Camino de Santiago, Spain: A Walk of Discovery

Why walk the Camino?

The Camino de Santiago – or the Way of St. James – is a famous pilgrimage that leads to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, in the northwest of Spain. While it began as a spiritual journey, it’s become something much more. It's a one-of-a-kind adventure and truly the trip of a lifetime.

Two years before we set off, my husband and I watched The Way, a film about a man walking the Camino. It stuck with us. A few months later, we both admitted we were quietly inspired. The idea of walking 800 km over six weeks sounded huge, but also deeply rewarding. It was a challenge we knew we wanted to take on.

So we got planning. We trained, we prepared, and two years later, we laced up our boots and began the walk.

My hot tips

We walked the full 800km across northern Spain in six weeks, and every step was worth it. But don’t worry, you don’t have to do the whole thing. Many walkers start in Sarria and complete the final 100km, which is enough to earn your Compostela certificate. Whether you're there for the sights or something more spiritual, there’s nothing else quite like it.

A few things I learned along the way:

• Take a lightweight backpack with a hydration pocket, trust me, you’ll want easy access to water.

• I walked in cushioned running shoes and they were great, especially on paved roads. Some people prefer hiking boots, but whatever you choose, break them in first!

• Go for wool-blend socks over cotton – they’ll keep your feet warmer and comfier, even when wet.

• The terrain is mixed – cobblestones, dirt tracks, rocky trails and plenty of hills (some very steep!). Train by walking long distances on all kinds of surfaces so your body’s ready.

It's a challenge, but one you’ll never forget.

My Camino highlights

There were so many … the cities of Pamplona and  Burgos, visiting the huge Cathedrals, walking the quaint streets, eating the local food and local fine wines.

Loved Santiago de Compostela, it’s a spectacular city. It is the resting place of St. James and we loved strolling the streets and alleys, and mixing with the locals.  Take a rooftop tour at the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral for incredible views.

Wine Fountain at the Bodegas Irache winery – the complimentary free glass of red wine they offer for walkers was a lovely treat!

Melt in your mouth grilled octopus in the town of O Carballiño, located just 80 km from Santiago de Compostela - the end of the Camino.  Every August the town hosts the Octopus Festival where thousands come together to the village to enjoy the markets, festival and of course sample octopus!  
 
We loved this experience for many reasons. We met so many wonderful people from all walks of life along the way. We stumbled upon festivals as we walked, where the streets were filled with parades and lined with markets.

Best time to go

May-June and Sep are the best time to walk the Camino de Santiago, as the weather is lovely, downpours less likely, and you'll have plenty of company along the way.