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Where is the road walking?

travelingdina

New Member
Hi there,

I've read and see that there is/may be a lot of road walking, or walking near the new highway. One of the reasons I was originally interested in the VdlP was that it seemed more "nature" and less people. I was planning to start in June from Salamanca, and head via Astorga to the Camino Frances, so I would have a little experience on both caminos.

But, I live in a city and really don't want to be walking next to a highway for a long time.

Can someone tell me where the majority of the highway walking is?

Is there another way to join up with the Frances at some point?

Thank you!

-Dina-
 
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Dina - you should try to get hold of John Brierley's guide to the VdLP. In his Camino Frances guide he gives the mileage for Path/Track, quiet road and main road for each day.
For instance, from St Jean Pied de Port to Roncesvalles the book says:

Path/Track --- 12.1
Quiet Road ---- 12.7
Main Road --- 00.0
Total distance: 24.8km

I haven't seen the VdLP guide but It's almost certain to have the same information.
 
From Salamanca to Cubo de terra del Vino (spelling might be off!) there is a new highway construction but last year I walked in the still-excavated highway without problem. I dont recall any bad road experiences mainly because there are new highways being built in Spain which has taken the bulk of traffic off the secondary roads.My main point in responding is to encourage you not to join the CF-from Zamora onwards the VDLP has some very beautiful and spectacular scenery. I would suggest you complete the VDLP then do the CF another time.
 
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I agree with Omar - I´d no problem with road walking on the VDLP - and any there is is more than compensated for on other parts of the route. I donñt think JBrierly has a guide to the VDLP.
 
Oops!! You are quite right Johnnie - there is no Brierley guide for the VdLP.
My apologies.
 
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I have just returned from VdlP, Zamora - Ourense. Have walked from Sevilla earlier years. I thuoght this time that it was a very nice walk from where the Sanabrian route leaves the route to Astorga (in Granja de Moreruela, two days walk north of Zamora) and to Ourense. Consider this alternative. have I read somewhere on this forum that the routh north to Astorga quarrel with the motorway?
 
It sounds like the Orense route is the way to go... I really wanted to experience a little of the CF, but I tend to get intimidated around crowds of people, so I'm thinking I'll just continue on the VdP.

Now, to decide where to start!

Thanks for all the advice!
 
hello silver
does anybodt have an update on how much of the route is tarmac, vs paths?
like many, I'm agonizing over the chouce of routes
I'm attracted by the solitude of the silver, but would like to avoid the company of big trucks
what advice
 
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