At age 65, Hana Maris set out alone on the Camino Primitivo, Spain’s most physically demanding Camino route, and discovered far more than a long walk. In this inspiring conversation, she shares how a personal crisis led her to seek a pilgrimage, why she chose the rugged and historic Camino Primitivo over busier routes, and what it was like to navigate steep climbs, scarce services, language barriers, and even a surprise cow encounter. Along the way, she found deep camaraderie with pilgrims from 21 countries, moments of profound spirituality, and the courage to trust herself in unfamiliar places. With humor, honesty, and wisdom, Hana reminds us that it’s never too late to push past fear, embrace adventure, and let the Camino work its magic.
More Camino Conversations
To see other Camino Conversations videos (including interviews with those who have done various routes), click here for the archive.
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🥾Ready to start planning your Camino?
Rebecca Weston
Camino Planning & Preparation Guide (for People 45+)
Rebecca@TheCaminoCalls.com
Your Camino adventure should feel exciting, not stressful — here are some ways I can help you get ready:
🎥Watch Camino Conversations for practical tips and advice from my guests who have done the Camino (or more than one!).
🗓️ Camino Planning Session (1 hour): Get answers to your top questions and a notes doc created during our call.
📞 Full Camino Experience: 6 coaching calls with detailed notes to plan your trip with confidence and ease.
🥾 Walk With Rebecca: 7-day hybrid Camino walks — 3 days guided, 4 days independent, private rooms, preparation classes, and optional check-ins. Click here to be the first to be notified about my next trip.
About me: I walked my first Camino in 2012 . Since then, I have walked over a dozen Caminos—alone or with others; in spring, summer and fall; in Spain, Portugal, and France. I’ve also spent many days volunteering along the trail, and if I’m not walking one now, I’m planning the next—and would love nothing more than to help you plan yours, too. My husband and I live in a town of 6500 people on the Camino del Norte.
