Reservations necessary Semana Santa on the Via de la Plata?

[Ken8]

I will be walking the Via de la Plata starting 11 April 2019, from Seville, so during the Semana Santa. In the past, if I have reserved, it was just the night before. Do I need to reserve multiple nights at this time? Lucky me, get to walk with my grandson! Thanks.

 

[gracethepilgrim]

Hi @Ken8, You lucky pilgrim! Firstly, walking the VdlP and secondly being in Sevilla during Semana Santa.
I lived there for several years and the city swells with hundreds of thousands of visitors at this time.
I would definitely recommend booking around this time.
The streets are difficult to navigate with the throngs of people but it’s such a wonderful spectacle to experience. Allow a few days in Sevilla to enjoy.
Cheers, grace

 

[C clearly]

I wrote a post but then realized I had the wrong week on the calendar, so here is a revision!

After my experience in Cordoba and Caceres during fiesta weekends in May 2018, I would make reservations for Zafra and Merida, where you will be arriving during Holy Week. It isn't just pilgrims - for anyone to arrive in popular towns and expect to find cheap accommodation at the last minute is expecting a bit much.

I think the experience of Easter in those towns outweighs a slight loss of spontaneity/flexibility.

 

[geraldkelly]

If you're going to be in Seville during Easter week you certainly need to book accommodation. Also expect the Via to be busier that week but to return to normal once everybody goes back to work.

 

[t2andreo]

Short answer... YES! If you are on any Camino route for Semana Santa or the week of Easter (the following week) protect yourself and book a head.

This time of year marks a brief spike or surge in Camino use. It is also the 'unofficial' start the Camino Season.

Hope this helps.

 

[laineylainey]

Yes, I am planning to walk from Sevilla to Mérida from 9th April arriving back in Sevilla on Good Friday. I have booked most of my accommodation on the recommendation of those who have walked any Camino in Semana Santa. Just be prepared as well for the hike in prices which is to be expected. Can´t wait to walk during this special time and looking forward to meeting others en route!

 

[SYates]

I was during Semana Santa 2016 on the VdlP and never needed any reservations.

Buen Camino, SY

 

[gracethepilgrim]

I was during Semana Santa 2016 on the VdlP and never needed any reservations.

Buen Camino, SY

Yes @SYates that’s a great point. Accommodation needs to be booked in Sevilla but doubtful actually on the camino once you get going. There will be many more Spanish people walking at that time though. They love getting away on long weekends

 

[laineylainey]

A couple if years ago I hadn't heard of the VdLP but thanks to this forum I now do!

 

[Ken8]

Thank you everyone! I appreciate your thoughtful and helpful responses.

 

[laineylainey]

Buen Camino Ken and grandson! I will be a day behind you next April, on a short walk to Mérida.

 

[Deleted member 12253]

No in 2016 i was on vdlp holyweek no problems

 

[notion900]

I have started VDLP on Easter Sunday from Sevilla. I only booked in Sevilla. It was fine.