Walk in Beauty FAQ & Sample Itinerary

Pilgrimage of El Camino de Santiago, Spain

What is a sample day on the Camino with Walk in Beauty?

• Wake up & Breakfast
• Poem or Query to Walk with for Daily Individual Reflection/Gentle Yoga Warm Up with Group
• Walk El Camino in Silence/Enjoy Café Visits/Museum Visit or Other Attractions
• Lunch (We may have a lunch at the end of our walk.)
• Walk El Camino/Enjoy Café Visits/Museum Visit or Other Attractions
• Arrive at luxury Paradores or Country Farmhouse Inn
• Bathe & Rest
• Evening Group Reflection
• Dinner & Bedtime  (Remember: Spaniards eat late by American standards. Generally, dinner is served about 8:00 pm.)

Do I have to be physically fit to walk this pilgrimage?

Not necessarily. The main requirement to walk the Camino is spirit. You should be prepared and know your level of physical fitness, and I recommend walking and/or training to get your body used to walking. In this pilgrimage, you’ll receive a customized training schedule that includes body, mind, and spirit, to help you prepare fully. Physical conditioning is just one part of preparation for this epic journey!

Do I have to “walk the whole thing?“

Walk in Beauty is geared toward your fitness level.  You decide how much or how little you walk; this is about the journey and the experience. Some pilgrims decide they don’t wish to walk at all and instead join Walk in Beauty to experience the natural scenery, create art, enjoy a reflective pause in their busy lives, and more

What is the average age of Walk in Beauty participants?

Participants are about 50 years old though we have people who are younger and older.  We specialize in creating an experience that is accessible to everyone.  You don’t have to be a triathlete to participate.  With an open heart and mind and some physical training, people of any age are able to walk and/or experience the Camino.

How much walking is there on this pilgrimage?

We average from a low of light city walking to a high of 13 miles in one day. Most pilgrims walking the El Camino independently walk an average of 15 miles daily, carrying a heavy backpack. With Walk in Beauty, you have the luxury of a fully supported van, which carries your luggage from hotel to hotel, and carries you the extra mile if you want to hop on the van.  You carry essentials only in a light backpack.

What is the weather like?

Weather is variable; however, generally, Fall has cool nights and mornings and is an ideal time for walking in the north of Spain.

Check these websites for more detail:

• https://www.thomascook.com/holidays/weather/spain/october/
• https://www.tripsavvy.com/october-weather-in-spain-1644268
  

Where and when do we eat lunch? What does it cost?

 Lunch is not included, except for the Camino del Norte’s Pintxos Tour (Basque tapas) in San Sebastián, Spain’s culinary hotspot! Lunch usually takes place after completing the daily stage, and you can also stop to eat something along the way as you walk. Our local guide will take you to places where you will have a variety of menu options during or after the walk. Prices vary from a couple of Euro for a simple Pilgrim’s Meal to a three-course lunch at about 20 Euro.

What about meals?

Eating regional-delicious meals is one of the great pleasures of Walk in Beauty. Our exclusive hotels offer a wide range of options, and food is fresh and plentiful.  The custom in Spain is to eat dinner at approximately 8:00 pm and local wine is often served with meals.

Will we have Internet/WIFI?

All of our accommodations have Internet access (WiFi). About 30 days before your pilgrimage, you will receive a list of all the accommodations names and details.

How much should we tip the guides?

Tips for the driver and guide(s) are not included. It is not mandatory but if you are happy with the service you received it would be much appreciated. If you wish to tip, I usually estimate a minimum of 50 Euro per person for our pilgrimages lasting 10 days or less and 100 Euro per person for our longer pilgrimages. Depending on the service you received, the assistant guide (in some cases) and driver can be given the same amount or a bit less.

How do we return to Madrid or elsewhere?

There are many flight and train options when departing Santiago. There are a few daily flights to Madrid from Santiago, depending on the day. The Madrid-Santiago train takes approximately 6 hours or 10 hours for the night train. There are also direct flights to many European cities including Barcelona, London, and Paris.

How do I get from the Madrid airport to the city?

The most efficient option when carrying suitcases is to take a taxi upon your arrival to the Madrid airport. At any time of day you will find many taxis by following the taxi sign upon leaving the baggage area. The price is 30 Euro fixed rate to anywhere in Madrid. There is also an option to take public transportation: there is a metro and a bus to the city center.

What is the terrain like?

The trails are well marked with yellow arrows and the scallop shell tile. There are some long, slow climbs through farming areas but not Himalayan or Rocky Mountain like terrain. The paths are well worn and are not difficult. We walk along a lot of secondary farming roads, paths through vineyards, beech and chestnut forests and old country roads.

What is the single supplement?

