Deciding to do the Camino de Santiago alone
Walking alone has become a very common personal adventure on the Camino de Santiago. This journey is more than a physical journey; it is truly an inner journey, an opportunity to discover strength, face fears and connect with yourself in a way you would never imagine.
In Viajeros Canallas recibimos cada día mensajes de personas a las que les gustaría realizar el Camino de Santiago pero tienen dudas a la hora de ir solas. El miedo a lo desconocido siempre está presente pero te aseguramos que puede ser una de las decisiones más transformadoras y enriquecedoras que tomes en tu vida.
Freedom to walk alone
Aunque al principio puede dar miedo la idea de caminar solo, en el Camino de Santiago la soledad no es un vacío, sino una oportunidad para encontrarte contigo mismo. Experimentas una gran libertad a la hora de decidir tu propio ritmo y rumbo, no tienes que adaptarte al ritmo o preferencias de ir con otra persona y cada paso te pertenece, cada descubrimiento es tuyo.
You will always be accompanied by other colleagues
Even if you walk alone, you are never really alone. The Camino de Santiago attracts people from all over the world and companions from all over Spain. You will find temporary travel companions, you will share stories with strangers that you will feel, in many cases, very close to you, and you will feel part of a group that shares the same goal and the same route. Don't be afraid to engage in conversation with other pilgrims, socialise and let new people into your life.
The ideal way to go it alone
The French Way is the busiest, you will always see pilgrims, towns every few kilometres and many bars and restaurants where you can stop. It is perfectly signposted with yellow arrows and scallop shells, and you can always ask someone if in doubt.
Physical and mental challenge
The Camino will challenge you in many ways; physically with steep inclines and descents that never end or unexpected rainy days. But in these challenges you will discover your inner strength, one you didn't know you had. Mentally you will overcome obstacles that will remind you of your capacity for resilience, strength and adaptation. Resilience will also be very present, that is, the ability to face adversity.
The simplicity of the Camino
On the Camino de Santiago any simple situation of everyday life will be a treasure. A comforting shower at the end of a stage, a hot meal and a comfortable bed to rest are essential in the life of a pilgrim. There you will understand the appreciation for the little things.
Connecting with nature and yourself
En el Camino se producen momentos muy mágicos y entre ellos se dan momentos para la reflexión. Por las noches o durante las etapas mientras vas caminando, tienes mucho tiempo de pensar y procesar las experiencias del día, explorando tus pensamientos más profundos. La soledad se transforma en una oportunidad para el autoconocimiento y el crecimiento personal.
On the other hand, the surrounding nature is breathtaking. The lush green forests, the mountains and the contrast with the coast on roads like the Portuguese one, lead you to a beautiful scenery. The solitude gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in this beauty, to disconnect from the stress of everyday life and connect with nature and with yourself.
A personal achievement: reaching Santiago de Compostela
Al concluir el Camino y alcanzar la catedral de Santiago, el sentimiento de orgullo te llenará de emoción. Habrás completado un viaje único donde la soledad habrá sido tu compañera constante a la vez que habrás estado acompañado por un grupo de personas maravillosas.
Conclusions
If you have ever considered doing the Camino de Santiago alone, take the first step. It is an amazing opportunity to find yourself, grow and venture on a journey that will leave a mark forever. Let every step you take be an opportunity to find yourself and discover solitude in the company of the Camino.
Have a good walk!
