Albergue de Peregrinos de Markina-Xemein

I was sexually assaulted here last week. I immediately told the female volunteer who checked us all in as soon as it happened - Maya (or Maia?) She scoffed at me, stormed off & threw back at me €10 of the €13 donativo, I was in shock and left. This all happened within 30 minutes of arrival. I was in a dorm with him having been one of the first people to arrive so was sent in with him (they check you in in twos in this place) and he sexually assaulted me. I was lucky it could’ve been much worse, but I was able to persuade him to leave me. I have contacted the Albergue 4 times since this happened last week and they just ignore me. I reported to police as soon as I left who were great. Just know that if you stay here and anything bad happens, they do not care at ALL. So disappointing after all the wonderful volunteers and hosts I’d experienced so far. Shameful despicable behaviour. Avoid at all costs.

The woman who runs the place came in to tell us to turn the lights back on at 9pm because people couldn’t see and there were many people sleeping. Also the cops got called as well for someone who groped a woman and she let him stay in the Albergue overnight. Not a great experience and made me feel unsafe.

Avoid it. The place is cold, in very poor repair. Very poor facilities and hospitalero insists you make donation in front of him. This was in 2024 and friend advised he did the same in 2025. Paint peeling off wall. Shocking bad way to treat pilgrims. As i often say. You can be religious but lack spiritualality. Spiritualpeople treat others well, religious people don't give a shit about others.

A fantastic experience!!! After leaving our group of six stranded on September 9th at the private hostel, Jaume and Nere (who were absolutely lovely!!!) welcomed us to this hostel. They prepared a room just for us, and I must say they were constantly checking on us. The attention we received from both of them was extraordinary. Many kisses from the Catalan pilgrims who were there that day and who will always hold you in their hearts.

The Pilgrim Hostel in Markina-Xemein, run by Carmelite monks, is a unique experience for pilgrims, as you can only stay here while walking the Camino. It stands out for its efficient service, spacious and comfortable rooms, and especially the enormous area for drying clothes, which is very useful after a day of walking. The volunteers provide excellent service, and breakfast is included, which is enjoyed in a large and welcoming dining room, ideal for sharing with other pilgrims. The hostel operates on a voluntary donation basis (minimum €10), but it's worth leaving a generous contribution for the quality of the place and the hospitality you receive. A very special and highly recommended stop on the Camino, with nothing negative to report. --- The Pilgrim Hostel in Markina-Xemein, run by the Carmelite monks, is a unique experience for pilgrims, as you can only stay here while walking the Camino. Check-in is quick and easy, the spaces are wide and comfortable, and there's plenty of room to hang your laundry, which is a big plus after a long day of walking. The volunteers are extremely kind and helpful, and they also offer breakfast, which you can enjoy in a large dining hall perfect for sharing with other pilgrims. It works on a donation basis (minimum €10), but it's worth leaving a generous contribution for the quality and hospitality provided. A truly special and highly recommended stop on the Camino, with nothing negative to point out.