While the most popular time to explore the beautiful Camino de Santiago is undoubtedly between April and October, more and more pilgrims are choosing to brave the cold and trek this unique trail in winter time.
Walking the Camino in winter promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience – the peace and quiet of the route offers you time to reflect and take in your fascinating surroundings.
To help you prepare for your adventure, CaminoWays.com, the walking and cycling holiday specialists, have compiled some top winter Camino tips.
1. Walk the last section of the famous Camino Frances or French Way, from Sarria to Santiago. This section can be completed in just a week, allowing you to experience the camaraderie and unique culture of the Camino. Make sure you book accommodation in advance as many properties, especially those in small villages, close over the winter months.
2. Galicia enjoys a mild Atlantic climate throughout the year, with temperatures rarely falling below 10 degrees Celsius in November and December. This makes the region perfect for walking in winter, although you should be prepared for a bit of rain. Reward yourself with delicious Galician dishes like empanada and caldo galego.
3. Avoid trekking mountainous regions, such as the Pyrenees, Montes de León and O Cebreiro. These can be treacherous in winter due to snow fall. The mountain section from St Jean Pied de Port to Roncesvalles is actually closed from November to March.
4. Pack high-quality gear to ensure you are comfortable no matter what the weather may be. It’s best to wear layers of clothing, which can be removed depending on the conditions. Bring a decent waterproof jacket in case it rains and make sure you wear in your walking shoes before you go.
5. Enjoy the peace and quiet that comes with adventuring on the Camino in winter. Only 1,200 pilgrims arrived in Santiago in January 2015 in comparison to nearly 55,000 in August 2015. While you will still encounter other pilgrims on your way, the experience is more about your own journey and personal reflection.
6. Start off walking each day as soon as the sun rises to make the most of the limited daylight.
7. Santiago comes to life in November when the annual tapas festival and exciting film festival Cineuropa take place. Stay a couple of extra nights in this fun-filled city to experience all it has to offer. Kick back with a hot chocolate and churros to treat yourself after your trek. If you can, stay in the magnificent 5* Parador dos Reis Catolicos, which was once a pilgrim hospital.
Talk to the CaminoWays.com travel specialists for more Camino ideas.
When and Price: You can walk the last 100km of the famous Camino France from Sarria to Santiago in just a week.
Price from €560pp for a 6-night walking trip from Sarria to Santiago, staying in CaminoWays.com selected accommodation.
Price includes: Half-board accommodation, luggage transfers and holiday pack with practical information.
Does not include: Flights, transport and insurance.
For more information about trekking the last section of the Camino Frances, from Sarria to Santiago, with CaminoWays.com please click here.
