The Camino de Santiago is a network of gorgeous walking (and cycling) routes through Spain and Europe. Each offers something unique and special. But what they all have in common is that they end at the same spot, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain.
This magnificent Cathedral is said to hold a special treasure – the remains of St. James. So, the Camino de Santiago is not just any old walk. It’s a pilgrimage. And it’s attracted those on a spiritual journey for centuries.
There is still a deep spirituality surrounding the Camino de Santiago, but you don’t have to be religious to take part.
If you’re considering walking a Camino, there are plenty of other reasons why it’s a fantastic idea. And they are all special and valid.
Faith and Spirituality
The Camino de Santiago has been a Catholic pilgrimage from its inception in the 9th Century. But today, you’ll find people of all faiths and beliefs walking. It’s a chance to open yourself to others and the world. And, most importantly, an opportunity to get to know yourself. Vulnerability, trust and connection are at the heart of the Camino.
Even if you are not religious or particularly spiritual, you can’t help but be moved at some point along the Camino.
Little synchronicities happen all along The Way. Just when you seem to need something, miraculously it appears. “Camino Angels” surface with a quiet bed, hot drink or Band-Aid just when you’ve lost hope. They also appear out of nowhere to tell you that you’ve missed a waymarker and are off-track.
Religious or not, embrace the beautiful Camino tradition of the pilgrim’s mass. Be open to receiving a blessing and a stamp before continuing on your way. Everyone is welcome.
To Have an Incredible Adventure
Your friends and family may think you’re crazy when you tell them you’re planning to walk across a country!
But for us, the Camino calls. Again and again!
Walking the Camino de Santiago is not just a spiritual or physical journey; it’s an intense exploration of oneself. With each step, you push the boundaries of your comfort zone, confront challenges head-on, and discover inner reservoirs of resilience you never knew existed.
When you take your photo at the sign in Roncesvalles, you wonder if you would really ever complete this 790 km journey. But upon gazing at the majestic Cathedral in Santiago, you feel a sense of profound achievement.
It’s an adventure like no other and it’s a testament to your determination, perseverance, and unwavering spirit.
The Camino isn’t just a walk; it’s a transformative adventure that imbues you with a newfound sense of pride, self-esteem, and an unshakable belief in your own capabilities.
To Focus on Well-Being
Our modern world is a wild ride. And with everything going on around us, it’s no wonder we’re stressed, exhausted, physically sick and mentally unwell.
Being in nature is one of the best ways to restore and reconnect. And the Camino is all about nature.
The geography of the Camino is unique and diverse. You’ll find yourself walking over breathtaking mountains, along coastal paths, through farmland and among vineyards. Everywhere you turn, there is something to awe and delight.
The Camino forces you to slow down and experience the simple joys in life. Your only responsibility is to wake up and walk! Leave your make-up at home, shut off your mobile phone and enjoy living on the basics. It’s so freeing!
Immerse yourself in the local way of life. It’s a slower pace in these parts. Take some time to chat with the locals. Marvel at the colourful fields of wildflowers. Enjoy getting up close to a herd of gentle cows. And take the time to savour a cup of coffee or glass of wine. Take in everything around you. You’ll feel like a different person.
Camaraderie
Pilgrims are everywhere along the Camino, especially on the popular Francés and Portugues routes.
Even if you start solo, like we both did, it won’t be long before you have a gaggle of new friends in tow.
We met on our first night in Orisson in 2017. We were both so excited to find a fellow Canadian! Although we didn’t walk together the entire way, we seemed to connect with the same people. And by the time we finished, there was a huge group of us – Canadians, Americans, Australians, Irish, Finns and Brits. We are all still connected today and I’m sure we will be forever.
The people you meet, otherwise known as your “Camino Family”, are some of the most special parts of walking the Camino. And although we live in different countries, lead different lives and have been shaped by different experiences, this is something that connects us all in a unique way.
These are the people who will make you laugh through a bout of bedbugs, give you a Band-Aid to soothe a blister or buy you a glass of wine when you’ve had a tough day (or anytime!). They will also be the people you have great conversations with and who will generously share their lives or offer a listening ear.
Solitude and Reflection
Meeting people along the Camino is an unforgettable part of this pilgrimage. But what if you want to walk the Camino for quiet time alone? This is a very common reason to go. We met people who were grieving the loss of a loved one, embarking on retirement or a new job, enduring a break-up and working through a challenge.
It’s possible to find silence and solitude on the popular Francés. But you will most likely have to ask for it. If time to yourself is the focus, consider other routes. The Primitivo, Norte, Via de la Plata and Inglés are all equally beautiful and see far fewer pilgrims.
The Camino offers endless opportunities for silence and reflection. Breathe the fresh air as you walk through a eucalyptus forest. Take a seat in a small country church. Or find a cool stream to soak your feet for a while. Calm your mind and revel in the silence.
