Way of St James | May / June 2026

And we're off - next stop Dubai!

We arrived into Dubai early this morning, a little bleary‑eyed but excited to stretch our legs. After clearing customs and immigration, we made our way to the hotel — and blissfully, our rooms were ready thanks to the early check‑in. There’s nothing quite like dropping your bags and freshening up after an overnight flight.

The rest of the day was ours to enjoy at leisure. Some of us headed straight for a nap, others explored the neighbourhood or simply soaked up the warm Dubai air. A gentle, relaxed start before the journey continues.

This morning we headed to the airport for our flight to Lyon, the official start of our Camino adventure. The journey was smooth, and by the time we touched down in France this afternoon, everyone was ready for fresh air and a change of scenery.

We were met at the airport and transferred to our hotel in the heart of the city — a lovely first glimpse of Lyon’s elegant buildings and lively streets. After settling in, the group began to unwind and ease into the rhythm of the trip, excited for what the days ahead will bring.

We started the morning with a gentle wander through Lyon’s old town, letting Stu lead us just far enough to get our bearings. The heat was already settling in, proper, full‑sun, summer heat, so our climb up to the Basilica of Notre‑Dame de Fourvière felt like an achievement in itself. Standing there, knowing this was where Bishop Pompallier and the Marist order began, added a lovely sense of connection.

The ancient amphitheatres below were fascinating to look at, but with the sun blazing, none of us were overly keen to explore them in detail. A traditional Lyonnaise lunch was a far more appealing idea, and it did not disappoint; rich, delicious, and exactly what we needed.

In the afternoon we met our local guide, who whisked us through the city’s famous traboules, those hidden passageways tucked between 500‑year‑old buildings. It felt like stepping behind the scenes of the city. We finished at St Jean Cathedral just in time to watch the 14th‑century astronomical clock chime, a perfect little moment of history to end the day.

We had a relaxed morning in Lyon, each of us drifting off to do our own thing, some wandered through the rose gardens, others lingered over coffee in shady cafés, and a few brave souls even tackled the “Museum of Illusions.” It was the perfect slow start before our journey to Le Puy.

After settling into the hotel, we gathered for drinks while Stu and Olivier shared stories about the Camino’s history. They handed out our shells and credential books, and suddenly the whole adventure felt very real.

Later, we walked up to the Cathedral of Notre Dame du Puy‑en‑Velay, arriving just as the mass was finishing. The timing couldn’t have been better — the haunting sound of the organ filled the space, echoing through stone that has held pilgrims for centuries. We visited the thousand‑year‑old healing stone, collected our stamps (just in time!) and then wandered back down through the old streets, feeling that lovely mix of anticipation and calm that comes at the start of a journey.

Today was a day of big climbs, big views, and a real sense of stepping back through centuries of history. We started with the striking statue of Notre Dame de France, towering above the town and made from melted cannons captured during the Crimean War. It’s an extraordinary mix of artistry and old‑world conflict, and the climb up rewarded us with sweeping views in every direction.

From there, we tackled the remarkable Chapel of St Michel d’Aiguilhe — St Michael of the Needle — perched dramatically on top of an ancient volcanic plug. Built more than 1,200 years ago, it feels almost impossible that such a delicate little chapel could sit atop such a rugged pinnacle. The steps were steep, but the sense of wonder at the top made every one of them worth it.

In the afternoon, a few brave pilgrims decided to give a stretch of the Camino a try. With the temperature soaring to 35º, it was definitely a challenge, but spirits stayed high. Full points for effort — absolute champions.

Today marked the official start of the walking, and the group set off in great spirits despite another day of serious heat. Some chose the longer route, others the shorter, but everyone settled into an easy rhythm as the path wound gently along the riverside. The walk into town was a delight — shaded stretches, glimpses of the water, and a wander past the local pétanque courts where a few locals were already out enjoying the day.

At one point the group stopped along the track for a simple, relaxed lunch, and someone snapped a great photo of everyone taking a breather together. Even in the heat, it felt like the perfect way to ease into the journey: slow steps, good company, and a beautiful landscape leading the way.

We set off this morning walking toward Moissac, winding our way through peaceful countryside and rows of orchards heavy with early‑summer colour. The heat climbed quickly to 32º, but a soft breeze followed us along the path and kept everyone in good spirits. It was one of those slow, sun‑drenched days where the landscape does most of the talking.

Dinner was a real highlight; two beautiful photos capture it perfectly, a balmy evening by the riverside, good food, and that lovely sense of unwinding after a day on the trail. As the light softened, we took a gentle stroll to the aqueduct where the canal crosses high above the Tarn River. Standing there, watching the water glide silently overhead, felt like the perfect full stop to a long, warm, wonderful day.

