Via de la Plata in June

Hi - I was out on the VdlP walking from Salamanca in May/June last year. Conditions were perfect. There were a few other pigrims around. Lots of room in albergues and always alternative cheap accomodation. Go for it!

Buen Camino

Hi there

I've heard recent reports that that there are more pilgrims on the VdlP this year - but last year for example in May/June in a typical albergue of 20 beds - there were 6 of us - and that was busy! If it was my choice I'd leave the mat.

Buen Camino

John

On March 15 I had 16 pilgrims staying at the pilgrim albergue in Salamanca.
The ´heavy season is spring and fall. In between, especially around Merida, it´s like Hell with the lid off. But people are still doing it!

reb.

I am on the Via now and have had no problems with finding space. I sent back to Madrid a sleeping roll. Nevertheless I have seen albergues fill up.
Yet we was in Aljucen a few days ago and my son and I had the whole albergue to ourselves. BTW, while there go to the Roman baths. Great price for pilgrims. And soooo soothing to the legs.
If you go to Aldea del Cano, there is a good albergue there. NOt mentioned in guides, but I liked it...also good food at the Las Vegas bar.
We are in Caceres now....woohooo Internet!! Only found so far in bigger cities.
Lillian

Well, it´s still June, so thought I would add to other posts. I have been walking alone (my son is on the Camino Frances) since Baños de Montemayor and have met very few pilgrims. Twice now I have been totally alone, like last night, in Villanueva de Campear. Today I am in Zamora, and there is a brand new albergue here that is incredibly huge (3 floors) and modern, with all amenities. Nice view as well. The temperatures so far have varied, with very hot days earlier this week to very cool today, after a front came through.
I cannot stress enough what a wonderful camino this is. I have met so many lovely people, seen so many beautiful cities, a countryside so varied, with plains and mountains and forests. And best of all not crowded. Also very clean, no litter except in the cities, but the Camino is totally clean. I saw my first tissue yesterday morning.
The CSJ is in need of updating. There are many new albergues, closed albergues, etc. I am not sure what alternative there is.
I know it is getting hotter, but luckily I am north of the hottest southern areas. It was so hot one day and a long stage with nothing inbetween that I arrived quite dehydrated and pretty upset. Especially with some road walking which feels hotter than anywhere else. Must be well prepared with water. I carry a small umbrella which I have used as a parasol.
There is so much to tell about this trip.... I have a blog going and hope to update it soon.
Loving it
Lillian

You are so courageous Lillian - I don't think I could ever walk a long, lone pilgrimage. Please ask someone to take a photograph of you with your parasol - it will make a charming peregrina picture!
Am reading your blog - big hugs,

The VdlP is developing all the time - it is necessary to complement the CSJ Guide with the updates on the CSJ Website and also the updates on the Pili Pala Press website - even then they won't include all new facilities. It is really good if pilgrims take a few notes an e mail them to the CSJ so that they can be available for future pilgrims.

Great to hear from you Lillian - con parasol!

Abrazos

Juan