2Is it safe for women travelling alone ?2

Yes. Be sensible of course, as you would be anywhere. But your rucksack, your boots, your stick and your shell identify you immediately as a pilgrim, and the local people still respect the pilgrims’ motivation. This is true for Spain, and is also becoming usual on the roads through France.

In any case, you’re never really alone, except when you go in the winter. There is a great sense of community among the pilgrims, and there will always be others close by to help you if you need it. And since, in the refugios, everyone shares a large common dormitory usually, there’s safety in numbers … . Of course it is wise to keep your valuables (money, identity–card, credencial, bank card) with you all the time. Put them in a plastic bag when taking a shower.