Hiking the Camino from France mid May to mid June

[heynurse]

I am doing my first Camino and am interested if anyone has weather information at that time, especially around the Pyrennes.

[HuskyNerd]

Hi Heynurse ~
I've walked the Camino Frances twice from St Jean Pied de Port in France during mid-May through June. I find it's the best time of year for a balance of cool/warm and rainy/dry. The green fields and red poppies are amazing in May/June and you will love your choice of seasons.

Weather in the Pyrenees is always changing. The trend in May/June is brilliant blue skies alternating with rain and clouds. On my walk this year I had fog from before Orisson all the way to the top, clearing somewhat before Roncesvalles. The path was sometimes challenging to find in the thick fog so it's important to pay attention to the markers in weather like that. On the other hand, I know people who stayed overnight in the shelter at the top after I left and they reported the next day was brilliant blue skies and beautiful views.

The one rule of crossing the Pyrenees on the Camino Frances is to ask for a weather report at the pilgrim office in St. Jean prior to beginning your walk and then plan accordingly. They will tell you if the high crossing -- the "Route Napoleon" -- is the best choice, or whether the lower crossing - the "Valcarlos Route-- is to be preferred. Some choose Valcarlos if there'll be fog, since it's supposedly easier and the primary advantage of the Route Napoleon is the views. Either way, play it safe by asking for a weather rep or and follow the advice of the pilgrim office.

Buen camino!

[heynurse]

Thanks for your prompt reply! I am also considering hiking and biking as it seems there are some areas that are less scenic than others. Have you experience with that as well?
Mary