6 Lessons Spain’s Camino de Santiago Taught Me
6 Lessons the Camino de Santiago Taught Me
Unforgettable 6 Lessons on Spain’s Ancient Trail
I want to share the 6 lessons this incredible journey taught me. I’ve just returned from cycling 300km of the Camino de Santiago, a bucket-list trip I had been dreaming about for over a decade. While I may not have walked it in the traditional way, completing over a third of the trail with my family—teenage boys included—over nine action-packed days was an unforgettable adventure!
I know I’ll be back to explore even more—either on foot or by bike. But for now, I want to share the 6 lessons this incredible journey taught me.
What Is the Camino de Santiago?
The Camino de Santiago, also known as The Way of St. James, is one of Spain’s most famous pilgrimage routes. Marked by yellow arrows and the iconic blue-and-yellow scallop shells, it stretches 800km from St-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Every year, over 200,000 pilgrims take on this ancient trail.
This journey is about breaking free from the daily grind, embracing simplicity, immersing yourself in stunning landscapes, and connecting with people from all corners of the world.
I will never forget cycling past ancient Spanish castles, crossing Roman bridges, weaving through medieval villages, and taking in breathtaking vineyards and mountain views. The history, vibrant wildflowers, flowing brooks, friendly locals, and homemade Spanish food made every moment unforgettable. The camaraderie among pilgrims was heartwarming, as we shared stories, laughter, and challenges.
Now, let me share 6 powerful lessons I learned along the way.
A Life-Changing Six Lesson Adventure on an Ancient Path
1. Make It Your Own
Once you step onto the trail, you are a pilgrim—regardless of how you choose to experience it.
Some walk every step and stay in hostels, while others cycle, take detours, or even complete it in sections over years. Some seek adventure, others embark on a spiritual quest, and many walk in honor of loved ones.
Your journey is yours alone. Don’t compare, and don’t feel the need to justify your choices. Honor your own path.
2. Embrace the Challenges
Difficulties are guaranteed on the Camino. But they also offer powerful lessons.
One of my biggest tests came when my youngest son’s bike got a flat tire in 30-degree heat, with no phone reception, no map, and no clear destination in sight. With minimal Spanish and a distressed teenager beside me, my choices were: panic, break down, or get resourceful.
After a moment of frustration (I’m human, after all!), we pushed forward, navigating cornfields to reconnect with the trail. Hours later, we stumbled upon familiar faces, and the crisis was resolved.
What I learned? Always carry a map, know your route, ask for help sooner rather than later, and learn some basic Spanish!
3. Integrate the Lessons
Every day brings new insights, but they’re only valuable if you apply them moving forward.
Pain and discomfort often highlight areas that need attention, whether that’s physical endurance, mental resilience, or emotional strength. Pay attention, adjust your approach, and keep learning as you go.
4. Honor Your Own Rhythm
By the middle of the first day, you’ll find your natural pace.
Go too fast, and you’ll burn out. Move too slow, and frustration sets in. Listen to your body, pace yourself, and embrace the journey.
I was surprised that as the days went on, I got stronger instead of more exhausted. Five hours into some rides, I felt better than when I started!
The Camino isn’t a race—your fitness will improve, and your endurance will build. Drink plenty of water, fuel your body, rest when needed, and take magnesium to support muscle recovery.
5. Do the Work
Excitement will get you started, but preparation will carry you through.
If you live a mostly sedentary life, ease into it. Start with shorter distances, train in advance, and build up endurance.
For cycling, put in the miles before you go. Nothing prepares you better than time in the saddle. If walking, gradually increase your distance before setting out.
6. Enjoy the Journey
The real magic of the Camino is in the unexpected moments.
Be open to new experiences, embrace spontaneity, and let go of rigid expectations. Use this time to reflect on life, re-evaluate priorities, and soak in every detail.
And, of course, join in the Camino’s famous greeting:
💛 Buen Camino! 💛
(Which translates to “good road” but also means a good journey, both physically and spiritually.)
What’s On Your Bucket List?
Is there a dream trip you’ve been thinking about for years? What’s stopping you from making it happen?
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment below and tell me about your next adventure.
Ready to start planning? Take the leap—the best stories come from the journeys we finally take.
Buen Camino!
Julie XX
