Strolling the Camino de Santiago is an unforgettable expertise. This historic pilgrimage route by means of Spain and Portugal is greater than only a hike — it’s a journey crammed with historical past, journey, and private development. Many individuals suppose the Camino is just for adults, however households can even take pleasure in it! With the precise route and preparation, youngsters can have an awesome expertise, making recollections that can final a lifetime.
If you happen to dream of strolling the Camino de Santiago with your loved ones, right here’s every little thing 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. If you happen to’re touring with youngsters, listed here 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 most well-liked part of the Camino. It’s simply the precise size for households, and youngsters will love amassing 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
- Affords stunning ocean views and recent sea air
This route is peaceable, with a number of locations to cease, benefit from the surroundings, and relaxation. In case your youngsters love nature, they’ll take pleasure in strolling by the coast and recognizing birds, boats, and seashells alongside the way in which.
Camino de Santiago: Important Suggestions for Dad and mom
A little bit planning goes a great distance when strolling the Camino with youngsters. Listed below are some tricks to maintain everybody glad and cozy:
Select Household-Pleasant Lodging
Search for albergues (pilgrim hostels) or small motels which have non-public rooms. Some locations even provide family-friendly meals and play areas for kids.
Stroll at a Little one’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 a number of breaks for snacks, relaxation, and enjoyable.
Pack Good
Maintain issues mild, however don’t neglect:
- Comfy sneakers – Youngsters will probably be strolling so much!
- Snacks and water – Maintain vitality ranges up.
- Rain jackets – The climate can change shortly.
- A small backpack – Let youngsters carry their little bag with a toy or pocket book.
Retaining Youngsters Engaged
Strolling all day could 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 way in which. Youngsters love this exercise, and it helps them really feel like actual adventurers!
Nature Exploration
Encourage youngsters to search for totally different birds, flowers, and shells alongside the trail. Deliver 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 / Picture by Damien Dufour on Unsplash
Making Reminiscences Collectively
Strolling the Camino de Santiago as a household is a particular expertise. It teaches youngsters about perseverance, journey, and tradition. With the precise route, a relaxed tempo, and enjoyable actions, your loved ones can take pleasure in each step of the journey.
So, pack your baggage, put in your strolling sneakers, and prepare for an journey you’ll always remember!