LIVE from the Camino Started March 4 (2022) from Seville

[Tom Conklin]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

 

[peregrina2000]

I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested.

Yes please!!! Love love love the Vdlp.

 

[alexwalker]

It is a great and easy Camino except for a few very long etapas some of the first days/week.

Buen Camino!

 

[maruska89]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

Exciting for you! Yes I would be very interested in your posting here on this forum. I'll be roughly a month behind you and might gleam some info/advice from your walk. Buen Camino!

 

[camino07]

Yes Please ! I look forward to your posts.

 

[DonnaM]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

 

[DonnaM]

Would love to hear about your journey. I'm doing the Ingles this year, my third also but the Camino from Seville really interests me.

 

[Judithanne]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

Will be six days behind you ! So will be reading your posts with interest buen camino !!

 

[noelfernandis]

Camino

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

I am leaving on the VDLP on April 24th., I I will be reading your postings with interest.
Noel in Canada

 

[milkybar93]

It is a great and easy Camino except for a few very long etapas some of the first days/week.

Buen Camino!

How easy it is depends on the individual. I thought the VdelaP to be the toughest, and I've completed a few other caminos.

 

[Kev&Kath]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

Yep...count me in! Planning for next April, so will be very interested in all facets of your pilgrimage. Buen Camino!

 

[lt56ny]

Yes please!!! Love love love the Vdlp.

Love can be so subjective sometimes, Laurie!

 

[lt56ny]

It is a great and easy Camino except for a few very long etapas some of the first days/week.

Buen Camino!

I walked from late October to December 2021. Besides the long stages, unfortunately there were lots of albergues that were closed due to covid. Also most kitchens were closed and I spent alot more money then I expected eating alot of not very good dinners. Often had to wait until 9 or 9:30 to eat. The VDLP is alot more of a mental challenge. You are right about the difficulty of walking though.

 

[lt56ny]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

Have no expectations. This camino is soooooo different then the CF or CP. It will be interesting I can tell you that.

 

[alexwalker]

I walked from late October to December 2021. Besides the long stages, unfortunately there were lots of albergues that were closed due to covid. Also most kitchens were closed and I spent alot more money then I expected eating alot of not very good dinners. Often had to wait until 9 or 9:30 to eat. The VDLP is alot more of a mental challenge. You are right about the difficulty of walking though.

In 2013 I walked from Salamanca to SdC in April. I had 20 days of rain, 2 days of snow on passes, and one day of sunshine into SdC...

 

[Cicada]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

Always interested to hear stories from pilgrims live!!!!
Buen Camino

 

[khiker9]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

I will be looking forward to your posts. I am planning on starting the VDLP on April 28 - my 10th Camino.

 

[rnwinters]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

Would definitely enjoy receiving your posts ... we also start the VDLP from Seville on April 8. This is the third Camino for us as well and it would be interesting hearing your insights and observations.
Thanks

 

[Kanga]

@Tom Conklin if you start a new thread with your reports, we can give it a "Live from the camino" banner.

 

[lt56ny]

In 2013 I walked from Salamanca to SdC in April. I had 20 days of rain, 2 days of snow on passes, and one day of sunshine into SdC...

Young man, Didn't your mother teach you never to walk in Galicia when it rains???? The hardest rain I had was the day I left Salamanca. We have so much in common Alex!!!!

 

[Dodger]

I am leaving on the VDLP on April 24th., I I will be reading your postings with interest.
Noel in Canada

I will be 3 days ahead of you, leaving 21st.

 

[camino07]

I'm also leaving Seville on April 21st. So many Aussies

 

[Dodger]

I'm also leaving Seville on April 21st. So many Aussies

I am flying from Edinburgh to Madrid and train to Sevilla on 19th, followed by a rest day to start on 21st. May see you on the way Buen Camino

 

[camino07]

I am flying from Edinburgh to Madrid and train to Sevilla on 19th, followed by a rest day to start on 21st. May see you on the way Buen Camino

I'm spending a night in Madrid after my long flight from Australia and will also train to Seville on the 19th. I am booked into Hotel Simon for two nights . I was booked to go to Scotland first but cancelled and may go afterwards instead.

 

[Dodger]

I'm spending a night in Madrid after my long flight from Australia and will also train to Seville on the 19th. I am booked into Hotel Simon for two nights . I was booked to go to Scotland first but cancelled and may go afterwards instead.

I have a late afternoon train on the 19th to Seville, with a lazy day in Sevilla 20th, May see you on the way or in Sevilla Buen Camino

 

[Kev&Kath]

I'm spending a night in Madrid after my long flight from Australia and will also train to Seville on the 19th. I am booked into Hotel Simon for two nights . I was booked to go to Scotland first but cancelled and may go afterwards instead.

