The best season of the year is a very important factor when deciding when to do the Camino de Santiago, as it will influence the quality of your trip and the difficulty of the different stages. It is therefore advisable to always keep this in mind when starting your travel arrangements. The chosen route, the distribution of the stages and the clothes or the type of footwear that we must carry in our luggage will be very important.
In this article we inform you about the characteristics of each season of the year in relation to the Camino de Santiago. We will help you choose your date so that you have the best experience.
It goes seasonally
Low season: Winter
This period is approximately from the month of November to the end of November to the end of February or the beginning of March, the coldest winter months. At this season of year there is frequent rain, wind and frost, and it is even possible to find snow on the higher sections, such as in Roncesvalles or O Cebreiro. If you decide for this season of the year, it is advisable to spend season getting to know the route you are going to take to avoid having bad experiences.
The absence of pilgrims The absence of pilgrims at this season also influences the services, as some establishments decide to close at this season, so you should start each stage with water and food in case you do not find places to rest.
No less important is the selection of the luggage: you should use clothes that can withstand the cold, wind and rain, as well as waterproof footwear as well as waterproof footwear, preferably light so as not to carry too much weight.
But it also has its positive side, and is that you will enjoy the route with a full peace of mind. You will have the Camino all to yourself, nature at its wildest will offer you spectacular landscapes.
Mid season: Spring and autumn
It corresponds to the remaining months of the year and is for many the perfect season to do the Camino de Santiago. Temperatures are usually quite mild, interspersing sunny days with cloudy days and rainfall. You will fall in love with the autumn scenery of the Galician forests and the colourful fields and paths full of flowers in spring. The crowds at this season of year are not usually a drawback to enjoying the experience. You’ll meet wonderful people without the hustle and bustle of pilgrims all along the route, making it easier to relax and unwind.
High season: Summer
It goes from mid-May to mid-September. In the summer season temperatures are usually hotter, especially in areas of the Castilian plateau due to the lack of shade in many sections of the road. On the other hand, in Asturias or Galicia you won’t have that problem, as the heat is rarely suffocating and you will have plenty of vegetation along the way, something that will alleviate the feeling of suffocation. A very important factor to take into account is the large influx of pilgrims in these months. Accommodation can reach 100% occupancy so it is advisable to book accommodation and other services before you start your trip.
If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend you avoid the more popular routes, such as the last stretch of the French Way or the Portuguese if you want to avoid the crowds, you can choose other routes that, although less demanded, are just as spectacular.
As for the luggage, it is advisable to wear cool clothes and breathable shoes, a good sunscreen to avoid skin burns. Don’t forget your swimsuit, because you’ll find places where you can take a dip to relieve your tiredness.
To be taken into account:
We know that it is not always possible to choose the best season of the year to do the Camino de Santiago. We will have to adapt to our personal circumstances or holidays at work. And for all those who are thinking about doing the Camino because they don’t know who to leave their little doggy friend with there is also the option of doing the Camino de Santiago with a dog.
However, whether it is winter or summer, the most important thing is that you travel well informed, with the right equipment and above all a lot of desire to enjoy 100% of the experience.