Temperatures on the Le Puy to Pamplona Camino?

[EllieBB]

I'm planning to walk from Le Puy to Pamplona from October 8 to November 13 and am wondering what kind of temperatures I can expect. In the past I've walked a number of Caminos in Spain during January for the most part so I am prepared for cold and wet. What I don't have is hiking clothes for really mild weather. It's difficult to judge from what I've read what the range of temperature will be although I imagine it will vary due to the mountains. I guess I'll just have to organize some clothes for layering. Any advice re. Climate will be much appreciated and Buen Camino to all.

 

[Kitsambler]

The first week/ten days (Le Puy to Figeac) will be on the plateau (1200m) and so the nights and mornings will be chilly in October; the afternoons will be favored with warmer sun. Past Moissac, the elevation flattens out until you start picking up the foothills near Navarrenx. From there to Pamplona, you catch the fringes of mountain weather. Of course, the Pyrennees crossing will be the most challenging.

In addition to elevation, one must consider the changeable weather of the shoulder seasons; you'll need to keep an eye on the weather forecast daily. Ask your lodging host for details, if you cannot get the info any other way.

Also many lodgings are only open until All Saints Day (1 Nov); many others will only by open in late Oct if there is an advance reservation. So I think advance reservations will be particularly important.

As to packing, you have the right strategy with layering, for sure. I like the Merino wool base layer. Be ready for wind-driven rain on some days, too.

 

[mspath]

...
Also many lodgings are only open until All Saints Day (1 Nov); many others will only by open in late Oct if there is an advance reservation. So I think advance reservations will be particularly important.....

I would stress what Kitsambler has said. November 1 is a public holiday in both France (Toussaint) and Spain (Día de todos los Santos ). Many families travel during this time to pay homage to their dead relatives. Others consider the closest weekend to this date to be the last of the good season and travel. Hence roads and transport may be extra busy; some businesses and services, but not all, will be closed. As always BE PREPARED with what you need!

Bon chemin,

Margaret Meredith