As travel tastes change in our 40s, many of us begin to favour depth over speed. While bucket list items are important to us, we would rather tick just one off the list and savor it, rather than rush to tick off 3 in a weekend. It’s not just about energy levels, but that we grow to appreciate culture and community, and that we can’t experience it in a rush.
It’s for this reason that Camino de Santiago becomes more appealing as we get older. It’s a challenge, but it’s possible. It’s spiritual, but not forced.
The history of the Camino
The Camino de Santiago began as a medieval pilgrimage honouring St. James. The routes spread across Europe and all point to the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. For centuries, it was a spiritual lifeline for Christian pilgrims who wanted an outlet for their devotion and curiosity. In 2026, Camino had a rebirth. It draws religious travellers, certainly, but also many thousands who simply want culture and camaraderie.
Cultural encounters along the way
One of the Camino’s biggest payoffs is the sheer cultural range. When starting in Navarra, you’ll see medieval bridges, Basque traditions, local festivals. In La Rioja, vineyards and wine culture become ubiquitous. Castile and León impress has Gothic structures like Burgos Cathedral and the stained glass of León’s cathedral. Ancient plazas are in most major towns along the way – great for tapas and a drink. It’s these wind-down evenings that help rejuvenate and digest what you’ve seen that day.
Entering Galicia, the atmosphere is surprisingly Celtic with stone villages and bagpipe melodies. Traditional dishes like caldo gallego or pulpo a feira show how proud the local regional identity is. Throughout, you’ll find local markets, pilgrim menus, artisan workshops, and even some varied dialects.
The community of the Camino
The Camino is known for being welcoming. It’s not surprising when the trail and its history are so old – something that even locals cannot claim to be theirs entirely, as inherently it was a shared space. Walkers from around the world come to walk side by side in the same direction. Even when no words are spoken, there’s a sense of community as you see others suffer the same challenges.
Conversations do spark easily, though, be in on the trail or over meals in the albergues. For solo travellers over 40, this environment opens the door to unexpected friendships.
Reflection and the inner journey
Because of how lengthy the route is, the walking encourages a sense of introspection. The rhythm and, at times, boredom, can help the mind wonder and heal. Fresh air and a long day ahead invites clarity. You detach from routines and reconnect with the earth and the gravity of the pilgrimage.
Planning a meaningful Camino experience
There are many routes to choose from, and each offers something a little different. The French Way is the number one choice for many, making it popular, but that’s for good reason. It has lively towns, incredible history, and plenty of pilgrim lore. The Portuguese Way is a gentler terrain as you head north along the coast. It’s a bit quieter and has great beaches along the way. Routes starting off towards Southern Spain are more difficult and have more solitude. There are also short trails.
Booking with a specialist Camino de Santiago tour provider is ideal if you want to access curated routes that suit your energy and fitness levels – they can even transfer your luggage from hotel to hotel, and book everything on your behalf!
A cultural pilgrimage for the soul
The Camino de Santiago is inclusive for all. It’s a journey where young people discover themselves, and where the old reflect and achieve their dream trip. For those seeking culture, it’s the best way to immerse yourself and see every blade of grass along the way.