Camino07 how far out did you book Hotel Simon? I note from the hotel's site, today, that booking into '23 is pretty much masked out. Will keep an eye on the web site, but your experience would be useful. Cheers and Buen Camino! Kev

 

[Dodger]

Camino07 how far out did you book Hotel Simon? I note from the hotel's site, today, that booking into '23 is pretty much masked out. Will keep an eye on the web site, but your experience would be useful. Cheers and Buen Camino! Kev

I could not book in to Hotel Simon, so I booked the catedral boutique hotel opposite the cathedral, via Booking.com

 

[camino07]

Camino07 how far out did you book Hotel Simon? I note from the hotel's site, today, that booking into '23 is pretty much masked out. Will keep an eye on the web site, but your experience would be useful. Cheers and Buen Camino! Kev

HI, I booked on the 6th December and also for San Martins Pinario in Santiago as I knew they were popular.
haven't booked anything else though. Apart from hostal in Madrid for one night.

 

[Kev&Kath]

HI, I booked on the 6th December and also for San Martins Pinario in Santiago as I knew they were popular.
haven't booked anything else though. Apart from hostal in Madrid for one night.

Camiino07...thank you so much. That sort of confirms that I'm looking to book too early...I suspect rooms will likely open up a bit later this year. I'll keep an eye on the site. Cheers and thanks again. Buen Camino. Kev

 

[Kev&Kath]

I could not book in to Hotel Simon, so I booked the catedral boutique hotel opposite the cathedral, via Booking.com

Dodger..thanks! I'll check your recommendation out now. Buen Camino! Kev

 

[frjuliangreen]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

I'm going on Tuesday 1st March to continue the VdlP as I was interrupted by COVID two years ago. I'm a long way ahead of you but send you my best wishes. I have loved the VdlP and hope you enjoy it too. The first day is rather prosaic once out of the city but thereafter it has the added dimension of walking an ancient Roman way as well as a pilgrim route. Quite awesome to think of the people who have travelled that way through over 2000 years of history. I look forward to your posts

 

[Mycroft]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

Mr Conklin, I am so excited for you and your adventure. As others have stated, I would very much like to read your posts here and see any pix you might display. I must live vicariously over the next half year, and very much will look forward to reading about your travels. I always travel alone so will be interested in your perspective of this walk. And please, when possible, comment along the way whether or not restaurants you visit have vegetarian food listed on the menu!

 

[laineylainey]

Fabulous Camino, loved it, even the long stretches but then that was 2019 and the mind has a habit, as I age, of playing tricks on me!!
Look forward to hearing about your journey @Tom Conklin .
Different topic but I hear from a friend up in Gallicia, they have had no rain since November and that some of the embalses are getting a bit low! What's the world coming to when Gallicia is without rain

 

[Juno]

I'm also leaving Seville on April 21st. So many Aussies

One Brit too as I’m walking on the 21st from Seville.

 

[Santiagomjm]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

Hello Tom
I'm due to go solo on the Via in April, so would be very grateful to read your posts as you progress.
I'm a little nervous about attempting this Camino, so any some information and advice from your walk would most grateful.
Buen Camino!

 

[g.preece155]

I'll be a couple of weeks behind you but looking forward to reading your updates Tom.

Buen Camino!

 

[RolfMagener]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

I will be arriving in Sevilla on the 3rd and will probably start walking on the 5th... Maybe we will meet somewhere along the way... Buen Camino!

 

[Tom Conklin]

I will be arriving in Sevilla on the 3rd and will probably start walking on the 5th... Maybe we will meet somewhere along the way... Buen Camino!

We very well might as I am fighting some knee issues and will not be doing really long stretches.

 

[RolfMagener]

We very well might as I am fighting some knee issues and will not be doing really long stretches.

Good luck with the knee...I used to have knee issues, I got some good insoles for my boots and it helped tremendously

 

[Tom Conklin]

I’ll let you know when I see you! All the best.

 

[maruska89]

Would definitely enjoy receiving your posts ... we also start the VDLP from Seville on April 8. This is the third Camino for us as well and it would be interesting hearing your insights and observations.
Thanks

oh my gosh... I finally see someone starting the VDLP same day as I am, on April 8th!! It seemed like everyone was starting april 1st or at the end of April. Maybe we can meet for a vino beforehand. I'll be in Seville from the 5th. Don't worry, haha, I won't be following you, but it's just reassuring that someone else will be in the vicinity at least at the start. Buen Camino!

 

[khiker9]

I’ll let you know when I see you! All the best.

I will be starting from Seville on April 28 & only doing about 3 weeks this time. Tom, I will be doing shorter stages as well so I look forward to seeing your “itinerary “! Buen Camino!

 

[maruska89]

I'm also leaving Seville on April 21st. So many Aussies

now I wish I was starting later in april... would love to be walking with the Aussie gang Buen Camino, all!

 

[rnwinters]

oh my gosh... I finally see someone starting the VDLP same day as I am, on April 8th!! It seemed like everyone was starting april 1st or at the end of April. Maybe we can meet for a vino beforehand. I'll be in Seville from the 5th. Don't worry, haha, I won't be following you, but it's just reassuring that someone else will be in the vicinity at least at the start. Buen Camino!

Same with us. Arriving Seville Apr 5 ... three nights at Triana Hostel ... then, start walking on the 8th. Will look for you.

