The Camino de Santiago, St James’s Way
Introduction
There are many different routes to Santiago de Compostela greenspain.info is going to 
focus on the northern route, also known as the Cantabrian way. It is a beautiful walk in following the Cantabrian coast from Irún to Santiago. On reaching Asturias the path branches off in two directions, one to the “Camino primitivo” and the other to the “Camino de la costa.” Thanks to the Asturian monarchy the northern route became one of the most popular for the first pilgrims, but during the reconquest of Spain (718-1492) this route was replaced by the French way which was easier than the northern route. There is a saying “ The route ends at the apostle ,Santiago´s tomb in the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. However, the way begins in your own home”.
In Hendaya, on the “Puente de Santiago”, on the border of France a yellow arrow can be seen this indicates the start of what is now called “The French route”.
Itinerary
Most of this route is along the coast or near it so there are breathtaking views wherever you look are green fields, that in some cases, slope down to blend with the blue sea.
Apart from a wonderful opportunity to get close to nature there is also the possibility to see lovely villages and talk to the inhabitants who are friendly and always ready to offer their home products and encourage you on your way saying, “buen camino” ( have a good walk ).
The whole Camino route is about 800kms. The majority of pilgrims choose to do it on foot, which would normally take around a month in 34 stages. Others go by bicycle and even a few on horseback. If you decide to go by bicycle some transport firms in Santiago will take your bicycle onto another destination. There are also some coach companies which allow you to take your bicycle.
Accommodation
The majority of pilgrims prefer to stay in refuges although it is not always easy to find accommodation there, specially during high season. In some towns there are hostels or camp sites nearby. By far the best thing to do is to have a good guide book so that you can plan your lodgings beforehand.
Credential
The credential is the pilgrim´s passport. It is a kind of personal safe-conduct card which is essential to be able to use the refuges or other types of pilgrim accommodation. The credential is stamped in these places so proving that you have stayed there. Sometimes it is possible to get discounts in museums,monasteries etc. if you show your “passport”.
You should contact your nearest pilgrim association in order to get your credential. Some refuges will also give it to you.
When to go
The best time to do this route is between May and October but if possible avoid August the refuges can become overcrowded and of course during the winter months it can be very cold. Take into account that it can rain any day of the year in this part of Spain.
