6 Reasons To Walk The Portuguese Camino De Santiago In Spring.

The Caminos de Santiago are a network of trails that cross the whole of Europe with one common destination. All Caminos de Santiago end at one place. The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the alleged resting place of St James, and every Pilgrim’s prized destination.

A popular Camino route is the Portuguese Camino de Santiago, running a total of 600km from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela. Most Pilgrims decide to begin their journey in Porto or Tui if they don't want to walk as far or if they have less time.

Every season on the Portuguese Camino de Santiago is a little different and spring does not disappoint! The spring season runs from around the 21st March until the 21st June of each year and is one of the best times to walk.

If you are considering walking the Portuguese Camino de Santiago, here are six reasons to walk the Portuguese Camino de Santiago in spring.

1. Spring In Bloom

The Portuguese and Spanish countryside comes alive in the spring months as wildflowers dance in the breeze. Early spring brings the almond blossom out in full bloom, and late spring sees the fields filled with dancing poppies. The countryside is green and lush after the winter rains have passed. Everything feels brand new.

2. Weather Conditions

Spring is a good time to walk the Camino as the temperatures are much cooler than the summer months bringing much-needed relief to Pilgrims on the Portuguese way. Expect misty mornings with dew on the ground until the sun breaks through and burns the sky a clear shade of deep blue. Afternoon time brings the sun out to play.

If you decide to walk the Costal route, you’ll enjoy an Atlantic breeze as well as the stunning ocean views.

3. Semana Santa (Easter)

The Easter celebrations known as Semana Santa are a very big deal, especially in Spanish part of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago. You will find that most towns and villages mark this time of year with religious thrones (floats) being carried through the streets accompanied by solemn music to mark the death and resurrection of Jesus.

In cities such as Pontevedra and Santiago de Compostela, Semana Santa takes place over the course of a week with many different activities planned.

Whether you are religious or not, it is an experience not to be missed, especially for any keen photographers.

If you intend to walk the Camino during the Easter period, booking your accommodation in advance is strongly as this is one of the busiest times of the spring season and the Camino year.

4. A Tranquil Camino

Outside of the Easter period until mid-May, you will find that the Portuguese Camino is much quieter with fewer Pilgrims walking the way. Spring is the perfect time to walk if you want to experience a more tranquil Camino de Santiago experience.

5. Lower Prices

Again, outside of the Easter period, you will find that prices for accommodation, flights etc are a little lower than other times of the year, if you booked in advance. Albergues (special Pilgrim accommodation) tends to be the same price all year round.

6. Longer Days

If you decide to walk the Portuguese Camino de Santiago late-spring, you’ll experience longer daylight hours. The sun tends to set a little later in this part of the world which will give you more opportunities to enjoy balmy evenings in the towns and villages that you will stay in along the way.

If you decide to walk the Camino de Santiago during the spring months, I hope you enjoy everything a spring Camino has to offer. Buen Camino !