SOLO FEMALE crossing over the PYRENEES MOUNTAINS (by foot) | Camino de Santiago 2022

[@vanhallaadventures]

This day is embedded in my forever memory - I am SO excited to share it with you! Waking up in the Pyrenees to the fog & mist and walking through the mountains as rainbows appeared and horses roamed - it was a DREAM (despite my fear of horses 🙈) BUEN CAMINO !

[@sidesignfurniturerestoration]

🤍 Pyrenees are enchanting, you have a wonderful adventure!

[@valeriequinn6720]

So cool! Do I get residuals for my acting??? HA HA I forgot about the "horse fear" thing. Can't wait for the next installment. Miss you!

[@vanhallaadventures]

YES OBVI LOL. I have SO much content of you and Claire! Just wait....;)

[@paulyu998]

Hi Crystal. This is Paul ... your fellow peregrino. So excited to see the next chapters of your Camino chronicles!!!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Paul!!!!!! Ahhhh!!! So excited to see you in the feed!!! How are YOU?!

[@christinewinner6425]

Rainbows are a reminder of his Covernant with us. His Covernant of Love and free Gift of Salvation.

[@jornspirit]

...just watching your whole journey in one go... leaving messages at every stop :) ...your complaints about breakfast times... I soon made it a habit to not rely on set breakfast times, so if I was early I just had an orange and some water and then walked until Spanish breakfast time and found a cafe for a proper one... I think one of the most important lessons for me was that I have to follow my own rhythm of walking and compromise that as little as possible (thus I sometimes even paid in advance for breakfast next morning and then left earlier anyway, which was worth it!) :)

[@Juanfernandez-sm8jl]

👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏😀😀😀😀😀😀😀😀 Thanks for sharing,,,,, we love these videos!!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thanks Juan! I’m so happy to hear that ☺️

[@reed0199]

"Pack Lite" - Your Forward Bag will always be available for "Tomorrow". Buen Camino. Only 700 Km to go !!! WINDY !!!

[@alejandramguerrero5885]

What a great job on this first video . I’m afraid to do the Camino on my own but perhaps trailing your adventures will give me the courage . Thank you for the play by plays here, as to what it was like on this first day . You really captured it well. It really has been helpful to see and hear a fairly detailed account of what you experienced and how you felt at the beginning of this journey . I hope I will one day follow suit . Again-Great job !

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you 🥰 I have now completed the Camino and can say - walking alone yet meeting friends along the way was the best decision I have made. It allowed me to deepen into my Independence while still having community. You are well supported by the Camino - trust your gut if you want to go. Feel the fear and follow your heart ❤️ And please let me know if you have questions. I’d be happy to help!

[@cheromilli2681]

great trail blazing the Camino Crystal. thank-you for sharing ❤️ curious....where did you leave all the luggage you brought ?

[@johnmys5am]

Put a pair of regular socks (Darn Tough preferably) right over those Injinji's and you will get zero blisters. I hiked the AT, the Long Trail, and the Pinhoti Trail so this comes from some miles of real world experience. It's mostly about 2 layers of fabric eliminating friction on your skin. Good luck!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Great advice! Thanks 🤗

[@ervinslens]

Super adventure! Great film and shots of this amazing trail. I like the fact that you were very descriptive of the hike.🔥

[@blancatorres1047]

Breathtaking views, I hope I can do the camino or part of it in three years when I retire 🙏🏻

[@dearmountains3431]

What an awesome experience❣❣ it's really well done. Thank you for sharing. I also use the socks you are wearing😉

[@vanhallaadventures]

I LOVE the Injin socks (I'd love to have them as a sponsor so everyone can get a discount. They were such a great addition to the pack!) Thanks for watching :)

[@stephannirichards8163]

What a fabulous day and magical scenery and light and vibes. You look so happy Crystal. Can’t wait for the next video xx

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thanks Stephanni! This has truly been the greatest growth of my life :)

[@carolp1912]

what an amazing day. I just retuned from the portugese coastal and now want to do the frances sometime in the future. Your videos are amazing.

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you Carol 🤗 I’ve been curious about that route. My friend completed it earlier this year and loved it.

