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Blog partners Eyeflare describe the historic walk of El Camino de Santiago through France and Spain. Although hiking is a popular pursuit on European vacations and the walk is open to all, it is possibly best suited to individuals of religious inclination.
Puente la Reina. Camino de Santiago, by aherrero
The walk begins at Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port (‘El Camino Francés’) and carries through rolling hilly Basque countryside and the León flatlands, ending at the high ground of Galicia. This walk is mostly thought of as a pilgrimage and volunteers along the route consider their efforts supportive of pilgrims. Albergues (hostels) at regular intervals on the route are maintained and run by a mixture of municipalities, private individuals and the church.
But be aware, if you want to earn the much coveted certificate (Compostela), it’s crucial that you complete the last 100km on foot (or 200 by either bicycle or horse). This year (2010) is Holy Compostelan because the 25th of July (St James’s Day) falls on a Sunday.
Reaching the end means that the names of those achieving the Compostela are read out during a very colourful and flamboyant Mass. A true Catholic delight! Even if one did not commence the walk with religious intentions, the cleansing of the soul and a better degree of self- understranding may be some of the potential benefits.
If you’re on a Europe tour and hiking’s your bag, read some of our own articles containing additional suggestions on great European hikes.
