A Pilgrim's Guide to Northern Spain

The ancient pilgrimage path in Spain to the tomb of St James has undergone a contemporary revival. Embracing spirituality in its widest sense, modern day pilgrims come from across the world to experience the tranquility, camaraderie and scenery that help towards self-discovery, personal healing and a thoroughly memorable experience. The first walking guide in the Pilgrims Guides Series, this comprehensive aid features 1:50 000 topographical mapping from the National Geographic Institute of Spain for each of the 32 'recommended' stages of the Camino Frances, including its variants, the three stages to Cape Finisterre, and the two routes to Muxia. Each stage map features a start and finish inset and terrain guide, plus several separate town and city maps. In addition, there is a region map showing the entire route, plus plans of the three major cathedrals. Descriptions of the route help the pilgrim to stay on track. Descriptions of the monuments and towns to be seen along the way feature enough depth for the pilgrim to truly sense the history, art and devotion of centuries gone by. Every stage and main city features its own fully up-to-date list of accommodation: from all of the public, Parochial and private Albergues (pilgrims' hostels) with their facilities, to a selection of hotels to suit all budgets. Helpful topics include the legend of the burial of St James in Spain and its biblical significance, the history of the pilgrimage, why people go, what to expect, how to prepare and pack. There are many colour photographs. This book is the result of exhaustive research carried out over several years, finally bringing this complete guide to publication.