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Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite.
There are other routes that are similar in length to the Francés but with much more solitude. For example, the Vía de la Plata sounds like it could be what you’re looking for. Look up some alternative routes and see if you find something that speaks to you.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
Why the France then, just start elsewhere, I recently crossed from Tangier to Algerciras and noticed Camino markers there. I think the France is just a made up thing, you can literally start anywhere, the only rule being you will need a few stamps in the book for the last 100kms, if you are bothered about a certificate. I could imagine a lot if not most Camino routes are deserted, no one for miles and miles. Or possibly something inside you wants to interact with other people, and is frightened this is what you will find on your Camino.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route?
True BUT... to stay in some pilgrim albergues on some routes, you must demonstrate that you are walking towards Santiago. Your credential with stamps is the evidence. On the Mozarabe from Almería, for example, the wonderful volunteers of the Asociación enforce this rule.you can literally start anywhere, the only rule being you will need a few stamps in the book for the last 100kms, if you are bothered about a certificate.
Why do you think the OP wishes to stay in Albergues and I have only suggested a different start point, not end point.True BUT... to stay in some pilgrim albergues on some routes, you must demonstrate that you are walking towards Santiago. Your credential with stamps is the evidence. On the Mozarabe from Almería, for example, the wonderful volunteers of the Asociación enforce this rule.
I reiterate the suggestions that the OP pick another route such as the Vía de la Plata or the Mozárabe.
Pay attention to all above, especially @jungleboy.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
I appreciate all that have chimed in....apparently everyone tailors a camino to fit their own challenges/needs..... So people have provided sound advice. My challenge is 'personal perseverance' along with the challenge of overcoming the physical side obviously. For me, personal perseverance is solitude and moving oneself into more a zen like experience for the camino. Others obviously go the opposite so each their own.I've walked a bunch of Caminos and while I do love the connections I've made and some social interaction, I'm also an introvert and the alone time I get on a long walk is really important to me. I now walk a mix of more popular routes and more quiet ones, and almost always in the summer (this is when I have time off but also when the routes can be a bit more crowded).
All of this being said... when I've been on the Frances, I can still find lots of solo-time! It helps if you stay "off-stage" (so, before or past the typical starting/stopping points listed in many guidebooks). And starting a bit later in the morning and/or walking into the afternoon will also generally give you time alone on the path. If I'm walking long into the afternoon I might consider booking ahead for a place to sleep, just so I can relax into the walk and not worry about finding a bed (but that all depends on which route/when you're walking/how "crowded" the trail is, etc)
Why not start on the Via de La Plata at Zafra, it is approximately 6 or 7 days after Seville, the "families" will have formed by then, and it is about 850 Km. from Santiago. Zafra is a beautiful historic town and worth the visit. Walk to Granja de Moreruela, and take Sanabres route to Santiago. Less pilgrims, and longer daily distances ensure plenty of time to enjoy the "I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge" . Be sure to carry enough water.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
I am not an introvert, but I have found a lot of alone time on my seven casinos. I leave early 5:30-6:00 AM, ahead of the pack. I walk slowly (others pass me). Leaving villages you can again wait for groups to pass. It is best not to fear the unknown, meanwhile I am an advocate for Camino Families which are formed by meeting and talking to other Pilgrims.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
Hi Imans,This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
That's Hollywood. Many of us are totally not into contrived camino families. It's both not true and not the situation on the ground. If you want quiet, you can find it. But as others have said, quieter caminos might be more your cup of tea.developing a camino family is so important
Hi Imans,
I am walking the Camino Madrid now. Very few people! Once I arrive at the Frances I will most likely continue the Salvador route from Leon, and then the Primitivo. I don’t know about the the other two yet, but if solitude is what you are after, the Madrid might be a good start. I am in Medina the Rioseco at the moment, and the last few days it has only been me and another pilgrim. So far from Madrid I met a total of 9 pilgrims. Good luck deciding, I am sure you will find something that suits you. Saludos
Currently on Camino Frances, started 14March. Have had a couple of days meeting zero pilgrims, but now in Mid-April many more. My suggestionThis is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
This is my first don't think the Frances ias I look atis the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
A beautiful way with very few fellow pilgrims and certainly also a physical challenge would be the camino mozarabe starting in Almeria or Malaga. It is stunningly beautiful and peaceful. I really don't think the Frances is for you. The most crowded camino of all. Google both. Portuguese also much frequented. Via de la Plata may be good if you are able for long distances.I appreciate all that have chimed in....apparently everyone tailors a camino to fit their own challenges/needs..... So people have provided sound advice. My challenge is 'personal perseverance' along with the challenge of overcoming the physical side obviously. For me, personal perseverance is solitude and moving oneself into more a zen like experience for the camino. Others obviously go the opposite so each their own.
