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History of the Camino de Santiago: In 40 AD,
according to legend, the body of the Apostle St James was
clandestinely buried in Northern Spain. Centuries later, a
hermit witnessed a shower of stars leading to the secret tomb
and this story
started an age of pilgrimage. Multitudes
of medieval wayfarers came on foot to the tomb of Saint Iago (James). Towns along the
way hosted them and today many of those villages have
scarcely changed since the 1200's.
Today's Camino: Traditionally there
were various routes to Santiago but the main trail
was called the French Route leading from France through the
Pyrenees and across northern Spain. Today this trail is
well-trodden and well marked. It traverses many types of terrain including
mountains, plains and the gentle hills of Galicia.
The walk is sometimes done for spiritual reasons but many
Camino hikers are there for adventure and
for camaraderie with walkers from all over the world.
Walkers' World Self-Guided Itinerary
is for those who prefer to walk independently. A comfortable room with private bath is waiting at the
end of each day. Luggage is transported from inn to inn so all
that walkers need to carry are their daily necessities. An English
speaking host is on call for advice (a cell phone that
works in Europe is essential).
Our 6 night walk starts at Sarria and covers the last 100 km of
the trail into Santiago.
Our 13 night route starts at the magnificent city of Leon
and covers the last 285 km of the trail. This
itinerary can be customised if you would like rest days or
shorter distances on some of the days.
Our 33 night route starts at the France/Spain border at the town
of St Jean Pied de Port and covers the entire 783 km. We
strongly recommend adding rest days along the way.
When to go:
Independent walks can be arranged starting any day (subject to
accommodation availability) but we suggest that the best time is
April, May, June, September or October.
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