Any and all advice needed...a first timer here

[Pam]

I am planning on an early June 2012 Camino. I am in okay shape at 59 years. I will be starting at Sarria because of time and, I admit, a little fear of a longer walk. I have read some books and now have questions. How long should I allow for the walk? I know I will walk slower than most and in addition I want to make this a reflective experience with plenty of time to take photographs and to write. What should I expect regarding the weather? I weigh 125# so keeping my pack at 10% will require absolutely no extra items. Do I really need rain gear and fleece in June? And then any advice at all is welcome. I am so excited. June is a long way off but it is all I can think of. I will be very appreciative of all responses. Buen Camino to all.

[HuskyNerd]

Welcome! Congrats on your upcoming camino. June is a great time to go, and the walk from Sarria to Santiago should be pretty enjoyable. If you take your time and take care of your feet you should have no worries.

I've walked that stretch in two separate caminos (2008 and 2011) and I can attest to the fact that Galician weather can be variable, tending toward rainy and cool throughout June. The fact that Galicia is on the Atlantic coast means many grey days and some rain, even in June. As far as a fleece goes, yes. You need it. Nights and mornings can be cool and your fleece is like a sweater to keep you warm during those times. If you were walking in Southern Spain it'd be a whole different thing, but when you think of Galicia in June think of Maine or Seattle. That's what it's like.

How long will it take? It's approx 114 kms from Sarria to Santiago and you should plan on 20-25 kms/day. You can certainly push it faster -- this year I did it in about 4 days -- but 5 to 6 days is more likely.

You'll do great and have a super time. Buen camino!

[Pam]

Welcome! Congrats on your upcoming camino. June is a great time to go, and the walk from Sarria to Santiago should be pretty enjoyable. If you take your time and take care of your feet you should have no worries.

I've walked that stretch in two separate caminos (2008 and 2011) and I can attest to the fact that Galician weather can be variable, tending toward rainy and cool throughout June. The fact that Galicia is on the Atlantic coast means many grey days and some rain, even in June. As far as a fleece goes, yes. You need it. Nights and mornings can be cool and your fleece is like a sweater to keep you warm during those times. If you were walking in Southern Spain it'd be a whole different thing, but when you think of Galicia in June think of Maine or Seattle. That's what it's like.

How long will it take? It's approx 114 kms from Sarria to Santiago and you should plan on 20-25 kms/day. You can certainly push it faster -- this year I did it in about 4 days -- but 5 to 6 days is more likely.

You'll do great and have a super time. Buen camino!

Your comments are very assuring. The books I have read have not focused on the Sarria-Santiago path; thus giving way to many questions on my part. I have read here about John Brierly's guidebook. I will be obtaining a copy. BUT, there is nothing that takes the place of hearing from a person who has literally gone before me on the exact route. I will certainly take your recommendation of giving myself 6 days. If I arrive early I will make adjustments in Santiago, not a bad problem to have. I have been to both Maine and Seattle so that information was VERY helpful to me. My next series of questions relates to transportation. I am currently thinking of flying straight through to Santiago (New York to Madrid to Santiago)and then busing to Sarria. Do you advise an overnight in Santiago and Sarria? I do want to start fresh. Buen Camino to all. Pam

[Lipka149]

I weigh 125# so keeping my pack at 10% will require absolutely no extra items.

Hi Pam !

What a wonderful way to give thanks for your 59 years ! No need to apologize for starting in Sarria. No need to hurry, either. Even if you walk 12-15km each day, you will still be able to experience the peace and tranquility that four to six hours per day on the trail will give you.

As for weight, you can probably carry a bit more than 10% (12-13 pounds). Weight distribution is the key. Taking shorter stages with time to rest when you get tired will also help. Make sure you get a backpack that fits.

Please be sure to share your reflections and pix when you get back ! I don't think any of us tire of hearing about a how the Camino affects others. We will be looking forward to your story !

[Pam]

Thanks for the encouragement and enthusiasm. It seems a bit early for me to get so excited. My Camino will not begin for about 8.5 months but it seems to be all I can think about. I heard a pilgrim talk briefly about his Camino this summer. I immediately felt called to walk. It wasn't until last night I realized that part of the calling was to celebrate my life on this earth. Living is a gift. So, even though my Camino is a long way out I will be reading, chatting, and preparing. Pam