But starting later to avoid the crowd along the trail......eating apart.....packing a lunch etc.... and yes, planning ahead by booking if possible. Otherwise the lack of a bed is always going to be niggling at one's mind.
While am an introvert....I am not a hermit....as I taught school for many many many years...so perhaps a need to find myself and nourish who I am....is what my Camino is about. Thus, the desire for solitude.
Sorry for any offense. I was just trying to add a piece of information that might be relevant to a person who is new to Camino planning and is thinking about starting "anywhere" and maybe walking in any direction. We recently had a thread that described how some walkers were upset to discover that they couldn't stay in certain albergues because they were walking in the wrong direction.Why do you think the OP wishes to stay in Albergues and I have only suggested a different start point, not end point.
Sounds like you would be better off with a retreat. The Camino today is a joyous, inclusive experience.TG.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
Sounds like you would be better off with a retreat. The Camino today is a joyous, inclusive experience.TG.
Yes, and if you try to dodge them then you are missing a large part of what makes the Camino what it is.But the Camino tends to throw you curved balls.
That's why it's important not to go with any expectations.
Every Camino I have walked has been great.
And usually not what I expected, at all.........
Hey,This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
I'm not an introvert, but I'm big on solitude. My three top tips for a solitary Camino are:This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
Who says the Camino can't be a retreat? It is for me. You can party or socialize all you like on the Camino but not to forget that not everybody has your experience.Sounds like you would be better off with a retreat. The Camino today is a joyous, inclusive experience.TG.
No offence taken, no problems, thanks for replying.Sorry for any offense. I was just trying to add a piece of information that might be relevant to a person who is new to Camino planning and is thinking about starting "anywhere" and maybe walking in any direction. We recently had a thread that described how some walkers were upset to discover that they couldn't stay in certain albergues because they were walking in the wrong direction.
A lot of people have suggested walking a solitary route to achieve solitude. I'm not going to join them. Not for a first Camino. Solitary routes can certainly be wonderful. But they tend to come with less infrastructure to support a pilgrim and less flexibility to allow a first-time pilgrim to adapt their Camino to what they discover, on the camino, that they need. I think that you are looking for 'personal perseverance' challenges, and physical challenges, but not necessarily logistical challenges.I appreciate all that have chimed in....apparently everyone tailors a camino to fit their own challenges/needs..... So people have provided sound advice. My challenge is 'personal perseverance' along with the challenge of overcoming the physical side obviously. For me, personal perseverance is solitude and moving oneself into more a zen like experience for the camino. Others obviously go the opposite so each their own.
But starting later to avoid the crowd along the trail......eating apart.....packing a lunch etc.... and yes, planning ahead by booking if possible. Otherwise the lack of a bed is always going to be niggling at one's mind.
While am an introvert....I am not a hermit....as I taught school for many many many years...so perhaps a need to find myself and nourish who I am....is what my Camino is about. Thus, the desire for solitude.
