Starting in Amsterdam or Berlin?

[Sinenomene]

Is it possible to extend the trip? i was originally planning on the appalachian trail but as i completed the long trail this year i decided id rather goto europe. i was planning on a 6 month adventure and was wondering/thinking on ways to extend the pilgrimage. Sooo. Is it possible to start someone else in europe and then pick up on the way once you get to one of the classic starting points? i was even thinking of starting from my home in the usa, where i guess in reality everyone starts. So any suggestions on other fantastic places to start over there? i dont mind squiggly lines and i am quite fond of the mountains... any suggestions are greatly appreciatted.
thanks
sine

 

[Peter Robins]

my website might give you some ideas
http://www.peterrobins.co.uk/camino/
New routes are being developed all the time.

The 'classic starting point' is your front door, something that's been forgotten in the modern confusion of pilgrimage with waymarked trail. I never cease to be amazed by the complicated journeys some people make to reach some arbitrary 'trailhead'.

 

[sillydoll]

Hi Sine,
If you have six months, you could start in Canterbury UK and walk to Rome along the Via Francigena (http://www.francigena-international.org) and then walk to Santiago from there.

Sil

 

[michael]

a longer walk

Get hold of Clear Waters Rising by Nick Crane. He walked west to east across Europe and I think used Santiago route but in reverse. You could do his route in reverse which would bring you back to Santiago.
I think that there are some starting points in Austria also.
Check out the GR designated routes through Europe. I think there is one that starts in north Norway and ends at Med. That would cross several Santiago routes. If all else fails use canal system and walk the towpaths.

Buen Camino
Michael W

ps If you want a really really tough walk check out the GR10 Pyrenean Trail.