We will be on the Basque Country Tour this spring, and are wondering how many miles of the Camino de Santiago we will be hiking. Any advice on what shoes to wear, what to take, etc. from someone who has been on this tour?
Posted by
Mid-Atlantic area
7542 posts
You only walk a few miles, maybe six. I believe you start at/near the Alto de Perdón overlook and walk down to the Church of Saint Mary of Eunate. For the motivated, they can continue for an additional 3 miles to Puente la Reina.
The walk isn’t overly strenuous and on a dirt path. It’s downhill from the overlook and fairly flat near the church. If you start before the overlook, then it’s up hill to it. The overlook, church, and the Romanesque bridge in Puente la Reina provide good backdrops for photos. For as little of the Camino as you’ll be walking, running or walking shoes will work. There no need to buy special hiking shoes for such a short distance as long as the ones you wear provide support and don’t slide on your feet.
As for what to take, a day pack with some water and snacks should be all you need unless it’s raining.
Posted by
Cleveland
433 posts
My wife and I wore running shoes, The first part is sharply downhill over rocky/pebbly terrain. Go slow if you are unsteady.
In our group we had folks in their eighties who managed it. Some wore hiking shoes, One or two couples got poles.
And also I think there was also one couple who skipped the walk.
It was great fun! The Rick Steves guide we had was fantastic!
Happy travels.
Posted by
Frankfurt, Germany
9346 posts
Coming down that hill from Alto de Perdon is a very, very rocky terrain. A hill strewn with rocks of all sizes. Take your time, watch where you put your feet, and personally, I would want poles for this. Have come down it twice. The visit to Uterga and the Eunate church is a big plus. Puenta la Reina is beautiful too and the walk there is not difficult at all.