doing the whole pilgrimage that is so sad really

Hola, Abigail,

I have to second @trecile about labeling those walking in stages. Maybe you mixed it up with so-called "tourigrinos", walking 100km (Compostela requirement) with day-packs or even busing/taxing along the Camino. But who are we to judge...

Back to your OP. There are at least four more routes for 10 days than Camino Frances from Sarria or Camino Ingles. That is if you really want to finish your walk/pilgrimage/trek in SdC.:
- Camino Invierno from Ponferrada (maybe a bit too long, but you can start in Monforte de Lemos for 100km requirement)
- Camino Primitivo from Oviedo (same as above and/if you start in Lugo)
- Camino Sanabres from Zamora (same as above and/if you start in Ourense)
- Caminho Portugues from Porto (240km, that's ideal).

Use Search function or dip into forum sections dedicated to different Caminos (scroll down on main page) and you'll find many useful info. Also:
http://www.gronze.com/
http://www.mundicamino.com/
http://caminodesantiago.consumer.es/
...and many more. Don't hesitate to ask further question.

Ultreia!

 

[anna pugh]

HI
im just back from my first ever solo travel, and im nearly 60, unfit but determined.. i walked the Ingles.... had my bags sent on, so i only had to concentrate on walking and thinking and for the first time ever, having time to myself... not many other people, but I felt very safe at all times. less than a week, but challenging enough for me. plenty of time to watch the world, think about life and enjoy the beautiful scenery. highly recommended

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Hi Abigail,

I also walked the Camino for the first time after losing my mother. I started in SJJP and walked to Burgos due to time constraints. I went back twice to finish the Frances and have since walked part of the Norte, then the Primitivo, and will be walking from Porto in May. So if you want to experience the Frances without huge crowds, amd don't mind not arriving in Santiago, you could start in SJPP. It's a beautiful walk.

If you have 10 days of walking, limiting yourself to ""the last 100km" may not be long enough especially since you seem capable and healthy.

The Primitivo is just over 300km, depending on the guides, and the Eroski site suggests 13 stages. This being said, once you get to Melide you will find the noisy crowds which you say you would rather avoid. But you could stop in Melide, if you don't mind not making it to Santiago. You would most likely walk alone but find company in the albergues.

The Invierno is a walk I would love to do. Gronze suggests 15 days, so look into it and decide how many km you think you can reasonably do, not injuring yourself.

You could also look at the Portuguese. Grinze suggests ridiculously long stages, I think you could do it nicely in 10 days from Porto. Not as quiet as the Invierno, perhaps busier than the Primitivo, I will walk it in May. This one could take you to Santiago.

Or you could consider the Ingles, arrive to Sanitago and walk on to magical Muxia: small fishing village with a church and boulders are its point, ideal for medidating during the susnset. That can be nicely done in 10 days and would be fairly quiet as well.

Lots of options, the only wrong one for quiet is the last 100km on the Frances after Sarria.

I wish you a healing and revitalising Camino.

 

[Urban Trekker]

Hi guy's I am new to this site. In the last couple of years I have lost a lot of people including my mother. My aim always is to walk the Camino. I don't have a lot of time on this my first time (ten days); So far my options that I see to walk over the 100k is, Sarria-Santiago or Ferrol- Santiago.

I really want to try and avoid lots of people as I don't want to do the tourist thing. I will be travelling from Ireland. I have travelled solo a good few years ago thru Asia and I did the Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayas solo. I met people along the way which was great but it was a small bunch and we clicked. I am female, if anyone has any suggestions on routes that I could take I would really really appreciate it. I plan to leave in 6 weeks time. I am one of these people that don't spend months planning but kind of jump in when the time is right .. thanks guys for all help.

I have read so much on this web site about the labels that people are getting for not doing the whole pilgrimage that is so sad really

It's not how far you walk. It's about the walk. Some people loose sight of the purpose of walking the caminos.

I have walked the English, Ferrol to Santiago route and the Portuguese, Porto to Santiago. With the time you have the English is a good choice but a tough walk. You might consider the Portuguese, Tui to Santiago. It's as long, easier to walk, and has way more food and lodging options.

