Looking to head on an incredible summer adventure? The CaminoWays.com team has picked the best Camino routes for summer.
These stunning routes range from stunning mountain trails, open to walkers only during summer months, to ruggedly beautiful coastal trails.
Summer is the ideal time to walk the Camino due to the fantastic selection of festivals taking place along many routes, offering a fascinating insight into the culture and traditions of the area.
Walking the Camino de Santiago during the summer months also means you can make the most of the incredible weather and go for a swim off one of the beautiful sandy beaches.
Get inspired with the CaminoWays.com's best summer walking adventures:
1: The Finisterre Way & Muxía Way
This route is unique in that it is the only Camino trail that starts in the stunning ancient city of Santiago de Compostela. Walkers then make their way along Galicia's incredible 'Coast of Death', where pagans believed the land of the living and the 'other world' were closest. With its rugged coastline and pristine beaches, this route truly is a magical experience.
Prices start at €527pps in high season for 5 nights, from Santiago to Cape Fisterra.
2: The Portugese Coastal Camino
This route follows the wild Atlantic Coast from the beautiful city of Porto and brings walkers through quaint seaside towns and areas that boast outstanding cuisine. This route is extra special during the summer when Porto celebrates its biggest festival, São João.
Prices start at €715pps in high season for 6 nights, from Porto to Baiona.
3: The Way of the English and Irish
Retrace the footsteps of medieval pilgrims from Ireland and Britain on this ancient Camino route where you will encounter coastal views, pretty towns and lush green Galician countryside. The path starts in the port city of Ferrol, home to sandy beaches, ideal for enjoying during the summer months.
Prices start from €649pps in high season, from Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela.
4: The Northern Way
From charming fishing villages, delicious food, exciting cities and wonderful Summer festivals, The Northern Way is a route with something for everyone. Start in the beautiful Basque country, in the chic town of San Sebastian, a city with one of the highest numbers of Michelin stars, or arty Bilbao home to the impressive Guggenheim Museum, before following the coast, sampling incredible seafood and swimming off beautiful beaches.
Prices start from €615pps in high season for 6 nights from Bilbao to Santander.
5: A Via Francigena pilgrim in Switzerland
This section of the Via Francigena, the Camino to Rome, begins in the stunning Swiss city of Lausanne. Walkers then head on an Alpine hike through the gorgeous Alps to St Bernard's Pass and finally onto Aosta in Italy. This route is only open in the summer months and is quite challenging, however, walkers will be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views they have ever seen.
Prices start from €989pps in high season for 9 nights from Lausanne to Aosta.
6: Alpine adventure in Mont Blanc
The Tour de Mont Blanc is one of the most popular long distance walks in Europe. This Alpine adventure is only available during the summer months and passes through parts of Switzerland, Italy and France. Experienced hikers and explorers will adore this fantastic opportunity to walk through the valleys around the Mont Blanc Massif.
Prices start from €599pps for 7 nights.
7: Island hoping in the Bay of Naples
Home to a huge selection of historical and cultural treasures, the Bay of Naples is a truly amazing destination for a walking holiday. Hop from island to island and discover all that this beautiful destination has to offer including mountains, forests, castles and even a volcano.
Prices start from €739pps for 7 nights.
8: Inspired by Catalonia
With its picture-perfect vineyards, crystal waters and friendly locals, Catalonia's Costa Brava is a place that walkers will adore. The region was once home to surrealist painter Salvador Dali and is the perfect place to experience rolling hills, sleepy ports and exciting festivals.
Prices start at €789pps for 6 nights.
All our holidays are tailor-made and the number of walking days can be adapted to your requirements, fitness and preference.
When and price: Get 10% off if you book one of our 8 Best Camino Summer adventures by 31st May 2014 to travel in July/August 2014 (T&C apply). Please note this is a limited time special offer only. Discount is applied off the holiday base price. Depending on availability.
Price includes: Half-board accommodation, luggage transfers from hotel to hotel, holiday pack with walking notes and practical information.
Also available: Hotel upgrades and airport transfers
Price does not include: Flights or insurance