We always pick the wrong line...Frances in July.

[Raqdoll]

Hi there! I'm Jennifer. My husband and I are doing the Frances (our first of hopefully, many future caminos) in July (or possibly in very late June) because we always seem to pick the worst time to do things LOL.

We'll be headed out from San Diego, California and probably flying into Paris. Anyone else going in that timeframe?

 

[Rebekah Scott]

July is NOT the worst time to do the Frances. You´ll want to do your walking early in the day, but the days are long and the harvest is being cut just about then, so you will see lots of activity along the Way. Also, at least in the middle where I live, there are significantly fewer pilgrims on the road in July and August in the last few years. You will likely see a lot less bed-racing and idiotic tourist behavior ... they heard the rumor that July is "the worst" and have joined the throngs in May and September!

 

[Raqdoll]

Thank you for the advice! And I'm heartened to hear that it may not be as crowded as we feared.

 

[trecile]

I walked the Frances last year in July, and it was great! Pros are long days and plenty of sunshine to dry your clothes. Plus, you don't need to bring a heavy sleeping bag or clothes.

 

[Former member 59618]

Hi there! I'm Jennifer. My husband and I are doing the Frances (our first of hopefully, many future caminos) in July (or possibly in very late June) because we always seem to pick the worst time to do things LOL.

We'll be headed out from San Diego, California and probably flying into Paris. Anyone else going in that timeframe?

Fellow San Diegan! I walked in September-early November 2016, but was living in Oregon at the time. Fair warning, once the camino gets under your skin, that's it, you're a goner. Stay hydrated in July-even in late September we got some scorching days which made me stop walking earlier than usual.

Buen Camino!

 

[FourSeasons]

Good Ol SoCal my original home. Welcome to the Camino Family. You're going to love the way. It will be hot that time of year but usually less rain, right? I will be arriving in Paris on July 3 for one night then down to walk the del Norte. I have already booked a lovely hostel and cheap for that time of year. Within walking distance to the Gare train station. How long are you staying in Paris before you head down to SJPdP, you are starting there, right?

Happy New Year!!
Angela

 

[Saint Mike II]

Hola @Raqdoll as usual the advice from Rebekah is spot on. My only suggestion be prepared for early starts, carry an extra litre (30 fluid ounces for you!) and despite their unfashionable appearance wear a hat with a large brim. You need to keep the hot sun off your face and back of neck.
Oh when you stop for coffee or snacks - take the shoes/boots off to let your feet breath or cool down. Cheers

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

Consider that in early July Pamplona will be full of tourists for the San Fermin festivities.

 

[trecile]

and despite their unfashionable appearance wear a hat with a large brim.

Or bring a handsfree umbrella to provide your own personal shade.

 

[pelerine]

Or bring a handsfree umbrella to provide your own personal shade.

Exactly! It keeps your whole upper body in the shade. And you do not need to wear a hat, thus fully enjoying even the slightest breeze which ruffles(?) your hair.
Buen camino, whatever you chose!

 

[Rebekah Scott]

the best thing about July is the fields of sunflowers are in their full glory!

 

[psheehan]

Last August I walked for one week from Logrono to Fromista... The weather was beautiful.. sunny warm days and very few pilgrims... lots of beds and all very relaxed. I'll be back this August for 2 more weeks.

 

[erikakiana]

I'm going to do it mid-July to mid-August. I think a lot of people are afraid because Spanish summers can be hot, but in the north it isn't too bad. I was looking at the average temperatures and they were all very manageable.

 

[Roland49]

We'll be headed out from San Diego, California and probably flying into Paris. Anyone else going in that timeframe?

Yup, I'm on the Camino from SJPdP from 06/30 to 07/31, planning to stay in SdC for 2-5 days on wait for a good flight-connection back home.

Roland
Buen Camino!

 

[Mugatu]

Hi there! I'm Jennifer. My husband and I are doing the Frances (our first of hopefully, many future caminos) in July (or possibly in very late June) because we always seem to pick the worst time to do things LOL.

We'll be headed out from San Diego, California and probably flying into Paris. Anyone else going in that timeframe?

Hey fellow Souther Californians! I’ll be heading out roughly that same time frame as well this year. Last year I went during the same time and enjoyed the weather; however I’m an early hiker ,4:30-5am starts, for the sunrise and get most of my km done before the actual heat of the day. Crowds are not as commonly advertised pre Sarria, rather a good sprinkling on the path. This year I’d like to experience Pamplona well before San Fermin so I’m planning on getting there before it starts... aiming for a June 27 departure date.