Remember the Pope has declared 2016 a holly year. The caminos will be heavily traveled this year. Buen Camino

Happy Trails

 

[Montana Jayne]

I

Hi guy's I am new to this site. In the last couple of years I have lost a lot of people including my mother. My aim always is to walk the Camino. I don't have a lot of time on this my first time (ten days); So far my options that I see to walk over the 100k is, Sarria-Santiago or Ferrol- Santiago.

I really want to try and avoid lots of people as I don't want to do the tourist thing. I will be travelling from Ireland. I have travelled solo a good few years ago thru Asia and I did the Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayas solo. I met people along the way which was great but it was a small bunch and we clicked. I am female, if anyone has any suggestions on routes that I could take I would really really appreciate it. I plan to leave in 6 weeks time. I am one of these people that don't spend months planning but kind of jump in when the time is right .. thanks guys for all help.

I have read so much on this web site about the labels that people are getting for not doing the whole pilgrimage that is so sad really

I think the labels are referring to a proposal to lengthen to 300k the distance required for the compostela in Santiago. This is from some official camino body. The discussion is interesting and reasoned IMHO. That being said sometimes purest are dismissive of people who only do the 100k, say from Sarria. It is always very sad when people make judgements about the motives of others. People do what they can do, and I choose to applaud the efforts people make to do the camino. Here's a heads-up - judging is NOT the camino spirit.
I think doing the camino in segments is an awesome idea, but being from the western U.S. that wasn't possible for us as the cost of airfair was significant. However we're retired so we had the time, but most people have much less flexibility. Do what works for YOU! Buen camino.

 

[scn]

I like the suggestion to start in SJPdP and walk as far as you feel. You will be in the company of others at the start of their journey, a good number of whom plan to walk a week or two, like you.

We haven't encountered "labelers" on the actual Camino. Only occasional references on the forum. The vast percentage of pilgrims recognize we are each on our own journey. Have yours any way you want it.

 

[Abigail Kelly]

Thank you guy's so much for all your help and response and the heads up on this being a holy year. Muxi sounds great. I will study all of your comments later today when I get home. It was somewhere on the threads that I was reading about the "label". But maybe I was in a different thread. I look forward to gathering up all the information you guy's have given me and booking my ticket. Oh I wish I could do longer to get lost on the trail .. But I am happy to get the chance to do this short stint for now

 

[AlanB]

Start from St Jean and stop when you are done. Don't worry about getting to Santiago

 

[Walli Walker]

The 'Whole Camino' ? That doesn't make sense! There is no such thing.
If you want a quieter walk start from Ferrol and take your time. Beautiful. Enjoy.

 

[Saint Mike II]

Hi guy's I am new to this site. In the last couple of years I have lost a lot of people including my mother. My aim always is to walk the Camino. I don't have a lot of time on this my first time (ten days); So far my options that I see to walk over the 100k is, Sarria-Santiago or Ferrol- Santiago.
I have read so much on this web site about the labels that people are getting for not doing the whole pilgrimage that is so sad really

Hola Abigail - you start your pilgrimage when you leave home. Where you start walking is up to you. If you are intending to return; next year; 2020; 2025 or when ever then maybe starting in St Jean (this is what I am aiming to do next year - May 2017. I have cycled from Pamplona to Santiago) and walk as far as you can in the given days. But I would recommend not trying to go too far; walk within yourself.
If, however, your current thinking is that you will not be returning to the Camino then maybe starting somewhere around O'Cebreiro and taking it easy; one day at a time; you can reach Santiago in plenty of time and even have time to do the tourist run (by coach) to Finisterra/Fisterra.
I think you said you wanted to avoid the crowds, well unfortunately the Camino Frances is often crowded - it just depends upon when you walk. So it's your decision, buen Camino.

 

[Romika]

It's not how far you walk. It's about the walk. Some people loose sight of the purpose of walking the caminos.

I have walked the English, Ferrol to Santiago route and the Portuguese, Porto to Santiago. With the time you have the English is a good choice but a tough walk. You might consider the Portuguese, Tui to Santiago. It's as long, easier to walk, and has way more food and lodging options.

Remember the Pope has declared 2016 a holly year. The caminos will be heavily traveled this year. Buen Camino

Happy Trails

I totally agree with you, people do loose sight of why we do the Camino. Some people CAN walk the whole way and others simply cannot. Indeed who are we to judge. You yourself have to fill in the why and how and decide if you Cary you're backpack or have it send on. We all walk the Camino for ourselves, I am walking the Camino from Tui to Santiago and proud if myself. So whatever distance or route you take, enjoy it. Burn Camino

 

[Fletchonides]

I would echo the advice to start from St. Jean and see how far you get.