 

[maruska89]

Same with us. Arriving Seville Apr 5 ... three nights at Triana Hostel ... then, start walking on the 8th. Will look for you.

That's great. I tried getting in at Triana but didn't show availability so I'll be staying at For You Hostel. Hope to meet up at some point.

 

[Greenpanda]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

Best on your own Tom, you'll love it although it's one on my list which I had booked to do in 2020 then along came COVID. I'm doing a section of the Norte in April which will be my 5th Camino. Looking forward to your blogs

 

[rnwinters]

Arriving Seville on April 5 for two months ... VDLP to Astorga, then Camino Frances from Viana to Burgos. We have a 7hr layover in Lisbon. Any tips on purchasing a SIM card, preferably at Lisbon airport. Will a SIM card purchased in Lisbon work in Spain?

 

[Tom Conklin]

Ok everyone I am in Seville after a long day of travel. I am setting off tomorrow. I am at Triana Backpackers which is comfortable and run by really nice people. I bought a SIM card at the Vodafone in the El Corte Ingles Supermarket on the 4th floor (not easy to find). For a Canadian the rate is ridiculously good (50G of data, 800 minutes of international calls and unlimited calling in Spain and Romania). My Romanian friends will be thrilled to hear from me!!! Also got a great set of poles at the Decathlon which is very central.

As Triana is on the Via I walked the chunk from the Cathedral to near the hostel. Although there are some tiles and arrows they are often not easy to see. Different sites and apps and descriptions offer slightly different routes but it is pretty easy to get to the bridge. That’s where I’ll start in earnest tomorrow.

 

[WildPlace]

Ok everyone I am in Seville after a long day of travel. I am setting off tomorrow. I am at Triana Backpackers which is comfortable and run by really nice people. I bought a SIM card at the Vodafone in the El Corte Ingles Supermarket on the 4th floor (not easy to find). For a Canadian the rate is ridiculously good (50G of data, 800 minutes of international calls and unlimited calling in Spain and Romania). My Romanian friends will be thrilled to hear from me!!! Also got a great set of poles at the Decathlon which is very central.

As Triana is on the Via I walked the chunk from the Cathedral to near the hostel. Although there are some tiles and arrows they are often not easy to see. Different sites and apps and descriptions offer slightly different routes but it is pretty easy to get to the bridge. That’s where I’ll start in earnest tomorrow.

Buen camino, I look forward to following your journey!

 

[Stinky Pilgrim]

Ok everyone I am in Seville after a long day of travel. I am setting off tomorrow. I am at Triana Backpackers which is comfortable and run by really nice people. I bought a SIM card at the Vodafone in the El Corte Ingles Supermarket on the 4th floor (not easy to find). For a Canadian the rate is ridiculously good (50G of data, 800 minutes of international calls and unlimited calling in Spain and Romania). My Romanian friends will be thrilled to hear from me!!! Also got a great set of poles at the Decathlon which is very central.

As Triana is on the Via I walked the chunk from the Cathedral to near the hostel. Although there are some tiles and arrows they are often not easy to see. Different sites and apps and descriptions offer slightly different routes but it is pretty easy to get to the bridge. That’s where I’ll start in earnest tomorrow.

¡Buen viaje y mucha suerte!

 

[maruska89]

Ok everyone I am in Seville after a long day of travel. I am setting off tomorrow. I am at Triana Backpackers which is comfortable and run by really nice people. I bought a SIM card at the Vodafone in the El Corte Ingles Supermarket on the 4th floor (not easy to find). For a Canadian the rate is ridiculously good (50G of data, 800 minutes of international calls and unlimited calling in Spain and Romania). My Romanian friends will be thrilled to hear from me!!! Also got a great set of poles at the Decathlon which is very central.

As Triana is on the Via I walked the chunk from the Cathedral to near the hostel. Although there are some tiles and arrows they are often not easy to see. Different sites and apps and descriptions offer slightly different routes but it is pretty easy to get to the bridge. That’s where I’ll start in earnest tomorrow.

Thanks for the tips. I'll be following your journey as I'll be starting in a month, on April 5th, if all goes well. I'm also planning on buying my poles in Decathalon in Seville. Buen Camino!!

 

[Tom Conklin]

Day 1: Sevilla to Guillena
First of all I must apologize to the Confraternity because the signage after the bridge is excellent. A Couple of issues. First of all, while leaving town on a path, you have to go around a roundabout just before you cross the second river; there is an arrow where you have to go up to the road but it is easy to miss. Just go up the stairs and around to the path along the other side of the river. Second, In the middle of the very long road/path between Santeponce and Guillena there is a flowing creek. There is no need to wade through as some guidebooks suggest; there is a girder bridge off to the right just before you drop down to the arroyo.

Also, first Camino provision this time: Claus from Norway turned me onto Mapy.cz. The map shows the Camino and where you are even if you’re offline. It only follows certain variants but it is very helpful.

Staying in Guillena at Albergue Luz del Camino. 12€ and quite nice. All kitchen facilities seem to be open now.

