This week, we're talking about the famous Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James, in Spain, one of the most famous walks in the world. This network of paths makes up a pilgrimage route that was once, and still is, one of the most important Christian pilgrimages. However, it is now also a tourist destination that attracts hiking and cycling enthusiasts and organized tour groups. For many, it is something that they have always wanted to do and it features on many a person's bucket list. If you are one of those people, why not find a vacation rental in Galicia and finally do it? Before you do anything, be sure to take note and keep the following tips and facts in mind. Here are the rest of our top ten things to know for those braving the Camino de Santiago!
6. Take some music.
Even if you're trying to immerse yourself in the whole experience of the Camino or are even really seeking spiritual enlightenment, walking the route can become dull or tough and music or radio or audio books will help. Trust us.
6. Take some music.
Even if you're trying to immerse yourself in the whole experience of the Camino or are even really seeking spiritual enlightenment, walking the route can become dull or tough and music or radio or audio books will help. Trust us.
7. Take clothes for every possible weather condition.
Galicia is famous for its unpredictable weather and is often cold and rainy. Depending on the time of year, the weather can vary but it's best to be prepared for lots of situations. Throw some layers and a light raincoat into your bag so that you won't be weighed down but you won't be caught out.
8. Bring sunglasses and wear sunscreen.
No matter the weather, however, you'll be outdoors a lot and protecting yourself against the sun is a necessity. Even if you can't see the sun, it's there and it's going to reach you.
Galicia is famous for its unpredictable weather and is often cold and rainy. Depending on the time of year, the weather can vary but it's best to be prepared for lots of situations. Throw some layers and a light raincoat into your bag so that you won't be weighed down but you won't be caught out.
8. Bring sunglasses and wear sunscreen.
No matter the weather, however, you'll be outdoors a lot and protecting yourself against the sun is a necessity. Even if you can't see the sun, it's there and it's going to reach you.
9. Don't forget your stamps!
At the start, you can buy a pilgrim’s passport and then you must collect stamps along the way. Stamps can be found inside albergues or guesthouses, at local cafes, inside churches and cathedrals or at important monuments. This is how you prove where you've been and get a Compostela (certificate of your journey) and is a great memento!
10. Choose the right Camino for you.
The most popular route of the Camino de Santiago is the Camino Frances, or French Way, but there are many other routes that start in France, Portugal and Spain. The French Way is the classic but there are other options so do a bit of research and see what sounds the best to your ears before you ever set out!
This really is a once-in-a-lifetime trip so be prepared, be aware and plan and you'll really be able to enjoy the whole thing!
At the start, you can buy a pilgrim’s passport and then you must collect stamps along the way. Stamps can be found inside albergues or guesthouses, at local cafes, inside churches and cathedrals or at important monuments. This is how you prove where you've been and get a Compostela (certificate of your journey) and is a great memento!
10. Choose the right Camino for you.
The most popular route of the Camino de Santiago is the Camino Frances, or French Way, but there are many other routes that start in France, Portugal and Spain. The French Way is the classic but there are other options so do a bit of research and see what sounds the best to your ears before you ever set out!
This really is a once-in-a-lifetime trip so be prepared, be aware and plan and you'll really be able to enjoy the whole thing!