[@angelortiz1971]

For years I have been thinking about walking El Camino, but I have not follow through. I’m glad I found your channel! You are doing an amazing job. Thank you for your enthusiasm and for being honest about your fears as you continue your journey to Santiago de Compostela.

[@SunriseFlorida19]

Great adventure! Congrats!

[@Merbella]

You have a great smile 😍 it lights up the room. 💗

[@vanhallaadventures]

Oh thank you!

[@meghanwittman8153]

The horses are amazing!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Despite my fear - I agree! I love looking at them - so majestic!

[@markwilliamson9140]

Just subscribed, you are so inspiring. Thank you for doing this video. It's pulled me out of an emotional rut.

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you mark. Whatever is going on in your life, I trust that it is temporary and part of your evolution. If you feel called, the Camino is the perfect place to work through things. Or a long walk near home. Blessed be 🤗

[@markwilliamson9140]

@@vanhallaadventures yeah I've always wanted to do the camino trail. Go on a spiritual journey, get close to God. Maybe in the future. Been going through a lot of personal issues in my life at the moment. Feel a bit stuck in my life, not getting anywhere. Feel like I need to take a walking spiritual journey to find myself of that makes sense. I feel lost in knowing who I truly am. Thank you for your response n thank you for putting some inspiration back into my heart. Cheers, blessings from England 👍

[@kimberleyclaeys9659]

This is so Beautiful to watch. You look so happy Cristal!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you for witnessing my Joy 🥰 I was over the moon! (Still am too!)

[@hallotessy9412]

Crystal, I met you on the camino et El Burgos del Raneiro (at the "party" we had in the backyard) it is so lovely to see your video's and to recognize all the places we walked through. Love to see the rest:) Hope you're doing good! ❤️

[@vanhallaadventures]

Is this Tessy? 😃

[@hallotessy9412]

@@vanhallaadventures yes!!:):)

[@thehauntedvansion9442]

Yes, sheep! ❤️😍 A not completely foolproof but fairly reliable way to ID is: if their ears stick out horizontally they’re sheep and if the ears hang down or point up they’re goats. Source: I used to be a sheep and goat (and llama) farmer.

[@thehauntedvansion9442]

Also, I’m afraid of horses as well. One walked up to me while I was eating a plate of scrambled eggs at work and bit the living 💩 out of my upper arm and I don’t trust them anymore 😂 Later that same day that same horse sent someone to the ER from a bite and that must be a scar he can tell stories about !

[@duraphotos]

Hi. I loved to watch your footage. I wish I was there again. I'll follow you all the your way. Buen camino

[@vanhallaadventures]

Aw thank you! Buen Camino!

[@koreanature]

Wow... !!! My best friend, Great... We liked and enjoyed to the end. Thanks Have a happy day!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you!

[@SusanThompson33]

You are so amazing!!!!!’ Wow - you inspire, set an example of what can be done when you go after your dreams, construct wonderful content week after week, and you have guts!!!!! You go girl! Thanks so much for taking us along on your unbelievable journey!!!!!!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you so much!! Reading this gives me so many happy 'butterflies' :) Blessed Be Susan!

[@victoriaacosta8141]

Thank you for this video it was quite beautiful. What an amazing experience. Question, what airport in st jean did you fly into?

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you! I flew into Paris then to Biarritz (BIQ), France then had my Alburgue pick me up from the airport.

[@hcathytagmount5124]

Your doing fantastic really enjoying this.🥰

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you!

[@JudyG745]

I love your positivity ✨

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you Judy ❤️

[@anneokane7172]

Thanks for another great informative video.

[@vanhallaadventures]

Happy you enjoyed it :)

[@dottiem9777]

Hi there! My Camino ended 2 hours in. 😔 how much did your backpack weigh? I’m planning on trying again next year.

[@jeninewatts5320]

Looks amazing ... well done and good luck x

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you Jenine 🤗

[@securityranger773]

A couple things you might consider that I did on my Camino walk. I took advantage of luggage forwarding. Only carried a day pack everyday. You could still get that if you pre-planned your room reservations. Secondly, double sock. I used a marino wool outer sock and a lightweight inner sock. That will reduce the friction on those hot spots. Your smart using mole skin early.

