Weather in November/December

[riedelnaomi]

Starting to walk the Camino Frances on 12th of November to the 8th of December just wondering what weather to expect and temperatures. Any must pack items for this season or need to knows about places that may be hard to find accomodation. Also looking to do it in 26 days, we are two fit females. Is this achievable and does anyone have recommended break downs for each day? Also is there any danger in hiking over the pyrenees in winter for experienced trampers?

 

[Bradypus]

Are you aware that the higher level route through the Pyrenees from SJPDP to Roncesvalles is officially closed between 1 November and 31 March? You risk heavy fines if you walk the Route Napoleon during that period. The lower Valcarlos route remains open year round, is relatively straightforward and is close to a major road for much of its length.

Weather - you could find almost anything. The route covers a wide range of terrain and elevations. Websites like Weatherspark will give detailed historical averages but the reality is that a few days of abnormal weather like the high winds and rainfall of the past few days may completely alter your experience. Walking at any time I would come prepared for persistent heavy rain. In November and December in the higher areas you can expect to encounter snow and sub-zero temperatures overnight and in early morning. Be prepared to dress accordingly. I strongly suggest lightweight gloves for use on cold mornings.

Pamplona Climate, Weather By Month, Average Temperature (Spain) - Weather Spark

In Pamplona, the summers are warm and mostly clear and the winters are very cold and partly cloudy. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 33°F to 82°F and is rarely below 23°F or above 94°F.

weatherspark.com

 

[roving_rufus]

The 26 days could be an issue in winter as there are fewer accommodation options, so some days might be short between options say 20km. Equally trying to do long 40km days means leaving in the dark and arriving in the dark. (I've done a few of these days and leaving in dark in freezing conditions is not delightful). I am heading back in January to do another section of the CF but looking at accommodation options I am probably stuck with days of less than 25km (normally I would plan +30km days) due to what albergues and accomodation are open.
Also 26 days doesn't leave much allowance if you do hit a blizzard or a storm that might effect if walking is possible on a particular day (or how far you can safely make).

Gronze, Wise pilgrim app and others try to list what is open, plus https://www.aprinca.com/alberguesinvierno/

And with dark and poor weather conditions make sure you have decent fluorescent and reflective gear to wear so you are as visible as possible.

 

[J Willhaus]

Where will you start walking from. That could also help us help you.

 

[trecile]

With that tight time frame I would start in Pamplona.

 

[brian560]

Are you aware that the higher level route through the Pyrenees from SJPDP to Roncesvalles is officially closed between 1 November and 31 March? You risk heavy fines if you walk the Route Napoleon during that period. The lower Valcarlos route remains open year round, is relatively straightforward and is close to a major road for much of its length.

Weather - you could find almost anything. The route covers a wide range of terrain and elevations. Websites like Weatherspark will give detailed historical averages but the reality is that a few days of abnormal weather like the high winds and rainfall of the past few days may completely alter your experience. Walking at any time I would come prepared for persistent heavy rain. In November and December in the higher areas you can expect to encounter snow and sub-zero temperatures overnight and in early morning. Be prepared to dress accordingly. I strongly suggest lightweight gloves for use on cold mornings.

Pamplona Climate, Weather By Month, Average Temperature (Spain) - Weather Spark

In Pamplona, the summers are warm and mostly clear and the winters are very cold and partly cloudy. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 33°F to 82°F and is rarely below 23°F or above 94°F.

weatherspark.com

 

[brian560]

I have experienced horizontal sleet, snow and zero temperatures in Rabanal, Foncebadon and Alto de Poio. Expect cold, freezing weather. Ponchos and light gloves don't quite cut it in these conditions.

 

[krystianw]

26 days is going to be tiring, but if you're fit then you'll be fine. I've seen people do 45km/day, so there's that. Be careful about how much daytime you have though, and consider headlamps.

As for the weather, you can look it up on caminoweather.com. Here's a link for Nov 12 - Dec 8 on the Francés.

 

[Kevin Considine]

I walked last November 22 to December 10 on Frances. The weather was mild. Even the last few days in Galicia were pleasant. I wore thin gloves and a rain jacket in morning but often shed those. O Cebreiro was cold and icy but not a problem. Of course one should be prepared for anykind of weather at that time.