Where to sleep while walking the Camino

It’s often said that each person’s Camino experience is unique, and it is. This is partially because there are so many ways in which you can walk the Camino. A good example is lodging as there are so many different types of places to stay.

Generally, lodging establishments on the Camino (in Spain, Portugal, France, and elsewhere) can be divided into two groups:  Albergues and Hotels.

Albergues:

This is the Spanish name for low-cost lodging used by Camino walkers. The same name is used in Portugal and in France they are often known as a gîte d'étape. Sleeping is normally in dormitory rooms, accommodating from five people to a hundred pilgrims, with shared bathroom facilities.

There are two great things about albergues. First, they are inexpensive, costing anywhere from $12 to $25 a night. They are also a great way to meet others who are walking the Camino. People on the Camino are always friendly and being in close-quarters with other walkers makes it easier still to strike up a conversation and bond.

The down side of albergues is the relative lack of privacy, sleeping on bunkbeds in communal rooms and sharing bathroom facilities. Plus, it can be difficult to get a good night’s sleep with people coming in late and departing early, not to mention the roommates that snore.

Not all albergues are created equal. Some are run by the town or region and tend to be less expensive and more basic. Others are run by religious or other organizations, and an increasing number are owned privately. The private ones tend to be smaller, offer better facilities, and can be booked in advance.

As you can guess, albergues are favored more by young people who find it easier to sleep at night.

Hotels:

Like albergues, hotels come in all shapes and sizes, from basic to luxurious. Most share the virtues of a private room, a comfortable bed, and your own bathroom and shower. After a long day’s walk, these things are welcomed features.

On the downside, hotels cost more and unless you’re particularly friendly (or with a group), it can be more difficult to meet people. Fortunately, the hotels are relatively inexpensive along the Camino. When you want to live it up, you can often find a three- or four-star hotel in a wonderfully restored historic building for less than you’d pay for a budget motel in the US. Other hotels are much less expensive than this. Plus, you can book your hotels in advance.

Do note that not all “hotels” are called hotels. For example, in Spain, you’ll find hostals, pensions, hospederias, posadas, and more. And the top of the line are the Paradors. Don’t judge them by name. Judge them based on facilities, reviews, photos, and price.

Summing up:

Each person is different and it is so nice to know that walks on the Camino can be tailored to each person’s preferences. At Travel Fever Tours, we focus on hotels as they most often meet the needs and expectations of our walkers. Indeed, we have put together quite a nice set of hotels. Follow the links below to learn more about our guided, small-group walks on the Camino.