I am also from Ireland and two years ago started my Camino with a 'taster' week. We also wrestled with the question of where to start from. Our conclusion was that if there is a likelihood that you will come back to the Camino, it is better to start at a starting place, rather than do the last leg, and then decide you want to go back and start.

Although the route won't be empty, many people are good at finding solitude along the way. some friends of mine would never get into chats while walking, preferring to have that time for prayer and solitude. Socialising ws reserved for when he got to his desitination for the day.
Ciaran.

 

[Pingüigrino]

Hi Abigail. If you are compelled to walk the entire Camino in stages, dont worry, go ahead. Nobody will labeled you, and if doing ...who cares? I suggest you the Camino Vasco del interior, 8 to 9 days of relative loneliness fron Irun to Santo Domingo de la Calzada, in the French Way. If you prefer to arribe to Santiago this first time, I suggest you to start at Astorga or Ponferrada, maybe Leon. Its depends the log you can walk daily. But for a 25 km daily walker, Both Astorga or Ponferrada could be a good choice. My wife and me just finised walking last monday from Ponferrada to Santiago in 8 days, having no other problems than the furious rain.
Buen Camino.

 

[Stephen F.]

If you want solitude, then stay away from the Frances. That said, the last 100k are going to be more crowded on any route. You didn't say if you had 10 days to walk, or 10 days including getting there. Also, you don't say what kind of walker you are (I'm 69 and stay away from +30k days).
I did part of the Portuguese from Barcelos last year for 8 days walking and it was wonderful.
Buen Camino.

 

[aliwalks]

Hi guy's I am new to this site. In the last couple of years I have lost a lot of people including my mother. My aim always is to walk the Camino. I don't have a lot of time on this my first time (ten days); So far my options that I see to walk over the 100k is, Sarria-Santiago or Ferrol- Santiago.

I really want to try and avoid lots of people as I don't want to do the tourist thing. I will be travelling from Ireland. I have travelled solo a good few years ago thru Asia and I did the Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayas solo. I met people along the way which was great but it was a small bunch and we clicked. I am female, if anyone has any suggestions on routes that I could take I would really really appreciate it. I plan to leave in 6 weeks time. I am one of these people that don't spend months planning but kind of jump in when the time is right .. thanks guys for all help.

I have read so much on this web site about the labels that people are getting for not doing the whole pilgrimage that is so sad really

Hi I walked alone in September from Ponferrada in ten days easily Buen Camino!

 

[rometimed]

If you want solitude, then stay away from the Frances. That said, the last 100k are going to be more crowded on any route. You didn't say if you had 10 days to walk, or 10 days including getting there. Also, you don't say what kind of walker you are (I'm 69 and stay away from +30k days).
I did part of the Portuguese from Barcelos last year for 8 days walking and it was wonderful.
Buen Camino.

I think that depends. When I did the English Route in late October I only saw 10 pilgrims the whole 4 days, until I got into the heart of Santiago.

 

[Abigail Kelly]

Hi Abigail
Having done the Camino from St Jean to Los Arcos in 2015 We are now planning to resume our walk on 24th April hoping t get to Burgos this time ..we don't have 6 weeks to complete The Way .We flew from Dublin to Biarritz then Taxi to St Jean walked to Orrisan where we stayed overnight before crossing the Pyrenees to Rossaveilles.met some great people along the way..I don't think there is any necessity to plan too much as there are lots of places to stay en route..
Good luck Buen Camino

Hi Maraja, that you for that information. I am not sure yet once I go if I will return. That could all change when I get there of course. It is just that I have a bucket list ha ha... and I really want to go back to the Himalayas at some point and so on. I think it is a privilege to fulfil a dream even if it is just a small part of many dreams .. There is something about St. James in Santiago that is drawing me there, don't know what. I am going to look at what everyone suggested here and make up my mind in the next week. Out of curiousity, what kind of back pack did you guy's use? I want to keep as light as possible as I get a problem with my foot sometimes from carrying to much weight.

