Update & 17km Walk...

New 'stuff' for the walk!

Just thought I'd put up a post to let you all know I haven't given up!
Since the last post considerable progress has been made!, I have been to get some equipment for the walk, including a rucksack, three in one coat, walking shoes and some 1000 mile socks which are supposed to prevent blisters.

In terms of walking prep. I haven't been able to all that much which is both worrying and irritating. I have been at University since Christmas and my plan was to return at Easter and re-try the 28k walk that I have done before but this time with my bag. However, just before the holidays I fell ill with an infection which left me unable to walk or even stand - not ideal considering I'm planning to walk 500 miles in just 2 months! I have just about recovered now after 3-4 weeks of being ill and today went on a 'canal walk'.

This took us along the canal to Marple and then we visited the Roman Lakes which was lovely. It also included a free tour of an on-going excavation of a mill, house and gardens which date from the turn of the industrial revolution. The walk was 11 miles (17km) long and majority of it was flat with a few ascents and descents as we walked through the valley.

The other day, Jess and I booked our first nights stay! We have booked in with Gite Ultreia which looks comfortable and perfectly situated in the center of the town near to the Pilgrim office which is where we will be officially starting our walk from. The hostel or 'Auberge' looks very comfortable - perfect to get a good nights rest after our flights and train ride! Its pricier than some hostels we looked at online at the price of €15, as most are apparently between €3 - €7.

Hopefully I will be able to fit some more practice in before we fly on the 8th June!!

Training Walk - 27km

Today me and my mum took a training walk (as she is also attempting a large walk in the UK - the Cumbrian Way). By training walk, I mean keep walking until we hit 25km, which is the length of the first day of walking for me and Jess on the Camino.

Today we walked in total 28km (17miles), but not without difficulties!
The walk began steadily paced on the flat but grew into clambering up and down the hillside of the Peak District. For most of our journey we walked along a Bridleway which was a road originally meant for human transport on horses.We crossed many terrains including farm land, 4x4 courses (where we were led off paths by roaring motorbikes and land rovers) and paths through villages. 

I can at least say I have successfully walked the amount (plus more) set for the first and most taxing walk. I found it challenging at first as it involved sudden steep climbs and toward the last couple of miles I was very achy and tired. But hopefully with improvement of my stamina and fitness I shall be able to improve how I react to such a walk.

As I write this I am sat in my living room in front of a 'real' fire but me and my mother are now having trouble walking without looking like a one legged OAP!

Practice , Practice, Practice!

Lindsay

Jet on the tops
13/1/13

Introduction To My Blog!!

 It has begun.
My good friend Jess and I have decided to challenge ourselves and walk the 'Camino de Santiago de Compostela' (or 'Camino' for short). For those who are unaware of this particular excursion, it is a 500mile walk crossing from France to Spain in a variety of routes. We are taking the 'Camino Frances' which begins at St.Jean Pied du Port and finishes at Santiago de Compostela (and yes... this does cross over the Pyrenees! ahhhh!) This will take around 30-40days to complete - so no small feat!




I am 20years old and my friend 19, we are both at University in our second year, and neither of us have done or attempted anything like this before . You must be wondering why we are wanting to complete this somewhat 'mad' challenge. Well, to be honest at the age of 20, I feel like I need to do something slightly 'mad' and adventurous. I am currently studying at University, however I don't feel that this is something I have chosen for myself. Rather that I have continued my studies due to the assumed plan in how we are to grow up and become successful. I feel that in completing this walk (which I am determined to do) I will have achieved something for me and no one else!

I have been supported in my decision to take on such a daunting enterprise by most of my family, however some are doubtful that I will complete the 500mile walk. I am aware that my fitness level and weight are not that of an experienced mountaineer, but I am determined, and in my opinion this is all I need.

Don't think though that I am not going to 'train' for this walk. I am walking as often as possible currently if not with my pet dog, Jet, then with my friends and family. This is helped that I live in the Peak District which is in abundance of hills and paths to take you away from it all. I am selfishly hoping that this long walk will improve my weight as I am not the slimmest of folk, not just for the benefit of smaller clothes sizes but also for my health.

Now the flights are booked there is no turning back!

This blog will tell the tales of my efforts to train for the journey but hopefully the journey itself.

Lindsay ...