In this rich and reflective conversation, Sandy Hammond shares her experiences walking two different routes of the Camino de Santiago — first the Camino del Norte and later the Portuguese route from Porto — describing how what began as a carefully planned, mileage-focused adventure slowly transformed into something much deeper. As a self-proclaimed “Type A planner,” Sandy arrived with spreadsheets and daily distance goals, only to discover that the Camino has its own pace and personality. Through café stops, long communal meals, and conversations with pilgrims from around the world, she learned that the journey isn’t about conquering miles but surrendering to the rhythm of the day. The contrasts between routes — the quieter, more flexible Norte and the increasingly popular Portuguese path requiring more advance planning — offered practical insights, but it was the human connection and the slow unfolding of each day that left the greatest mark.

Layered into the conversation is Leslie’s own experience walking the Camino Francés, adding another dimension to the discussion. Together, the stories highlight how each route carries a different energy, yet all invite the same deeper shift — from productivity to presence, from control to curiosity. Leslie reflects on her own lessons from the Francés, the beauty of shared struggle and simple routines, and the surprising clarity that can emerge from putting one foot in front of the other for days on end. What emerges is a powerful reminder that adventure after 50 isn’t about checking a box — it’s about saying yes, loosening the grip on perfection, and allowing the road to change you along the way.

A slice of what you can find online regarding the Caminos:

https://caminoways.com/camino-de-santiago-routes

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