Recommendations to Make the Pilgrimage on Bicycle

Making the Way of Santiago on bycicle requires an excellent physical shape, because most of its 800 Km run through pathways, usually with cobblestones, that flood easily almost throughout the year. Approximately half the route runs through uneven surfaces, with continous inclines up and down and some important stops. The pilgrim can plan the route at his own discretion, taking into account his physical condition and the time he wants to spend.

 Before setting out on the way, you should check the basic equipment on your bicycle. It consists of saddlebags and carrier on the back wheel, where you will carry most of your luggage and a triangular padded bag under the saddle where you can keep the tool kit. You can also fix some small bags to your handlebar containing your documentation. It is very important to distribute the weight in a balanced way.

It is also convenient to set up a speedometer with milometer. It will make it easier to read maps and it will help you plan the route while you are travelling. The physical shape of the pilgrim is also a basic condition.

Experienced bicyclists should train on a regular basis and get used to some new elements that would be part of the route. For example,by pedalling on narrow paths or up steeps with the saddlebags full.

Inexperienced bicyclists should begin their training by getting used to the bicycle as well as to roads, pathways and uneven surfaces.

Another important matter is the itinerary. Santiago´s Route should not be considered a race to Compostela, therefore, you will have to take into account the time you can afford in order to plan your itinerary. Do not become obsessed with arriving fast and, instead, make the most of your journey.

The choice of a place to sleep will have to be made according to the route planning, with an alternative choice near the place chosen as the end of the stage. Do not forget that the pilgrims who travel on foot have priority in hospices. Therefore, it is possible that bicyclists will not have rooms for them. 

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