Spring is a wonderful time to walk the Camino de Santiago, with blooming landscapes and vibrant local culture. As the season of renewal, spring brings longer days and better weather than winter, making it perfect for exploring. Whether you’re a seasoned pilgrim or a beginner, a spring journey offers an unforgettable experience. This blog will guide you through the best Camino de Santiago routes, essential tips, festivals along the Camino, and foods that make spring on the Camino truly special.
The Best Camino Routes to Take in Spring
Camino Francés
The Camino Francés is the most popular Camino route. The Full Camino Francés route stretches from the French border at St. Jean Pied-de-Port to Santiago de Compostela. Spring is an ideal time for this route, as the weather is mild and the landscape is dotted with wildflowers. The route takes you through charming towns, lush forests, and rolling hills.
Key Highlights on the Camino Francés:
The Camino Francés is filled with captivating highlights. Beginning in St. Jean Pied-de-Port, one of the most significant Camino towns, marks the official starting point of the famous Camino Francés. Pamplona, famous for the Running of the Bulls, offers a rich history and vibrant culture. Its Gothic cathedral and bustling Plaza del Castillo are must-sees. Logroño, the vibrant capital of the Rioja wine region, is known for exquisite wines and deep cultural heritage. In Burgos, you’ll find the stunning Burgos Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site perfect for experiencing medieval Spanish architecture. León, another city steeped in history, features an impressive cathedral, the Basilica of San Isidoro, and a lively old town. Finally, O Cebreiro, a charming mountain village, is known for its unique thatched pallozas and beautiful church celebrating the legend of the Holy Grail.
Popular Camino Francés Routes:
- Full Camino Frances from Saint-Jean to Santiago
- The Last 100km From Sarria to Santiago
- Camino from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Pamplona 4 days
- Camino from Logroño to Burgos 1 week
- Camino from Pamplona to Logrono 1 week
Camino Portugués
Starting in Lisbon or Porto, the Camino Portugués offers a coastal and an inland route. The coastal path is delightful in spring, with the fresh sea breeze and stunning ocean views. The inland route takes you through quaint villages and scenic countryside.
Key Highlights on the Camino Portugués:
The Camino Portugués is filled with memorable highlights. Baiona, a postcard-perfect village with narrow, cobbled streets, is an ideal starting point for the Camino Portugués. You’ll find authentic Spanish restaurants, bars, and historic buildings here. Next, the vibrant city of Vigo combines coastal charm with rich cultural experiences, making it a delightful stop and popular starting point for the Camino Portugués. Further along, Viana do Castelo offers stunning views and remarkable historic architecture, including the impressive Basílica de Santa Luzía.
Popular Camino Portugués Routes:
- Full Camino Portugues Coastal from Porto to Santiago
- Camino Portugues Coastal from Vigo to Santiago last 100km
- Easy Camino Portugues Coastal from Vigo to Santiago
Camino del Norte
The Camino del Norte follows the northern coast of Spain, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Biscay. Spring is perfect for this route as the weather is cooler, and the coastal scenery is at its best.
Key Highlights on the Camino del Norte:
The Camino del Norte offers an array of remarkable highlights. San Sebastián, known for its gourmet delights, is a paradise for food lovers, with stunning beaches and famed pintxos bars that showcase Basque flavours. It is also a popular starting point for the Camino del Norte. Bilbao, a city that blends modern innovation with Basque tradition, is home to the iconic Guggenheim Museum and striking architecture. Santander, a charming coastal city, boasts scenic beaches and an inviting old town, perfect for those looking to relax and explore local history along the journey.
Popular Camino del Norte Routes:
- Full Camino del Norte from San Sebastián to Santiago
- Camino del Norte From San Sebastián to Bilbao in 1 Week
- Camino del Norte From Vilalba to Santiago Last 100km
- Camino del Norte From Bilbao to Santander in 1 Week
Top Tips for Spring Pilgrims
Pack Light but Smart
Spring weather can be changeable, so pack versatile clothing. Include a lightweight rain jacket, a warm fleece, and breathable outfits. Ensure you have sturdy walking shoes and a hat for sunny days. For more detailed packing tips, check out our Camino Packing eBook.