While I agree that the Camino should be an inclusive experience, I'm not sure that you are demonstrating that by sending this pilgrim off to a retreat. The Camino is just as inclusive of introverts who want solitude or limited social contact as it is of extroverts who find joy in the larger, louder groups. You may want to consider what "inclusive" means to you.Sounds like you would be better off with a retreat. The Camino today is a joyous, inclusive experience.TG.
I find plenty of solitude on CF, even in the busy seasons. I start walking between 0600-0700, and at a bit faster pace (physical challenge). Sometimes I do not see anyone for 2-3 hours. Just keep walking until 1800 or later each day. Usually by 1400, 90% of the people are off the trail, and you will have it mostly to yourself. The added time and mileage will give you more physical challenge. As others have posted, del Norte is an option for you: pretty good infrastructure, same distance as CF, much more of a physical challenge, and many fewer pilgrims.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
I certainly agree re walking later into the day. I also start early but as I am such a slow walker, and I like to get at least 30kms in, I also walk into the late afternoon / early evening. Many people seem done by 1400-1500 so it is much quieter and very different vibe!I find plenty of solitude on CF, even in the busy seasons. I start walking between 0600-0700, and at a bit faster pace (physical challenge). Sometimes I do not see anyone for 2-3 hours. Just keep walking until 1800 or later each day. Usually by 1400, 90% of the people are off the trail, and you will have it mostly to yourself. The added time and mileage will give you more physical challenge. As others have posted, del Norte is an option for you: pretty good infrastructure, same distance as CF, much more of a physical challenge, and many fewer pilgrims.
Hi! I walked in one of the busiest months last September.
You will meet people when you want to and find solitude when you need it.
Walking from Leon to Sarria i met a few pilgrims on the path; obviously at the end of the day in accommodation those who have walked meet up!
When i got to Sarria the beginning of the last 100km i thought here comes the madness; well the first two days out were pretty busy i could see pilgrims on the path constantly. Not sure where i took this but you can find this sort of solo walking if you want it.
By day three it was much quieter.
Body cam vid with no bad language (mammoth task to find one)
Perhaps you would prefer “ sombre”.The Camino can mean lots of things.
Yes, for some it can be joyous and inclusive, but that is so utterly limiting IMO.
To me it is certainly not always " cheerful ecstatic exuberant festive heartwarming joyful jubilant merry upbeat wonderful" ( quick internetsearch for synonyms of joyous ). And thank heavens for that!
Perhaps you would prefer “ sombre”.
Cheerful ecstatic heartwarming joyful jubilant upbeat wonderful and joyful can also be solitary and quiet. Extroverts may fail to understand this, but it's very true.Perhaps you would prefer “ sombre”.
This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposit
I would label myself a introvert and walked the camino frances from mid May to end of June last year. Looking for solitude was relatively easy from SJPP TO Saria (after saria it can get busy). You will encounter people on the way but there is no need to feel you must be part of a "family" it is up to you. I found being part of a group quite stressful. What I enjoyed was being on my own and the freedom. I could decide what to eat, when to eat and where, my preferred speed to walk and when to stop. In towns what to visit or not, whrte to stay etc.... And when to take photos! Who to speak to - piligrims and/or the Spanish. If you are not keen on domitories you could always alternate it by booking a room - eg a couple of nights in Leon and Burgos for a rest. I should add i did meet some great people on the way. Have a great camino.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
I read about bed races and the last 100km after Sarria on the Camino Frances... and I decided to start in August 2018 with the Camino Aragones from Somport -> Camino Frances -> Camino de Invierno and so I had more solitude than if I would have walked only the Camino Frances.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route...
it is not a question of preference. Some people walk through grief. Believe it or not, it is not uncommon on the Camino. To expect these pilgrims to walk a Camino that is "cheerful ecstatic exuberant festive heartwarming joyful jubilant merry upbeat" strikes me as somewhat absurd. And to suggest that if their Camino is not that way, the Camino is not for them is, in my opinion, contrary to the spirit of the Camino as I have come to know it.Perhaps you would prefer “ sombre”.
