Remote Routes on the Camino de Santiago

The more remote routes on the Camino de Santiago can be a welcome change from the increasingly popular well known routes. But the more remote Caminos do need a bit more planning.

Two great albergues on the VdlP.
https://www.gronze.com/extremadura/ca...
https://www.gronze.com/castilla-y-leo...


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TIMESTAMPS (in case you want to skip) 👇

0:00 Intro
2:25 Daily Distances
8:32 Time of Year
9:38 Terrain
13:13 Company
14:03 Gear
18:05 Planning Ahead
19:14 Food Tips
21:16 Washing Clothes
21:32 Shops
22:00 Breakfast
22:30 Language
24:13 Booking Accommodation
25:16 Where to Stop/Rest Days
25:36 Safety Things
26:26 Yellow Arrows
28:05 Outro

⚡ Camino de Santiago Blog ⚡
For more details about each Camino journey you can visit the detailed blogs at https://robscamino.com/
It includes daily videos, blogs and photos.
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I thought it might be useful to point these out, as they address a lot of questions that Pilgrims have when planning their first Camino:

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#remotecamino #vdlp #caminodesantiago #caminovideo

In this video, Rob explores the experience of walking more remote Caminos, focusing on the Via de la Plata (VDLP). Inspired by a recent conversation with Peter, a subscriber who is considering a quieter route, Rob shares his personal insights and practical tips for those looking to venture beyond the popular Camino Francés.

The Via de la Plata starts in Seville, southern Spain, and stretches northward for over 1,000 kilometers, depending on the route taken. This Camino passes through several historic cities, including Mérida, Cáceres, Salamanca, and Zamora, each offering a rich blend of culture and history. Towards the end, pilgrims face a choice: turn west onto the Camino Sanabrés towards Santiago de Compostela or continue north, connecting with the Camino Francés and branching onto the Camino Invierno.

Rob points out that the VDLP is significantly different from the Camino Francés in terms of both terrain and experience. Unlike the more popular route, the VDLP is known for its quiet, solitary nature. The landscape often mirrors the Meseta on the Camino Francés, with vast, open stretches and little shade. These characteristics make sun protection essential and highlight the need for good preparation and self-sufficiency. The VDLP’s solitude can be both a rewarding and challenging aspect, offering moments of deep reflection and connection with nature.

Planning daily distances is a critical aspect of walking the VDLP. Unlike the Camino Francés, where accommodations are numerous and spaced out to suit various walking paces, the VDLP requires more strategic planning. Villages can be far apart, with some stretches reaching up to 30 kilometers. To manage these distances, Rob suggests creative solutions like using taxis to shorten walks or breaking longer stages into manageable sections. Tools like the Gronze app are invaluable for planning, offering detailed information on stages, accommodations, and available facilities.

Essential gear for the VDLP includes an umbrella for sun protection, as the sun can be intense, even when temperatures are moderate. Rob also advises carrying sufficient water, typically at least two liters, to ensure hydration on long, isolated stretches.

Language skills are also important. While the Camino Francés may have more English-speaking facilities, the VDLP often requires basic Spanish for booking accommodations or ordering food. Rob emphasizes that understanding a few key Spanish phrases can significantly enhance the experience.

In summary, Rob encourages pilgrims to embrace the unique challenges and rewards of remote Caminos like the VDLP. These paths require more preparation and adaptability but offer a deeper, more personal pilgrimage experience, making them an excellent choice for those seeking something different from the busier, more commercialized routes.