Why We're Lacing Up Our Boots for the Camino All Over Again
In May 2024, to celebrate a milestone Sixtieth birthday, 2 of my sisters, Kim and Alison, and I embarked on the adventure of a lifetime. We walked a 275km stretch of the Camino Francés, from León or specifically the small town of Hospital de Órbigo, all the way to the majestic Santiago de Compostela.
When we finally arrived, I was running on empty, even the fumes were running out. We had averaged about 16km a day, with three rest days sprinkled in to give our bodies a break. And I mean *real* rest days. One of them, I’m pretty sure I slept straight through.
Looking back, the walk was a beautiful paradox. It was exhausting, yet exhilarating. It was hard and strenuous, but also peaceful in a way I’d never experienced. The sense of achievement when we finally completed it was immense. But in the moment? I was just tired. My poor sister Alison bore the brunt of my struggles. She’d walk a couple of kilometres, then patiently sat and waited for Kim, and then they both waited for me to catch up. She used that time wisely, though, taking over the blog that chronicled our travels. (I had started it, but after a fall on our very first walking day, I was nursing a sore wrist and then my body decided to add the flu to the mix. It was a rough start!)
So, when we got home and people asked, my immediate answer was, "Been there, done that. Don't need to do it again." I was certain our Camino chapter was closed.
Then, Alison had an idea. "How about we do it again," she asked, "for my Sixtieth in May 2026?"
Kim and I didn't hesitate for a second. We both said yes in a heartbeat. Honestly, we're still not sure why Alison would want to walk with us again after all that waiting around, but we are so glad she asked.
When we share our plans, the most common question is, "Why on earth would you do it again?" And it's a fair question. The answer is simple: because the Camino is unforgettable. It's a journey that stays with you long after your body recovers from the exhaustion. They say most people don't stop at one. The Camino keeps calling you back.
Now, with just seven weeks to go until our next Camino, the excitement is building to a fever pitch. This time, we have a new pilgrim joining us! Julie is coming along, so we’ll be a fabulous foursome.
The preparation is in full swing. Our backpacks are ready, our packing lists are meticulously checked off. Hiking gear? Check. Rain jackets and ponchos? Check. First aid kits and enough blister tape to wrap a small mummy? Double-check. Boots, sandals, hiking poles... all ticked off.
And the logistics are all sorted! Flights are booked, and our adventure is extending beyond the Camino itself. We have accommodations secured in Lisbon and Barcelona, a day trip planned from Lisbon to Porto, and even a journey out to Finisterre after we finish walking. Our entire walking route is booked and paid for with RAW Travel, and they arrange luggage transfers (a non-negotiable luxury when you're adding an extra week of sightseeing!).
The first Camino was a test of endurance, a gift for my 60th, and a memory I'll cherish forever. This next one feels different. It’s a reunion. A chance to do it all over again, but with less "I'm never doing this again" and more "I can't wait to do this with you." Here’s to the next 275km
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