Imagine walking the Camino de Santiago in December! In this article, we’re gonna dive into how to tackle the Jacobean Route in the year’s final month. We’ll share top tips to make your winter journey a bit easier. What’s the Camino like when autumn meets winter? What should you keep in mind? Stick with us, and you’ll find out everything you need to know to make the most of the Camino in December.
A pilgrim discovering the spirituality of the Camino
Why Walk the Camino in December?
Walking the Camino in December is a great chance for some deep reflection, and many find this month to be the perfect time to seek answers, take stock of the year, and connect with their spirituality. Plus, if you’re doing it for religious reasons, making a pilgrimage and celebrating Christmas on the Camino can be a very personal and special experience.
We all know December is a month with tricky weather, with cold, lots of rain, and even snow and the occasional storm. True, it’s not the best time of year for a pilgrimage, but on the flip side, you’ll see fewer pilgrims on all the Jacobean Routes compared to other months. As a result, the Camino de Santiago in December is a very peaceful place.
Advantages of Pilgrimage in December
There are many advantages to taking on the Camino in December. To start with, there are holiday periods that allow you to embark on this adventure, and you can walk the Camino during the December long weekend or Christmas. Moreover, the Camino offers you the following:
- Peace and Quiet: December is the perfect month if you need time for solitude and introspection, as there are fewer pilgrims on the routes.
- Beautiful Landscapes: The magic of autumn and winter offers unique landscapes and trails with golden and ochre leaves on the paths and in the forests, as well as snow at higher altitudes.
- Suitable Routes: Not all are recommended in winter, but the Camino always provides perfect routes throughout the year.
- Traditions and Christmas Celebrations: During your Camino de Santiago at Christmas, you can enjoy traditional celebrations in many towns along the way.
And don’t forget! On December 30th, the Translation of the Apostle is celebrated, complete with a Botafumeiro!
Scene of the Traslation of Saint James
Disadvantages of Walking the Camino in December
In December, winter begins, which entails considering the following disadvantages:
- Low Temperatures and Abundant Precipitation: Your backpack will weigh more due to the need for warmer clothes and possibly rain gear.
- Shorter Days: You’ll have fewer daylight hours for walking.
- Fewer Open Accommodations and Services: Being the low season, many temporarily close.
Tips for Walking the Camino in the Last Month of the Year
December is the entrance to winter, and in our article about walking the Way in Winter, we tell you what it’s like, what you should carry in your backpack, and which routes are most advisable. We provide all the tips you need to fully enjoy your journey. The most important tips for a peaceful, uneventful, and exciting December on the Camino are:
- Choose a Route with Milder Climate, like the Portuguese Way or the French Way.
- Equip Yourself Properly Against Cold and Rain: Ensure you have adequate clothing and gear.
- Secure Your Bed and Book Accommodations in Advance: To avoid the risk of not finding a place to stay.
- Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture and Gastronomy wherever you pass through.
You can also opt to cycle the Camino by bike in winter, which allows you to cover a longer section of any Jacobean route.
Pilgrim walking the Camino in December
And if you find that you’ll need a lot of things, maybe your backpack won’t be enough: remember not to carry more than 10% of your body weight on your back! If this is your case, avoid silly injuries and use a luggage transport service.
How about grapes and champagne in Obradoiro?
In December, walking the Camino is a unique and enriching experience. The combination of the spirituality of the Camino with the magic of winter and Christmas creates a special atmosphere that will accompany you with every step. Despite the climatic challenges, pilgrims find that the Camino in December is worth it. If you’re thinking of walking the Camino de Santiago during this time of year, prepare for an adventure full of reflection, spirituality, and winter beauty. Don’t miss the opportunity to live a magical experience on the Camino.
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