 

[rnwinters]

We leave for Spain on April 4th and plan to step off on the VdlP from Seville on the morning of the 8th. We will walk to Astorga, then, train to Viana and another walk on the Camino Francés to Burgos. For those interested, I’ll be posting a blog along the way, with pictures, observations and stories. You can find it at (bobscaminoblog.wordpress.com). You should be able to join in order to get a notice to your inbox whenever a post is made.

 

[Tom Conklin]

Day 2 - Guillena to Castilblanco
Pretty good day. Short and well-marked.
Plan your weekend shopping.
Reminder: Mapy.cz is a fantastic free app that shows you exactly where you are, even offline.
Long stage tomorrow and really long the day after.

 

[Tom Conklin]

Day 2 to Castilblanco
Very easy country walk for the most part.
Municipal in Castilblanco is very nice; donativo with good kitchen
There are a couple ways out of Guillena so check your maps; Weby.cz will keep you unlost.

Day 3 to Almaden de los Arroyos
Long, 28k walk with the first 16 along the road. Even though it is a road walk it is quite a pleasant uphill with very little traffic. The walk through the park is beautiful and finishes with a very steep ascent and descent into town. The views at the top are wonderful.
Big municipal albergue that is pretty basic and not spotless.

Day 4 to Real de la Jara
Very short, but really scenic walk with another steep ascent and descent in the middle.
Alojamiento del Peregrino: Very nice albergue for 10€.

Day 5 to Monesterio
Whoever said the Via was a totally flat Camino did not walk the last 3 stages! They are not killers but they are definitely not flat.
Signage is outstanding. If you don’t see an arrow, you are lost.
Albergue parroquial de Monesterio: fantastic albergue for 10€. Well-provisioned.

 

[nycwalking]

Day 2 to Castilblanco
Very easy country walk for the most part.
Municipal in Castilblanco is very nice; donativo with good kitchen
There are a couple ways out of Guillena so check your maps; Weby.cz will keep you unlost.

Day 3 to Almaden de los Arroyos
Long, 28k walk with the first 16 along the road. Even though it is a road walk it is quite a pleasant uphill with very little traffic. The walk through the park is beautiful and finishes with a very steep ascent and descent into town. The views at the top are wonderful.
Big municipal albergue that is pretty basic and not spotless.

Day 4 to Real de la Jara
Very short, but really scenic walk with another steep ascent and descent in the middle.
Alojamiento del Peregrino: Very nice albergue for 10€.

Day 5 to Monesterio
Whoever said the Via was a totally flat Camino did not walk the last 3 stages! They are not killers but they are definitely not flat.
Signage is outstanding. If you don’t see an arrow, you are lost.
Albergue parroquial de Monesterio: fantastic albergue for 10€. Well-provisioned.

Sounds good so far.

Pictures please.

 

[peregrina2000]

Albergue parroquial de Monesterio: fantastic albergue for 10€. Well-provisioned.

So glad to hear that the parroquial is still going strong. The last time I was through was many years ago, and at that time the priest was just getting going with his idea of the albergue (he had walked the Vdlp several years earlier, I believe, or some other camino).

Since he started it, I remember reading that the municipality of Monesterio has been very strict about not allowing him to advertise, publicize, or announce his albergue because the town wants to prioritize private albergues. So the more we publicize it, the more people will know it's a good alternative in Monesterio.

 

[Former member 98118]

Whoever said the Via was a totally flat Camino did not walk the last 3 stages! They are not killers but they are definitely not flat.

Give it one more day, Tom
Flat as a pancake. Meseta on Frances seems hilly compared to VdlP
Photo: between Villafranca and Torremejía, March 8th 2022

 

[Tom Conklin]

Give it one more day, Tom
Flat as a pancake. Meseta on Frances seems hilly compared to VdlP
Photo: between Villafranca and Torremejía, March 8th 2022

View attachment 120192

I see it. Unfortunately, it rained so ours was redder and most of it was attached to our shoes.

 

[Tom Conklin]

I have lost a few days but I will say a couple of things. First of all, holy crap the wet farm roads are a hassle!! It is much better and faster to switch to the pavement when possible.

Second, the hostel in Los Santos de Maimona, a few km past Zafra, is nice once you register and get the keys from the police station. It has 6 beds and a great kitchen across the yard from the beds. It is also right on the Camino.

Third, we went off the Camino to Almendralejo. There are only hotels there and the Hotal Los Angeles is the only one that is open. We paid 48€ for 2. The taxi back to the road was 10€.

Fourth, just before you get to Torremejia you have two options. One, you can go under a bridge then you go through a rock field for 2 or 300m. Look up and you will see a farm path that leads directly into town. If you go right at the tunnel you will go over a bridge and into town.

Fifth, if you take the short leg after Merida, the albergue in Aljucen is fantastic. The woman at the albergue in El Carrascalejo may tell you the albergue in Aljucen is closed. It isn’t. There is a free clothes dryer, aTV, a great kitchen and many wonderful places to eat and chat.

