Accommodations

Accommodations on the Camino de Santiago depend upon a lot of factors. Stages in the Caminos range from cities to small towns and villages. This greatly influences the type of accommodations available to you.

Additionally, we book accommodations according to the package you choose, i.e depending upon your budget.

Some stages have a mix of different types of accommodations while some owing to their small size, have only one type.

Considering all these different factors, your Camino would most probably be a different mix of accommodations. There are many different types of accommodations available, and is classified into different types. Here is a full list of their features, and what things you should keep in mind.

Albergues

"Albergues" are a unique feature of the Camino de Santiago. They usually offer dormitory style rooms, offering you a chance to connect with your fellow travellers.

It is the perfect stop for pilgrims. They offer basic amenities, budget friendly stays and act as meeting points for pilgrims from all around the world. They are perfect for budget travellers, and backpackers who do not wish to spend a fortune on their stays.

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Shared rooms: Usually, Albergues are dorm rooms with shared rooms and bunk beds. They can be a variety of sizes, from small to a larger room, but that depends on the Albergue.

Limited amenities: Albergues have limited amenities. They are characterised by a shared kitchen, laundry facilities and a common area for all the travellers to share their experiences. Albergue can be public or private, and private albergues may offer more facilities such as a private room, and breakfast.

Pilgrim-centred: Albergues are the heart of the Camino de Santiago. They have been around for generations, and serve as a great way to meet fellow pilgrims and share stories about your journey.

Cost effective: A major feature of the Albergue is their cost effectiveness. They are the most economic option of the Camino de Santiago. Public Albergues charge less whereas private Albergues charge a bit more.

Cultural experience: If you stay in an Albergue, you will get to experience the Camino de Santiago at its epicentre. You will get to meet pilgrims from around the world and share their experiences.

Bedding arrangements: Usually, Albergues do not arrangements for bedding. It is therefore advisable to carry your own bedding and sheets so you are not inconvenienced.

Reservations: Albergues can be of two types public or private. They do operate on a first come serve basis, so reservation is not always necessary.

Camino etiquette: Since Albergues are places where a lot of pilgrims converge, it is expected of you to be mindful of others space and observe a common civil code of conduct.

Seasonality: In peak seasons, these Albergues have the risk of running full. In such situations it is advised that you book in advance.

Laundry facilities: Some Albergues may not offer laundry facilities. It is recommended that you carry quick drying clothes. Some might have the facility of a washing machine, but not a dryer. So be prepared to hang your clothes overnight.

Curfew and quiet hours: In order to maintain the decorum, Albergues have curfews (time you are expected to come back to the facility) and quiet hours (mostly after 10pm), so all the pilgrims can get the rest they require.

Security: We recommend you carry a travel lock to ensure your valuables and other travel items remain safe. Albergues are quite safe, but it is always better to be prepared.

Rural tourism accommodations

The rural tourism accommodations do not refer to a single type of house. It is rather a collection of houses that constitute these accommodations.

Farmhouses, Manors, Cottages and converted historical stays are some of the rural accommodations that will characterise your Camino journey. They are not your typical modern hotels, they are rustic stays that are characterised by elegance and traditional building materials such as wood or stone.

The features and the amenities depend upon the accommodation and thereby some variations may exist in your stay goes.

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Unique charm: These rural accommodations are usually converted manors, farmhouses, or village homes. It gives you a chance to experience the local and historical architecture and fully experience the culture of the Camino.

Tranquillity: These accommodations are usually situated in regions which are picturesque towns and scenic areas outside of the cities.

Local hospitality: Many of these businesses are run by families that have been doing this for generations. It gives you a real taste of the local culture and makes you feel right at home.

Comfort: This type of accommodation provides a little more amenities than an Albergue or a hostel. Some may even provide breakfast, laundry facilities or even a swimming pools.

Culinary experiences: Since these stays are rooted in areas and local culture, and run by families, it gives you a great experience of trying local cuisine.

Activities: Some stays go beyond the traditional stay and breakfast. They include activities such as sightseeing, wine tastings, or bike rides or hikes in surrounding areas.

Location: While offering a good amount of peacefulness and tranquillity, the location of these houses in some cases might be a bit far off from the nearest restaurants, and shops.

Limited availability: Since these houses have limited rooms, they do get booked quickly. It is recommended that if you want such an accommodation you book with us in advance.

Transportation: In some cases the location of these accommodations might be away from your Camino route. But do not worry, we arrange transportation for you in such cases.

Shared bathrooms: While some may offer attached bathrooms to your rooms, others may have common washrooms. It depends upon the layout of the property.

