Thinking of walking from Astorga to Santiago in November.

patrick kennedy said:

Any tips from anyone who has done it at this time of the year

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Patrick,

Welcome to the Forum!

I have often walked the CF in late October and November and hope to again this year. These are wonderful months to walk with generally clear days and chilly or cold nights. However you must BE PREPARED for varied weather.

The welcome at those albergues which are open is sincere and the hospitaleros usually know who is open on the next stage. Most open albergues will either be heated or have blankets, but not all.

Even last November 29 the climb up to O Cebriero was packed with snow. You can see the snow and read my blog account of this memorable storm. Luckily the open albergue offered welcoming shelter, heat and companionship.

My late autumn/winter kit has evolved to be warm and cozy but still a lightweight 6.5 kilos. During eight caminos it has been comfortable in 'difficult' weather conditions including deep mud, heavy wind, lashing rain, freezing albergues and snow as well as walking in glorious golden sunshine. Like many veteran pilgrims do I layer basic items when necessary.

Happy planning and Buen Camino!

Margaret Meredith

I was there last fall. I think I passed through O Cebreiro just before Margaret.

You need to be prepared for weather conditions that include hard rain, snow, frost, and cool temperatures. Thats not to say the weather was always bad (it was usually sunny) but it does get snotty. I did not encounter cold temperatures (defined here as well below freezing) but I understand it does get that way some winters.

Be aware that many Albergues are closed for the season and information from others isn't always accurate. I would suggest planning to stop early enough to be able to keep going if necessary. The Xunta operated albergues in the larger centers were open.

Laundry is an issue as there is not enough strength in the sun or time remaining in a day of walking to get stuff dried.

The days are shorter and often dark with cloud. I was concerned about being visible on some of the paths that double as the main street through the villages.

I enjoyed the camino and would not hesitate to travel that late in the season again.

I was in Astorga almost exactly a year ago. The end of October seemed the big cut off for many private albergues from talking to hospitaleros, a lot said they closed after then. I got into Santiago at the end of the month. Lovely time of year, cold mornings, warm afternoons, cool evenings, chilly nights. Quiet enough to find solitude (and a bed), busy enough that wait 10 minutes and you'll find someone to talk to. Great time of year, lots of atmosphere.