Most Inspirational Moment
We were a small group (five) - I took my inspiration from the other people on the trip who were all a bit better than me and helped me along the way. The off-road section on the morning of the penultimate day - this was harder than anything I had done before and the scenery was spectacular. The end of the final push up to Santiago!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Dani was a great leader. He constantly adapted the route to give us more/less off-road biking according to our pace. I learnt a lot and will be much more confident about tackling hills in future. Jose was in a driver/support role for our week but I would also have complete confidence in him. A local guide really makes the difference with food tasting. We got some preferential treatment and delicacies from the restaurants along the camino who all know our guides very well. Try a bit of everything!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Get your pilgrim passport stamped - it is a nice momento of the trip. The toughest climb is the road up to O'Cebreiro. There is an option to take the walkers' route to the summit village instead which two of us did and enjoyed. Consider an extra night in Santiago - we flew back on Sunday from the local airport. Go to the Friday night mass in Santiago with the Botafumeiro - none of our party were doing the camino for religious reasons but it was an insight into how much the pilgrimage means for those who were. Packing cubes - I'm a recent convert! They really help for a trip like this when you are on the move all the time. Take your own water bottle as these are not supplied.
Suggestions
Enjoy this trip - Buen Camino!