Question 1

1. What is VLTREIA e.V.?

Accepted Answer

VLTREIA eV is a non-profit association based in Stuttgart, which operates a church-run pilgrim hostel in La Faba on the Camino Francés in Spain.
Our members – pilgrims from various countries – volunteer to offer shelter, community and support to other travelers on the Way of St. James.

Question 2

2. What does “VLTREIA” actually mean?

Accepted Answer

The expression VLTREIA (Latin for "Onward!" or "Forward!") was an old pilgrim's cry on the Way of St. James.
It expresses encouragement, hope and moving forward together – exactly what characterizes our club.

Question 3

3. How can I become a member of VLTREIA e.V.?

Accepted Answer

Membership is open to all who share the spirit of the Camino de Santiago.
You can fill out the membership form via our website.
The annual membership fee is €30 for individual members or €45 for married couples/partners.

Your membership directly supports the preservation of the hostel in La Faba and allows you to actively participate as a hospitalera or hospitalero.

Question 4

4. What is a hospitalera or hospitalero?

Accepted Answer

Hospitaleras and hospitaleros are volunteer hostel parents who welcome pilgrims to our hostel in La Faba.
They create a friendly atmosphere, help with questions, organize processes, and give their time and attention.

The service is voluntary, but requires commitment, team spirit and enjoyment in dealing with people.

Question 5

5. What qualifications do I need for the hospitalero service?

Accepted Answer

You should:
have already been on a pilgrimage yourself (or are intensively involved with pilgrimage),
Become a member of VLTREIA eV,
participate in a preparation or training course
be physically and mentally resilient,
Basic knowledge of Spanish or English is required.
Enjoy helping, organizing, and listening.

An assignment usually lasts two to three weeks. Accommodation is provided, but you are responsible for your own travel to and from the assignment.

Question 6

6. How can I order my pilgrim's passport (Credencial del Peregrino)?

Accepted Answer

You can request your official pilgrim's passport directly from our club member Almut Bélard.
To do this, you send:
your contact details,
the starting point and date of your pilgrimage (if known),
as well as €5 (via PayPal or cash in a letter).

Once everything has been received, the ID card will be sent to you.

Question 7

7. Why do I need the pilgrim's passport at all?

Accepted Answer

The pilgrim's passport is your official travel document on the Camino de Santiago.
It serves as proof of overnight stays in hostels and as evidence of your pilgrimage.
On the last 100 kilometers to Santiago, you need two stamps daily to receive the Compostela (pilgrim's certificate).

Question 8

8. What does the pilgrimage advisory service of VLTREIA e.V. offer?

Accepted Answer

Our experienced members can advise you on:
Route selection and stage planning,
Equipment and preparation,
spiritual aspects of pilgrimage,
and questions about the time after the Camino.

You can contact us by phone or email. The consultation is free and provided on a voluntary basis.

Question 9

9. Are there regular meetings for pilgrims?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our pilgrim get-togethers take place regularly in Sindelfingen (2nd Thursday of the month) and in many other locations in Germany.
There you can exchange ideas, ask questions, or simply talk about the Camino.

You can find an up-to-date overview on our website.

Question 10

10. How can I support VLTREIA e.V. without becoming a member?

Accepted Answer

You can support us with a donation.
Your donation helps to maintain the hostel in La Faba and to continue the pilgrimage business.

Donations to VLTREIA eV are tax deductible; for donations up to €200, a bank statement is sufficient proof.

Question 11

11. What happens to the donations?

Accepted Answer

All donations go directly towards the upkeep and maintenance of the hostel in La Faba, as well as towards association activities related to pilgrim support.
VLTREIA eV works entirely on a non-profit and voluntary basis – every euro benefits the pilgrimage movement.

Question 12

12. After my pilgrimage, I feel like something is missing – what can I do?

Accepted Answer

This feeling is widespread and is often referred to as the Post-Camino syndrome.
Many pilgrims find fulfillment in "giving something back" – for example as a hospitalera or hospitalero, as a club member or through donations.

This way you stay connected to the Camino – even at home.

Question 13

13. Where can I find information about the different Camino de Santiago routes?

Accepted Answer

On our website and in personal pilgrimage advice you will receive information on the most important routes, including:
Camino Francés
Camino del Norte
Camino Portugués
Camino Primitivo

In addition, our members share their own experiences and literature recommendations.

Question 14

14. Is VLTREIA e.V. affiliated with a church?

Accepted Answer

Our hostel in La Faba is a church-run pilgrim hostel, supported by an ecumenically open spirit.
We welcome all pilgrims – regardless of origin, denomination or worldview.

Question 15

15. How can I contact VLTREIA e.V.?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way to reach us is via the contact page on our website or by email.
For the pilgrim's passport, please contact Almut Bélard directly.
If you have any questions about membership, donations or hospitalero service, you can contact the board of directors at any time.

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