 

[Pawel]

I have lost a few days but I will say a couple of things. First of all, holy crap the wet farm roads are a hassle!! It is much better and faster to switch to the pavement when possible.

Second, the hostel in Los Santos de Maimona, a few km past Zafra, is nice once you register and get the keys from the police station. It has 6 beds and a great kitchen across the yard from the beds. It is also right on the Camino.

Third, we went off the Camino to Almendralejo. There are only hotels there and the Hotal Los Angeles is the only one that is open. We paid 48€ for 2. The taxi back to the road was 10€.

Fourth, just before you get to Torremejia you have two options. One, you can go under a bridge then you go through a rock field for 2 or 300m. Look up and you will see a farm path that leads directly into town. If you go right at the tunnel you will go over a bridge and into town.

Fifth, if you take the short leg after Merida, the albergue in Aljucen is fantastic. The woman at the albergue in El Carrascalejo may tell you the albergue in Aljucen is closed. It isn’t. There is a free clothes dryer, aTV, a great kitchen and many wonderful places to eat and chat.

Hey Tom,

After going under railway bridge just before Torremejia turn right few meters after going under and climb tiny slope. There is a path that leads to the road.

I have written about it in my notes.

 

[Tom Conklin]

Here’s a quick catch-up before the long stretch past the closed albergue in Embalse de Alcantara.

The albergue in Aldea de Canó is basic but very good value for 6€. The restaurant wher you get the keys has a fairly good menu de dia.

When you are coming into Caceres there will be a fork in the road. You probably won’t even notice it and there are no arrows until later. Take the right path. It’s about 2k (probably less) after you separate from the N630. If you’re using Mapy.cz. just keep checking as you come into town.

 

[rnwinters]

Is there no other place to stay in Embalse de Alcantara?
Or, is the albergue the only option?
What about the possibility of camping there?

 

[Tom Conklin]

Is there no other place to stay in Embalse de Alcantara?
Or, is the albergue the only option?
What about the possibility of camping there?

Not sure of other options but there are 10 to 15 people here in Casar de Caceres and everyone is planning to go the 33k to Carnaveral. I think you can camp pretty much anywhere. There are a couple of Italian guys doing just that as we speak.

 

[camino07]

Not looking forward to that long stage one bit. Alcantara was such a great albergue.

 

[Tom Conklin]

Not looking forward to that long stage one bit. Alcantara was such a great albergue.

The road is actually quite beautiful. Here we are 10k in.

 

[peregrina2000]

The road is actually quite beautiful. Here we are 10k in.

Buen camino, @Tom. Did you notice the “junkyard” for old Roman milarios?



And I’m wondering about the camino route — Did you not have a long stretch alongside the road as you rounded the reservoir? Or has the construction given an opportunity for them to construct an off-road path?

Looks like great weather for walking.

 

[Tom Conklin]

Buen camino, @Tom. Did you notice the “junkyard” for old Roman milarios?

View attachment 120749

And I’m wondering about the camino route — Did you not have a long stretch alongside the road as you rounded the reservoir? Or has the construction given an opportunity for them to construct an off-road path?

Looks like great weather for walking.

There was a stretch of about 3 k.

 

[MrWr1TeR]

Hi Tom,

Can you tell something about the availability of the kitchens in the albergues/hostels? Are they still closed mostly or open?
As I have diabetes eating out (and very late) every day is not so healthy and I prefer to cook myself as much as possible.

Thanks,
Buen camino!

 

[Sunopo]

Hi Tom,

Can you tell something about the availability of the kitchens in the albergues/hostels? Are they still closed mostly or open?
As I have diabetes eating out (and very late) every day is not so healthy and I prefer to cook myself as much as possible.

Thanks,
Buen camino!

Hi MrWr1Ter, if you are on the VdlP you should find equipped kitchen facilities in most albuerges, at the very least a microwave and generally a kitchen with pots and pans. As you move further north you may find less. I understand from the forum info I've read that Galicia especially tend to offer lots of kitchen space with no equipment at all. I can only really speak for the VdLP - see my posts elsewhere on "back on the Camino". Hope this helps somewhat.

 

[Tom Conklin]

We are 5 days out of Salamanca and have found most albergues have kitchen facilities. The quality and quantity of resources varies but you can usually make do.

 

[MrWr1TeR]

We are 5 days out of Salamanca and have found most albergues have kitchen facilities. The quality and quantity of resources varies but you can usually make do.

Thanks for clarifying!
I don't need much, a stove and a pot will do usually

 

[Tom Conklin]

I will be arriving in Sevilla on the 3rd and will probably start walking on the 5th... Maybe we will meet somewhere along the way... Buen Camino!

It would be great to catch a taxi with you

 

[Tom Conklin]

Here’s a couple of things two days out of Salamanca.

Lots of pilgrims on the road. Many, many Germans. Few North Americans. Almost everyone is spectacular.

If you go to Rioloslobos, Camping Las Catalinas has great apartments.

