Walking The Way: What I learnt from going on pilgrimage

More people of all faiths and none are choosing to pull on their boots and take to the ancient paths of pilgrimage. Emma Fowle heads to Spain to find out what it’s all about

When I arrived in the port city of Santander to walk part of the Camino Lebaniego, I did not really know what to expect. As someone who loves the outdoors, travelling and new experiences, I was excited to visit a part of Spain I had never been to before, to walk in the beautiful Picos de Europa mountains, eat good food and meet new people. 

But like many who strap on their hiking boots and take to The Way these days, I had little knowledge of the religious concept of pilgrimage, or the Catholic traditions that underpin it. Nonetheless, I was keen to embrace the spiritual discipline of slowing down, enjoying God’s creation and taking some time out of my otherwise always-on life.