Imagine a path where golden red leaves fall gently to the ground while the sun warms your face. This was the image I had in my head when I decided to explore the Camino de Santiago with my mother and sister for two weeks in the fall. But the reality on the Camino was different: often accompanied by rain and heavy rain, this trip was a lesson in flexibility and preparation. In this blog post, I would like to share with you my experiences and tips for planning and equipping for an autumn hike on the Camino de Santiago.

The weather on the Way of St. James in fall

The weather on the Way of St. James in autumn is like a dance of the elements. The days can be unpredictable – bright sunshine turns into heavy rain showers and strong gusts of wind within minutes. This experience of rapid weather change leaves an unforgettable impression on every pilgrim. During my own journey, I witnessed these dramatic changes, which always kept me on my toes. But this unpredictability also brings its own beauty: rainbows adorning the sky after a downpour and the incomparable feeling of braving the elements despite everything.

Interestingly, the weather can vary greatly from year to year. Some pilgrims report consistently sunny and warm days that make fall seem almost like summer. This variance emphasizes the importance of being well prepared and having clothing for all possible weather conditions.

Sunrise and sunset: a race against time

Another special feature of pilgrimages in the fall is the changed time window due to shorter days. At the end of October, for example, the sun doesn’t greet the day until around 9 a.m. and leaves again early, adding an extra dimension to hiking on the Camino. The early morning hours are often characterized by darkness, which makes hiking a mystical experience. The gentle awakening of nature in the first light of day is a special moment that many pilgrims remember.

The early onset of dusk requires good planning of the day’s stages. Many pilgrims use headlamps to cover the first or last kilometers of the day safely. This unique experience of walking part of the way in the dark adds another level of introspection and adventure to the Camino.

Equipment for the Camino de Santiago in fall

The equipment should be designed for rainy weather:

• Clothing: 3 T-shirts, 1 long-sleeved sweater for colder evenings, 2 pairs of long pants (one with zipper for flexibility), 3 sports bras, 3 pairs of underpants, 3 pairs of socks and a tube scarf.
• Footwear: Waterproof shoes are a must, as are gaiters for extra protection.
• Rain protection: A rain jacket and a rain poncho or umbrella. I preferred the umbrella for more freedom of movement.
• Backpack: A backpack rain cover is essential to keep everything dry.
• Sleeping: A sleeping bag is recommended as it can get cold at night, even though many accommodations offer blankets.
• Lighting: A headlamp is essential for the early or late hiking moments.

Summary

Preparing for the Camino in the fall requires a good understanding of weather conditions and appropriate equipment. The journey is characterized by the beauty of falling leaves and the warmth of the autumn sun, coupled with the challenge of rain and cooler nights. With the right attitude and equipment, this hike will be an unforgettable experience, full of color, surprises and personal experiences.

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