Suz Siberia
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- Time of past OR future Camino
- Frances
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thank you David - so much appreciated. SuzHi Suz - I walked over the middle of March, started from Moissac, and it had only just been opened. Remains of some deep snow up there and some poles hidden, went from warm sunshine to seriously cold strong winds and then it stormed and snowed for an hour or so - bit worrying really, for a while.
But that was back in the year 5 and they are much more controlling of the pass now. If it is going to be rough up there it will be closed. They really do keep an eye on conditions now.
The thing is, Spring weather cannot be predicted until you get there. I have seen March like balmy spring, and have also seen it on one bad year with snow from the Pyrenees to as far as Burgos!!
Suz, you cannot pre-plan this one, keep an eye on the forecasts before you leave and then you just have to deal with the situation when you arrive and 'normally' it is lovely at that time of the year. The Valcarlos route will be open whatever as it is a highway and they plough and salt it. Of which, the pilgrim route drops off that road and back onto it many times. If weather is snow up there stay on the cleared road.
By the way, you may be arriving alone but you won't be walking alone! When you step out you will find yourself with other pilgrims, most of them first-timers and as nervous as you, is ok - all will be well.
Buen Camino!
Hi Suz,
You will be walking the Valcarlos route because the Napoleon route will be closed until at least 1 April and then it will only be opened depending on the weather. My understanding is the road route via Valcarlos will remain open in all except extreme conditions. If there is a lot of snow then stick to the road and don’t take the off road paths. The pilgrim office in SJPdP will be your best friend and they will advise you about what to do. I walked a little later than you. I started 2 April and the Napoleon was still closed. I enjoyed walking the Valcarlos route but do expect some road walking on the edge of the road right beside the guard rail because there is no path. The Pilgrim Office was a wonderful resource. Seriously, if the weather sets in, just stay an extra night in SJPdP and/or Valcarlos. Before I walked I watched a great video blog about a Mum and her two young daughters who walked the Valcarlos through snow. I’m going to have to hunt for it. Hopefully I’ll get back to you with the link.
Just be sensible and you will be fine.
Buen camino
Hi everyone - i commence from SJPDP on 2 March - has anyone walked in conditions that mean the way markers may be covered? - I am walking alone and I must admit a little nervous of the weather!
I walked in early March in 2015, and on the Valcarlos route there was snow for the last couple of kms before Ibaneta. But there was no mystery about which way to go - both because of other footprints, and because there was really only one possible route up, at that point. And then I walked on the road into Roncesvalles.Hi everyone - i commence from SJPDP on 2 March - has anyone walked in conditions that mean the way markers may be covered?
The pilgrim office in SJPdP will be your best friend
The app is called AlertCopsElsewhere on this site is a link which helps you download onto your phone an app that connects you to the Spanish police. You should have this on your phone when you're walking in case you need to call for help.
Buen camino!
many thanks Heda
Get boots or trails shoes with excellent traction for mud and snow navigation. I walked Feb/Mar 2014. I slipped in fell in mud because my shoes lacked traction.
Keep eyes posted for markers. You'll be okay.
Stay warm, dry, and safe.
Buen camino.
Ultreya!
Hi Firewood - well you may find me still in SJPDP if the weather is as bad as it seems to be at the moment
- or you will probably catch up with me - either way I am very happy there will be others around the Way - I am sure just that knowledge provides some confidence!
Thank you - good advice SYou can always leave latish from STJPP and stay in Valcarlos , its a very friendly village for pilgrims , you will be looked after.
The cafe around the bend on the way out has wonderful food,
The next day if the weather is iffy , keep away from the forrest floor / water and stay on road until the water fountain [ will be on map available in Valcarlos or pilgrims office ] then the wooded part to Roncesvalles.
If you stay in Valcarlos , Burgette is very doable where the accommodation is great.
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