I'm about to do my final day on the Mozarabe, which is my first camino. There weren't many people during the day but plenty of birds for company. It was fine, it felt safe, and the nature is beautiful.A lot of people have suggested walking a solitary route to achieve solitude. I'm not going to join them. Not for a first Camino. Solitary routes can certainly be wonderful. But they tend to come with less infrastructure to support a pilgrim and less flexibility to allow a first-time pilgrim to adapt their Camino to what they discover, on the camino, that they need. I think that you are looking for 'personal perseverance' challenges, and physical challenges, but not necessarily logistical challenges.
I think you are on the right track in terms of looking for strategies to adapt the Camino Frances to your needs. And, part of the benefit of all that infrastructure on the Camino Frances, is more flexibility to adopt these strategies. Whether it is more grocery stores and supermarkets to allow you to pack lunches, or more places to stop for the night. Stopping at a place "off-stage" (between the places recommended in the popular guides and apps as stopping places) can be a very effective way of achieving solitude. As effective or more so than starting late, and not leading you to arrive late. As an example (one that I trot out often, because it made such an impact on me), last summer at the height of the season I was walking the last 50km of the Frances. That's the busiest time of year on the busiest part of the busiest route. I had plenty of solitude. As much as I had experienced on the Primitivo or even the San Salvador (much less walked routes). How did I achieve this? Instead of stopping at Arzua and O Pedrouzo I stopped at Salceda and Lavacolla. That's all it took.
You talk about planning ahead by booking if possible. My advice would be not to plan and book your whole Camino ahead. The first few days, sure. After that I would only plan and book a day or two in advance. Keep that flexibility.
I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
I am having trouble understanding your motivation for walking the Caminos in particular if you feel that (a) any long walk can be a source of spiritual gain (a position which I totally accept and agree with) and (b) you feel a very strong wish for solitude. On the main Camino routes real solitude can be difficult to find for much of the year. Certainly if your standard for comparison is a long-distance wilderness trail like the PCT or the AT. Would it not make more sense to look elsewhere at roads less travelled if the road itself has no distinctive intrinsic value for you?I believe that there are many that try to overthink, or read too much into this walk. Yes, a long walk but a walk none the less as one can gain spiritually from many aspects of any long walk. The Camino to me, is no different than walking the Pacific Trail in the states in terms of building physical touchness and mental toughness to succeed.
People may greet you but if you just wave they almost never persist. Numbers thin out after Logroño, lots of time with few people. Also set off a bit late after the 7am rush hour, and you hit the spaces. Sit in quiet churches, eat alone. Stop in unusual places and above all avoid big towns on Sundays.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
Why not do the north as it is quieter and as long. Cooling breezes from the sea and great variety of terrain.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
Do the Camino del Norte instead of the Frances would be my advice . . . It's pretty much the same distance, but a lot less popularThis is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
Choose another route, or cobble something together. I am doing Camino Vasco de Interior from Irûn, joining the Frances at Burgos. Leaving the Frances at Leon for the Salvador to Oviedo, then on to the Norte to Ribadeo or Vilalba where I will bus to the Ingles and enter Santiago from a less crowded path. Anyway that is my plan. There are so very many options. Don’t limit yourself.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
Because the Camino has multiple resources along the way, unlike any other long walk. Little towns, cafes, spots to rest and grab a bit...scenic etc.... So the Camino has a ton to offer, thus the reason to find how it might work for those that seek solitude as way. As stated, it can be achieved, but my last posting was to show how to succeed at that, one has to purposely make a point to avoid, rather than embrace what is abundant.I am having trouble understanding your motivation for walking the Caminos in particular if you feel that (a) any long walk can be a source of spiritual gain (a position which I totally accept and agree with) and (b) you feel a very strong wish for solitude. On the main Camino routes real solitude can be difficult to find for much of the year. Certainly if your standard for comparison is a long-distance wilderness trail like the PCT or the AT. Would it not make more sense to look elsewhere at roads less travelled if the road itself has no distinctive intrinsic value for you?