[@vanhallaadventures]

Luggage and foot care videos are coming soon! Thanks for watching!

[@ssue4q]

I love love seeing the horses. I grew up having horses in Co. you can tell they're quite used to people and probably people petting them quite often. another epic day thanks for sharing the gorgeous scenery safe and happy travels on your hike ✌️🥰p.s. just remember horses are not bulls. they're not going to charge you. to me those aren't even wild horses they're very tame and I'm sure that has to do with the trail. the horses in Ocean City Maryland are much more wild.Still I was able to pet them💞

[@lindseyt7306]

Wow I love the video production! Did you have someone recording or just editing the finished product?

[@vanhallaadventures]

Just me :) Though my hubby is editing. I just put the clips in order and send it to him. Thanks for the compliment. I was a bit anxious to see if the footage would accurately portray the beauty and experience.

[@dianneperkins9192]

I would like to know how she does the camera work. Is it in a belt extension?

[@brigidspencer5123]

Forgive me for asking any obvious questions but do you pay extra for a private room and does it include a private bathroom? All how much does it cost to have your bag transported to your next refuge, how much is dinner and breakfast? Have you read Shirley MacLaine’s book The Camino and watched movie The Way? Did you make any preparations for walking the Camino such as training physically for the long daily walks? Thanks so much for sharing your journey. You are an amazing young woman!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Hi Brigid, great questions! Yes I have seen “The Way” but have not read “The Camino”. Pretty much all of your questions can be answered in the video links below. Thanks for watching ☺️ Camino expenses: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nYumXqRrasl4psk Camino accommodations: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJymep16atKEnNU Camino packing list: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hKnHo6yNZrN8rpo

[@sharonwilson2450]

What an awesome adventure you are on! The landscape is just beautiful! And those rainbows 🌈!! Just fantastic! Can't wait until your next video! Have fun and be safe! ❤️

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thanks Sharon :) Next video is up NEXT Saturday as I organize footage :)

[@barrybungard8877]

How did you transport all your gear (including trekking poles)? We’re you able to carry on everything?

[@edisonarias7071]

How many days take to complete camino de santiago???thanks

[@lauralane1760]

What month did you do the Pyranees? It's gorgeous.

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you! The Pyrenees are gorgeous! This was May 17th I believe. But only 2 weeks prior it was stormy. Mid to late May is a great time of year.

[@lauralane1760]

@@vanhallaadventures Another video scared me but yours calmed some of my fears of hiking through the Pyrenees especially being a solo female 🙏

[@laurap.5804]

hi, did you booked ahead where you stayed ? That is my big question doing the Camino... nice videos, great job!IT looks you start with new shoes....they all say don t do that. feet my hurt a lot ad so knee

[@briels8177]

Thank you for the incredible videos. I recognize all of the work going into these. I am excited to see the next chapter (it looks like someone might have taken over your feed???) Thank you also for all of the links. I think that the link for your hiking sandals is not right. And, I'm curious :) Thank you!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Hi Briel! Thank you, that’s so sweet of you to say. I do my best to capture the moment despite the heat 🥵 I’ll check the links tomorrow and get back to you!

[@hikesome]

Wow, what an incredibly beautiful adventure. Must have been amazing out there that day. Stay safe, Mario

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you Mario :) it was the most perfect day - truly felt taken aback by the beauty and people.

[@cathyy7135]

This was awesome, Crystal! And so cool to see Val!!! Looking forward to the next installment.

[@vanhallaadventures]

Hey Cathy!!!!! Wait until you show up and make your film debut ;)

[@samiwatts289]

Looks beautiful! Love the horses, rainbows and that your meeting people from all over. do they send your big pack to the next stop? Excited to see the scenery and what to expect along the way.

[@vanhallaadventures]

Yes. I hired a luggage service (I would say about 50% of people use this after a few days of being on the Camino) to transport each night. You can take a day pack with you and just get your clothing, toiletries at night at your next stop. WELL worth that $5 - $7 if you can include it in your budget. Thanks for watching! Next vlog will be up NEXT saturday at 7am PST / 10am EST and go from Roncesvalles - Pamplona.

