Why do the Camino de Santiago in Autumn?
The Camino de Santiago in autumn is for many people the most beautiful season. The landscapes are transformed and there is no comparison with any other season. The landscape is dyed in ochre, reddish and golden tones that make each stage a unique moment.
A great advantage of this time of year is the tranquility; the paths regain the peace and silence that many pilgrims seek. Additionally, temperatures are mild, ranging between 15-20 degrees in September and early October, allowing you to walk without discomfort.
What is the weather like on the Camino de Santiago during autumn?
In autumn, the weather is variable depending on the area. In September, the climate tends to be more stable and pleasant, with temperatures reminiscent of summer. By October, temperatures begin to drop and rains become more frequent.
In the interior area, days can be cool and nights cold, with frosts in November. In Galicia and the north, rain is common and paths become muddy. At this time, it must be taken into account that the days are shorter, which forces you to plan the stages.
Disadvantages of doing the Camino de Santiago in autumn
In autumn, pilgrims may encounter different challenges that they must take into account:
- Frequent rain: Especially in the north of the peninsula, rainfall is common and can complicate the stages, soaking clothing and footwear.
- Muddy paths: The combination of rain and earth turns some stretches of the stages into mud pits, making progress difficult.
- Shorter days: There are fewer hours of daylight, which forces you to get up early to complete the stages before nightfall.
- Cierre de alojamientos: Se deben planificar las pernoctaciones, ya que, en esta época muchos albergues y servicios cierran, sobre todo en las rutas menos masificadas.
- Cold at dawn and dusk: Temperatures drop in the early hours of the day and at nightfall, especially in mountainous areas.
- More weight in the backpack: Warm and waterproof clothing, along with the winter sleeping bag, increase the weight and volume of the luggage.
The best routes to do in autumn
The French Way
The French Way is one of the best options in autumn. Its popularity ensures that services and hostels remain open longer than on other routes. Additionally, the landscapes of the Castilian plateau and Galicia are tinged with autumn colours. Caution must be taken and you must be prepared for rain in the Galician part and for the cold on the plateau.
The Original Way
The Primitive Way is the most dazzling route in autumn. It runs through the interior of Asturias and Galicia, with forest landscapes that turn red and gold. It is a demanding route where you will find fewer pilgrims than on the French Way.
The Northern Way
The Northern Way provides a spectacular combination of sea and mountain in autumn. The cliffs, beaches and forests of the Cantabrian coast are dressed in autumn colours. Although rain is more frequent, the oceanic climate softens the temperatures.
Via de la Plata
The Via de la Plata is famous for finding autumn the best time to travel it. Temperatures are mild, allowing you to cover long stages without suffering extreme sun. The Extremadura landscapes are transformed with golden and ochre colours, and the light highlights the Romanesque and Roman heritage of the route.
