Walking in November?

[EmilyT]

Has anyone walked at this time of year before? Is it miserable, or nice and quiet. We don't want to be walking in rain every day, but are not afraid of a little cold.

Also, are all the refuges open throughout the year, or do some close at low season?

Is there any specific kit we would need for the route at this time of year?

Any information about the camino in November would be much appreciated!

Many thanks!

[antonian]

Hi EmilyT,

I walked the Camino in November last year and it was wonderful. Much quieter than other times of the year. The weather was beautiful and sunny with only two days of rain all the way. Generally the temperature during the day was 5-12 degrees but the nights and early mornings can be very cold, especially in the mountains so bring a good quality warm sleeping bag, gloves and a wooly hat and dress in layers. Some of the albergues have no heating - the night I stayed at San Juan de Ortega it was 10 degrees below freezing! Although there was none when I travelled, snow is always a risk in the mountains, especially in the Pyrenees and at Cruz de Ferro and O Cebreiro. Do ask the advice of the hospitaleros in these areas.

Regarding acommodation, some of the albergues do close in the 'low season'. However, there are still enough open so as not to have to walk any more than about 20Km per day. If you are starting in St. Jean Pied de Port, call to the pilgrim's office there and they will give you a sheet listing what albergues are open in Spain. It is not 100% acccurate but it is a good help. Also, most albergues will post up notices about albergue closures up ahead so you shouldn't have any trouble.

Buen Camino.
A.

[DreamWalker]

I am also walking the Camino in November 2010. Although I am Canadian, I have not walked the winter more than a few hours at a time. Should be interesting!

[drew21close]

I will be participating this November to. I want to try how it feels to be walking in winter, im now preparing my things early so i wont forget my coat and jackets.