[@cheromilli2681]

Did you use the same service to transfer your checked in luggage you brought from the airport? Love ❤️ you're journey!

[@thestrangefamily]

Thank you for sharing this. What an amazing capture of the moments of this trip.

[@williamwoods8765]

Hello Kristine

[@vanhallaadventures]

Aw thanks sister!!! :) I know you would love this. I see a Camino in your future ;)

[@patriciaj5505]

If you have a duffle bag carrying your stuff from one place to the next, what do you carry in your backpack? I am trying to figure out what size backpack to buy....and what features to need...assuming I use luggage transfer...

[@vanhallaadventures]

I carried my camera equipment. My luggage that I transferred had my laptop and charging equipment along with other gear as I travel FT. I would still use luggage transport anyways though as I loved it! Half of the people on the Camino end up using it anyways as it’s nice to walk light. Highly suggest! A 30L - 40L is a good size for a backpack for this walk. I’d make sure you have easy access to get out your Camino stamp book, passport, wallet, and rain jacket as needed. You could always carry a smaller backpack and a Fanny pack for easy access. I’m walking the Camino again and will do this myself. I like having a Fanny pack as you it’s easy to take the backpack off, leave it at a table, and go into a cafe to pay, use the restroom, etc but have important items with you. Buen Camino!

[@1walkinggirl]

I did this part of the Camino too - spectacular isn't it!

[@vanhallaadventures]

It was! I felt like I was re-born on that day - it was the sweetest initiation into the Camino 🥰

[@jenniferwarwick5644]

❤

[@syw4039]

Beautiful videos - we're with you - just subbed.

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you 😊

[@CruisinwiththeColemans]

Awww, we have reservations for La Posada in June. ❤ We totally get how amazing those unlimited hot showers feel! 🥳 Buen Camino - Michelle & Brian

[@carriedadamo]

How did u plan this whole trip and all the details? Did u have a travel Agency help u?

[@davidharris4062]

They are ‘Fogbows’, sometimes you will get a silhouette of your self projected onto the mist in the right conditions, called a ‘Brocken Spectre’

[@vanhallaadventures]

Wow I love that. Thank you for sharing David!

[@jameswilliamsoniii2259]

Carter has a fear of horses too!

[@vanhallaadventures]

BEAUTIFUL FROM AFAR - TERRIFYING UP CLOSE (unless Val is there to keep me safe lol)

[@TimmyTours]

It’s going to be interesting to see/hear your next video, especially after the suggestion according to the guides that it’s downhill lol often it throws people terribly as it’s far from downhill, the map shows interval heights and misses out the inclines between 👍

[@vanhallaadventures]

It is a LOT of ups and downs for sure.

[@JudyG745]

Your videos seem very professional. Are you doing this all on your own or do you have a team following you? I also notice that you're transporting a bag. Is that for all your camera equipment or are you planning on traveling more than just the Camino.

[@vanhallaadventures]

For this series Crystal is filming everything along with providing storyboards and direction. I edit the videos. Thanks for the kind words and thanks for watching!

[@travelandvino2738]

did you have to make a reservation ahead of time at La Posada for the private room?

[@vanhallaadventures]

I did though you do not HAVE to. However some places get sold out and it is suggested to book ahead at least 1 day. There are a few small villages that are major stops on the Camino where I would suggest making reservations. Orisson is one of them. There are only 3 maybe 4? places in Roncesvalles to stay and if you want a private room I would DEFINITELY book ahead. I trust this helps :) Buen Camino!

[@kayroosa609]

I love everything about your journey, what an amazing adventure. You are so brave to do this by yourself. It gives me hope that one day I might be able to check this off as one of my bucket list adventures. There are a couple I would love to do but kinda afraid of doing things like this alone. Thank you for sharing your journey. Be safe and have fun. ❤

[@vanhallaadventures]

There is a quote that has stuck with me and it might be helpful for you…Leap before the net appears. I thought about this for awhile before booking my flight to walk. If I waited for someone to walk with I never would have left. You can do it Kay! There are so many great people that will support you when you follow your heart ❤️

[@kayroosa609]

@@vanhallaadventures thank you so much, your such a sweet person, I love your video’s. I’m very proud that you are doing this and I know no matter how difficult or challenging this is your will find your inner peace and gain a new perspective on how you will see the world and yourself. Thank you so much and I wish you the best of luck.

