• For 2024 Pilgrims: €50,- donation = 1 year with no ads on the forum + 90% off any 2024 Guide. More here.
    (Discount code sent to you by Private Message after your donation)

Search 69,459 Camino Questions

Which Etapas of CF do you recommend to walk NOW?

Dillwyn

New Member
Time of past OR future Camino
Frances (2017)
I have 7 days to walk any stage of the CF, starting Saturday, March 10, 2018. The weather reports would suggest I start in Pamplona, and head west, but I am concerned about limited lodging and amenities at this time of year. Can someone recommend a segment for me, and comment about availability of food and lodging? I walked a week on the CF this past May (my first Camino experience), about 15 miles a day, and don’t care if I repeat a section now, as long as I have a reasonable assurance of finding (preferably without reservations) a roof over my head each night, and some hot tea or coffee during the day. I know it will rain wherever I go, but some areas get muddier?? More treacherous? I am from big snow country, and I also know I am not equipped to deal with potentially prolonged, serious, mountain snow. Thank you!
 
St James' Way - Self-guided 4-7 day Walking Packages, Reading to Southampton, 110 kms
The most likely places for snow are in the Pyrenees and then between Villafranca and Santo Domingo de Ortega - and further West, the stretch after Foncebadon, and then O'Cebreiro. But it could happen anywhere if weather conditons allow. And prolonged mountain snow? Not so likely unless you break the rules and go over the Napoleon route - which is a colossally stupid and irresponsible idea.
But there WILL be mud, guaranteed. The sticky stuff that balls up under your shoes. Potentially lots of it, depending on the weather. Poles are your friends, offering stability and a way to unstick your shoes.

My experience at this time of year on the Frances is that plenty of albergues are open (with no need to book), but what often aren't open are the bars and places to eat. I've gone a couple of days foodless, assuming I would find an open bar...but didn't. So be more prepared, by at least carrying snacks - and if you find coffee, well...wonderful!
 
Pamplona sounds like a good place to start a five day walk now. That would take you to Logroño. If you look at the elevation maps on Mundicamino you will see that the highest point is the Sierra del Perdon.
 
Last edited:
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
Are there more amenities available the farther west I go —the stage approaching Santiago, where more people might be walking? Or is it really the same everywhere on the CF this time of year?
 
It is difficult to imagine that all the beds close to SdC are likely to be filled at this time of year. There are so many. Although Easter is exceptionally busy in Santiago itself.
 
I must admit, I am thinking mostly about FOOD as I walk! Also, I will delay my start date until Monday. Concerned I will find even less opened on a Sunday. (I have quite a bit of flexibility!) I’m studying both of your tips now. Just kicking myself that I forgot my gators! Mud is a challenge, indeed. Thank you so much!
 
Join our full-service guided tour and let us convert you into a Pampered Pilgrim!
Check my recent postings in the Live forum. Pamplona makes sense to me. Even better if you are getting a bus in and you can walk the 4km from the bus station to Cizur Menor where the albergue is open.

Next day it's 16km to Puente La Reina and then next day 20km to Estella etc. Tracks we're generally good... with little mud. Take some bread, fruit and cheese since in between bars most likely closed and enough water since many outside fountains are not turned on yet due to overnight freezing.

Enjoy!
 
Thank you everyone. I bought my ticket to Pamplona last night, and am looking forward to my mini Camino!
 

Most read last week in this forum

Last year made the mistake of travelling after the 500k walk to Porto and Barcelona and Cadaqués then the UK.(All amazing) but I was too tired to make the most of it. So this year I’m lucky...
I trying to purchase my one way ticket from Santiago de Compostela to Porto.I cannot find any info on bringing my luggage with me( a small carry on and a knapsack) anyone taken this bus? Can I...
Trying to determine best way from Madrid airport to Leon? Thank you
Beginning March 1, my husband and I walked from Santo Domingo de la Calzada to Astorga on the CF. Prior to our trip, I had contracted with Jacotrans to move our bags for 21 straight days...
Just saw a press release from Correos announcing that they will be offering a left luggage service at all of their 2,000+ offices throughout Spain. For up to 15 days at a time...
Hi All, I have booked a walking week away from home arriving in Porto on 9th May at 19.10 (all being well). My initial intention was travel to Vigo by train and walk to Santiago, returning to...

❓How to ask a question

How to post a new question on the Camino Forum.

Forum Rules

Forum Rules

Camino Updates on YouTube

Camino Conversations

Most downloaded Resources

This site is run by Ivar at

in Santiago de Compostela.
This site participates in the Amazon Affiliate program, designed to provide a means for Ivar to earn fees by linking to Amazon
Official Camino Passport (Credential) | 2024 Camino Guides
Back
Top