Reports by Arthur Mitchell

There are a number of routes to Santiago de Compostela. The most famous - and currently most well-traveled - is the Camino Frances (or French Road). One leg begins its Spanish phase in the Pyrenees at Roncesvalles. An alternative way from France starts at Somport. Both routes from France converge at Puente La Reina. From there, a single route continues to the destination on the west coast of Spain.

Today, about 50,000 people a year make the pilgrimage. The majority (70%+) walk. Crossing Spain from the French border to Santiago de Compostela on foot takes about a month. Why do people do it? Religion. Spirituality. Culture. Or simply to take part in the river of history - to participate in something that has endured for twelve centuries. [...]

If you can find the time, do it. My pilgrimage was one of the most rewarding things I've ever done. It's a great bicycle tour. It was profoundly moving, fun, and you'll meet interesting people from all over the world.