 

[Abigail Kelly]

I' recommend starting in Roncesvalles and just walk til you have to stop ...then make your way home .... If you walk again you can start where you left off .... It is quite a pretty stretch and quite a varied experience as well. Lots of folks do the Camino in stages especially if they live close enough that travel isn't such a huge expense. Lots of Germans for instance walk 2 weeks at a time and return year after year til done ... Then they start again you could actually start where ever you like, even St Jean pied de port in France but with only 10 days I think starting after the mountain crossing would give you a better feel for the Camino as a whole. There is no official start really just do what feels right ...

Thank you Mysticl, all taken on board

 

[Abigail Kelly]

Hola, Abigail,

I have to second @trecile about labeling those walking in stages. Maybe you mixed it up with so-called "tourigrinos", walking 100km (Compostela requirement) with day-packs or even busing/taxing along the Camino. But who are we to judge...

Back to your OP. There are at least four more routes for 10 days than Camino Frances from Sarria or Camino Ingles. That is if you really want to finish your walk/pilgrimage/trek in SdC.:
- Camino Invierno from Ponferrada (maybe a bit too long, but you can start in Monforte de Lemos for 100km requirement)
- Camino Primitivo from Oviedo (same as above and/if you start in Lugo)
- Camino Sanabres from Zamora (same as above and/if you start in Ourense)
- Caminho Portugues from Porto (240km, that's ideal).

Use Search function or dip into forum sections dedicated to different Caminos (scroll down on main page) and you'll find many useful info. Also:
http://www.gronze.com/
http://www.mundicamino.com/
http://caminodesantiago.consumer.es/
...and many more. Don't hesitate to ask further question.
Thank you so much for this information

Ultreia!

 

[Abigail Kelly]

Hola Abigail - you start your pilgrimage when you leave home. Where you start walking is up to you. If you are intending to return; next year; 2020; 2025 or when ever then maybe starting in St Jean (this is what I am aiming to do next year - May 2017. I have cycled from Pamplona to Santiago) and walk as far as you can in the given days. But I would recommend not trying to go too far; walk within yourself.
If, however, your current thinking is that you will not be returning to the Camino then maybe starting somewhere around O'Cebreiro and taking it easy; one day at a time; you can reach Santiago in plenty of time and even have time to do the tourist run (by coach) to Finisterra/Fisterra.
I think you said you wanted to avoid the crowds, well unfortunately the Camino Frances is often crowded - it just depends upon when you walk. So it's your decision, buen Camino.

Thank you Mike for your thoughts will check it out

 

[Abigail Kelly]

If you want solitude, then stay away from the Frances. That said, the last 100k are going to be more crowded on any route. You didn't say if you had 10 days to walk, or 10 days including getting there. Also, you don't say what kind of walker you are (I'm 69 and stay away from +30k days).
I did part of the Portuguese from Barcelos last year for 8 days walking and it was wonderful.
Buen Camino.

Hi Stephen, I will have about 7 to 8 days to walk. What kind of walker am I ;;;;.... I am ok, I go for a power walk every day and cycle a lot. Not a racing bike lol.

 

[Chacharm]

Hi guy's I am new to this site. In the last couple of years I have lost a lot of people including my mother. My aim always is to walk the Camino. I don't have a lot of time on this my first time (ten days); So far my options that I see to walk over the 100k is, Sarria-Santiago or Ferrol- Santiago.

I really want to try and avoid lots of people as I don't want to do the tourist thing. I will be travelling from Ireland. I have travelled solo a good few years ago thru Asia and I did the Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayas solo. I met people along the way which was great but it was a small bunch and we clicked. I am female, if anyone has any suggestions on routes that I could take I would really really appreciate it. I plan to leave in 6 weeks time. I am one of these people that don't spend months planning but kind of jump in when the time is right .. thanks guys for all help.

I have read so much on this web site about the labels that people are getting for not doing the whole pilgrimage that is so sad really

This is one of those things that is talked about by people before or after their Camino more than it ever is on the actual Camino. No one really cares whether or not another Peregrino is walking from Saria or doing it in legs or just spending a few days walking in a location convenient to them. Except to feel some sadness when they have to go, that is. Also, if you want to walk alone on the Frances, starting in Roncesvalles or SJPP or Saria or wherever, you can. It is just a matter of what you put out there.

 

[Kitsambler]

If you want a quieter journey, you could start from Le Puy in France. From Le Puy to Conques will take about ten days. Lovely scenery, and one-tenth the number of people as the Camino Frances in Spain.