[@susanshapiro1893]

You go girl,u motivate me to do things i havent tried before. Enjoy ur journey.

[@vanhallaadventures]

YES - DO IT!!! Dreams are meant to be lived awake :)

[@larajackson7506]

I love your positivity, love and happiness throughout all your videos!❤ much love to you and safety! See you later thank you for sharing ❤

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thanks Lara ❤️ I’m having so much fun editing these videos.

[@larajackson7506]

@@vanhallaadventures 😊❤ you're very welcome! Thank you!

[@dianesimon9470]

Hi. I saw that you had quite a bit more luggage when you left. What did you do with the other luggage?

[@vanhallaadventures]

While on the Camino, you can get a luggage transport every day. Or you can bring stuff if you plan on traveling AFTER the Camino and have it sent ahead for after you arrive in Santiago. Daily transport is $5-$7 a day. I used Pilbeo though there are others :)

[@dianesimon9470]

Yes that what I figured. I have walked twice 2015 and 2019. First time I carried my pack and second time I used luggage transport. I’m now 70 years old and will walk again next year. And I will use the luggage transport again! Buen Camino!! Enjoying your videos.

[@cheromilli2681]

@diane simon good for you 👍 going for a 3rd time. so inspiring to hear multiple journeys too and age seems not to be a deterrence.

[@JimmyWade]

Your joy is palpable. Thanks for having us along on your adventure. May I ask what date did you leave SJPdP and what date did you arrive in SdC. (I assume you completed the Camino Frances and at home, you edited the tape, added music and comments.)

[@vanhallaadventures]

Yes - you are spot on! Left Mid-May and took my time so I ended up SJPdP in Mid-July. I am happy with the date I left - it seems there was snow up until just 2 weeks before I arrived in the Pyrenees.

[@suem3577]

Can you tell me what is the brand of the top and pants you are hiking in in this video?

[@vanhallaadventures]

Top and Bottoms are from REI. These pants are a bit older though I think they are Columbia however on my next walk I would use these from Alder (I just got them and LOVE them www.rei.com/product/209991/alder-open-air-pants-womens) and the top is this one www.rei.com/product/184879/rei-co-op-sahara-shade-hoodie-womens. I also ended up wearing an Icebreaker T-shirt most of the time and am VERY happy with the purchase as I could wear it for several days without washing www.rei.com/product/206041/icebreaker-granary-t-shirt-womens.

[@joannazawada4059]

Around how much are private rooms?

[@backpackingJas]

In general is the best to pack the minimum, 2 pants, 2 shirts that type of packing and camera gear is heavy, maybe down size a little bit 😄😁 buen camino

[@vanhallaadventures]

I have hardly any clothes - only camera equipment in the bag but I learned my lesson 😅

[@det3866]

Crystal, which agency did you contact about this trip and what is the cost?

[@vanhallaadventures]

I put it together myself over the course of a few days. I will share how in 2 months when I put out the info videos :) The cost can vary greatly - from $1000 - $6000. I was at the upper end because I did luggage transport each day, my plane tix to US were a bit high, I had private rooms nearly every night (and booked in some fancier places too), and at out everyday (most people eat out for each meal and food is NOT expensive and can run from $15-ish - $50 per day). If you are leaving soon I can send you more details if you can not wait for the video to come out.

[@cheromilli2681]

you have inspired me !! ❤️ ✨️ so interested in reading the break down of expenses to plan 🤔 😀

[@aname4me]

I've completed 4 Camino's from SJPdP, and watched 100's of Camino journey videos. Good choice on the Toe Socks. Lose some BackPack weight or sent a Pack ahead. Loosen up on the Vegan “requirements”. . . Spain is NOT California.

