Planning your own Camino route through France

[Samos]

Hi!

After doing the Frances twice, the Portuguese from Lisbon, the Way of St. Martin in France, the VF from Milan to Rome and the Way of St. Francis from Rome, we are looking for the next walk.

We are going to just plan our own route through France with stops at key religious points along the way. Maybe starting in Paris and going through Orleans (maybe also hitting Lourdes, we have been there, but it would be great to go again), down to the coast where Mary Magdalene arrived from Jerusalem, and then up to Arles. My husband and I are good with solitary walks, and actually enjoy them. Language is not a concern. We have travelled in France extensively, and his family is French so thought it would be great to do a walk there.

Has anyone else went off course and made your own way? Has anyone stayed at this monastery in Paris France where they have kept a prayer chain going since the 1800's? https://www.sacre-coeur-montmartre.com/en/hospitality-groups/the-guesthouse-of-the-basilica/ Thought that might be an amazing way to start the journey.

Just curious if there are others who like to go off standard courses and create your own walk.

Have a great day!

 

[Former member 104756]

Bonjour @Samos I have walked quite a few camino routes but can't help with what you're asking.

I wonder if @lovingkindness will come to this thread. My impression is that she (I think) may have experience of some of what you are seeking.

Bon chemin.

 

[Barbara]

Yes, quite a lot of people have done that. In order to avoid carrying detailed maps of the whole route you will probably find it helpful to either make your own .gpx files and use a map application on your phone, or hunt for GR (grande randonnée) and local walks going where you want to. I would suggest not trying to plan too much accommodation in advance but working two or three days ahead. There will probably be quite a lot of hotel stays needed, but there are also local associations who will be able to help find Christian family welcome in some areas. Do you have your main religious sites already selected?
PS. It's not Paris, France. Not when you are speaking to a local. The French only know of one Paris, the original one!

 

[Steven Dwyer]

I participated in the Night Adoration at Sacre Coeur back in 2005. It was wonderful experience to be in the basillica in the middle of the night with the mosaic ceiling mostly lit by candlelight. Highly recommend it if you have the opportunity.