About Us

Hello, fellow pilgrims!

We are Rich and Elle - an older, settled couple approaching our golden years with more curiosity than ever. After long, fruitful careers that allowed us to travel the world, we reached a turning point in how we wanted to honor the sacredness of our journeys.

For a long time, we traveled the conventional way: visiting famous landmarks, snapping photos, and moving on. But even then, we felt a quiet longing for something deeper, realizing that rushing from site to site was merely gathering souvenirs when our souls were calling us toward a pilgrimage - one where we stopped skimming the surface and allowed the world’s ancient spirit to move through us.

Meet Your Guides

Elle is a retired registered nurse and registered yoga teacher. As a contemplative and spiritualist, she is a seeker at heart, always looking for a deeper understanding of herself, the Universe, and God. Her focus is on the "internal landscape" of the journey.

Rich is a mechanical engineer and seasoned facilities manager who can bring almost anything back to life. With world-class construction skills and a "Mr. Fix-It" soul, he ensures our physical journeys are as grounded and well-planned as the intentions behind them.

Photo of Rich and Elle in Lugo, SpainRich and Elle in Lugo, Spain

Why We Are "Pilgrimage Travelers"

As we age, we’ve realized that life and travel offer so much more when we open our hearts and senses to be fully engaged in the moment - allowing our own spirit compasses to guide our journey.

We have traded the "Been there, done that" checklist for a "seeing with new eyes" type of approach. One that allows us to receive what the path, and more importantly, what the place has to offer us that is unique. 

We are avid hikers, mountaineers, and outdoor enthusiasts, living as simply and humbly as we can. This "back-to-nature" approach has been our greatest source of healing and inspiration. 

Together, we choose to be pilgrimage travelers. For us, a pilgrimage isn't just about a destination; it’s about clarity, presence, and completion.


Rich and Elle on the summit of Jupiter Mtn, Colorado

A Work of Love

This website is our labor of love. While it provides a small income that helps us cover the costs of keeping this resource alive, its true purpose is to share the insights we’ve gained on the trail with you.

Whether you are walking the Way of St. James, the Way of St. Francis, the Camino Teresiano or seeking a sacred path closer to home, we are here to help you listen to your own "spirit compass."

And, we’d truly love to hear from you. If you feel like saying hello, sharing where you are in your Camino plans, or telling us what called you to pilgrimage travel, please contact us or leave a comment below so we can get to know you better.


What are Your Thoughts on Pilgrimage?

Have you had a similar experience, or have something you'd like to share? We all would love to hear your thoughts and opinions regarding pilgrimage. Please write your comments, by using the form below.


Please Consider Showing Your Support

Many readers contact me, Elle, to thank me for all the time and care that I have spent creating this informative website. If you have been truly blessed by my efforts, have not purchased an eBook, yet wish to contribute, I am exeedingly grateful. Thank you! 



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🙋‍♀️ Why Trust Us at the Pilgrimage Traveler? 

Rich and Elle Boat Ride Variante Espiritual Small

We’re not a travel agency ~ we’re fellow pilgrims! (See About Us)

We've trekked Pilgrimage Routes Across Europe since 2014!

💬 We’ve:

  • Gotten lost so you don’t have to. 😉
  • Followed waymarks in the glowing sunlight, the pouring rain and by moonlight. ☀️🌧️🌙
  • Slept in albergues, hostels & casa rurals. Ate and drank in cafés along the way.   🛌 😴
  • Created comprehensive and downloadable GPS maps and eBook Guides, full of must-have information based on real pilgrimage travels.  🧭 🗺️  
  • Shared our complete journeys, step by step to help YOU plan your ultimate pilgrimage and walk with your own Heart and Soul. 💙✨

Every detail is from our own experiences. Just fellow pilgrims sharing the Way. We have added a touch of spirituality, heartfelt insights and practical guidance from the road ~ offering a genuine connection to the spirit of pilgrimage. Tap into the wisdom of seasoned pilgrims!

Ultreia and Safe Pilgrimage Travels, Caminante! 💫 💚 🤍  


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Shroud Yourself in Mystery, along the Via de Francesco!

Way of St. Francis eBook Cover
eBook-Cover-VdF-Assisi-to-Rome

Walk in the Footsteps of St. Francis, and Connect Deeply with the Saint and to Nature in the Marvelous Italian Countryside!


Need suggestions on what to pack for your next pilgrimage? Click Here or on the photo below!

Vintage Photo of a Pilgrimage Essential Packing ListEssential Packing List

Find the Best Hotel Deals Using This Tool!

 

Carbon Trekking Poles ~ My Favorites!

Black Diamond Carbon Trekking Poles

Carbon fiber construction (not aluminum) in a trekking pole makes them ultra lightweight. We like the Z-Pole style from Black Diamond so we can hide our poles in our pack from potential thieves before getting to our albergue! There are many to choose from!  (See more of our gear recommendations! )



Gregory BackPack ~ My Favorite Brand

Gregory 28L Womens Backpack

An ultralight backpack should serve you well for years, like my Gregory has ~ six Caminos in all! My 28L Women's pack gets a 4.7-star on Amazon (Ones for Guys too)!



Microfiber Towel Set

Microfiber Towel Set

Do not forget your quick-dry microfiber towel!