Join us for our French Camino webinar

Join us for our French Camino webinar

Ever considered walking an iconic Camino pilgrim route but didn’t know much about it? Don’t fret! Our webinar of the French Camino will answer your questions so put this date in your diary: Tuesday Dec 11 6pm AEST.

During the webinar, we’ll dive into all things Camino de Santiago—from practical tips and preparation to the rich traditions and symbolism that make the journey so meaningful. One question we’ll definitely explore is: What’s with the scallop shell that pilgrims carry on the walk?

The scallop shell is one of the most iconic symbols of the Camino. Historically, it was used by pilgrims as a practical tool—perfect for scooping water or eating from. Over time, it came to represent the pilgrimage itself. The grooves of the shell, all leading to a single point, are said to symbolise the many different routes that pilgrims travel, all ultimately converging at the shrine of Saint James in Santiago de Compostela.

Today, pilgrims often tie a scallop shell to their backpack as a sign of their journey. It marks them as part of the wider Camino community and serves as a reminder of the spiritual, cultural, and personal purpose behind the walk.

So yes, it’s more than just a keepsake—it’s a symbol of connection, tradition, and the shared path of those who walk the Way. And that’s just one of the many stories we’ll be unpacking in the session!

Historians suggest that the tradition of the scallop shell may have begun in the Middle Ages, when pilgrims making the long and often arduous journey to Santiago de Compostela—the final destination of any Camino—would collect scallop shells from the Galician coast as a form of proof that they had completed their pilgrimage.

At the time, there were no certificates or official stamps—just the shell itself, which was unique to the region and couldn’t easily be faked. It served as a physical token of achievement, a symbol that they had reached the edge of the world, as the Atlantic coast was once believed to be.

Over time, the scallop shell became a powerful symbol of the Camino, not only as proof of the journey’s end, but as a sign of the pilgrim spirit. Today, while most people don’t go digging on the beach for their own shell, many choose to wear one from the start of their journey—both as a nod to tradition and as a way to connect with fellow pilgrims along the way.

And yes, we’ll definitely talk more about Santiago de Compostela itself during the webinar—its fascinating history, spiritual significance, and why it remains the heart and soul of every Camino route.

The shells were traditionally affixed to pilgrims’ clothing, cloaks, or hats, becoming a recognisable and respected symbol of the Camino. Spotting someone with a scallop shell meant you were meeting a fellow traveller on a sacred journey—someone walking for faith, reflection, or personal growth. Over time, the shell evolved into more than just a souvenir; it became a powerful emblem of purpose, perseverance, and the shared experience of pilgrimage.

That association has continued through the centuries, and to this day, the scallop shell is still worn proudly by pilgrims on the Camino. It marks you as part of something greater—a centuries-old tradition that connects people from all walks of life, across borders and generations.

And if you join us on one of our Camino walks, we’ll make sure you receive a shell of your own to carry with you. It’s a small but meaningful token that becomes a treasured companion on your journey—one that you’ll come to value as much as the memories you create along the way.

Speaking of our tours, during the webinar, we’ll be diving into all the details of our 8-day French Le Puy Camino tour, a journey that takes you from the medieval town of Le Puy-en-Velay to the iconic St-Jean-Pied-de-Port nestled in the Pyrenees Mountains.

This section of the Camino is known for its beauty, rich history, and the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel as you walk along the same paths as pilgrims have for centuries. The tour will lead you through the stunning landscapes of rural France, past ancient churches, charming villages, and rolling hills, offering a perfect balance of nature, culture, and history.

Starting in Le Puy, a UNESCO World Heritage town, you’ll immerse yourself in the heart of the French Camino, walking through diverse terrain that includes peaceful forests, picturesque vineyards, and breathtaking views of the Pyrenees as you approach the end of your journey.

We’ll also talk about how each day of the tour is carefully planned to give you time to connect with the surroundings, enjoy local cuisine, and reflect on the journey ahead. Whether you’re looking for spiritual enrichment, personal reflection, or simply a memorable adventure, this tour offers an unforgettable way to experience the Camino.

On this 8-day French Le Puy Camino tour, you’ll explore not just the stunning mountain scenery and quaint French villages, but also immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage that makes this journey so unique. Each step takes you deeper into the heart of France, where centuries-old traditions meet modern-day charm. And, of course, there’s the accommodation—which we can’t wait to tell you about!

You’ll stay in amazing places—and we really mean amazing!—with one of the standout highlights being the Château Mercuès, a luxurious stay that’s practically a castle! Picture yourself settling into a historic, beautifully restored château perched above the Lot River, surrounded by vineyards and offering breathtaking views of the countryside. It’s the kind of place where you’ll feel like royalty, with elegant rooms, fine dining, and a sense of tranquility that makes it the perfect spot to relax after a rewarding day of walking.

With this combination of stunning landscapes, charming villages, rich heritage, and unforgettable accommodation, your journey along the French Camino will be a truly memorable adventure, one that blends history, nature, and comfort in the most spectacular way.

So, remember: French Camino, Tuesday Dec 11 6pm AEST. Click here for it.

Note: If you do miss the webinar don’t worry you’ll be able to watch it afterwards as it’ll be posted to our YouTube page.