Some people would like to be matched with a roommate. Others prefer a single room. We cannot guarantee a match and will try to place you with someone if there are any requests. The price of the single supplement varies per Camino departure.

What equipment is needed?

You do not need expensive equipment or clothing. You will receive an equipment list of basic items to pack.

What is included in the Pilgrim’s Kit on the Camino del Norte and some of our Camino Pilgrimages?

You will receive these goodies:

• Buff headband/neckerchief
• Camino Daily Program
• Pilgrim’s Passport
• Baseball Cap
• Wet and Dry Wipes
• Notebook and Pen
• Snacks
• Refreshing Moisturizer
• Pilgrim’s Shell
• Small backpack with padded straps

You will also receive:

• Waterproof Case Holder for Pilgrim’s Passport
• Daily Camino Reflections
• Roadmaps
• Bookmarks

Always at your disposal are:

• Umbrellas and Ponchos
• First Aid Kits
• Mobile Phone

How much spending money is recommended?

Most people travel with an ATM card. Money machines are everywhere in Spain, but be sure you know your PIN number (not letters) before departing the United States or your home country. Do not travel with Traveler’s Checks as the banking hours are held at odd times and many banks no longer accept them. Most expenses are already built into this pilgrimage. Lunches are a separate expense, again, except for our Pintxos tour (Basque tapas) in San Sebastián, Spain culinary hotspot on the Camino del Norte. The Menu del Dia or Menu de Peregrino available at local cafes costs between two or three Euros for simple Pilgrim’s Meal to 20 Euro for a three-course meal.

What is the “credencial” or Pilgrim’s Passport?

The “credential” is your Pilgrim Passport, the document that identifies you as a pilgrim. It is the pilgrim record with which you are able to prove you have completed the Camino and are eligible to receive the Compostela Certificate. Our local guide will have your credential ready for you before starting the Camino and it can be stamped along the way in places like churches, ‘albergues’, bars, restaurants, etc. You need at least two stamps per day during the last 100 km of the pilgrimage to receive the certificate.

What is the Compostela Certificate?

It is the document, in Latin, that certifies the completion of the pilgrimage to Santiago. In order to receive the Compostela, the pilgrim is required to have covered the last 100 kilometers of any of the routes by foot, or 200 kilometers on bicycle or horse.

Who are likely pilgrims on El Camino?

The Camino welcomes people of all religions, nationalities, ages, and physical conditions. Anyone who wishes to walk and/or experience the Camino can do so. The main requirement is the spirit and heart! Everybody comes to the Camino for a different reason. My goal is to help you experience the Camino your way!

Are pre-post-Camino trips available?

There are many options here too. It’s best to review the resources that you will be provided to prepare you for this pilgrimage to make an informed choice. Our land tour agent will have optional excursions for an additional cost and in Santiago you will find many options.

Should I purchase travel insurance?

Travel insurance is included in some of our Walk in Beauty pilgrimages.  Our Comprehensive Resource Guide lists travel insurance options.

Before You Go

Do you recommend walking poles? 

Walking poles are a very personal matter – some people love them, and some people hate them. Walking poles may enhance your overall stability and provide support regardless of the terrain. If you have problems with your knees, hips, or ankles, they can be very helpful, especially on the downhills. You can either bring them with you or purchase them when you arrive in Spain. The downside of walking poles is that poles tend to misplace them.

Where can I purchase a SIM card?  

You can purchase a SIM card at the airport when you arrive or at any local Movistar, Vodafone, Orange, etc. stores that you come across. There are also e-Sim apps that you can download to your phone before traveling. Assuming you are taking your smartphone with you and that it is unlocked, a local SIM card (prepaid) is your cheapest option. REMINDER: Make sure that your phone is unlocked, so it will accept another provider’s local SIM card. Also, ensure that your contacts are stored on your phone instead of on your own SIM card.

Alternatively, if you have Verizon, you can purchase Travel Pass.  Check Verizon for details.  Other carriers may have similar plans.

What do I do if I need to bring an additional piece of luggage? 

Please adhere to the weight/size luggage requirements. Each pilgrim is allowed to bring: 1 suitcase / duffle bag (60 linear inches MAX: i.e. 30” x 15” x 15’’) and a small day pack. If you have an extra bag, please try to keep your Camino items in one bag and other items you will NOT need during the Camino in a separate bag, allowing the extra bag on the bus until you reach Santiago. 

On the Road 

How can we sleep in the same hotel for two nights in a row while still walking a linear trail? 

Since the distances that we walk during the day on our guided Camino can be covered quickly in the van, we take advantage of this and stay in the same hotel for two nights on multiple occasions. Our walk always starts at the point where we left off the previous day to maintain our continuity along the trail. We believe that the time (and energy) saved packing and unpacking every day makes these shuttles very convenient for everyone.

