On the road of the French kings: what is the Santiago Way and why it’s worth going 900 kilometers

On the road of the French kings: what is the Santiago Way and why it’s worth going 900 kilometers

You can go from anywhere in Europe, and the main section passes through the French Pyrenees.

This route is known since ancient times and is glorified in books, movies, poems. The way of spiritual purification and new discoveries of your inner world. During the journey you will be able to mentally rest and understand how to cope with the difficulties and move on. If you are bored with all-inclusive vacations, consider taking the Santiago path. You might just make a great pilgrim.

What is the Santiago Way?

The Camino de Santiago, or otherwise known as the Way of St. James, is one of the most popular routes for religious pilgrimage in Europe. As legend has it, the Spanish city of Santiago de Compostela is home to the relics of the biblical James. It is believed that the most important part of the route starts in the south of France: it goes through the Pyrenees, Ronceval or Somport passes. And the main road in Spain, from Pamplona to Santiago de Compostela, is called “The Way of the French Kings”.

Now the route is open not only for believers, but also for lovers of outdoor activities. The average time of passage is 35 days. Travelers are advised to walk about 25 km every day to reach a settlement where you can spend the night in a hostel (the official name for pilgrims is albergue) and have a snack in a cafe.

How much does it cost to walk the path?

Acquisition of a pilgrim’s passport: 3-5 euros (264-440 rubles). The most important document on the way. Without it, you will not be checked into an albergue or sold a menu del peregrino dinner.

Municipal housing (albergue): 5-6 euros per night (440-528 rubles). Usually it is a large room with 6-15 bunk beds. Those who come first have time to take a bed – you can’t reserve a bed. In addition, municipal albergues do not provide blankets, so they are replaced by sleeping bags.

Private albergue: 10-15 euros per night (880-1320 rubles). The rooms are much bigger and more comfortable: 2-4 bunk beds, you can book in advance and leave your backpack.

Food and drinks: 10 euros per day (880 rubles). You can drink tap water in northern Spain, and coffee costs 1-1.5 euros (88-132 rubles), often served with free churros or tortillas.

Additional costs: laundry – 1.5-4 euros (132-352 rubles), guidebook – 3-5 euros (264-440 rubles), cultural program (visiting museums – 3 euros, or 264 rubles), certificate of completion – 3 euros (264 rubles).

Why take the Santiago Way?

This hike will give you the opportunity to see life in small towns, join the local culture and see the amazing nature of Spain. You will be able to socialize and meet interesting people from different countries. Many carry such friendships through life.

The path will teach independence and responsibility for your life, because only you will decide how your day will go or how to get out of a difficult situation. The main thing you can learn on Santiago’s path is to understand true values. During long transitions, a kind of reboot or even rebirth takes place. It’s also a great chance to enjoy the views: depending on which part of Europe you decide to start your journey from, you’ll be able to see a variety of landscapes.