I agree!Do the Camino del Norte instead of the Frances would be my advice . . . It's pretty much the same distance, but a lot less popular
This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
i'd suggest relieving yourself of all expectations either way. Go and have the time you are meant to have day to day. If you want solitude, no one will be forcing you to interact. You always have the ability to be kind and polite in expressing your desire to walk alone, if need be. I don't think you can really know what will be important to you on the Camino until you are there and on it. As the owner of an albergue in Sansol shared with me in conversation - "Pilgrims always tell me why they've come to walk the Camino but it's the Camino that will tell you why you are there...and you might not know that until you get to Santiago." I'd suggest just releasing expectations and see what the Camino has in store for you. I didn't find any "pressure" to talk or hang out. When I did talk or "hang out" (I really dont think socializing I did would be categorized as hanging out), it was because I formed organic connections at a given time along the way and shared whatever moment that occured in the time that it did. Buen Camino.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
Hello Imans - I completely understand what you are saying and have the same feelings. I wish you well and the peace you needThis is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
I read through most of the replies, and didn’t see this anywhere so here’s one more thought for you: simply learn to gracefully say “today I’d prefer to walk alone”.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
I agree with this. I had my ear buds on: listened to 20 audio books on the Frances, and it works like a charm for walking alone.I am similar being an introvert myself. I just pop in my ear buds. I don't always even listen to music or audio books, just wear them.
But ear buds generally discourage conversation without you looking overtly rude.
Works good for me.
Usually my conversations are limited to food related or getting settled at an Albergue.
Not all of us need idle conversations for our Camino experience to be awesome.
Ok so now I get it. You want to walk a path with many people in order to avoid many people in order to achieve Zen.Because the Camino has multiple resources along the way, unlike any other long walk. Little towns, cafes, spots to rest and grab a bit...scenic etc.... So the Camino has a ton to offer, thus the reason to find how it might work for those that seek solitude as way. As stated, it can be achieved, but my last posting was to show how to succeed at that, one has to purposely make a point to avoid, rather than embrace what is abundant.
I can see not only from your profile, but from this post, that you haven't walked the Camino yet. When you do, I think you will discover quite a number of other differences between the Camino and walking the wilderness trails like the Pacific Trail, AT, CDT, etc. At least, so it is apparent from discussing things with people who have walked both.I believe that there are many that try to overthink, or read too much into this walk. Yes, a long walk but a walk none the less as one can gain spiritually from many aspects of any long walk. The Camino to me, is no different than walking the Pacific Trail in the states in terms of building physical touchness and mental toughness to succeed. They both are difficult.... The important thing for me is that on the Pacfic Trail, it is a give-me that there will be solitude and one can easily get into a personal contemplative existence / zen like feel. That makes for that 'walk'.... An occasional person is okay.
On the Camino, it is more like....an occasional time when no one is around, unless one purposely avoids by going in the later hours etc.... Not to say the Camino is bad, as for extroverts this walk feeds into their needs. For an introvert, a more purposeful need to orchestrate the Camino on a mental basis is needed above and beyond the basics of finding a bed, feet issues, water etc...
Simply put, you won't have any problem finding solitude. I walked the France route and loved it. You may even be surprised if you are like me, an introvert who has learned how to be an extrovert when required, with the simple, yet very pleasant conversations you have with others along the Way.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
I’ve only done the Camino Frances. I shared a table for dinner at O Pedrouzo with a gentleman from Germany. He had walked from Germany using the coastal route and was a bit upset with the number of pilgrims he had encountered after Sarria. Compared to beginning in SJpdp, I thought the same section was fairly uncrowded.I don't think a "Camino Family" is as common as the myth. If you want solitude it's as simple as merely nodding at people when you pass each other, they will take the hint. You aren't forced to socialize with anyone. You can sit alone for coffee or meals. You can choose private accommodation if you want more alone time.