 

[clearskiescamino]

Greetings from Dublin, @Abigail Kelly
If you are looking for accurate info and tips, you are in the right place.
Walking from say, Pamplona for a week to 10 days is nice.
Let us all know what you choose!
Buen Camino
David

 

[Abigail Kelly]

Greetings from Dublin, @Abigail Kelly
If you are looking for accurate info and tips, you are in the right place.
Walking from say, Pamplona for a week to 10 days is nice.
Let us all know what you choose!
Buen Camino
David

Thanks David, I will check out Pamplona

 

[Montana Jayne]

Hey Abigail, regarding the backpacks my husband (5'8") used an OSPREY Stratos 36 and I (5') used a GREGORY Sage 35. Try on a lot of backpacks at various stores as you can asked many questions of the sales people. Some of them have more experience backpacking and can be really helpful. I think you have to keep telling yourself "less is better" when you're packing your stuff. A big part of the camino is simplicity and it begins before you leave your home. Even tho I left home with 14# I still got rid of stuff along the way. Buen camino!

 

[Abigail Kelly]

Hey Abigail, regarding the backpacks my husband (5'8") used an OSPREY Stratos 36 and I (5') used a GREGORY Sage 35. Try on a lot of backpacks at various stores as you can asked many questions of the sales people. Some of them have more experience backpacking and can be really helpful. I think you have to keep telling yourself "less is better" when you're packing your stuff. A big part of the camino is simplicity and it begins before you leave your home. Even tho I left home with 14# I still got rid of stuff along the way. Buen camino!

Hi Jayne, thanks for that. I have a back pack that I bought in the states when I left to do Aisa. It's to big for this trip. I was actually thinking today, I rem when I was doing the Himalayas I got rid of a huge amount of stuff along the trek. I am now seriously thinking 3 light changes of clothes, toothbrush, paste, soap bare necessities lol. I have to be careful of weight as I had a problem with my foot 6 mts ago from power walking and heavy weight brings it on

 

[trecile]

Thanks David, I will check out Pamplona

If you decide to start in Pamplona, or even St Jean, check out Pensión Corazón Puro. They will pick you up at the train or bus station, take you to their place feed you dinner, then breakfast the next morning. Then, if you are going to St Jean, they will drive you there in the morning. I have already made a reservation with them for August.
http://www.corazonpuro.es/Enghome.html

 

[Montana Jayne]

I hear

Hi Jayne, thanks for that. I have a back pack that I bought in the states when I left to do Aisa. It's to big for this trip. I was actually thinking today, I rem when I was doing the Himalayas I got rid of a huge amount of stuff along the trek. I am now seriously thinking 3 light changes of clothes, toothbrush, paste, soap bare necessities lol. I have to be careful of weight as I had a problem with my foot 6 mts ago from power walking and heavy weight brings it on

I hear you on the foot thing as I got plantar fasciitis big time after Burgos. It was so awful! I didn't have the right orthodics for one things so that was my bad. Still the camino is a special experience.

 

[gigibarry]

Thanks Barry, I might just take you up on that during the week. What stage did you start at?

Hi, Abigail
The first time we went we started from Saint Jean and walked as far as Santo Domingo. The next trip we picked up there again and got as far as Astorga. The third trip we walked from Astorga to Santiago and on to Finisterre but got lazy and didn't continue on to Muxia! Maybe next time!

I don't know where in Ireland you are, but you can get a lot of practical info at the Camino Information Office run by the Camino Society Ireland. It's open from 10:30 to 3:30 every Thursday, Friday and Sat in St. James' Church in Dublin (just down the street from Guinness's). They also run information days around the country. The dates should be on their website.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Hi Jayne, thanks for that. I have a back pack that I bought in the states when I left to do Aisa. It's to big for this trip. I was actually thinking today, I rem when I was doing the Himalayas I got rid of a huge amount of stuff along the trek. I am now seriously thinking 3 light changes of clothes, toothbrush, paste, soap bare necessities lol. I have to be careful of weight as I had a problem with my foot 6 mts ago from power walking and heavy weight brings it on

3 changes of clothes? Try 2: one you wear while the other is drying, and something cor bedtime, unelss sleeping eith tomorrw's clothese is ok, and rain& cold extras.

