Winter pilgram

[contemplative]

I was thinking of doing the Camino now. Can anyone provide info on if this is utter folley, or if it can actually be done? Thanks. (I did read one eassay of it on the internet and just looking if anyone has attempted it and can give their experience.)

[geraldkelly]

Hi! I realise this was a couple of weeks ago so you might be gone by now but I thought I'd reply anyway.

A few years ago I started out of St Jean on the 30th of December. I went the Valcarlos (lower) route to Roncesvalles. There was snow at the pass but not an amount that would cause difficulties. I was happy to arrive in Roncesvalles where we (there were 5 of us that night, 3 starting in R.) were put up in the main monastery building.

The 2nd day was worse because there was quite a lot of ice on the decent to Zubiri and the hostel there was closed, it was new year. We asked in the shop and they called a woman who has an apartment to rent so we slept there. But after that it was plain sailing (although I only had a week).

So, if you haven't left yet then get going! You'll need to dress for cold and rain and mud. Have a search around this forum and you'll find lots of threads discussing equipment. You'll find many hostels closed but in the larger towns and villages there's always something open. If there isn't ask in a bar and they'll know somebody who can help you.

If you've any more questions just ask.

Have fun!
Gerald