I was social during the day while walking. Then checked into my private room at the end of the day and enjoyed peace and quiet. Sometimes I ate with others, most days I ate alone.
Late autumn to early spring has fewer pilgrims. Other routes are less travelled, as others have mentioned, Via de la Plata would grant you long days with few interactions.
Buen Camino!
I appreciate your post...I've been trekking various caminos in Europe for well over a decade as a way to enter into that place of solitude that we "introverts" desire, and walking the French route between now and late September is not the place to find it. Even if you stay in private rooms at night, you will encounter hordes of people during the day along The Way in the months ahead, especially between Sarria and Santiago. To clarify, the numbers of people are not the problem in so much as it is the self-centered behavior of those oblivious to the benefits of just being quiet for a few hours. You will no doubt find the constant chatter along the trail and and the use of cell phones on speaker - at every stop and in the albergues - especially disturbing. I've also witnessed bands of young people walking while blaring music from speakers and wildly carrying on as youth simply do, which is fine for them but not so good for an introvert. In other words, the French route at this time of year and through the summer is not a quiet place to be. Since we cannot control the behavior of others, I'd recommend avoiding both the traditional Spanish route (and Portugal as well these days) and consider the northern route along the Bay of Biscay or the route from Le Puy en Velay to Saint Jean in France. Another tip; book private rooms or try to stay in religious houses or convents, regardless of your faith. Most importantly, don't let others sway you into believing that you either have the wrong expectations or that you just need to be more "open" to the experience. Rubbish! I hope that you find the quiet and solitude that you seek. Peace!This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
Fascinating..... I am sure there will be times of contentment, solitude.... no doubt especially along the majority of the camino and especially if I leave late, after all others. But unless I book a bed prior, I might be worrying about a bed all day. But I am expecting some of what you stated from Sarria to Santiago. Anytime the 'masses' find something, it is usually ruined.I appreciate your post...I've been trekking various caminos in Europe for well over a decade as a way to enter into that place of solitude that we "introverts" desire, and walking the French route between now and late September is not the place to find it. Even if you stay in private rooms at night, you will encounter hordes of people during the day along The Way in the months ahead, especially between Sarria and Santiago. To clarify, the numbers of people are not the problem in so much as it is the self-centered behavior of those oblivious to the benefits of just being quiet for a few hours. You will no doubt find the constant chatter along the trail and and the use of cell phones on speaker - at every stop and in the albergues - especially disturbing. I've also witnessed bands of young people walking while blaring music from speakers and wildly carrying on as youth simply do, which is fine for them but not so good for an introvert. In other words, the French route at this time of year and through the summer is not a quiet place to be. Since we cannot control the behavior of others, I'd recommend avoiding both the traditional Spanish route (and Portugal as well these days) and consider the northern route along the Bay of Biscay or the route from Le Puy en Velay to Saint Jean in France. Another tip; book private rooms or try to stay in religious houses or convents, regardless of your faith. Most importantly, don't let others sway you into believing that you either have the wrong expectations or that you just need to be more "open" to the experience. Rubbish! I hope that you find the quiet and solitude that you seek. Peace!
Fascinating..... I am sure there will be times of contentment, solitude.... no doubt especially along the majority of the camino and especially if I leave late, after all others. But unless I book a bed prior, I might be worrying about a bed all day. But I am expecting some of what you stated from Sarria to Santiago. Anytime the 'masses' find something, it is usually ruined.
Not necessarily.But I am expecting some of what you stated from Sarria to Santiago.