 

[vgen5122]

First let me say that I don't like labels. If I had only 10 days in which to walk the Camino, I'd start at the beginning of the Camino Frances. Starting at the beginning will give you the flavor of the Camino more than starting in Sarria. This is just my opinion. You can meet people that are on the Camino for the same reason as yourself. If you want seclusion you should not do the Camino Frances due to he fact that the Camino Frances is busy from June-August. For more information you can contact (I know I am going to get this wrong, but maybe someone on the forum can help) the Irish Camino society in Dublin.

 

[NualaOC]

Hi Abigail, welcome to the forum.

I second the suggestions about starting in St Jean and just walking as far as you can. If you do this, you can fly Ryanair to Biarritz and travel back to Dublin from Bilbao with Aer Lingus. Bilbao should be easily accessible by bus from the places where you are most likely to end your walk. This is a nice, simple option and should give you a good mix of solitude and company when you need it.

10 days would also allow you to walk the Camino Ingles from Ferrol to Santiago, and then continue on to Finisterre or Muxia. Muxia is a very peaceful end to a Camino. You'll find information about the Camino Ingles here: https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/forums/camino-ingles.23/ and Finisterre/Muxia here: https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/forums/santiago-to-finisterre-and-muxia.20/ For these options, you could fly in and out of Santiago.

Buen Camino!

Nuala

 

[jefferyonthecamino]

Hi guy's I am new to this site. In the last couple of years I have lost a lot of people including my mother. My aim always is to walk the Camino. I don't have a lot of time on this my first time (ten days); So far my options that I see to walk over the 100k is, Sarria-Santiago or Ferrol- Santiago.

I really want to try and avoid lots of people as I don't want to do the tourist thing. I will be travelling from Ireland. I have travelled solo a good few years ago thru Asia and I did the Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayas solo. I met people along the way which was great but it was a small bunch and we clicked. I am female, if anyone has any suggestions on routes that I could take I would really really appreciate it. I plan to leave in 6 weeks time. I am one of these people that don't spend months planning but kind of jump in when the time is right .. thanks guys for all help.

I have read so much on this web site about the labels that people are getting for not doing the whole pilgrimage that is so sad really

the 'whole thing' is from your doorstep, which is how medieval pilgrims did it. considering you are walking the whole thing because you start in france is plain silly, you are simply walking 800 Kms (on that note, bravo! but also bravo to us that only walk 100 Km, and bravo to those that walk 8000 Kms).

jubilee year, current trends, point to a crowded french Camino once in galicia, you may want to avoid it if you do not favour 'crowds' and are walking in late spring and summer. the English Way will undoubtedly be less transited.

good luck and Buen Camino!

 

[shrinkinglo]

I am also thinking that I have about 10 days this summer and feel the English way is the route for me as I will have time to start and finish one path. We each have to do our own journey

 

[Abigail Kelly]

I am also thinking that I have about 10 days this summer and feel the English way is the route for me as I will have time to start and finish one path. We each have to do our own journey

I think I am going to go the English way after weighing every thing up

 

[maraja]

Hi Maraja, that you for that information. I am not sure yet once I go if I will return. That could all change when I get there of course. It is just that I have a bucket list ha ha... and I really want to go back to the Himalayas at some point and so on. I think it is a privilege to fulfil a dream even if it is just a small part of many dreams .. There is something about St. James in Santiago that is drawing me there, don't know what. I am going to look at what everyone suggested here and make up my mind in the next week. Out of curiousity, what kind of back pack did you guy's use? I want to keep as light as possible as I get a problem with my foot sometimes from carrying to much weight.

Hi Abigail
We carried packs weighing about 25kgs (Osprey )with just the bare necessities ie 2 changes of clothes ,sleeping bag liner ,4 pairs of lambs wool socks,rain poncho rainproof trousers,flip flops,basic toiletries,microfibres towel.
There are companies who will transport your pack to the next stage of the camino(Jacko trans) for a fee .
As somebody has already commented your Camino is personal to you.It doesn't matter where you begin or end.I am sure you will your way.
Go n'eiri an bothar leat.
Buen Camino

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Hi Abigail
We carried packs weighing about 25kgs (Osprey )with just the bare necessities ie 2 changes of clothes ,sleeping bag liner ,4 pairs of lambs wool socks,rain poncho rainproof trousers,flip flops,basic toiletries,microfibres towel.
There are companies who will transport your pack to the next stage of the camino(Jacko trans) for a fee .
As somebody has already commented your Camino is personal to you.It doesn't matter where you begin or end.I am sure you will your way.
Go n'eiri an bothar leat.
Buen Camino

Wow! 25kg packs! And with just the bare necessities. Just thinking about that weight my back hurts. Even 25 pounds would be about twice as much as is typically carried (8-10kg max).

