High August Camino near Hontanas between Burgos and Léon
Autumn has arrived on the camino with its warm days and cooler evenings. What to wear has re-entered the daily conversation when getting ready for your early morning departure. It was only a short six weeks prior that the main concern was sufficient water, sunscreen and the coolest clothing possible. July and August on the Camino Francés will test the pilgrim’s ability to withstand the searing sun and heat that makes the stretch between Burgos and Léon so challenging. Limited shade will be the greatest obstacle facing the walkers. Temperatures can easily soar to mid-30’s (and even 40’s) Celsius. (95°+F.) Staying hydrated is a key focus. Avoiding walking during the peak of the day is prudent. And hope that the evening’s lodgings provides air-conditioning. Many pilgrims begin in the freshness of the camino morning by 6:30 a.m. and end their day before the sun reaches its peak. The best joy of this season will be how the evening stretches out ’till almost 10 o’clock, giving more time to savor the pleasures of your summer Camino.