Contrast between Caminos.

Posted by VQT


Small church we passed by.  


Altar in a small church.  


Stone cross and pilgrim.  

We have been walking the Norte Camino along the top of Spain   Many differences between Norte and the Francis (French Way) and the Portuguese way that we walked in 2022 and 2023.   One of the most notable is the lack of churches, both grand cathedrals and small community churches.  When we do pass a church on Norte it is almost always closed.  

The other notable difference is there are very few pilgrims on Norte.  We are walking at the end of the season and do not stay in the Albergues but we see very few pilgrims on our walks.  

On Norte we have not seen any of the local  entrepreneurs that appear on the French and Portuguese routes selling snacks or handmade goods.   We would always stop to buy something and “chat” with the people.  We miss this interaction.  

Also on Norte stamps are not as available.  On most days we only get a stamp at our hotel.  Stamps are needed to get a Compostela in Santiago.  

Norte is different from the French and Portuguese ways but its scenic beauty and tranquil walks are so unique in our fast paced over crowded world.   


Comments

  1. AnonymousSeptember 7, 2024 at 3:43 PM

    Awesome, so glad you are hiking together again. The weather looks pretty great. 🩷KH

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousSeptember 7, 2024 at 4:03 PM

    I guess these are the trade offs. I hope you find enough to eat. That coast, I'm sure, is balm for the soul...and growly tummy.
    CHERYL

    ReplyDelete
  3. DeniseSeptember 7, 2024 at 4:59 PM

    How boring if each Camino were the same. Enjoy the breathtaking vistas and each others company!

    ReplyDelete
  4. PhoenixSeptember 8, 2024 at 4:33 PM

    The world is loud and the Universe (God) whispers. I'm better able to hear Her in the quiteness of a strool. Sometimes those quiet, tranquil walks can be the loudest in my mind - unless I'm cussing because the "stroll" is straight up a mountain!! Pray you meet up with lots of fun Pilgrams soon. I love your stories of the people you meet.

    ReplyDelete

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