Exploring Spain

What Happened to James the Great

From the New Testament to Spanish epic: tracing the life and martyrdom of St. James. Learn why this “Thunderboy” has 1000 years of history on the Camino.

The Rain in Spain ain’t always so Gentle

Arrive in the ancient town of Los Arcos on the Camino de Santiago, where a sudden hailstorm gives way to the scents of the Spanish landscape and a steaming plate of paella. Experience the sensory journey of this unforgettable pilgrimage stop. For more, read the full story on the travel blog.

The Porcelain Rule: Navigating Water (and Wine) on the Camino

Discover the unique rituals of the Camino de Santiago, from mastering "Agua Potable" to the legendary free wine fountain at Bodegas Irache. A firsthand account of staying hydrated, DIY gear hacks, and the historic "liquid encouragement" offered to pilgrims in Ayegui.

The Queen’s Bridge and the Roman Road

Leaving Puente la Reina, pilgrims cross the "Bridge of the Queen" and walk the rare, ancient pavers of a 2nd-century Roman road. Experience the history of the Camino Francés through the golden grain fields of Navarra, ending with a communal meal in the historic town of Estella.

Beyond Forgiveness

From a clumsy tumble off Forgiveness Ridge to a sweltering night in Puente la Reina, this stage of the Camino Francés is a lesson in adaptation. Witness the landscape shift into the Mediterranean, discover the charm of Navarra’s villages, and learn why you should never pay for a "cool" hotel room before feeling the AC.

Perdón, Señor: A Protestant Pilgrim’s Journey to the Alto del Perdón

Experience the climb to Alto del Perdón on the Camino Francés. A journey through history, the iconic 'path of the stars' iron sculpture, and a search for grace.

Run Bull Run: Exploring Pre-Festival Pamplona

Pamplona is a city on the edge of a 'wicked combination' of blood sport and adrenaline. Peer through the keyhole of the bullring five days before San Fermín begins.

Pews, Bunks, and Bronze: Finding Hemingway in a Pamplona, Spain

Sleep in a 16th-century church and walk in Hemingway's footsteps! Explore Pamplona's iconic Café Iruña and Plaza del Castillo on a unique Camino de Santiago journey.

Before the Bulls: Discovering the Roman Ghost of Pompey’s Pamplona

Discover the Roman history of Pamplona on the Camino de Santiago. From the Sertorian War to Pompey the Great, explore how the "City of Pompey" began.

Wet Socks and Bedbugs: Surviving the "Muni" Albergue in Zubiri

What is it really like to stay in a Municipal Albergue? From bedbug inspections to the "fear of fresh air," here are 3 lessons from Zubiri on the Camino.

Pintxos and Prose: Finding Hemingway in Burguete

Walk in Hemingway's footsteps in Burguete (Auritz). From Basque pintxos to the famous inscribed piano at Hostal Burguete, discover this literary Camino stop.

An Imperfect Introduction to the Camino Francés: The Epic History of Roncesvalles

Explore Roncesvalles on the Camino de Santiago. Discover the history of the Song of Roland, its biblical connections, and the legendary "naked Roland" statue.

The Song of Roland: He Blowd his Brains out his Ears

Walking the Camino Francés? Learn about the Battle of Roncevaux Pass and the Song of Roland. A blend of history, humor, and hiking through the beech forests of the Pyrenees.

The Breathtaking Pyrénées: Full of Whispered Stories

Hiking the Pyrenees on the Camino de Santiago? Explore the ancient stories whispered in the fog, Roman legionnaire routes, and why these mountains are more than just a map line.

First Touch: Starting the Camino at the Tower of Saint James in Paris

Does the Camino de Santiago start in Paris? Explore the history of the Tour Saint-Jacques, the four medieval pilgrim routes of France, and the beginning of a month-long trek.

The Surprises of O Cebreiro

A hike up the Camino de Santiago leads to O Cebreiro, where a 14th-century miracle and a warm cup of coffee offer a lesson in the surprises of God.

How to Survive the Camino in Midsummer Heat: 5 Gear Essentials

From ultralight gear hacks to "petroleum jelly salvation," discover five indispensable items that proved their worth on an 800km Camino summer trek. This guide offers practical, battle-tested advice for maximizing comfort and efficiency on long-distance walks.