This morning began with an amazing panorama from Auvillar; one of those views that makes you stop for a moment just to take it all in. After soaking up the scenery, the group set off on their morning walk, winding through the countryside at an easy pace and enjoying the calm start to the day.

The afternoon was free time, and the town square quickly became the perfect place to settle in. Locals had gathered to watch the soccer finals, and the whole square buzzed with that lively, communal energy only a big match can bring. It was the kind of simple, joyful moment that makes these small towns feel so special — a chance to sit back, people‑watch, and enjoy being part of local life for a little while.

Another gentle, memorable day on the Camino.

Today we arrived in St Jean‑Pied‑de‑Port, one of the most iconic and beloved starting points of the Camino. The town has a special energy — a mix of excitement, nerves, and that unmistakable feeling of beginnings. Cobbled streets, old stone walls, and pilgrims from all over the world create a buzz that’s impossible not to feel part of.

We stopped for a photo at the Gate of St James, also known as the Pilgrims’ Gate, the historic entrance through which countless walkers have passed on their way toward Spain. Standing there together felt like a real milestone — the moment the journey becomes real.

The day ended with an amazing meal at a beautiful hotel, a perfect chance to relax, enjoy good food, and soak up the atmosphere before turning in for the night. Tomorrow we cross into Spain, rested, excited, and ready for the next chapter of the adventure.

The morning began with a rather underwhelming view from the Pyrenees — low cloud clinging stubbornly to the hills around Roncesvalles. But as we set off walking, the mist slowly lifted, revealing soft green slopes and that familiar sense of Camino calm returning with every step.

By midday we were rolling into Pamplona, a city that always feels alive with stories. We wandered through the old streets to Hemingway’s favourite bar, imagining the writer perched over a drink, watching the world go by. The town was already buzzing with preparations for San Fermín, when the famous running of the bulls takes over the city each July. Even out of season, you can feel the energy of it in the plazas.

Later, we drove up to Alto del Perdon, the Hill of Forgiveness, one of the Camino’s most iconic viewpoints. This time the skies had cleared completely, giving us a glorious sweep of the plains stretching westward. The wind turbines turned lazily on the ridge, and the metal pilgrim sculptures stood silhouetted against the sky, a perfect reminder of all those who’ve walked this path before us.

A day of contrasts; clouds and sunshine, quiet trails and lively cities, and another beautiful chapter on the Camino.

It was a gentle start to the day with a quick wander around town before heading to the local markets. Stalls were piled high with fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and all the colourful bits and pieces that make French markets such a joy. Everyone picked up something for a picnic later on; the kind of simple meal that always tastes better when it’s earned on the trail.

From there, the group split for two different walks into San Juan de Ortega. Carolyn and Cath were the only two brave enough to take on the full 12 km, enjoying the quiet paths and forested stretches that make this section so peaceful. The rest of the group followed a shorter route, arriving in time to relax and soak up the atmosphere of this tiny but historic Camino stop.

The day wrapped up in Burgos, where a traditional meal awaited; hearty, comforting, and exactly what everyone needed after a day of walking and exploring. It was the perfect finish: good food, good company, and the feeling of another Camino chapter unfolding beautifully.

It was a slower, well‑earned day, and the group made the most of it. Many wandered over to the Cathedral, where the sheer scale of its treasures and beauty stopped everyone in their tracks. Even after days of remarkable sights, this one still managed to amaze; soaring architecture, intricate chapels, and centuries of history gathered under one roof.

After that, everyone drifted off in different directions to enjoy a bit of personal exploring. Some visited the peaceful Carthusian Monastery, tucked away from the city’s bustle, while others chose the Museum of Human Evolution, diving into one of the region’s most fascinating stories.

A gentler pace, a touch of culture, and a chance to follow individual curiosities, the perfect kind of “day off” on the Camino.

The day began with a meaningful stop at Burgos University, where the group visited the Pilgrims’ Cemetery beside the small hermitage of San Amaro. They arrived early to find it closed, but in true Camino fashion, a touch of serendipity stepped in. The local priest, Fr. Jesus Maria, spotted the group and kindly came over to unlock the site. As an unexpected bonus, he offered a short talk about the history and significance of the place, a quiet, heartfelt moment that set a thoughtful tone for the day.

From there, the walk unfolded through endless fields, wide open and peaceful, before the path joined the canals, offering long, gentle stretches perfect for settling into the rhythm of the Camino. The day ended in style at the Parador de Leon, where the group was thoroughly spoiled. After a day of simple landscapes and quiet reflection, the elegance of the Parador felt like a real treat.

