Trekking the Camino de Santiago

This was a lovely weeks hiking and we were lucky to have great weather for all of our hiking days (October). It was great to start in Samos to 'tune in' a bit to the more busy sections of the path and having a day at the end in Santiago is essential. The distances are sometimes long, but navigation is so easy as it is so well signed, which enabled people to go at their own pace with regular meeting points for a cafe con leche. Before booking, we debated guided v unguided as it is so easy to follow but opted to go with the minimal faff option, which was good. The route was interesting and prettier than I expected, but possibly not for those who prefer more remote hiking environments and solitude.

The trek from Samos to Santiago de Compostela was an immersion into Galician landscape with beautiful scenery and welcoming people/stops. The early May departure meant weather was mild (routine rain expected), crowds limited, and spring blooms in full force. Our group was a joy and Aitor, our guide, was world-class. He is skilled at maintaining morale, providing specific coaching on physical skills, and has valuable connections to local providers.

Overall trip was a great experience

Well organised and planned trip. Group size was only 7 but the smaller group was better. Scenery and sights were fantastic. Our guide had very good knowledge and took us to great restaurants.

Very good.

From start to finish, the trip was organised very well by our friendly expert guide Javier Ramirez. Each day, we'd have a short briefing where he explained what the terrain would be like, what stops we were making and notable highlights you'd encounter on the walk. He also kept us right when it came to collecting our pilgrim stamps en route - as you need a certain amount to receive your pilgrim certificate at the end in Santiago. Every stage in the route was enchanting, we'd make pitstops at rustic farmhouses for traditional Galician homemade fare and fluffy Santiago cake - the perfect treat after a couple of hours walking. We also got the opportunity to taste the famous Galician tapas including fresh octopus and scallops with caramelised onions - they were especially delicious. The scenery was absolutely beautiful, walking through sleepy villages, hushed oak forests and past babbling brooks. Even though this region is famous for its rain - it didn't rain on us once, so I'd recommend booking to go in May! It was wonderful to see this part of Spain and walk sections of one of the oldest pilgrimages in the world. Although I'm not religious, it was a really moving experience, especially seeing the Botafumeiro swinging at the Pilgrim Mass in Santiago's famous cathedral. I'd love to go back and do a different route with Exodus in the future. Thank you, Javier, for being such a wonderful guide, and for showing us Modus Vivendi, the oldest bar in Galicia!

I enjoyed a fabulous trek doing the Camino de Santiago in September. Our leader Aitor was excellent and very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and patient guide. We were fortunate also in enjoying great weather too. The scenery and villages along the way were beautiful. To anyone thinking of doing this trek I would say go ahead! The camardarie from other pilgrims/trekkers along the way was an absolute inspiration too.

Such a good trek. Wonderful scenery in a beautiful area of Spain, walking at a good pace to the finish line at Santiago cathedral.

A GREAT experience, amazing scenery and good group size. The standard of the hotels varied a bit in style, breakfasts and facilities, but most were fine, clean and comfortable. The Group Leader was very informative throughout and adapted well to my deafness supporting me and making sure I was aware of all instructions e.g., setting off times etc. The Group Leader also found some good places for the stops each day and some lunches and evening meals were lovely. The weather was good which was a bonus for us all! The pace some days was tough with steep inclines and descends, so I walked with sticks which were a great help. I would suggest that training is essential for this trek and a pair of worn in footwear. The only downside was Air Europa the airline for the 4 flights. They lost my case on the way home and then when it arrived 2 days later it was damaged. They also did not honour the prebooked and paid for seats on the aeroplane.

What an unexpected and adventure to wander along the Camiño in Northwest Spain through beautiful verdant countryside. Incredibly green and glorious oak and eucalyptus woodland. Gorgeous routes through small farms with cafes and restaurants for frequent rests and marvelous conversations with people from all over the world. A totally uplifting experience. Time at the end of journey to visit the coastline and to explore Santiago. Wonderful food and both a physical challenge and restful too.