Stay Hydrated and Energised
Carry a refillable water bottle and snacks like nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars. Fresh fruits are plentiful in spring, so take advantage of local markets.
Plan Your Accommodation
Spring is a popular season for pilgrims, so booking your accommodation in advance is wise, especially in smaller towns. You’ll find a variety of hostels, guesthouses, and hotels along the routes. For more information, check out our guide on Hotels and accommodations on the Camino.
Book a Luggage Transfer Service
Book a luggage transfer service to make your journey easier. Your bags will be transported between accommodations, allowing you to walk comfortably with just a daypack, enhancing your overall Camino experience.
Weather on the Camino in Spring
Spring weather on the Camino de Santiago brings mild temperatures, early sunshine, and occasional refreshing rain. This season offers a comfortable climate for walking, though it is wise to be prepared for varying conditions. Pilgrim numbers are lower than in summer, making the trails more peaceful and enjoyable.
Mild and Pleasant
Spring offers some of the best weather for walking the Camino. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), making it comfortable for long walks. The days are longer, providing more daylight for your journey.
Occasional Rain
While spring is generally mild, be prepared for occasional rain showers. A lightweight, packable rain jacket and waterproof shoes keep you dry and comfortable.
Festivals and Celebrations in Spring
Throughout the year, towns and villages along the route come alive with traditional music, dance, and local cuisine, offering pilgrims a chance to immerse themselves in Spain’s rich cultural heritage. From the lively festivities of San Fermín in Pamplona to the solemn beauty of Holy Week in Santiago, each festival provides a unique glimpse into the local traditions and communal spirit that make the Camino so special. Check out our comprehensive guide, The Complete Camino Festivals Calendar, for detailed information on these celebrations.
Semana Santa
Holy Week, or Semana Santa, is one of the most significant festivals in Spain, occurring in the week leading up to Easter. Towns along the Camino come alive with processions, music, and traditional ceremonies. It’s a unique cultural experience that adds to the spiritual journey.
Dia de la Cruz
Dia de la Cruz, or Day of the Cross, is celebrated on May 3rd in various towns along the Camino. The streets are decorated with flowers, and there are parades and festivities. It’s a beautiful time to be on the Camino, witnessing local traditions and community spirit.
Delightful Spring Foods
Fresh Seafood
Spring is a great time to enjoy the fresh seafood along the Camino, especially on coastal routes like the Camino del Norte and Camino Portugués. Discover the delectable flavours of pulpo a la gallega (Galician octopus) and grilled sardines, as highlighted in our blog A Pilgrim’s Food Guide of Santiago de Compostela.
Seasonal Vegetables
The spring harvest brings a variety of fresh vegetables to the table. Enjoy dishes featuring asparagus, artichokes, and broad beans. Many local restaurants offer seasonal specials that highlight these ingredients.
Traditional Pastries
Don’t miss out on traditional pastries like Tarta de Santiago, an almond cake from Galicia, and Pastel de Nata, a Portuguese custard tart. These sweet treats are perfect for a quick energy boost.
Local Wines
Spring is a wonderful time to sample local wines along the Camino. The regions you pass through have their unique wines, such as Rioja from the Camino Francés and Vinho Verde from the Camino Portugués. Enjoy a glass with your evening meal to unwind after a day of walking.
Spring on the Camino is a time of renewal and beauty. The mild weather, blooming landscapes, and rich cultural experiences make it an ideal season for your pilgrimage. Whether you’re drawn to the traditional Camino Francés, the scenic Camino del Norte, or the coastal Camino Portugués, spring offers a unique and memorable journey. Embrace the season’s charm, savour the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the festivals and traditions that bring the Camino to life. Buen Camino!
Please contact us for more information on any of our Camino routes or to chat with our travel specialists.
