Which route? Best walking surfaces

[Kanga]

Like @Kiwi-family, I am not planning a route next year, just idly researching.....

I decided after this year's Portuguese, that the actual surface of my walk is important to me. I don't like rolly pebbles or shaley surfaces (difficult with my poor balance and eyesight), nor did I like the hard cobbles and stone sets on the Portuguese.

I do not mind a bit of road walking if it is not too hot.

Of all the walks I have done so far, the best surface by far, was the Madrid.

So, my question for you intrepid, walked many different caminoists - any ideas? Which paths have the best surfaces? Excluding those I've already done (CF, Norte, Portuguese, Madrid, VdlP, Le Puy, Tours, Arles).

 

[norelle]

I loved the San Salvador / Primitivo combination!

Good luck with your ‘research’

 

[Kiwi-family]

My hypothetical research into the Ruta de la Lana makes me wonder if it might fit the bill. Or Levante?
Salvador/Primitivo is surely a must-walk too, although it can get a bit pebbly (although more path-ish)

 

[backpack45scb]

Like @Kiwi-family, Which paths have the best surfaces? Excluding those I've already done (CF, Norte, Portuguese, Madrid, VdlP, Le Puy, Tours, Arles).

The one we have been working on the last couple of years is the Vezelay. We've done about 200 miles of it. It is mostly country roads like the Norte, only easier ups and downs. Very quiet. You might see another walker maybe once every 3 or 4 days, except in the evening in the albergues. The people you see have started in the Netherlands, Germany or other distant places and have been already walking a month or more, so they are fast.

 

[Kanga]

@backpack45scb yes, it’s on my list. It’s a few years since I walked a French route, and the ones I’ve done all had lovely surfaces.

 

[KinkyOne]

If you liked Madrid the most then I suggest Levante (or Sureste which overlapse on few stretches). Apart from first 3-4 days there is not much tarmac but mostly light gravel service/AG roads or paths. Very nice, solitary and contemplative Camino.

 

[KinkyOne]

Have to add this for Levante. You have some pretty nice castles (some in ruins) and small villages on the way not to mention towns like Valencia, Toledo, Avila and Zamora with amazing architecture and history.

And self-proclaimed garlic capital of the world Las Pedroneras

 

[Beeman]

Have to add this for Levante. You have some pretty nice castles (some in ruins) and small villages on the way not to mention towns like Valencia, Toledo, Avila and Zamora with amazing architecture and history.

And self-proclaimed garlic capital of the world Las Pedroneras

And I thought ir was Gilroy!

 

[LesBrass]

@backpack45scb yes, it’s on my list.

You could come stay with me en route from Perigueux

 

[Kanga]

Would super-like that @LesBrass - it is a very lovely part of the world.

All plans now in storage until after the New Year!

 

[LTfit]

Have to add this for Levante. You have some pretty nice castles (some in ruins) and small villages on the way not to mention towns like Valencia, Toledo, Avila and Zamora with amazing architecture and history.

And self-proclaimed garlic capital of the world Las Pedroneras

Totally agree with Kinky, except for the first 3-4 days out of Valencia with only asphalt (especially hard in the summer when I did it), the rest is a mixed bag. It certainly is nothing like the Norte (especially in Cantabria) or the Portuguese, the last being IMHO the worst as far as hard surfaces.

My favorite part is actually the Toledo-Zamora section with a few mountain passes but both very doable.

I'm contemplating the Lana which I hope will also be kind to the feet and joints.

 

[Beeman]

I walked the Primitivo last fall and loved it! I am 74 and just in average shape and had no trouble. Those who say it is difficult must live in Kansas! I walked the hospitalis route and was a bit disappointed. If I were to walk it again,I would take the other route. I took the Camino Verde from Lugo to Sobrado and really liked it. It was well-marked and pretty easy. I walked on to Lavacola and Santiago,completely avoiding the Frances. It was also easy to follow,in spite of what has been said about it. The primitivo has plenty to keep a 12 year old interested! Also,the walk on to Muxia is relatively easy,very pretty,and well worth the trip. I did it in 3 days,which was very dooable as there is not much up and down. Whatever you choose,BUEN CAMINO