Why do the Camino de Santiago in spring?
Spring is one of the most recommended seasons to do the Camino de Santiago. Temperatures on the Camino de Santiago in spring are mild, allowing you to walk without the oppressive heat of summer. The days are longer, giving you more time to walk and enjoy the landscape.
Additionally, the landscapes are at their best. The fields fill with flowers, the trees turn green again, and the meadows develop an intense green hue. For nature lovers, spring is the best time to do the Camino de Santiago in its most vibrant version. It is also less crowded, which allows you to enjoy a calm and authentic experience.
What is the weather like on the Camino de Santiago during spring?
In spring, the weather is variable and depends on the route and geographical area. Generally, temperatures are mild, but with very frequent rainfall, especially in the north of the peninsula. It must be taken into account that spring is the rainiest season in Galicia, Asturias and the Basque Country.
Average temperatures range between 10 and 20 degrees, although they can drop considerably in the morning and at dusk, especially at mountain passes. It should also be noted that spring is a season of contrasts: it can be sunny in the morning and rain torrentially in the afternoon.
Disadvantages of doing the Camino de Santiago in spring
Spring also has its disadvantages, and knowing them will help you prepare better for the journey.
- Frequent rain: Especially in the north, showers are normal and the paths can become muddy.
- Mud on the paths: The combination of rain and earth causes some sections to become slippery and difficult to walk on.
- Cold temperatures at dawn: At the start of the day, temperatures can be low, especially in mountainous areas.
- Paths with snow: At mountain passes such as O Cebreiro or the Alto de Perdón, there may be snow or ice.
- Easter: If you coincide with this holiday, the hostels and paths become overcrowded, and the silence and tranquility disappear.
- Accommodation: At Easter it is mandatory to book in advance, since demand exceeds supply in many towns.
- Shorter days than in summer: The days are shorter than in summer, so you have to plan the stages well.
The best routes of the Camino de Santiago to do in spring
The French Way
The French Way is the most crowded route and one of the best to do in spring. Its landscapes come to life with the arrival of good weather. On the other hand, rain in the Galician part can be frequent. Spring is an exceptional time to enjoy this route, although you have to be careful during Easter, when hostels fill up and prices go up.
The Portuguese Way
The Portuguese Way, especially the lower part, provides splendid landscapes. In the Miño area, you will find vineyards and fields full of flowers and with an intense green. A benefit of this route is that it has less rain, which makes it a safe option to avoid mud.
Via de la Plata
This time of year is ideal for doing the Via de la Plata. This route provides pleasant temperatures in spring for covering the long stages. The landscapes bloom during this time, and the spring light highlights the colors of its monuments. Additionally, spring in Extremadura has less rainfall than in the north.
Northern routes
The routes that run through the north of the peninsula are a good option. However, one must be aware that rainfall is more frequent. But for those who do not mind the water, the experience is spectacular with its green landscapes, which in spring reach their maximum splendor.
