Pilgrimage in later life: setting off at 60 plus

In short: Many people do. Talk to your doctor beforehand, and plan shorter stages and extra rest days.

People over 60 are no exception on the Way of St James. Many finally have the time and walk with exactly the calm that younger people often lack. With a few adjustments it is very doable.

Before the trip

Talk to your doctor beforehand, especially if you have heart and circulation problems or joint trouble. Start regular hikes two to three months in advance, and increase the length slowly. The advice on physical fitness applies here too.

On the way

Plan 10 to 15 kilometres a day, and take more frequent rest days. Walking poles take a lot of strain off your knees. If you don't want to sleep in a dormitory, single rooms in guesthouses are a good alternative. This costs more, but is easier on your nerves and your sleep.

Sending your luggage ahead

On the big routes there are luggage services that take your backpack from one place to stay to the next. You lose nothing by using them: for the Compostela, only the distance you walk counts, and your luggage plays no part.

Which routes are suitable?

The Camino Portugués and the last section of the Camino Francés are good choices, both with plenty of places to stop. Short routes in the Altmühltal also work well, because the railway runs close to the path. Carry your medication in your hand luggage and in sufficient quantity, along with a medication list in English.