Camino franc?s early July

[Likewhatever]

Hi,

I'm seriously thinking of doing the camino franc?s in early July. I'm thinking of starting in Burgos and doing the 400 k journey over 5 weeks or so. I'm be equally interested in doing it on foot or by bike (or a mixture of both). If I cycled all of it, I suppose 3 weeks would be enough?
I'd be interested to hear from people who have cycled some or all of it, as this seems to be rarer than walking it.

Also, do many people ever do it on their own? Unfortunately, the idea of trekking for weeks in the heat doesn't appeal to any friends or colleagues (and some even think I'm crazy to want to do it! ). Also, not a lot of people can get the time off. I'm a teacher, so am lucky in the way I have 2 months in the summer off.

I really enjoy the outdoors, meeting new people from around the world and I also don't mind roughing it. I love Spain and can get by in Spanish. I'd also relish the chance to lose some weight through the walking/cycling and enjoy myself in the process. These are the reasons I'd love to do the camino this year. It's something I've thought of doing for many years actually. I'm a 30 y/o male, so it's about time I finally did it!

So, I'd like to hear of people's thoughts on someone doing it on their own (would it get lonely?) and is the camino suitable for cycling too?

[Covey]

You will not be alone in July, whichever way you do it!! I estimate that 25% of those walking the Camino at that time are teachers because they are the only people with jobs who can take 6 weeks holiday, and get paid for it!!

The cyclists are usually doing it in groups from their cycle club, although you do see the odd lone cyclist. The club cyclists at least brighten up the trail with their Technicolor Lycra kit, but generally are a menace as they come steaming down the track and seem to assume that us poor baggage mules are going to leap in to the hedge or ditch!!. They are supposed to use their bell to warn walkers of their impending arrival, but rarely do.

If you want to be loved, go on foot, as the baggage mules don't like cyclists and don't generally socialize with them. The foot sloggers have much more fun, and many albergues will not let cyclists check in until the walkers have arrived.

On the trail, you are never alone, unless you want to be. If you have a problem, everybody pitches in to help. You will end up walking with people of all ages, nationalities and outlooks on life, yet with a single burning goal of standing in front of the Cathedral in Santiago having walked their Camino their way.

I shall be starting from St jean on 3rd July on yet another trip down the Camino Frances. Every time is different and no two days are ever the same.

Enjoy

[wildrosema]

Hi,
I have biked the Camino twice, once at 45 and then two years later. If I can do it, anyone can! The first time, I had not really trained to ride and was still able to finish. On the days that were too difficult to ride uphill, I merely got off my bike and walked. My husband and I planned out our route and did the Camino from Roncesvalles in 12 days with a rest day in Leon. We did not stay in albergues as we were on vacation so we did not have a problem with places to stay. In July, it could be a problem if you are planning on staying at albergues as bikers get last priority.

[Likewhatever]

I've decided I'm going to walk this time anyway, as it'll be my 1st time and I'll be trying the whole thing out. Thanks.