The morning began with a relaxed city walk around Leon, taking in its grand squares, elegant buildings, and that lively mix of students and pilgrims that gives the city its charm. After soaking up the atmosphere, the group hopped on the bus to Astorga, where history seems to sit on every corner. They explored the ancient Roman walls, admired the soaring cathedral, and wandered through the whimsical curves of Gaudi’s Episcopal Palace, a building that feels part fairytale, part fortress.

After lunch, and a taste of Astorga’s famous chocolate, the journey continued to the Cruz de Ferro, one of the Camino’s most symbolic places. Standing before the tall iron cross and its enormous mound of stones, the group paused for reflection. It’s humbling to think that this simple pile represents more than a thousand years of pilgrims leaving their burdens, hopes, and prayers behind.

The day ended with the walk into Ponferrada, settling into the hotel and gathering for dinner, a gentle close to a day filled with history, meaning, and the quiet rituals that make the Camino so special.

We continued our travels from Ponferrada with a visit to the small hamlet of O Cebreiro, perched at the top of a long, steep hill. After coffee, a bit of souvenir shopping, and a wander around the village, we carried on to Melide for a gentle 4 km walk to Boente; our last stretch through the countryside.

Then it was back on the coach to Monte do Gozo (“the Mountain of Joy”) for photos with the iconic pilgrim statues (although they were unfortunately caged off as a massive music festival was about to begin in the coming days). From there, we walked through the Pilgrims’ Gate and into the ancient, winding streets that lead to the Praza do Obradoiro, the grand square where all pilgrims finally arrive.

After celebrating and taking in the incredible sight of thousands of pilgrims gathered in the heart of Santiago, we checked into our hotel, the beautiful Parador de Santiago, right beside the square, for dinner and a well‑earned sleep.

First up was the Pilgrims’ Mass in the cathedral at midday. We arrived early hoping to secure seats, but no such luck, so we scattered around the church and waited for the service to begin. The botafumeiro was swung, and at the conclusion of the Mass we joined the very long line to go down to the crypt to see the ossuary containing the bones of St James the Great; the very reason the Camino exists. The rest of the afternoon was free.

At 8pm, a number of us headed out to experience an ancient Celtic cleansing ritual;  Colixuro da Queimada. It was a fascinating ceremony involving white spirits and spices, where much of the alcohol is burned off as part of the process. The result was delicious, a bit like mulled wine with a serious kick!

A trip out to Cape Finisterre (the “end of the earth”). We stopped in Muros to wander around this Atlantic port and marina, grab a coffee, and pick up supplies for our picnic lunch. As we continued toward the cape, we had our first (and only!) rain of the entire trip; more of a drizzle than anything. Many of us chose to hop off the bus about 2 km from the cape and walk the final stretch to the 0 km marker. Job done.

On the way back, we visited the quaint village of Ponte Maceira, where an ancient bridge and old watermills cross a dark, fast‑moving river.

We finished the day with another excellent meal at the hotel and said farewell to one of our group, who was meeting her husband in Santiago the next day; he had walked all the way from St Jean‑Pied‑de‑Port to meet her there.

Time to farewell Santiago; and also our fantastic local guide, Olivier. He had been such great company throughout the journey, full of knowledge, humour, and patience, and we were genuinely sad to say goodbye.

From there, we made our way to Madrid. A quick flight and an easy transfer brought us to our hotel, followed by a relaxed restaurant lunch. In the afternoon we headed out for a walk around the city centre with our new local guide, Gema, who introduced us to the heart of Madrid. The highlight was the Palacio Real de Madrid; absolutely incredible in scale and grandeur, a real showstopper to begin our time in the capital.

A day trip to Segovia to see the magnificently intact 2,000‑year‑old Roman Aqueduct. We met our local guide, who showed us around the beautiful small town and some of its key sights, including the Alcazar, a castle often used in Hollywood films.

We enjoyed a fascinating meal at Meson de Candido, where we witnessed the tradition surrounding cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig). One of the family members who owns the restaurant demonstrated its tenderness by cutting it with the blunt edge of a dinner plate.

Then it was back to Madrid for our final drinks together before we all began to go our separate ways.

Two of our group departed in the morning for the rest of their European adventures. The rest of us had the day free to explore. Many of us visited the Prado Museum and the Botanical Gardens, while a couple joined a wine and tapas tour. Then it was back to the hotel for our transfer to Madrid Airport and the effective conclusion of a wonderful tour filled with laughter, memories, and new friendships.