Advice for first Camino
Hi! I’m really interested in doing one of the Camino routes and am looking at potential options for 2.5 weeks in May of 2027.
The Camino Del Norte really caught my eye because I love the ocean, nature, food, and what seems like a quieter (not too touristy and busy) while still being able to meet others. I also speak Spanish and love the idea of exploring Spain more. I was looking at doing a section of the route that doesn’t end in Santiago de Compostela (Irun to Santander potentially) because others recommended it for being really beautiful.
However, I’ve also read that it can be intense for your first Camino and long days of walking between locations. I’m 21 and in decent shape (would definitely train more in the lead up to the Camino) but debating if it’s the right move. I’ve seen others recommend the Portuguese coastal route or the Francés as better starter walks.
What do you think would be a good first-time Camino route in 2-2.5 weeks that is beautiful, has a ton of nature (and ocean/coast would be lovely), decent infrastructure/Albergues, and still the opportunity to meet folks? Open to any and all ideas/recommendations — super excited about planning this but the amount of options is overwhelming! Thanks in advance.