What do I do if I get tired along the way? 

Our guided Camino have a support vehicle to assist along the trail. Every evening, your Camino guides will go over the itinerary for the next day, explaining the map and the scheduled checkpoints with the support vehicle. This provides you the option to walk a portion of the trail and stop if you get fatigued along the way. At the checkpoints, the support vehicle can take you to the nearest location where you can relax, while the rest of the group finishes the day’s stage.

Are picnics and restaurants able to accommodate vegetarians and those with food allergies/intolerances? 

Yes, both picnics and restaurants can cater to dietary restrictions. Many restaurants now offer vegetarian dishes and options that accommodate common food allergies, such as gluten, dairy, or nuts. Similarly, our Camino guides can create picnics to include allergy-friendly and vegetarian foods. Be sure to indicate any food issues in your registration form. 

Will I be able to get water along the trail?

Yes, you will be able to get water all along the Camino. There are public fountains in many towns and villages, usually in the main square, where walkers can fill their packs or bottles. However, beware that some fountains may have signs that read “No Potable.” This is usually because the fountain has not been tested and/or may also be used by animals.  

While it is perfectly safe to drink tap water in hotels and restaurants, everyone’s system is different. You may prefer to drink bottled water to err on the side of caution. You don’t need to carry large amounts of water with you as you can fill up in the morning and refill your bottle/camel pack at lunchtime and at checkpoints. Remember: drink early and often – hydration is key!  

Will I have access to WiFi while walking? 

Yes, but you will be walking in rural areas, so it may be slow in certain locations. Nonetheless, the hotels and many cafes along the way offer Wi-Fi, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to be online. However, remember that one of the greatest joys of the Camino is cultivating the ability to disconnect and enjoy your immediate surroundings! 

What if I get sick on the trail?  

There are health centers located in the main towns along the Camino and some of them offer 24-hour service. Please make sure to have your health or trip insurance information with you, as well as your passport. We strongly recommend that you purchase trip insurance in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Please make sure that your health insurance offers you coverage when traveling overseas. We recommend using TravelInsurance.com, which allows you to compare various policies among the top insurance providers. 

How do I get Euros along the Camino? 

The best way is to use ATMs. Before you leave, talk to your bank and for that matter your credit card company, make sure that you have the correct PIN, and inform them that you will be traveling to Spain, so your account is not frozen after one transaction. It’s also recommended that you bring more than one card just in case.  Changing foreign currency outside of the airport can be challenging.

Are there hair dryers and toiletries at the hotels? 

Yes, the hotels will provide shampoo, soap, and hair dryers. If they are not available in your room, please contact the front desk. 

Getting There & Back 

Will there be help with pre- and post tour travel plans? 

We understand that traveling to a foreign country can be daunting. Once you register and finalize your air travel, Valerie will assist you with any hotel arrangements that you might need. Valerie is in touch with local experts who can provide tips, advice, and guidance for your journey.

How do I get to and from the Airport? 

The national organization of airports in Spain (AENA) has a great website that explains how to get to and from the different airports. It also has information regarding the routes serviced, the corresponding airlines, terminal information, and much more. You may have to re-click the “English” tab at the top once you have chosen your airport.  

 Likewise, the national organization of airports in Portugal (ANA) has a great website that also explains how to get to and from the airport of your choice, including both Lisbon or Porto. It also has information regarding the routes serviced, the corresponding airlines, terminal information, transportation options, and more. 

How can I purchase my bus or train tickets beforehand?

Train tickets can be purchased online through RENFE.  Some routes cannot be purchased until three to four weeks prior to departure – please be patient. Please note that the site tends to run slowly on weekends due to heavy demand. 

If you want an idea of train timetables, pick a date within the next three weeks and see what comes up. It may vary a bit, but at least it will give you an idea of the schedule. 

If you would like information on trains in Spain (different types of fares, security, food on board, etc.), Trainline is a wonderful resource. You can also buy your tickets on this site if you find the RENFE site to be confusing (just remember that tickets are not available until three to four weeks before departure).  

Bus tickets can be purchased on ALSA.

Can I rent a car in Spain? 

Yes, you certainly can, but make sure that the available drop-off locations are convenient for your travel plans. You must bring along a valid driver’s license and an International Driver’s License, which you can get at AAA in the USA or any CAA location in Canada. For other countries, please check with your automobile association offices.

