Cycling the VDLP

[olemeg]

Hello All!

I am in the planning phase for cycling the VDLP this April. I’ve read many of the posts on here (thanks for all the helpful advice!), and I’m hoping I can find out a bit more.

I’ve already switched gears on the route - my friend and I were planning to do the Camino Frances but change our minds after reading some of the posts. The RDLP sounds a bit more bike friendly.

I’ve read some horror stories about bike rental companies. Any companies in particular to avoid? Not sure if you can name names but it would be helpful
I’m looking at Cycling Rentals and Bike Iberia.

I’m also considering buying a cheaper bike and leaving it there, but then I’d have to also buy a rack, beefier tires etc.

Ideally I’d like to do it on a gravel bike and stick to the trails. Anyone else out there recommend for/against that? We’d have bike bags/panniers and plan to stay in albergues or other budget lodgings.

Do most folks usually travel with only a sleep sack? I worry about being cold at night with only that.

Can you recommend which map to buy?

Thanks in advance for the input!

 

[Reinoud]

Hello All!

I am in the planning phase for cycling the VDLP this April. I’ve read many of the posts on here (thanks for all the helpful advice!), and I’m hoping I can find out a bit more.

I’ve already switched gears on the route - my friend and I were planning to do the Camino Frances but change our minds after reading some of the posts. The RDLP sounds a bit more bike friendly.

I’ve read some horror stories about bike rental companies. Any companies in particular to avoid? Not sure if you can name names but it would be helpful
I’m looking at Cycling Rentals and Bike Iberia.

I’m also considering buying a cheaper bike and leaving it there, but then I’d have to also buy a rack, beefier tires etc.

Ideally I’d like to do it on a gravel bike and stick to the trails. Anyone else out there recommend for/against that? We’d have bike bags/panniers and plan to stay in albergues or other budget lodgings.

Do most folks usually travel with only a sleep sack? I worry about being cold at night with only that.

Can you recommend which map to buy?

Thanks in advance for the input!

You can download the buen camino or wise pilgrim app both of which have all the information you need insofar as maps, daily routes and accommodation is concerned.