Day 72 - Winter walking...

Europe is experiencing the coldest Christmas in years and I've really been thinking of the pilgrims out there, walking the Camino de Santiago in this ice cold weather. I know of one young man who started his walk on the 15th of December and I'm hoping to get some first hand feedback from him soon to share with you.

The Camino has truly cast it's spell over me as I am seriously considering doing a winter walk as well sometime in future - something I never thought I would contemplate in a million years!

I did a bit of research on the internet and found this wonderful video, posted by a veteran walker/pilgrim. He has the most informative blog and when I started my journey he was one of the very first people I contacted - he immediately responded with good wishes and the offer to answer any questions I might have.

You can read more about his travels at: http://www.johnniewalker-santiago.blogspot.com/

As you can see, the video was taken at the beginning of 2010, almost a year ago! Seems almost surreal to think that we've had all the other seasons inbetween and here we are again - the pathways once more covered with rain and snow.

The following photographs were taken earlier this month in Spain - what a winter wonderland! Looking at this I can't help but think that if I survived the ice cold conditions at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro with diminished oxygen levels, surely I should be able to manage a winter camino as well...

As tempted as I am right now to pack my bag, I think it probably is a good idea to get at least one summer walk under the belt first...

'Patience...' - I hear whispered in my ear...