Many people choose to do el Camino de Santiago in winter, and although at first glance it may seem challenging, the reality is that it can become one of the most special trips of your life. Of course, taking into account things like the ones I’m about to tell you!
Why do El Camino de Santiago in winter
Although winter is not the most usual season for pilgrimage, it has unique advantages that can make your experience even more special:
– The loneliest Camino. If you are looking for silence and connection with yourself, winter is a great option. I promise you will notice less crowds, a slower pace in the villages and a Camino that feels much more personal.
⭐ LOCAL TIP: if what you want is to make friends, then as experts we recommend the French Way from Sarria or Portuguese Way from Tui
– A good challenge. If you have made a promise to the saint or you are simply looking for a challenge for personal, religious or sporting reasons… You will undoubtedly put your body and mind to the limit.
– Moments to remember. Waking up and seeing the frozen fields, sitting by the fire or eating a freshly made Galician broth. I don’t know about you, but for me those are what can really mark this experience.
⭐ LOCAL TIP: with dessert we recommend you try the coffee liqueur or queimada, which has its own particular tradition when it comes to serving.
Still not sure? Here you can check which spring months suit you best.
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- Find out what it’s like to do the Camino de Santiago in December.
- Learn everything you need to know about the Camino de Santiago in January.
The best routes of e Camino de Santiago in winter
It is clear that not all routes are ideal for this time of year. Here are the best options to enjoy the Camino without complications:
Camino Francés
El Camino de Santiago Francés is the route with more infrastructure and accommodation open in winter. My advice: if it is your first Camino at this time, do it from Sarria, and leave the hardest stages (Pyrenees or O Cebreiro) for when you decide to do it in spring.
Camino Portugués
El Camino de Santiago Portugués from Oporto or Tui, is a highly recommended alternative. Few mountainous areas, more temperate climate next to the coast and good services open all year round. Of the Caminos we organize at this time of the year, this is one of the most popular routes.
Camino Inglés
El Camino de Santiago Inglés is short and generally accessible, ideal if you want to do the Camino in winter without facing too many cold days. You can spend a day in A Coruña which is very nice.
From making your own cheese, to a beer tasting… And all with local producers! Check out our new experiences available and add them to your Camino.
Jacobean routes to avoid in winter
We don’t want the dates to discourage you, but in the same way that in summer I would tell you to avoid the Via de la Plata because of the heat, in winter there are some that we do not advise, especially if you are a beginner:
❌ Camino Primitivo
The Asturian mountains are beautiful, but better in another season if you are a novice. Besides there are many bars already closed in December 😉
❌ Camino del Norte
If the weather holds, it can be amazing. But most likely you will find strong winds or rain. If you prefer to enjoy the sea without this, leave it for summer.
What to take on the Camino de Santiago in winter?
- Let’s be clear: what you carry in your backpack in winter can mark your experience on the Camino. There are two things to avoid at all costs: getting wet to the bone and getting very cold (because you would spend energy to fight it and it would take away your energy to walk).
- Thermal clothing and dress in layers. It is good to adapt to the change of temperatures. Do not forget hat and gloves.
- Raincoat or raincoat: rain can appear without warning and even fog can get wet, so it is better to always carry it with you.
- Waterproof boots and high socks (thermal or cotton).
- Headlamp or reflective flashlight: to be visible in low light hours.
- Moisturizing and care: many people do not give it importance, but believe me, it is not comfortable to walk with a red nose and chapped lips.
- Thermal clothing and dress in layers. It is good to adapt to the change of temperatures. Do not forget hat and gloves.
Hire luggage transport to travel light. Every day when you arrive at your accommodation your suitcase will be waiting for you, we manage it!
What to expect from a pilgrimage in winter
I do not deny that the Camino de Santiago in winter has its charm and sometimes that leaves in the background any challenge. Before booking keep this in mind and take it with gusto! 🙂
- Low temperatures: Check the weather forecast before each stage and simply wrap up warm.
- Availability: when you make your reservation, we will arrange the best accommodations for you. But if it can already be complex sometimes to get a specific one because they close at this time of the year, keep in mind that the same happens with restaurants.
⭐ LOCAL TIP: Best to be safe! Always check online or call to book just in case. Especially outside big cities
If all this puts you off a bit, you can wait to do El Camino de Santiago in spring or ruta jacobea in autumn.
Why book El Camino with an agency?
We know that the Camino de Santiago in winter can be a challenge for you, but we want to make sure it is not! That’s what we at Galiwonders are here for : we take care of everything so you can enjoy a smooth Camino without surprises.
✔️ Accommodation reserved, with private room.
✔️ Breakfast included.
✔️ Luggage transportation between stages.
✔️ Travel insurance.
✔️ Pilgrim’s credential.
✔️ 24 hour telephone assistance on el Camino.
Now that you know more about the Camino de Santiago in spring, do you want to live the experience or choose another season? Contact us for more information!
