If you are thinking of walking the Camino de Santiago, June is one of the ideal months to start this adventure. Spring is giving way to summer, and the weather and temperatures are very suitable for walking, as well as the many hours of daylight the pilgrim can enjoy each day. In this article, we explore why walking the Camino in June is a great option to enjoy the Jacobean routes and what you should consider when planning your pilgrimage.
In June, between spring and summer, the weather invites you to walk the Camino de Santiago
Why Walk the Camino in June?
June is the start of summer in Spain, meaning the days are long, with pleasant temperatures and weather that favors hiking. Additionally, in this month there are no intense winter cold or the crowds that arrive in July and August. Also, the end-of-spring atmosphere offers an incredible landscape with fields full of flowers and perfect weather to enjoy nature.
Advantages of Walking the Camino in June
Walking the Camino in summer offers more advantages than disadvantages, and summer months like June are the favorites for many pilgrims for several reasons:
- Pleasant weather: The temperatures are moderate, making walking easier without the suffocating summer heat. Even on coastal or river routes, you can take a swim.
- Fewer crowds: Although the Camino begins to fill up slowly in June, the crowds of the peak summer months haven’t yet arrived.
- Spectacular landscapes: In June, the fields are at their peak, with intense greens and flowers that add color to your journey, creating amazing landscapes to enjoy while walking.
- Ideal for all levels: Thanks to the mild weather and moderate temperatures, June is perfect for both experienced pilgrims and those walking the Camino de Santiago for the first time.
Pilgrims walking the Camino Francés in June
Things to Keep in Mind in June
When walking the Camino in summer, we assume that the weather is generally pleasant, but it’s always good to be prepared for possible sudden weather changes and know exactly what to bring on the Camino de Santiago in summer. In Galicia, mornings and nights can be cool, so keep this in mind when considering the clothing you’ll bring for the Camino in summer.
Take special care of your health, and make sure to carry enough water to combat the heat and avoid dehydration. On the Camino, you’ll find fountains and bars where you can refill, but don’t forget to start the day with enough water and food in your backpack to face the stage. And if you have issues with spring allergies, remember you’ll be walking outdoors for several hours, so don’t forget to carry medications in your first aid kit.
And very importantly: although it won’t be overcrowded, the Camino is starting to enter the high season, so it’s crucial to plan your route and make reservations in advance if possible. Lastly, prepare physically and mentally for the pilgrim adventure ahead.
Ideal Routes for Walking the Camino in June
June is a great month to walk any of the most famous Camino de Santiago routes, whether at your own pace, by bike, with your dog, or in an organized group. Below, we detail some of the best options depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.
Choose your route and follow the yellow arrows
French Way
The French Way is the most well-known and traveled route, and June is one of the best months to walk it. This route offers everything: culture, history, traditions, and an incredible variety of landscapes. In the last 100 km from Sarria, the most popular section, there will always be pilgrims to share experiences with, and if you’re looking to socialize, this is your best option.
Portuguese Way
The Portuguese Way is another very popular option, especially the last 100 km from Tui. In June, the weather is perfect for walking, and you’ll enjoy the Portuguese and Galician landscapes, as well as the culture and gastronomy of the neighboring country.
Portuguese Coastal Way
If you like the idea of walking along the sea, the Portuguese Coastal Way is an excellent option for those who want to walk by the ocean, as this route follows Portugal’s Atlantic coast until it reaches Santiago.
English Way
The English Way is a less traveled route that runs through some of Galicia’s Rías Altas, offering a combination of coastal and inland landscapes.
Pilgrims enjoying the sea on the Camino Portugués de la Costa
Primitive Way
If you’re looking for a more authentic and challenging experience, the Primitive Way is the ideal route. This route is highly discouraged in winter to avoid extreme mountain and snow conditions, but June offers very good weather for walking this route.
Northern Way
The Northern Way follows the Cantabrian coast, allowing you to enjoy beautiful seaside landscapes, where you can experience a wide variety of landscapes and coastal villages.
Finisterre and Muxía Way
The Finisterre and Muxía Way will take you to the “end of the world”, where you can enjoy the sea breeze and a landscape that connects you with nature in a unique way.
Sanabrese Way
The Sanabrese Way connects the Vía de la Plata with Santiago, crossing natural landscapes and small towns full of history.
The Camino de Finisterre is considered the “Epilogue” to all routes
Festivals and Celebrations in June
June is also a festive month in many places along the Camino. Some of the festivals and celebrations held in this month include:
- San Juan Festival (June 23): Celebrated in several cities along the Camino, it’s a festival full of traditions and purifying bonfires, perfect for making a Queimada at the end of your Camino.
- “Arde Lucus” (mid-June): A celebration of the Roman past of the city of Lugo, which you can experience by walking the last 100 km of the Primitive Way.
- Corpus Christi (between May and June): A religious celebration of the Eucharist, which takes place in many towns along the Camino.
- Local festivals in different towns: Many cities and villages along the Camino hold local festivals, adding a cultural and festive touch to your pilgrimage.
- O Son do Camiño Festival (mid-June): Son do Camiño is a music festival held in Santiago de Compostela, featuring national and international artists. It’s also held at Monte do Gozo, an emblematic place of the Camino de Santiago.
Pilgrims walking under the June sun
Walking the Camino in June is one of the best times to live your pilgrimage due to its pleasant weather, vibrant landscapes, and fewer crowds. Whether you choose one route or another, this month will allow you to enjoy the Camino with a mix of tranquility, natural beauty, and festive moments. ¡We would love to accompany you on your journey to Santiago!
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