Can Camino de Santiago walking holiday be a luxury experience?
Camino de Santiago is usually associated with spiritual reflection and simplicity. However, in recent years, this pilgrimage journey became available in a variety of forms. If you are someone who likes to enjoy their holidays in style, but still wants it to be a meaningful and rewarding experience, it could be the perfect option for you. Here’s how you can add a touch of luxury to your Camino.
Upscale accommodation
The accommodation choice is the primary way to introduce more comfort into your travels. Instead of basic albergues, you can opt for boutique hotels and high-end guest houses. These will offer the much-needed privacy and all the modern amenities that you may think of. Some may even have spa facilities, which you can relax at after a long day of walking!
Fine dining
Depending on your chosen route, the Camino de Santiago can pass through regions that are well-known for their culinary traditions, such as Spain, France, and Portugal. If you enjoy fine dining, you can treat yourself to the Michelin-star restaurants available in major towns, luxury tapas bars and cafés, wine tastings at local vineyards, and gourmet picnics along the way. The Camino Portugues coastal route, for instance, will guarantee delicious seafood and wine restaurants.
Guided walking
Whether you want your trip to be guided or self-guided is a decision you can make for yourself. However, guided Camino’s can offer a more comfortable experience, as you get personalised insights on local history and culture along the way. Not only that, you don’t have to worry about navigating the routes – simply follow your guide and enjoy the scenery.
Additional services
Luxury is often found in the smaller details. In the case of Camino de Santiago, there are some small ways you can further increase the luxury of your trip, by obtaining additional services. For example, luggage transfer services in between accommodations mean that you can pack as much stuff as you want, while keeping your daily walking as light as possible. Additionally, private transfers from and to the airport will make your travels more comfortable, too.
Cultural activities
As a way of enriching the Camino experience even more, you can participate in a variety of cultural activities. On the free days and afternoons without walking, you can get a private tour around local historic sites and cathedrals. During the summer months, you may also find concerts and other events that you might enjoy. Art workshops or culinary classes are a brilliant way to learn more about the local culture.
Booking through an agency
Using a Camino de Santiago travel agency means you do not have to worry about the logistics of your trip – it is all handled for you. The leading agency, Santiago Ways, specialises in organising personalised experienced according to your needs. The knowledgeable staff will select the best accommodation options for you, book the transfer services, create a bespoke itinerary, and much more. As a result, your trip is relaxing and completely stress-free.
Conclusion
So, yes – Camino de Santiago can definitely be a luxury experience. As you combine the spiritual journey with the finer things in life, you can create a walking holiday that has it all.