Day 1: Meeting in Porto (Light City Walking)

Theme: The Journey Begins 

We meet on the first day at 3:00pm at the lobby of our hotel in the city of Porto. Our guides will greet you and then accompany you on a guided visit of the city, which includes a visit to one of Porto’s lovely gardens. In the evening we will meet again for refreshments and a short presentation before enjoying a delicious welcome dinner. Orientation & Welcome Dinner

Day 2: Obelisco da Memoria – Vila do Conde (9.5 mi/15.3km)

Theme: The Sound of the Genuine

We begin our Camino from Obelisco da Memoria and follow El Camino, The Way along the beautiful Portuguese coast passing quaint villages and beaches until we reach the town of Vila do Conde from where we will travel in our van to the town of Viana do Castelo. Breakfast & Dinner

Night in Viana do Castelo.

Day 3: Bila Praia de Ancora – A Guarda (11 mi/18 km)

Theme: Your Deepest Calling

Starting from Vila Praia de Âncora towards Caminha, we will find our last Portuguese city of our pilgrimage, from here we will board our ferry to Camposanco. Once in Galicia, we will go around Santa Tecla mountaintop towards the coastal road. On this stage, we will find the Castro of Santa Tecla, a Celtic-Roman town dated from I B.C. From here we will walk towards our end of the stage, A Guarda port-villa. Breakfast & Dinner

Night in Oia.

Day 4: A Guardo – Monasterio de Oia (8 mi/12.9 km)

Theme: Lay Yourself Open

We will then begin our Camino along the Spanish coast until we reach the town of Oia and its beautiful monastery. At the end the stage, we will return to our accommodation, and in the afternoon, we will enjoy a visit to the historic town of Baiona. Breakfast & Dinner

Night in Oia.

Day 5: Vigo – Redondela (8.69 mi/14 km)

Theme: The Comfort of Questions

Today we start our walk from the town of Baiona as we make our way to Vigo, the largest city in Galicia. We will walk along the Ria de Vigo and its beaches enjoying breathtaking views of the coast and passing by many picturesque towns along the way. Breakfast & Dinner

Night in Vigo.

Day 6: Redondela – Pontevedra (13 mi/21 km)

Theme: Cultivating Gratitude

Today we start our first stage along the inland Portuguese Camino. We will walk along forest paths and beautiful vineyards until we reach the town of Pontevedra. Breakfast & Dinner

Night in Pontevedra.

Day 7: Pontevedra – Armentiera (14.5 mi/23.4 km)

Theme: The Way of Tenderness

This stage will take us along the ‘Spiritual Variant’ of the Portuguese Camino to the town of Armenteira. This route will take us along the Ria de Pontevedra and the Parish of Campañó, passing by many quaint villages and towns before finishing our stage in the Monastery of Armenteira. Breakfast & Dinner

Night in Pontevedra.

Day 8: Armenteira – Vilanova de Arousa (14.9 mi/24 km)

Theme: Embracing Courage for the Heart, Mind, & Spirit

Today’s stage will take us along the banks of the Armenteira and Umia Rivers on ancient stone roads as we pass by beautiful landscapes dotted by vineyards and watermills until we reach the town of Vilanova de Arousa. Breakfast & Dinner

Night in Cambados.

Day 9: Vilanova de Arousa – Padrón – by boat (17.4 mi/28 km)

Theme: Gifts of the Sea

This stage is done by sea instead of walking, as we retrace the journey of the remains of Saint James, the Apostle, to Padrón, a Galician town steeped in Camino lore and legend. This town has been the starting point of the Camino for pilgrims arriving by sea. This path includes the only maritime “Stations of the Cross” in the world and you will be able to see twelve unique and ancient Galician Crosses called “Cruceiros”, which mark each station along the way. On this stage we will have the opportunity to relax and take in magnificent scenery. This is our last stage on the ‘Spiritual Variant’ of the Portuguese Camino. Breakfast & Dinner

Night in Cambados.

Day 10: Padrón – O Milladoiro (11.2 mi/18 km)

Theme: Listen Deeply, Listen Well

Today’s stage will take us along beautiful paths along forests and vineyards as we get closer and closer to Santiago. We will end our stage just six kilometers from our goal in the town of O Milladoiro, from where we can see Santiago’s superb cathedral for the first time from the top of Agro dos Mostoiros. Breakfast & Dinner

Night in O Milladoiro.

Day 11: O Milladoiro – Santiago de Compostela (4 mi/6.4 km)

Theme: Journey’s End: A Pilgrim’s Heart

On this very special and joyous day, we finally arrive in Santiago! We start our stage early to arrive in Santiago in time for the Pilgrim’s Mass at noon. In the evening we will enjoy a very special farewell dinner and surprise. Breakfast & Farewell Dinner

Night in Santiago.

Day 12: Guided visit in Santiago (Light city walking)

Theme: The World Before Me

To culminate our Camino, a guided visit in Santiago awaits us in the morning, through the old city and its main monuments, squares, and convents, and markets. Breakfast Only.