Camino de Santiago
Set off on the Camino de Santiago for the tomb of St. James in Santiago de Compostela in the footsteps of countless faithful walking this path since the 9th century. There are many paths all over Europe headed to Santiago- we will be walking two sections of the “Camino Frances”, the most popular route, and enjoying a variety of scenery along the way. Good food, beautiful churches, and breathtaking landscape are sure to help make this an unforgettable experience for you!
HIGHLIGHTS
- Crossing the Pyrenees mountains from France into Spain
- Hiking through the countryside
- Praying in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
ITINERARY
Crossing the Pyrenees
Days 1-5: Arrive in Biarritz I Explore the town and relax at the beach as we prepare to hike the next morning I Transfer to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the starting point of the Camino Frances I Hike to Roncisvalle with its famous and historic monastery I Continue the next day to Larrasoana I Follow the River Arga down to Pamplona, the largest city on the Camino- famous for the running of the bulls I Day 5 is a rest day when we will take a train to our next section in Sarria
The Last 100km
Days 6-9: Hiking from Sarria to Portomarin, look forward to the the beautiful Romanesque church in the village of Barbadelo I On the way to Palas de Rei the next day, we will cross the river Miño (Galicia’s longest river) and enjoy several peaceful hamlets along the way I Hiking to Arzua, we will stop in the market town of Melide to try some local specialties I The next day’s hike to Amenal will be on a mix of country roads and forest paths
Santiago de Compostela
Days 10-11: Hiking into Santiago de Compostela, we will pass Lavacollo where pilgrims used wash themselves in the river in preparation for arriving at the tomb of St. James I With the hike being shorter today, we plan to make it to the 12pm pilgrims mass I Spend some time in prayer at the tomb of St. James I Stroll through the city and enjoy a celebratory dinner I Transport to the airport the morning of day 11
*Itinerary is subject to change
LODGING
Our booking standards are double-occupancy rooms with an en-suite bathroom, and we always prioritize clean and comfortable lodgings close to the route. These often end up being hotels or country cottages. Sometimes, due to location factors, and despite our best efforts, we have to choose between a lodging that is far away from the trail or an “albergue“, the traditional pilgrims’ lodging that usually consists of multiple beds in one room. We will notify you beforehand of our final bookings.
EATING
We will eat at restaurants and our lodgings. Menus may be limited to fixed options or set menus. Breakfasts provided are in the local style (typically not as hearty as American style). We can accommodate most food allergies.
BACKPACKS & LUGGAGE TRANSFERS
Luggage transfers are included on this trip. All of your belongings must fit in a backpack. No rolling suitcases or other types of luggage are allowed on this trip. We will provide a detailed packing list.
PRAYING
Prayer is at the heart of our pilgrimage. Mass, the liturgy of the hours, the rosary, and other prayer opportunities are available throughout the pilgrimage for you to join as you like.
CAMINO DE SANTIAGO
$2,350
INCLUDES
• 10 nights lodging
• 7 breakfasts
• All dinners (with a drink)
• Ground transportation
• Luggage transfers
• Airport shuttles at the beginning and end of the pilgrimage
• Pilgrimage materials (reading packet, prayer booklet, maps, group gear)
• Masses and other spiritual activities
• All tips and service charges to drivers, restaurants, etc.
DOES NOT INCLUDE
• Flights
• 3 breakfasts
• All lunches
• Fee if paying by credit card
• Anything else not listed
DATES
May 25-june 4, 2024
Sign-up Deadline: February 20, 2024 (Late Sign-ups Welcome)
ACTIVITY LEVELS
Day 2: Hiking
Level 5: 15.3 miles, 4,475ft elevation gain. Daypack. Optional
Day 3: Hiking
Level 3: 13.4 miles, 1,000ft elevation gain. Daypack
Day 4: Hiking
Level 3: 12.5 miles, 850ft elevation gain. Daypack
Day 6: Hiking
Level 3: 13.8 miles, 1,175ft elevation gain. Daypack
Day 7: Hiking
Level 3: 15.3 miles, 1,725ft elevation gain. Daypack
Day 8: Hiking
Level 4: 17.9 miles, 1,550ft elevation gain. Daypack
Day 9: Hiking
Level 3: 13.9 miles, 1,050ft elevation gain. Daypack
Day 10: Hiking
Level 2: 9.9 miles, 850ft elevation gain. Daypack
Click here to learn more about how we determine our activity levels. “Optional” means it is easy for you to skip the activity. Skipping or modifying other routes may be possible but not in as easy of a manner and should not be relied upon when signing up. Activities are weather-dependent. Distances may vary from the information given above
Details
Arrival
Biarritz Airport (BIQ) or Biarritz Train Station Staff will be at the airport or the train station to greet you. Please arrive by 5pm. We recommend you schedule your travels as early as possible in case there are delays. Please wait to buy your plane tickets until you receive a confirmation from us.
Departure
Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport (SCQ) This pilgrimage ends at 7am on departure day. We will provide private transportation to the airport all day until noon.
Transportation
We will be using private transfers and a couple of trains of this pilgrimage,
Eligibility
Must be comfortable with the activities and activity levels listed and have a sense of adventure.
the leaders
CHRISTOHER BAKER– Founder and Director of ALP
SIGNING UP
Step 1: Sign up
Fill out our short online form
Step 2: Registration
We will send you the registration packet to complete and send back to us
Step 3: Payment & Confirmation
Please wait to buy your plane ticket until you recieve a confirmation