On the long stretch from Carcacoso to Aldeanueva (38k) you follow a wonderful path along a stone fence. At one point you will pass 30m they a cattle stall. At the fence you come out of you will see five or six roads and no discernible arrows. Turn left and follow the fence.

If you go to Aldeanueva stay at La Casa de Mi Abuela. It is a fabulous albergue. When there eat at the Restaurant Sebas. The menu is cheap includes all kinds of drinks and includes many options.

If you go to Calzada de Bejar, Albergue Soba Soraya is good. There is only one restaurant that offers one basic menu de dia for 12€.

In Fuenterobbles the famous albergue is nice but the showers are cold except for one in the main house. There is no community meal but there are two good bars that offer a menu del dia.

 

[Kev&Kath]

Here’s a couple of things two days out of Salamanca.

Lots of pilgrims on the road. Many, many Germans. Few North Americans. Almost everyone is spectacular.

If you go to Rioloslobos, Camping Las Catalinas has great apartments.

On the long stretch from Carcacoso to Aldeanueva (38k) you follow a wonderful path along a stone fence. At one point you will pass 30m they a cattle stall. At the fence you come out of you will see five or six roads and no discernible arrows. Turn left and follow the fence.

If you go to Aldeanueva stay at La Casa de Mi Abuela. It is a fabulous albergue. When there eat at the Restaurant Sebas. The menu is cheap includes all kinds of drinks and includes many options.

If you go to Calzada de Bejar, Albergue Soba Soraya is good. There is only one restaurant that offers one basic menu de dia for 12€.

In Fuenterobbles the famous albergue is nice but the showers are cold except for one in the main house. There is no community meal but there are two good bars that offer a menu del dia.

Tom…terrific info…please keep it coming! Will be on the VdlP this time next year so I’m taking notice & notes

 

[Tom Conklin]

Before and after Salamanca

The Hostal in San Pedro is really nice and you can get a really nice double for 40€. The woman who runs the joint ma ybe open to cheaper single rates.

The alb in Salamanca is very nice. There are specific openings (16:00) but if you get there early, try ringing anyway. Salamanca seems to be a thinning out point. A number of people stopped there and many had rest days.

The leg to El Cubo is long and scenic for the first part. The second half is beside the road. You have to backtrack a fair bit to cross a river. There are arrows to the river (maybe 200m) but it has to be a lot lower to cross safely. Alb Torre de Sabre in El Cubo has beds in a shared room for 14€ (not mentioned in Gronze). The meal they offer for 12€ was excellent.

The stage to Zamora is quite nice with a couple of significant hills. I took a rest day in Zamora and stayed at the Hotel Jarama which is close to the main sites and the Camino.

I took some time to plan my final stretch because the closed albergues make for some very long and very short stages.

 

[Kev&Kath]

Before and after Salamanca

The Hostal in San Pedro is really nice and you can get a really nice double for 40€. The woman who runs the joint ma ybe open to cheaper single rates.

The alb in Salamanca is very nice. There are specific openings (16:00) but if you get there early, try ringing anyway. Salamanca seems to be a thinning out point. A number of people stopped there and many had rest days.

The leg to El Cubo is long and scenic for the first part. The second half is beside the road. You have to backtrack a fair bit to cross a river. There are arrows to the river (maybe 200m) but it has to be a lot lower to cross safely. Alb Torre de Sabre in El Cubo has beds in a shared room for 14€ (not mentioned in Gronze). The meal they offer for 12€ was excellent.

The stage to Zamora is quite nice with a couple of significant hills. I took a rest day in Zamora and stayed at the Hotel Jarama which is close to the main sites and the Camino.

I took some time to plan my final stretch because the closed albergues make for some very long and very short stages.

Tom...thanks for the info. Do you recall if the hostal in San Pedro you mention is the Marie Carmen Hostel or the Mutatio Elena (as per Gronze)? Thank you. Also...the Jarama looks pretty good too!

 

[Lynnhardy]

In 2013 I walked from Salamanca to SdC in April. I had 20 days of rain, 2 days of snow on passes, and one day of sunshine into SdC...

I walked April 2019 and had maybe two days rain, otherwise all sunshine! I’m hoping the same this year! Or….. maybe I shouldn’t ditch the rain gear just yet!

 

[maruska89]

Here’s a couple of things two days out of Salamanca.

Lots of pilgrims on the road. Many, many Germans. Few North Americans. Almost everyone is spectacular.

If you go to Rioloslobos, Camping Las Catalinas has great apartments.

On the long stretch from Carcacoso to Aldeanueva (38k) you follow a wonderful path along a stone fence. At one point you will pass 30m they a cattle stall. At the fence you come out of you will see five or six roads and no discernible arrows. Turn left and follow the fence.

If you go to Aldeanueva stay at La Casa de Mi Abuela. It is a fabulous albergue. When there eat at the Restaurant Sebas. The menu is cheap includes all kinds of drinks and includes many options.

If you go to Calzada de Bejar, Albergue Soba Soraya is good. There is only one restaurant that offers one basic menu de dia for 12€.

In Fuenterobbles the famous albergue is nice but the showers are cold except for one in the main house. There is no community meal but there are two good bars that offer a menu del dia.

