recommendation for guided tour

You don't need a tour guide to walk the Camino.
Buy a guide book, research and plan accordingly.
You are still young (I'm 54 ), so don't let age stop you from doing it unguided. I'd walk it again tomorrow if I could.
Buen Camino.

mombatt said:

I am considering doing a part of the Camino Frances next July ( I know, but it is when I can go)? I have seen some good reviews of Fresco and Marly for guided tours and am hoping someone can make a recommendation of these or other guided tours, or whether given my lack of experience and age (mid 50s), whether you think I should do outside guided context

Click to expand...

You truly don't need a guide on the Frances. You will find so many people out there in July that you couldn't get lost if you tried. Buy a guide book and enjoy familiarizing yourself with what lies ahead. (I was 67 when I did it solo in September, 2013, and I wasn't anywhere near the oldest.)

Lise T 's message is so important for people who are unsure of their ability to walk the Camino. It gives a well-balanced reply to Mombatt's question with an offer to provide more personal information.

When I started walking in September (for the 2nd time; a woman about to turn 70), I was appalled at the number of "guided tours". At some point I realized I needed to change my judgmental attitude towards the tours and the people who took them. People walk for different reasons; people walk in the manner in which they feel comfortable; people have incredible experiences and meet incredible people no matter how their Camino unfolds. The important thing is that they walk and experience the Camino.

Mombatt, I hope you find as much information as you need to walk the Camino in the way that suits you best. A very Buen Camino to you!
Terry

It's up to you to make whatever decision is best for you. Exactly the same as what Kings and Queens or the poor did back in the 12th century! I watch alot of pilgrims who walk and talk (some way too much at times !!) and frequently they miss out on alot of things ! If you have a Guide they can point things out as they are experts on the local culture,speak the local language(s) and have a lot of quality information and experiences to share including annotated map summaries of places to see, monuments,history, rest stops,local food, geography,wildlife etc. I can suggest you look at CaminoWays.com who use quality local guides. Buen camino.