Strolling the Camino de Santiago is an unforgettable expertise. This historic pilgrimage route by Spain and Portugal is greater than only a hike — it’s a journey stuffed with historical past, journey, and private progress. Many individuals suppose the Camino is just for adults, however households may get pleasure from it! With the fitting route and preparation, youngsters can have an awesome expertise, making reminiscences that may final a lifetime.
In the event you dream of strolling the Camino de Santiago with your loved ones, right here’s every part it is advisable to know to make it enjoyable, protected, and thrilling for everybody.
Camino de Santiago: The Greatest Household-Pleasant Routes
Not all Camino routes are the identical. Some are lengthy and difficult, whereas others are shorter and simpler. In the event you’re touring with youngsters, listed below are two nice choices:
The Final 100 km of the Camino Francés
- Begins in Sarria and ends in Santiago de Compostela
- Takes about 5 to seven days to stroll
- Largely flat paths with loads of small cities to relaxation
That is the preferred part of the Camino. It’s simply the fitting size for households, and children will love accumulating stamps of their Credencial del Peregrino (Pilgrim’s Passport).
The Camino Portugués (Coastal Route)
- Begins in Baiona, Spain, and ends in Santiago
- Takes round seven days
- Provides stunning ocean views and contemporary sea air
This route is peaceable, with numerous locations to cease, benefit from the surroundings, and relaxation. In case your youngsters love nature, they’ll get pleasure from strolling by the coast and recognizing birds, boats, and seashells alongside the best way.
Camino de Santiago: Important Ideas for Dad and mom
A bit planning goes a great distance when strolling the Camino with youngsters. Listed here are some tricks to maintain everybody completely satisfied and comfy:
Select Household-Pleasant Lodging
Search for albergues (pilgrim hostels) or small inns which have non-public rooms. Some locations even provide family-friendly meals and play areas for kids.
Stroll at a Baby’s Tempo
Youngsters get drained sooner than adults. Plan for shorter strolling days (10 to fifteen km, or about 6 to 9 miles, per day) and take numerous breaks for snacks, relaxation, and enjoyable.
Pack Good
Hold issues gentle, however don’t overlook:
- Comfy sneakers – Youngsters can be strolling loads!
- Snacks and water – Hold power ranges up.
- Rain jackets – The climate can change shortly.
- A small backpack – Let youngsters carry their little bag with a toy or pocket book.
Conserving Youngsters Engaged
Strolling all day might be tiring for little ones, so make the journey thrilling!
Stamp Amassing
Each pilgrim will get a credencial (passport) the place they acquire stamps from church buildings, cafes, and hostels alongside the best way. Youngsters love this exercise, and it helps them really feel like actual adventurers!
Nature Exploration
Encourage youngsters to search for completely different birds, flowers, and shells alongside the trail. Carry a small pocket book to allow them to draw or write about what they see.
Native Legends & Tales
The Camino is stuffed with previous legends about saints, miracles, and even dragons! Learn some enjoyable tales earlier than bedtime or ask locals to share tales from their villages.
Camino de Santiago / Photograph by Damien Dufour on Unsplash
Making Recollections Collectively
Strolling the Camino de Santiago as a household is a particular expertise. It teaches youngsters about perseverance, journey, and tradition. With the fitting route, a relaxed tempo, and enjoyable actions, your loved ones can get pleasure from each step of the journey.
So, pack your luggage, put in your strolling sneakers, and prepare for an journey you’ll always remember!
