Doing the English Way for the first time

Introduction to the English Way

The English Way is one of the oldest routes of the Camino de Santiago, dating back at least to the 12th century. With a distance of around 120 km from Ferrol and 75 km from A Coruña, it is one of the shortest routes of the Camino, but equally significant for pilgrims seeking a unique and spiritual experience. In this blog post, we provide tips and recommendations for first-time walkers on the English Way..

How to prepare for the English Way

Before embarking on your pilgrimage, it is important to prepare yourself physically and mentally for the English Way. Here are some tips to help you prepare properly:

• Start walking regularly a few weeks before starting the Camino
• Perform stretching and warm-up exercises before and after walking
• Use the same boots and backpack that you will use on the Camino for training
• Learn about the meaning and history of the Camino de Santiago to be more connected to the experience. Check out all the information on our website. Check out all the information on our website.

What to pack for the English Way

Properly packing for the English Way is essential for a comfortable and worry-free experience. Here are some items we recommend you bring in your backpack:

• Comfortable and breathable clothing for walking. Two changes of clothes plus what you are wearing should be enough
• Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes, preferably hiking shoes
• A waterproof jacket or windbreaker to protect you from possible rain
• A cap or hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun
• A flashlight or headlamp if you decide to walk at dawn
• A first aid kit with basic medication
• A reusable water bottle
• A sleeping bag and a microfiber towel
• A small toiletry bag with personal hygiene items
• A mobile phone or camera to capture your experiences and charge it with a power bank or portable charger.

Where to stay on the English Way

The English Way has sufficient accommodation infrastructure for pilgrims, with numerous public and private hostels, guesthouses, and hotels in the different stages of the way. Here are some tips for choosing your accommodation:

• Book your accommodation in advance to get a place
• Choose the type of accommodation that best suits your needs and budget: count on our network of Stelar establishments
• Make sure your accommodation is close to the route and has a good reputation
• Consider making a stopover in one of the historic towns or in Santiago de Compostela to enjoy the city and the cathedral at the end of the way.

How much does the English Way cost?

The cost of the English Way varies depending on different factors, such as the type of accommodation, the number of days you want to do the pilgrimage, and the cost of food. Here are some tips to keep in mind regarding costs:

• Accommodation in public hostels costs around €8 per night
• Private hostels, guesthouses, and hotels can vary in prices from €15 to €50 per night
• The cost of meals varies depending on whether you choose to eat in restaurants or eat in the hostel
• If you buy your food in local stores, you can save money on food.

Tips for walking the English Way solo

Walking the English Way solo can be a unique and rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging. Here are some tips to keep in mind if you decide to do the pilgrimage solo:

• Always keep someone informed of your location and route plan
• Make friends along the way and join groups of pilgrims to feel accompanied
• Follow the signs of the way and keep the map handy
• Pay attention to your intuition.

The English Way is an excellent option for those who wish to do the Camino de Santiago for the first time. In addition to being one of the less-traveled paths, it offers a unique and authentic experience for pilgrims. With its impressive natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a shorter distance compared to other paths, the English Way is ideal for those who want to enjoy the hike without worrying about excessive duration or a large number of people on the way. Furthermore, by following the advice mentioned above, you can have a safe and rewarding experience alone or in the company of other pilgrims. So don't hesitate to choose the English Way as your first Camino de Santiago!