Santiago
Camino de Santiago, The Way of Saint James, is a religious pilgrimage for some, an endurance test for others and mighty craic for all! For 1000's of years 'pereguinos' have been making the trek through various routes in Europe on towards the beautiful town of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Northern Spain. The full trek can take months, however us Trinity VDP'ers cheat just a little and complete the last 100km over 5 days, followed by a well earned two days of partying in Madrid!
When I arrived fresh faced and excited at the airport last March I knew two other people on my route, but by the time it came for our groups tearful goodbye, I had 17 fantastic new friends, wonderful memories, hilarious photos and of course, very sore feet! Fondly known as 'Bantiago', this week is full of unbelievable fun, countless blisters, swims in freezing cold rivers, hours of trekking whilst roaring Irish ballads at the tops of your lungs and memorable nights in abandoned hostels in the middle of the beautiful spanish countryside. Bantiago it certainly is!
However the Camino is not just about the 'Bant'. It also raises much needed funds for Vincent de Paul's excellent work in Zambia, the twin society of Dublin, as well as elsewhere. Each participant aims to raise at least €250 through events like quiz nights, sponsered rowathons, pancake sales, auctions or just plain door to door neighbourly collections. A very do-able and enjoyable task!
The Camino was one of the most unforgettable and exhilarating weeks of my life and I can't wait to repeat it this year. Trinity VDP organises a group of 60 to make the trek each year along 3 different routes, and if you would like to be a part of the lucky 60 then email:
or fill out the form on the left
and you too can experience the craic of 'Bantiago'!
Unfortunately, the deposits for Santiago have all been taken and the groups picked, thus it is too late to sign up! For more information e-mail the activity leader!