I have just completed the Camino Madrid. The penultimate Albergue at Grajal de Campos is well worth the stay (10 euros +2 euros for sheets). It is in the stables of an old palace. This leaves you 5.9 klm to Sahagun.Hi Imans,
I am walking the Camino Madrid now. Very few people! Once I arrive at the Frances I will most likely continue the Salvador route from Leon, and then the Primitivo. I don’t know about the the other two yet, but if solitude is what you are after, the Madrid might be a good start. I am in Medina the Rioseco at the moment, and the last few days it has only been me and another pilgrim. So far from Madrid I met a total of 9 pilgrims. Good luck deciding, I am sure you will find something that suits you. Saludos
I stayed in Grajal de Campos, too, last year. How could I resist staying in a renaissance palace (even if only in the stables)? I was the only person in the building once the hospitalero had checked me in and left. That was the night I spent most of my time in the washroom, so it was just as well I was alone!I have just completed the Camino Madrid. The penultimate Albergue at Grajal de Campos is well worth the stay (10 euros +2 euros for sheets). It is in the stables of an old palace. This leaves you 5.9 klm to Sahagun.
I saw 2 other people on the actual route during the course of 12 days.
In my first 20 minutes in Sahagun I saw 20 plus walking, sipping coffee or milling about the Albergue Municipal.
If solitude is your thing (it is mine as well) then your arrival at Sahagun will provide every reason why not to walk the Frances.
Buen Camino.
Don.
I walked in Sept 2018. I am a solid introvert that shuns, dreads large groups. I avoided the Camino families but I met wonderful people to talk to occasionally one on one which I enjoy. I wanted my walk to be a solo spiritual walk and physical challenge.My time to talk to God. What worked great for me is that because I rarely sleep more then 6 hrs and with the albergues lights out at 10 I found myself awake around 4-4:30. I would get up and leave. The alone time predawn under the moon and stars, watching the glorious sunrise is what my Camino so deeply special.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish.
I wholeheartedly agree you will have no trouble finding solitude if you leave just a little bit later in the morning. I rarely saw anybody on the trail when I went in 2022 as I was a slow walker and usually didn't leave until about seven or eight in the morning, if you decide to be sociable in the evening, of course then that's when you could meet more people and have dinner, etc! I was amazed at how empty the trail was and it was supposedly a humongously busy time during the holy year in April and May! So no worries just pace yourself to avoid the pack if you want the camino to yourself xoYou can have solitude on the CF. Be the last to leave an albergue (usually around 8am) and you’ll likely have the trail completely to yourself. Spend more time in churches than in bars, pack your lunch so you can picnic solo, and choose private rooms over public dorms. If you want to be alone, be alone. It’s your choice and others will respect it.
Your expectations lead me to believe you will be very disappointed with the Frances. Combining that with your experience, and your desire for challenge, I would recommend the Primitivo. But keep in mind that many caminos are much less busy in November, a challenge in itself. Consider off season. After my wife and I walked our first camino, the Frances, which we loved (and was much less busy many years ago), we still sought lesser walked caminos. We start on the Camino Baztan later this month. There are very few walkers on this lovely camino. Check out Nadine's videos at youtube. She walked it alone and loved it.This is my first posting but as I look at the Camino, I worry about 'lack of solitude' given the number of people on the trail. I am looking to do the France route....as I want to have the experience of a long walk....I know enough from what I have read and just from life's experiences to know that sometimes you need a rather lengthy time to experience the high's and lows'...thus the France route with a nice length in KM/Miles is what I need.
But....I am doing this for a challenge.....I am retired and have accomplished a lot in life, ....I have no regrets. But now I want the experience that one gains from the camino.... Yet, being an introvert, I can see that looking for solitude on the camino may be a difficult part to accomplish. I know....I know....toss out the Cumbaya stuff and how chatting with people and being with people and developing a camino family is so important but frankly, I don't want that. I am doing this for a mental challenge...a physical challenge and not the Cumbaya stuff that many might desire. I am not knocking it, ...just don't want it. It isn't me, so understand that.
Are there any other introverts who have completed the Camino France and have done so in relative peace without the pressure to 'have to talk' and hang out along the route? I am not against an occasional chat....I am not that introverted, but feel I prefer an introverted spin to my camino as opposed to the opposite. lmans
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