BICYCLING ON THE CAMINO

8 September 2023, camino 3, Day 9

Belorado to Villafranca Montes de Oca

I spoke about bicycling on the camino 2 years ago and I want to reiterate my findings. Having bicycled in organized rides in the states there are certain rules to be followed. When passing it is customary to call out, “On your left”. This way other bicyclists or walkers on the path know to move right so the bicyclist can pass safety. This does not happen on the Camino.

With so many countries and languages “on your left” might not be understood. Then there are those cyclists who come from countries that drive on the left side of the road so they are accustomed to passing on the right.

I used to try to get out of the way but often found myself actually stepping into the path of an oncoming cyclist. So whenever I hear a cyclist coming I just stop and stand still. They can see me and they know which direction they are going. That’s my strategy.

There is a different question of whether or not cyclists should even be allowed on the camino.

A few feet before this picture was taken the path was half the width and two bicyclists came through with very little warning. It was a little scary.

But back to the question. In his book Off the road: a modern-day walk down the pilgrim’s route into Spain, Jack Hitt has a discussion with Claudy, a Flemish man. Claudy is insistent that bicyclists are cheaters on the camino. Then Jack brings up people who ride horses…

or have donkeys to carry their packs…

Claudy snorts and says, “That is tradition.” End of argument.

I have a lot of respect for the bicyclists. Just look at the elevation profiles and imagine cycling up those hills. I just wish there was an easier way to know they’re coming.

Buen Camino