Fascinating History and Culture
History buffs will be in heaven along the Camino de Santiago.
From prehistoric times, through the Roman and Muslim invasions, to the Catholic Kings, history touches every corner of Spain. And a walk along the Camino is a journey through time.
Learn about Europe’s earliest humans in Atapuerca along the Francés. Marvel at Lugo’s intact Roman city walls on the Primitivo. And survey every intricate detail of Zaragoza’s Aljafería on the Camino del Ebro. Spain’s fascinating past is all around you.
You are walking in the footsteps of history by just even being on the Camino. But make your journey even more memorable by doing a little bit of research beforehand. Good guidebooks will take you through the different stages of your Camino and note points of historical interest. Just more to look forward to each day!
A Physical Challenge
Two common Camino questions we get asked are “How long does it take?” and “How many kilometers did you walk every day?”. Because most people wonder if their bodies are up for it.
The Camino is definitely not a walk around the block. But it’s not Mount Everest either. If we can do it, most people can.
The geography of the Camino is diverse and can change rapidly. One moment you could be sauntering along the flat Meseta. Then you’ll find yourself on a forest path up a mountain. Or along a rocky coastline.
Walking for so many days on different terrain will challenge your body. Some days are relatively easy while other days take more out of you. One thing is for certain, you’ll feel aches and pains in places you never knew existed. Thank goodness for Spanish Ibuprofen!
You know your body. If you’re considering a Camino, train well ahead of time. If you’re unsure, talk to your doctor.
Physically challenging yourself is a great reason to walk the Camino. It doesn’t matter how long it takes or how many kilometers you walk each day. Remember, it’s your Camino at your pace. However long you walk for, you can look back on it and be proud. You did it!
Slow Travel
Travel doesn’t get much slower than by foot! And it is undoubtedly the most unique and rewarding way to see a country.
Although on some parts of the Camino you’ll be walking alongside highways and main roads, you’ll mostly be walking over mountains and around little villages, through farmland, vineyards and forest. You can’t experience all of this in a car or on a train.
The different Camino routes will take you through larger cities like Burgos, León, San Sebastián and Salamanca. If you have time, take a rest day and experience all these magnificent cities have to offer. Don’t rush past them.
But most of your Camino will lead you through rural Spain and its many charming “pueblos”. People in these villages live life differently. Slow right down, savour the calm pace and soak in your surroundings. It’s a different lifestyle here, and one that we can learn so much from.
A Point of Pride and Self Esteem
We always say that one of the best things to come out of walking the Camino is a boost in confidence.
It is a test to walk long distances every day, leave comforts at home and tackle challenges and surprises that come your way (because they will). But once you come face-to-face with the Cathedral in Santiago, a wave of pride sweeps over you. It’s not easy and you did it!
This experience becomes a touchstone, a constant reminder that you are capable of overcoming any obstacle that life throws your way.
And yes, there’s a certain satisfaction in sharing the tale of your epic journey, knowing that you’ve traversed an entire country with nothing but your courage and the essentials on your back.
To Learn New Things
Undertaking a long-distance walk across a foreign country is bound to teach you a lot.
The Camino de Santiago offers a crash course in cultural immersion and survival skills. You may not start your pilgrimage with the singular expectation of learning new things, but believe me you will… practically every day!
As you traverse the diverse landscapes of Spain, you’ll find yourself immersed in a tapestry of languages, customs, and traditions.
We both learned some basic Spanish before leaving. But while there, we mastered those basic phrases and more. We also learned to understand the local customs and culture which can be quite different from one region to the next.
Every encounter can become an opportunity for cultural exchange and learning.
And navigating the practicalities of daily life on the Camino, from deciphering foreign currency to adapting to the rhythms of hostel living, hones your resourcefulness and adaptability. And yes, encountering the occasional bedbug teaches valuable lessons in resilience and problem-solving.
The Camino isn’t just a physical journey; it’s an exploration of new experiences and invaluable lessons that expand your horizons and deepen your understanding of the world around you.
Delicious Food and Drink
Okay, so maybe this isn’t your top reason for walking a Camino, unless you’re a chef perhaps. But it sure is a nice side benefit. Spanish food is wonderful.
Who doesn’t love paella, patatas bravas or a jamón and manchego bocadillo? And stopping for a tostada, fresh OJ and café con leche after a few kilometers of walking is one of life’s greatest pleasures.
But on the Camino, food is so much more than physical sustenance.
After a day of walking, sitting down for a communal dinner or enjoying a pilgrim’s menu with new friends is a beautiful way to recap your day and connect with other pilgrims. Some of our most treasured friendships sparked over an ensalada mixta and a bottle of local Rioja.
If walking the Camino has been in the back of your mind, but you thought your reasons weren’t “correct” or “good enough”, we hope this encourages you to reconsider.
Always remember, it’s your Camino. And whatever reason takes you there, it’s the right one!
Buen Camino!