When to start the Ruta de la Lana (Alicante to Burgos)

For most walkers, starting in late March to early May, or September to early October gives the best conditions on the Ruta de la Lana from Alicante to Burgos. These shoulder-season windows balance the warm Mediterranean start with cooler days on the interior plateau, sidestepping peak summer heat and mid‑winter chill.

This Camino variant (also known as the Camino de la Lana) leaves the coast and climbs into higher, more exposed country before reaching Burgos. Expect quick shifts: more humidity and showers near Alicante; drier, windier stretches across La Mancha and the Meseta; and noticeably cooler nights in Castile and León.

Spring (late March, April, early May) — recommended

• Why it works: Temperatures settle into a comfortable range and daylight grows. Wildflowers and green fields make the long, exposed stretches more pleasant.
• What to expect:
  • Valencia/Alicante start: mild to warm days with “April showers” at times; a mix of sun and cloud.
  • Heading north and higher: cooler mornings, the odd late frost, and occasional wet or even a brief snow flurry early in the season around the uplands.
• Practical notes:
  • Pack a light insulating layer and a reliable rain shell.
  • Tracks can be muddy after rain; give yourself a little extra time on those days.

Early autumn (September to early October) — recommended

• Why it works: Summer heat eases, especially on the plateau, but it’s still warm enough for comfortable early starts and long days.
• What to expect:
  • Warm, bright walking leaving the coast; noticeably cooler nights as you approach Castile and León.
  • Intermittent rain becomes more common as you move north, with heavier bursts possible into October.
• Practical notes:
  • Watch for the first autumn downpours near the Mediterranean; a quick-cover rain jacket is handy.
  • Days are a touch shorter than in spring, so plan stages with that in mind.

Late spring into summer (late May, June, July, August) — usually too hot

• Long, exposed sections across La Mancha and the Meseta can be punishing in sustained heat, with limited shade and long water carries.
• Expect many days well into hot territory, especially July–August; storms can pop up but don’t “fix” the heat.
• If you must go: start very early, carry extra water, plan shorter stages, and build in siesta-length breaks.

Late autumn and winter (mid‑October to February) — cold, wet, and variable

• After early October the chance of heavier rain rises near the coast, while the interior turns colder, with frequent grey days and occasional snow/ice in the higher sections and north of the route.
• Short daylight, muddy tracks, and frosty mornings make timing and accommodation logistics trickier on this quieter Camino variant.
• If walking then, bring proper cold‑weather layers, gloves, and be ready to adjust stages or use road alternatives if conditions turn wintry.

Bottom line

Pick late March–early May or September–early October for the most forgiving mix of temperatures, daylight, and trail conditions on the Ruta de la Lana. Outside those windows, you’re trading comfort for either heat management or winter gear and shorter days.

Of course, while these recommendations provide a solid starting point, everyone's preferences and circumstances are unique. For example, if you prefer walking in the cooler morning hours to avoid midday heat, you might prioritize dates with drier conditions. On the other hand, if you are more accustomed to colder climates, you may choose to avoid hotter periods - even if it means encountering more rain. Our search tool allows you to customize your journey to align with your specific needs and preferences, ensuring the best possible experience on the Camino.

Furthermore, if your plan differs from walking the standard stages from Alicante to Burgos, then you can edit the Search Settings below accordingly.