LIVE from the Camino October 2020 Vezelay Camino Impressions

[Sara_Dhooma]

Hello!

I started the Vezelay Camino on October 2nd and here are some impressions for the first week.

There are very few pilgrims on the way. Fortunately I am not the last of the season, there are still some brave walkers behind me coming from the Netherlands/Belgium. I’ve met four pilgrims total (French & Dutch guys).

I’ve been rained on each day . The well-marked path alternates between old Roman road, country lane, and busier asphalt walking. The hard stuff is killer on my feet - which are not used to putting in long miles. I’ve generally unfit from COVID recovery and months sitting on my couch, so I’ve been taking it low and slow with daily mileage.

Accommodations so far haven’t been an issue so far. Municipal albergues cost around 12€ a night and the suggested Donitivo donation for demi-pension (bed, dinner & breakfast) is 30€. Looking ahead, there are less places available so I will need to start using my tent. I’ve been reluctant to camp thus far due to the nasty weather.

Regarding COVID, most people are wearing their masks indoors. I also put on my mask when walking down busier streets with other pedestrians. Some museums and touristy attractions are not open this year.

The vibe from the locals is overwhelmingly positive. I receive many enthusiastic greetings as I pass through the small villages. Thankfully my high school French skills haven’t totally evaporated from my mind!

I’ve resumed posting YouTube videos of my daily adventures. Please click this link to follow along: Sara’s Vezelay Camino Vlog Playlist

Feel free to ask me any questions!

 

[Mournes]

Hello!

I started the Vezelay Camino on October 2nd and here are some impressions for the first week.

There are very few pilgrims on the way. Fortunately I am not the last of the season, there are still some brave walkers behind me coming from the Netherlands/Belgium. I’ve met four pilgrims total (French & Dutch guys).

I’ve been rained on each day . The well-marked path alternates between old Roman road, country lane, and busier asphalt walking. The hard stuff is killer on my feet - which are not used to putting in long miles. I’ve generally unfit from COVID recovery and months sitting on my couch, so I’ve been taking it low and slow with daily mileage.

Accommodations so far haven’t been an issue so far. Municipal albergues cost around 12€ a night and the suggested Donitivo donation for demi-pension (bed, dinner & breakfast) is 30€. Looking ahead, there are less places available so I will need to start using my tent. I’ve been reluctant to camp thus far due to the nasty weather.

Regarding COVID, most people are wearing their masks indoors. I also put on my mask when walking down busier streets with other pedestrians. Some museums and touristy attractions are not open this year.

The vibe from the locals is overwhelmingly positive. I receive many enthusiastic greetings as I pass through the small villages. Thankfully my high school French skills haven’t totally evaporated from my mind!

I’ve resumed posting YouTube videos of my daily adventures. Please click this link to follow along: Sara’s Vezelay Camino Vlog Playlist

Feel free to ask me any questions!

Hi Sara,loved your first video.Your enthusiasm shines through.You have such a positive attitude.You brightened up my morning with the beautiful scenes of the Basilica and Vézelay.You have a like a lion.Such a lovely way to remember your friend.
Bon Chemin et Bon Courage.
Looking forward to episode 2.

 

[LesBrass]

Great to hear from you! The weather has been shocking for October in France... usually we enjoy cool mornings and gloriously sunny afternoons but so far all it's done is rain I am hoping that it's getting better! I haven't envied the walking over the last few days x

 

[Natcats]

Hello,

I've been following your adventures for so long. I didn't even know you are a member of this forum.

Glad to see a fellow Canadian out and about and hiking. Have a wonderful time and I'll see you on YouTube

Oh, a question: did you have a hard time booking a flight out of Canada and were there any special considerations/procedures when you landed in France?

Bonne marche

 

[sunsurf]

Hi Sara
Thanks for sharing your videos. I love every moment watching it .
You are inspiring me to consider the Vezelay route next year in stead of the GR78 (Piemont Pyreneen) which I was suppose to walk during Sept/Oct this year...
Bonne marche.
Dolfina