Social interactions: While these accommodations have common areas for travellers to converse, they do not have the kind of social atmosphere as an albergue. If you are someone who considers this as an important factor, you might want to reconsider.

Digital detox: These stays have limited access to Wi-Fi and other data connectivity. It offers you a chance to detox and let go off your electronic devices. It depends upon you if you are planning to stay connected during your journey.

Pet -friendly: These stays can also be pet friendly accommodations. Some stays along this route offer facilities for your furry friends. If you are travelling with a pet, please let us know in advance so we can make arrangements for you in that regard.

Hotels

Hotels are spread all over Spain. They are the most standard option for lodging for travellers. Hotels can range from 1 star to 5 stars. However, the rating of a hotels does not necessarily correspond to quality of services and stays.

They offer convenience of locations and of options. It does not matter what your budget or preference is, we will find a hotel that caters to what you require.

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Location: Hotels are situated in a variety of locations, from beachfronts to city centres to mountain resorts. Once you tell us your preferences and budget, we will find the best accommodation for you.

Variety of rooms: Hotels provide a wide variety of rooms, from single rooms, to sharing, to suites. All of it depends upon your budget and also the availability of stays on your Camino route.

Range of amenities: Depending upon the rating and the locations, hotels provide many amenities. Laundry services, concierge, breakfast services, spas, bars, fitness centres just to name a few.

Pet-friendly: Some hotels may be pet friendly while others may not be. If you are travelling with a furry companion, please inform us beforehand so we can make appropriate arrangements.

Technology integration: Hotels are usually well connected with Wi-fi services. If you are someone who wants to be connected or someone who wants to work throughout your Camino journey, then you can choose a hotel which provides you with that facility.

Budget: Hotels are flexible in the sense that since there are so many options, you can choose the one which cater to your budget.

Guest reviews: It is important to note that guest reviews are more important than star ratings. Sometimes a 2 star hotel would provide a more memorable stay than a 5 star one. Sometimes a more expensive hotel does not necessarily mean a better stay.

Hidden fees: If you are going to enjoy the extras at a hotel, there may be fees associated with those activities.

Unique offerings: Depending upon the location and the amenities at a hotel, they may offer unique experiences such as rooftop bars, historical architecture and stunning locations.

Travel style: It is not always necessary to choose luxury resorts to get the best experience out of your Camino. If you want to experience and walk and explore the city, a budget hotel in the city centre would be a better option. You can tell us your travel goals and we will design your itinerary to align with them.

Cancellation policy: While you should be mindful of a hotel's cancellation policy, you can leave that to us. If you are unsure about your travel plans being concrete, you can talk to us and we will address your queries.

Proximity to public transport: Some hotels may be located in places that are well connected by public transport. They can be a great stop on your Camino route without having to go on a detour.

National Parador Hotels of Spain

The rural tourism accommodations do not refer to a single type of house. It is rather a collection of houses that constitute these accommodations.

The features and the amenities depend upon the accommodation and thereby some variations may exist in your stay goes.

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Luxury:

Historical places: Parador hotels are historic places that have been converted into hotels. Manors, Monasteries, Castles, Mansions are some of the properties that allow you to experience Spanish history.

Unique architecture: Each hotel has it's own unique architectural style, and it allows you to experience the architectural style of a particular era.

Upscale amenities: Parador hotels provide luxurious services and high quality service. They are renowned for their impeccable service and hospitality.

Cultural experiences: Parador hotels give you a great exposure to Spanish culture and cuisine. You can experience traditional culture, architecture, and local customs.

Variety of choices: Parador hotels are spread across the region of Spain. It is a chain of more than 90 hotels spread across the country. A mountain retreat, or a seaside serenity, or even a city view, you have got a wide array to choose from.

Cost: Parador hotels are generally more expensive than other times of stays. So you should consider your budget before booking.

Seasonality: Pardors are popular tourist destinations, and thus in peak seasons they might be booked way in advance.

Location: Parador hotels are set in historical locations, and some times these locations might be set a bit away from your Camino route. Additional transporation time and fees may apply.

Social interaction: Paradors tend to be less socially active as compared to an albergue or a hostel. If you are seeking more social atmosphere, you might want to consider other options.

Style: Paradors offer different types of styles. Soome might be modern, or rustic, set in hisotirical times. The experiences also change depending upon the property.

Pet-friendly: Some paradors might not be pet friendly. We advise you to tell us in advance if you are travelling with a furry companion.

Activities: The activities offered during the stay depend upon the location of the Parador hotel. SOme may offer hiking or cycling adventures while others may offer more relaxed amenties like Spas.

Accessibility: In some hotels, due to its location, accessibility for the disabled might be limited. Please inform us beforehand, so that we ensure you do not encounter any inconveniences.