Cheaper and Quieter Alternatives to the Camino de Santiago

Looking for an alternative to the popular Camino de Santiago for your autumn hiking trip? Look no further, as we have compiled a list of six lesser-known hiking routes across Europe and beyond that offer a similar experience to the Camino. These routes are perfect for those looking for a quieter pilgrimage experience or for those who have already completed the Camino and are seeking a new challenge.

First up is the Camino Mozárabe in Spain, where you can explore the history of Spain while walking through the beautiful Andalusian countryside. This series of walking routes were used by Christian pilgrims in Al Ándalus and offer a unique perspective on the country’s past. The routes vary in length and difficulty, with some starting in Granada or Almeria and ending at the Tomb of Saint James in Galicia.

Next, we have Romania’s Via Transilvanica, a 1,400km walking route that crosses the country from north to south. This route was inspired by ancient pilgrim routes like the Camino de Santiago and offers trekkers the opportunity to explore the stunning Carpathian Mountains. The route was completed with the help of over 10,000 volunteers and is now open for hikers to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a longer pilgrimage route, the Via Francigena in Switzerland and Italy may be the perfect choice for you. This ancient pilgrim trail stretches over a thousand kilometers, from the Great St Bernard Pass in Switzerland to Rome. While there are no pilgrim hostels along the way, this route offers a unique experience and the chance to visit several interesting cities.

For those interested in exploring Japan, the Kumano Kodo and Shikoku Henro are two sister trails that offer a similar pilgrimage experience to the Camino de Santiago. The Kumano Kodo is a 70km route that leads to the Kumano Temple on the Kii Peninsula, while the Shikoku Henro is a circular route that covers 1,200 kilometers and visits 88 temples. Both routes have their origins in the Middle Ages and offer trekkers a chance to explore Japan’s rich religious history.

If Norway is on your hiking bucket list, consider trekking along St Olav’s Way to Trondheim Cathedral, where Saint Olav is said to be buried. This ancient pilgrimage route has been in use since 1032 and takes trekkers through rural parts of the country. While the route requires some planning, it offers a unique pilgrimage experience through Norway’s stunning landscapes.

Lastly, for a coastal walk through Turkiye, the Lycian Way is a 509km route that takes trekkers along the rocky coastline of the Tekke Peninsula. This route offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and allows hikers to explore the ancient remains of the Lycian civilization. Keep in mind that lodgings are far apart on this route, so be prepared to camp at some points along the way.

In conclusion, if you’re looking to escape the crowds and delve into a new hiking adventure this autumn, consider exploring one of these quieter alternatives to the Camino de Santiago. From the historical routes in Spain and Romania to the stunning landscapes of Japan and Norway, there are plenty of options to choose from for your next pilgrimage journey. So lace up your hiking boots and set off on a new adventure this autumn!