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The Camino de Santiago: Away to Remember

What is the Camino de santiago?

The Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James, is a historic pilgrimage route dating back to the 9th century. It began when the remains of St. James the Greater, one of Jesus' apostles, were discovered in Galicia, Spain. Legend says St. James preached in Spain before his martyrdom, and his remains were miraculously transported to Santiago de Compostela.

By the Middle Ages, the Camino became one of the most important Christian pilgrimages, alongside those to Rome and Jerusalem. Pilgrims from across Europe traveled various routes to Santiago, with churches, hostels, and hospitals built to support them.

The Camino’s popularity declined in the 16th century but saw a revival in the 20th century, especially after being recognized as a European Cultural Route in 1987. Today, the Camino attracts hundreds of thousands annually, who seek spiritual growth, cultural exploration, or personal reflection along this ancient path.

The Camino de Santiago features multiple routes, each offering a unique journey to Santiago de Compostela. The French Way, the most popular, starts at the French-Spanish border. Other routes include the Camino Primitivo, Northern Way, and Portuguese Way. Each path varies in length, terrain, and scenery, offering diverse experiences for pilgrims. We will be walking the Camino Primitivo.

my Camino experience, then and now

In August 2015, I embarked on the Camino Primitivo, beginning in Oviedo, Spain, during a time of deep uncertainty. This original path winds through serene, agrarian landscapes, reminiscent of my home in northern California. Walking daily with fellow pilgrims, I sought retreat, clarity, and connection as I navigated a period of transition and self-discovery.

Significant encounters marked my journey, from the serendipity of reading "The Alchemist" on my first day and realizing Paulo Coelho wrote the classic after walking the Camino himself, to forming a deep bond with an elderly Italian pilgrim, Johnny, and sharing a silent, yet profound evening with Alma, a Spanish artist. These moments revealed the power of presence and connection beyond language .

The Camino taught me to savor slowness, embrace community, and appreciate the wonder in daily life. Although I didn't set out to become a therapist, the path’s therapeutic potential stayed with me, inspiring my desire to integrate this profound pilgrimage experience into my future work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at aidanwignall@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What is lodging like on the Camino

Lodging on the Camino de Santiago primarily consists of "albergues," simple hostels for pilgrims. Accommodations range from basic dorm-style rooms with shared bathrooms to private guesthouses. Many offer communal dinners, fostering a sense of community. Some are run by locals, others by religious institutions, providing a warm, welcoming respite after a day of walking.

What should I pack?

Pack light on the Camino, aiming for a backpack weighing no more than 10% of your body weight. Essentials include comfortable, broken-in walking shoes, quick-dry clothes, a hat, a rain poncho, a reusable water bottle, and basic toiletries. Remember, less is more—only bring what you truly need to carry each day. And, if you find yourself needing something, the Camino provides! I will provide a detailed recommended packing list closer to the day of departure.

How long will we be walking?

The Camino Primitivo typically takes about 12 to 15 days to complete, depending on your pace and daily distance. The route covers roughly 320 kilometers (200 miles) from Oviedo to Santiago de Compostela, passing through mountainous terrain, which can make for a more challenging but rewarding journey. Feel free to join for however long you feel capable of tackling <3

The Camino de Santiago: Away to Remember

The Camino de Santiago: Away to Remember

What is pilgrimage?

What is the Camino de santiago?

Map of the Camino(s)

Life On The Camino

my Camino experience, then and now

Aidan's Camino

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s almost here!

Contact Us

Please reach out with any interests or QUESTIONS

We Grow Together <3

Drop us a line!

The Camino de Santiago: Away to Remember

The Camino de Santiago: Away to Remember

What is pilgrimage?

What is the Camino de santiago?

Map of the Camino(s)

Life On The Camino

my Camino experience, then and now

Aidan's Camino

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s almost here!

Contact Us

Please reach out with any interests or QUESTIONS

We Grow Together <3

Drop us a line!

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