[@vanhallaadventures]

Congrats on your 4 Caminos. What a beautiful accomplishment :) My pack is sent ahead - just camera gear and I eventually ditched the tripod and rain gear in the pack. That was enought to even it out. I am vegan for ethical reasons so for me its about my impact not just a requirment. However I went into this experience being grateful for what I could get without eating meat ;) BUEN CAMINO!

[@evonmitchell3182]

An you please describe your preventative foot care. I’m excited to find your videos. evon

[@IndianTravellerGuri]

This is totally awesome, just walk safe and waiting for next video and lots of love from india 😍😍

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you Gunni!

[@anastrawberry8047]

Crystal, Welcome to Spain! I started binge watching your videos because of van life...and what a surprise to see you coming to my country!!!! I did the Camino on my own a few years ago. When are you supposedly arriving in Santiago? 💕 Enjoy the experience! Ana

[@vanhallaadventures]

Aw I love hearing this

[@charlytaylor1748]

I live in the Pyrenees in Spain and like to walk up mountains. I came across the downhill runners this year, I'd not seen them before. They hop and skip down the most reacherous of paths. Not my cup of tea!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Me neither. It was quite impressive! It seems that are a lot of 'athletes' on the trail this year - I saw more bikes than people later on on the Camino. What a beautiful area you live in Charly - it was one of my favorite regions.

[@charlytaylor1748]

@@vanhallaadventures yeah, i love it here... cycling over mountains in the sun (again!) tomorrow... Those runners, though... they don't have safety fences like they would in England and in some places there's a sheer and dangerous drop about a foot or two away... thanks for chatting.

[@Rodina11]

Absolutely gorgeous!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thanks for watching Dan!

[@journeyto8350]

Check out ALBERGUE POQUENO POTALA for an awesome vegan meal

[@sketchlegend3868]

you should make more videos like this

[@vanhallaadventures]

I am 😃 so happy you enjoyed it!

[@altagrobbelaar8853]

Hi I love following you. Where did you stay where you could have a private room? I think it would be nice on a tough day like this.

[@vanhallaadventures]

I stayed at La Posada and was so so happy to have a private room on this night and the next. You can book private rooms ahead of time via Booking.com or download Camino Ninja app and click on the city you are staying in then go through the list of option of places to stay. Some are not on Booking.com though most are but it's good to see different price points. The further you book ahead the better to get the best price for private rooms.

[@katewill7302]

Your tip is added to my list- hat with chin strap!! 👒🇪🇸

[@williamwoods8765]

Hello Kate

[@vanhallaadventures]

YES!!! One of my friends has a Tilly hat and it was super cute and had a chin strap. I got burnt atop my head on days I didn't wear it. The sun is STRONG on the trail.

[@churra8257]

i like Val. Lol... kitty kitty

[@vanhallaadventures]

HAHA right?! I love Val. She's a great human.

[@elvirasolana7250]

La mochila no se deja encima de la cama!

[@carmelmcdonagh1027]

Irish people are the best 👌

[@RevGerryRM]

I have a lot of fear of horses!😊

[@vanhallaadventures]

I knew I wasn't the only one!

[@rlopez9044]

Good job.. great video!! I just finished the Portuguese camino, French is the next one! 👍 One more thing, please Marry me ! 😂

[@vanhallaadventures]

Well I am married so that might not work so well ;) Thank you and BUEN CAMINO!

[@christinewinner6425]

Thank goodness Jesus doesn't make us climb up mountains and walk for miles and miles for forgiveness of sins. He died for us and freely he gives us forgiveness. It is a Gift from God. Most people however find it hard to accept something that they don't have to work for. They find it hard to believe his love is UNconditional. However, it is and if you read the Bible you will learn about that Love.

[@curvedriver935]

Please do not put the backpack on the bed always on the floor or on a chair Thank you..!! Greetings from Switzerland

[@pressefritze]

Nice Videos. You shouldn't carry more than 10 kilos on your back including clothing, water and camera gear. Buen camino!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Yes definitely had to adjust my pack. The tripod was the kicker - even for a travel tripod it was FAR too heavy. Thank you :)

[@robertoholt2694]

ρяσмσѕм 😋

[@gurutzlete2126]

No vas a llegar nunca😅