(EMAILWIRE.COM, December 17, 2009 ) SINTRA, Portugal – For a thousand years since the bones of St. James were reputedly discovered in Santiago, common people, bishops, priests, kings, popes and saints have made this famous pilgrimage. Nowadays, the expedition is not as often religiously driven, but a personal journey and test to physical and mental endurance. Novelist James Michner once wrote of Spain’s Camino de Santiago journey “...a pilgrimage across northern Spain to the sanctuary at Santiago de Compostela, is the finest journey in Spain and one of the two or three best in the world.”
Cycling though the Centuries has dished up a ride that echoes the historical travelers’ footsteps, following the first guide book ever written by a monk in the 12th century - the Codex Calixtinus. In order to appropriately complete the pilgrimage and receive recognition from the church, adventurers must walk, ride horseback or, in CTTC’s fashion – cycle. Guests begin high in the Pyrenees above Pamplona and cross beautiful unspoiled northern Spain taking in the cathedral cities of León and Burgos, and countless pilgrim stops steeped in wonders and miracles along the way. At the end of the day, relax in luxurious monasteries, ancient pilgrim inns and small hotels while dining in restaurants famous for their regional cuisine and atmosphere.
Travelers have an opportunity to see a different side of tourism. The pilgrimage is so historically fascinating and filled with cultural tradition that, despite the groups of other travelers, CTTC cyclists will feel like prestigious guests rather than a ‘turista’ with a camera. Locals from villages share their way of life with people on the pilgrimage, welcoming them with great hospitality. Camaraderie is also an important theme within the Camino de Santiago trip. Travelers bond with others as they conquer their journey bit by bit, sharing the stories of the day at local restaurants or pubs.
The Jubilee year presents a buzz of excitement around the trek. St. James birthday only falls on a Sunday about once a decade, the last year being in 1996. Special celebrations and festivals that flood the streets along the ancient route illuminate some of the richest aspects of Spanish culture. The Pope has even been known to grace the pilgrimage with his presence on past Jubilee years.
Cycling through the Centuries has been an owner operated family business since the 1980’s. They strive to provide the best comprehensive and luxury cycling tours in Iberia while maintaining eco-friendly and sustainable operations. Based in Portugal, they have a distinct advantage to offer itineraries that allow adventurers to see a destination like an ‘insider’. To learn more about CTTC, visit their website at www.cycling-centuries.com or contact Catherine Deffense at info@cycling-centuries.com.
Camino de Santiago tours depart May 15, June 25 and Sept. 5 with a land cost of €3,365 ($4,988) based on double occupancy.
Cycling through the Centuries
CONTACT: Catherine Deffense
PHONE: (+351) 912 352 223
EMAIL: info@cycling-centuries.com
WEB: www.cycling-centuries.com
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