Thank you for your detailed posts. I will be leaving in a week and this is very helpful. I have booked la Casa de mi Abuela and happy to hear you enjoyed it there. Your restaurant notes are very helpful as well. Buen Camino! I am getting excited and nervous!

 

[Tom Conklin]

Tom...thanks for the info. Do you recall if the hostal in San Pedro you mention is the Marie Carmen Hostel or the Mutatio Elena (as per Gronze)? Thank you. Also...the Jarama looks pretty good too!

It’s called Casa Rural VII Carreras. I believe the others are closed.

 

[Lynnhardy]

Here’s a couple of things two days out of Salamanca.

Lots of pilgrims on the road. Many, many Germans. Few North Americans. Almost everyone is spectacular.

If you go to Rioloslobos, Camping Las Catalinas has great apartments.

On the long stretch from Carcacoso to Aldeanueva (38k) you follow a wonderful path along a stone fence. At one point you will pass 30m they a cattle stall. At the fence you come out of you will see five or six roads and no discernible arrows. Turn left and follow the fence.

If you go to Aldeanueva stay at La Casa de Mi Abuela. It is a fabulous albergue. When there eat at the Restaurant Sebas. The menu is cheap includes all kinds of drinks and includes many options.

If you go to Calzada de Bejar, Albergue Soba Soraya is good. There is only one restaurant that offers one basic menu de dia for 12€.

In Fuenterobbles the famous albergue is nice but the showers are cold except for one in the main house. There is no community meal but there are two good bars that offer a menu del dia.

Scribbling this all down!

 

[camino07]

It’s called Casa Rural VII Carreras. I believe the others are closed.

I have stayed there twice. It is excellent! . After a very long stage where I ran out of water.

 

[Tom Conklin]

From Zamora

I did 42k to Granja so wouldn’t have to do 2 30s. I was prepared and it was pretty flat so it worked. The alb in Granja is very basic. No kitchen.

On the first day onto the Sanabres you go over a beautiful bridge than you go on an adventure down a very treacherous path. You can avoid the serious up and down by following the road but the treacherous way is actually quite beautiful.

The municipal in Tabara is a great example of Camino hospitality. The dorms are nice and the dinner is great. You even leave with gifts from a hospitalero who lives the Camino. There is also a huge Carrefour at which you can stock up for a couple of dry days.

The albs in Santa Marta de Tera and Rionegro are absolutely fantastic. Comfortable, great facilities and close to good bars with meals.

The path around the Embalse (dam and reservoir) after Ollos de Tera is not well marked and at times you walk through some tricky bush. Use your mapping program (I live and have been saved by MAPY.CZ many times) and it will keep you on track. If you don’t want to risk it take the road.

Between Rionegro and Asturianos there are 3 or 4 beautiful villages. Take some time to soak them in.

 

[RussB]

From Zamora

I did 42k to Granja so wouldn’t have to do 2 30s. I was prepared and it was pretty flat so it worked. The alb in Granja is very basic. No kitchen.

On the first day onto the Sanabres you go over a beautiful bridge than you go on an adventure down a very treacherous path. You can avoid the serious up and down by following the road but the treacherous way is actually quite beautiful.

The municipal in Tabara is a great example of Camino hospitality. The dorms are nice and the dinner is great. You even leave with gifts from a hospitalero who lives the Camino. There is also a huge Carrefour at which you can stock up for a couple of dry days.

The albs in Santa Marta de Tera and Rionegro are absolutely fantastic. Comfortable, great facilities and close to good bars with meals.

The path around the Embalse (dam and reservoir) after Ollos de Tera is not well marked and at times you walk through some tricky bush. Use your mapping program (I live and have been saved by MAPY.CZ many times) and it will keep you on track. If you don’t want to risk it take the road.

Between Rionegro and Asturianos there are 3 or 4 beautiful villages. Take some time to soak them in.

Downloaded mapy.cz , always good have another point of reference

 

[Tom Conklin]

Asturianos alb is cold! Decent restaurant with a great racione of fries. Decent menu as well. Good shop in town.
To Requejo. There is a great Carrefour right on the Camino as you go through Puebla de Sanabria. After Puebla you have a beautiful walk along the river. Lots of water to go around and you may get wet. If you want to avoid the problems, take the road in. Casa Cervino is very nice and there are 3 restaurants in town.
To Lubian. There is much confusion about the route to Lubian. I walked the road for a good chunk but I don’t think I had to. After Padornelo I took the low road away from Aciberos as the Buen Camino app suggests. It is a beautiful walk with magnificent water courses and a very picturesque bridge coming into Lubian. You do have to climb through a fence and you may have to shoo some cows from the path. I am pretty sure the high road through Aciberos as suggested by MAPY is fine as well. The municipal alb (3€!) is out of town but right off the Camino road. It is very nice.
The albergue in A Gudina is spectacular. It is 8€ and has heated floors! There is a sink, microwave and refrigerator but nothing else. It is on the main road and has sliding glass doors which we missed twice.

