It never ceases to amaze me how the Bits haven't really cottoned to such an adventure! Whilst amazingly popular with Europeans, I have met more Americans than Brits on the Camino and equal numbers of Aussies and Kiwis.
The Camino Frances starts in St Jean Pied du Port in the foothills of the Roncesvalles Pass and continues across several mountain ranges to Santiago, the apparent resting place of St James. The Camino is also known as the way of St James and Le Chemin de St Jacques. The walkers route can take up to six weeks and if you are prepared to put the pedal power in, can be completed in 6 to 7 days. The walkers route was recently completed by a group of Jersey Cyclists in 8 days and was described by one serious mountain biker as the best off roading he had ever done. The journey is more than just a route and given the right circumstances challenges even the more physical of Pilgrims. The whole being part of the Pilgrimage strips people of there normal routine and allows time for reflection, changes in beliefs and common concepts, and whether religious or not has a spiritual air that is amplified by the traditions of the route, traditions in which non-believers absorb themselves and partake.
Accommodation en route is varied from Pilgrim Hostels, Alberges, hotels, camp sites and monasteries. The Jersey cyclists stayed in all these types in order for the full experience, and were even blessed by Nuns in one Alberge. The scenery is stunning, the weather depends on which time of year but invariably is seasonal, and very hot in the summer when most Pilgrims journey.
Jersey Adventures will be leading this Charity Cycle Challenge again in April 2011 so if you are up for a challenge or would like to hear more about the journey email john@jerseyadventures.com
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