🥾 Camino de Santiago Adventures with Kids: Bridges, Chapels & Full Bellies
Today we took a break from big cities and spent the day exploring the beautiful countryside and historic sites along the Camino de Santiago—with plenty of fresh air, medieval charm, and good food to keep our little eaters fueled and happy.
We started the morning with a light breakfast of yogurt, fruit, and granola in our fairy-tale Airbnb in Etxauri, then packed up for the day’s adventure.
First stop: the stunning Santa María de Eunate, a 12th-century Romanesque chapel with a unique octagonal shape and vaulted ceilings. Its name means “a hundred doors” in Basque, referencing the arches that surround it. The kids were fascinated by the peaceful silence and no echoing inside—and it was a beautiful reminder of how sacred and simple the Camino can feel.
Next, we drove to Puente La Reina, one of the most iconic medieval bridges on the Camino. The kids loved climbing and running across the old stone pathway, pretending they were pilgrims from centuries ago. With the sun out and their imaginations running wild, it was the perfect mix of history and play.
By the time we reached Estella, hunger had fully kicked in—and lucky for us, we found the perfect spot: Bar El Che. With its wide menu and shaded outdoor tables, it was an ideal place to regroup and refuel. UNO was included. The kids feasted on a little bit of everything:
Fried calamari
Hamburgers
Crispy potatoes
Steak and jamón ibérico
Spaghetti with meatballs
Plates were polished off, and energy levels were restored.
Before heading back to Etxauri, we made a quick grocery stop and turned it into a game: each child got a task to help plan dinner and breakfast. Half the group picked out ingredients for grilled cheese and salad, while the others dreamed up Nutella crepes. Everyone had a job, and they took it seriously (and proudly!).
Back at our Airbnb, the evening wrapped up with a quick dip in the small pool, a spontaneous soccer match, and finally, a home-cooked dinner made with lots of little hands helping out.
It was a full and meaningful day—walking through history, eating well, and learning that even pilgrims need spaghetti and Nutella sometimes.
🍴 Little Eaters Takeaways
Let them help. Giving kids a role in planning meals—from shopping to cooking—gets them invested and excited about food (even salad!).
Try new flavors alongside familiar ones. The kids happily bounced between jamón ibérico and spaghetti with meatballs—proof that a little variety can go a long way when options are friendly.
History becomes an adventure. Climbing a medieval bridge or stepping into an ancient chapel makes learning come alive—and helps build an appetite!
Balancing restaurant meals with home dinners keeps things grounded. After big lunches out, cooking together at home lets everyone slow down and reset.