The hill between Laza and Albergueria is a monster. It goes on forever. Luckily the albergue in Albergueria is fantastic. It is quaint, has a fully provisioned kitchen and is very comfortable. There are supplies of pasta, tomato sauce, tuna and chick peas for sale at the hostel. Alberto is a great hospitalero who will make sure everything is taken care of.

 

[MileHighPair]

Tom, your updates are fantastic. I did the Vdlp in 2017 and your posts are a wonderful reminder of the beauty of this route. It sounds like you are NOT needing to reserve a bed along the way. Is this correct?

 

[Tom Conklin]

Tom, your updates are fantastic. I did the Vdlp in 2017 and your posts are a wonderful reminder of the beauty of this route. It sounds like you are NOT needing to reserve a bed along the way. Is this correct?

Absolutely not! At this time there are often more showers than pilgrims. I have slept in the top bunk once and I have had someone sleep in my top bunk twice. I have stayed in municipal or xunta albergues 25 out of 35 days and they have almost always been less than 10€. And thanks for the kind words.

 

[Tom Conklin]

The Last Update

The downhill after Albergueria is much shallower than the rise. The albergue in Xunqueira is great with a decent kitchen for 8€. Make sure check to see what is available in terms of eating options.

The walk into Ourense from Xungeira is not wonderful especially in the rain. There is a great Froiz (supermercado) 300m from the albergue if you need to stock up. The hospitalero in the Xunta albergue kicked us out at 8am.

The walk out of Ourense through Canedo along the highway is horrible but the last 11 or 12k are worth it. The bar at Mandras is great.

The number of pilgrims picks up very noticeably after Ourense. It is Semana Santa so that explains it a bit but the hospitalero also said the numbers always pick up at Cea because it is a bit over 100k in.

The meal at Sol y Luna in Cea was spectacular. There was the local soup with vegetables and big chunks of chicken, tortellini with pesto and cheese, a huge salad and pork chops with drinks, coffee and a shot for 12€. The vegetarian with us was more than happy.

Another fantastic Xunta albergue in A Laxe for 8€. On Sunday there are no restaurants open but Jaime, the fantastic hospitalero, ordered us pizza delivered to the albergue.

The albergue in Outeiro is great but there is no food anywhere nearby. There is a great Carrefour very close to the Camino in Ponte Ullo so you can stock up. The kitchen has a stove and microwave but no cutlery and no pots etc. to cook with.

 

[Peregrinopaul]

The hill between Laza and Albergueria is a monster. It goes on forever. Luckily the albergue in Albergueria is fantastic. It is quaint, has a fully provisioned kitchen and is very comfortable. There are supplies of pasta, tomato sauce, tuna and chick peas for sale at the hostel. Alberto is a great hospitalero who will make sure everything is taken care of.

Monster indeed! Spare a thought for an old guy on a loaded mountain bike. And yes, an iconic albergue. But am I to understand that Luis, who owned the bar and albergue has moved on? Here he is.

on my first Camino in 2012 I visited the Amigos office in Triana, and the only advice I now remember given to this novice peregrino was “You must stay with Luis at Albergueria”.
‘This was a great thread Tom. I’ll be returning to it if I get back to the Via in the future. Congratulations on your Camino.

 

[Tom Conklin]

Monster indeed! Spare a thought for an old guy on a loaded mountain bike. And yes, an iconic albergue. But am I to understand that Luis, who owned the bar and albergue has moved on? Here he is.
View attachment 122533
on my first Camino in 2012 I visited the Amigos office in Triana, and the only advice I now remember given to this novice peregrino was “You must stay with Luis at Albergueria”.
‘This was a great thread Tom. I’ll be returning to it if I get back to the Via in the future. Congratulations on your

Luis was getting older so Alberto moved back home to take over. He brings a younger vibe and I think maintains the original feel of this Camino original.

 

[Tom Conklin]

I am no longer Live in the Camino. Made it in from Outeiro with no problems but for the rain. Pilgrims Office was very easy: we received our compostelas really quickly. Heading back to Seville tomorrow then home on Saturday.

 

[OzAnnie]

Thank you @Tom Conklin
I’ve just found this thread - you’ve given some excellent tips - much appreciated.
Enjoy your rest back in Sevilla before heading home.

Buen camino.

 

[Saint Mike II]

My ticket is booked and my bag has been packed, repacked, lugged and then repacked again. I will be arriving in Seville on March 3 and then starting to walk on the 4th. I am thinking of making regular posts here if anyone is interested. This will be my third Camino but the first I've done on my own.

A very good fried of mine left Seville yesterday, also basically on her own. I think she would value your observations of this route, good bits, bad bits, things to avoid etc. Buen Camino.

 

[Tom Conklin]

A very good fried of mine left Seville yesterday, also basically on her own. I think she would value your observations of this route, good bits, bad bits, things to avoid etc. Buen Camino.

Have her take a look at the following post: https://www.caminodesantiago.me/com...ia-with-a-sanabres-finish.74382/#post-1021723

Tom