- Time of past OR future Camino
- Many
The results are in from the annual autumn questionnaire I send to all the albergues, and they are not as radical as they were last year.
Prices have increased, but not as frequently as they did from 2023 to 2024, when prices almost universally went up. In fact, two albergues (so far) have lowered their prices.
There have been a few closures on the Norte, Portugués, and Francés routes due to retirement (four!) or the inability to negotiate a new lease. Some of these closures are a real pity, but none leave a town without beds. Additionally, two albergues are converting to apartments or private accommodation only.
The trend of converting dormitories to double rooms has nearly ended, and in a few cases has reversed, with some albergues converting them back to shared spaces.
Group dinners and kitchens are also making a slow comeback, which is nice to see. Meals served in albergues are returning as well.
The government albergues in Galicia do not appear to be raising their prices for 2025, as no notice has been given. This is despite a proposal to invest 12 million euros in their renovation.
Lastly, many albergues are shortening their opening seasons. This is mostly due to Holy Week (a common opening week) falling a full month later in the calendar year, though just as many are closing earlier than previously announced. If you are a winter pilgrim, remember to always call ahead by a few days to confirm that they are open and to give them time to prepare.
The apps will be updated with this new information shortly, and again in late spring after the follow-up questionnaire is sent.
Much love from Santiago!
Prices have increased, but not as frequently as they did from 2023 to 2024, when prices almost universally went up. In fact, two albergues (so far) have lowered their prices.
There have been a few closures on the Norte, Portugués, and Francés routes due to retirement (four!) or the inability to negotiate a new lease. Some of these closures are a real pity, but none leave a town without beds. Additionally, two albergues are converting to apartments or private accommodation only.
The trend of converting dormitories to double rooms has nearly ended, and in a few cases has reversed, with some albergues converting them back to shared spaces.
Group dinners and kitchens are also making a slow comeback, which is nice to see. Meals served in albergues are returning as well.
The government albergues in Galicia do not appear to be raising their prices for 2025, as no notice has been given. This is despite a proposal to invest 12 million euros in their renovation.
Lastly, many albergues are shortening their opening seasons. This is mostly due to Holy Week (a common opening week) falling a full month later in the calendar year, though just as many are closing earlier than previously announced. If you are a winter pilgrim, remember to always call ahead by a few days to confirm that they are open and to give them time to prepare.
The apps will be updated with this new information shortly, and again in late spring after the follow-up questionnaire is sent.
Much love from Santiago!