 

[maraja]

Oops Abigail That should be 25litres. About 10 kg max

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Oops Abigail That should be 25litres. About 10 kg max

what a relief!

 

[pilgrim22]

Hi Abigail myself and my daughter started in st Jean and walked to Pamplona in 3 days last year we spent a day there and a day in Madrid. We go back this year and start in Pamplona and walk for 6 days to Santo Domingo. Have only booked flights and that is the way its staying.We are also from Ireland, if you need any info give me a shout.

 

[Abigail Kelly]

I am also thinking that I have about 10 days this summer and feel the English way is the route for me as I will have time to start and finish one path. We each have to do our own journey

Think this is going to be my choice also

 

[Kiwi-family]

If I lived in Ireland, I'd be desperate to start walking from my front door. Every year I'd start off wherever I got to the previous year. At some point you'll need to take a boat, but that shouldn't be a problem!

 

[maraja]

9 days & counting!!! Just a little concerned about travelling back to los Arcos from Bilbao airport on Saturday evening.
I agree Kiwi Family Ireland is a great place for walking,just such a pity about all the rain we get!!

 

[bunnymac]

Hi guy's I am new to this site. In the last couple of years I have lost a lot of people including my mother. My aim always is to walk the Camino. I don't have a lot of time on this my first time (ten days); So far my options that I see to walk over the 100k is, Sarria-Santiago or Ferrol- Santiago.

I really want to try and avoid lots of people as I don't want to do the tourist thing. I will be travelling from Ireland. I have travelled solo a good few years ago thru Asia and I did the Annapurna Circuit in the Himalayas solo. I met people along the way which was great but it was a small bunch and we clicked. I am female, if anyone has any suggestions on routes that I could take I would really really appreciate it. I plan to leave in 6 weeks time. I am one of these people that don't spend months planning but kind of jump in when the time is right .. thanks guys for all help.

I have read so much on this web site about the labels that people are getting for not doing the whole pilgrimage that is so sad really

 

[bunnymac]

I've walked the Camino in stages. As others have suggested, I'd recommend walking from SJPP to Logrono - that's 7 or 8 stages. Don't worry about the 'labellers'. I once had a bloke say to me 'oh you're one of those'. Can't post my reply as I may get barred from this site. Needless to say it wasn't very Christian.

 

[Abigail Kelly]

Hi guy's from Ireland any suggestions on cheap enough flights from Dublin to Santiago? Is Aer Lingus the most promising regarding how long the flight is. It is the only one that I can find that fly direct. Leaving next month in May ... thanks guys

 

[Fletchonides]

I think Aer Lingus is the only one that flies direct. Iberia goes through Madrid. Ryanair don't go to Santiago

 

[Mysticl]

If you decide to start in Pamplona, or even St Jean, check out Pensión Corazón Puro. They will pick you up at the train or bus station, take you to their place feed you dinner, then breakfast the next morning. Then, if you are going to St Jean, they will drive you there in the morning. I have already made a reservation with them for August.
http://www.corazonpuro.es/Enghome.html

We stayed here and it remains one of the highlights of our trip. Wonderful people ... had a delicious communal meal too, I still remember the garlic soup ... one of the best meals we had on the Camino. Highly recommended. They speak several languages as well including Hungarian

 

[maraja]

Hi guy's from Ireland any suggestions on cheap enough flights from Dublin to Santiago? Is Aer Lingus the most promising regarding how long the flight is. It is the only one that I can find that fly direct. Leaving next month in May ... thanks guys

Hi Abigail
I am wondering how you fared on your Camino. Which part did you do in the end & did it meet your expectations
Would love to hear from you

 

[anna pugh]

I am also thinking that I have about 10 days this summer and feel the English way is the route for me as I will have time to start and finish one path. We each have to do our own journey

I walked the Camino Ingles for a week in early spring. The weather glorious, the camino kind, although sometimes a little challenging, for an oldie unfit sedentary person like me it was everything and surprisingly more than I'd anticipated. Buen Camino!