Walking across the Pyrenees on the Camino Frances

Walking information

Walks on this holiday are on village streets, country lanes, farm tracks and rural paths. Walking boots are essential. Walking poles are recommended. Pick up your Pilgrim's Passport at the Pilgrim's Office in St Jean Pied de Port, or from your accommodation.

Day 1: Arrival in St-Jean-Pied-de-Port

Arrival into St-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Spend some time relaxing in this historic town before starting out on your voyage of discovery along the Camino Frances. With plenty of restaurants and cafes on your doorstep, we have left tonight's dining choice up to you.
You stay at the Hotel Itzalpea (breakfast included)

Day 2: St-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Refuge Orisson 8km /5mi/3hr

Begin your day with a visit to the old town and ramparts of this beautiful town, not forgetting to pick up your Pilgrim Passport at the Pilgrim Office. Founded in the 12th Century and situated on the River Nixe, the town has long been important for trade and pilgrims alike and definitely deserves some of your time, to appreciate the historic buildings, cobbles streets and numerous shops and eateries. You pause today at the Refuge Orisson before your transfer back to St-Jean-Pied-de-Port for your second night at the Hotel Itzalpea. Enjoy the variety of restaurants near your hotel and try the local traditional food including wood pigeon stew, sheep's cheese and a wonderful trout dish.
You stay at the Hotel Itzalpea (breakfast included)

Day 3: St-Jean-Pied-de-Port/Refuge Orisson to Roncesvalles 19km/12mi/5hr

Transfer back to Refuge Orisson and complete the climb through the Basque Country with stunning panoramic views, arriving at Roncesvalles in the afternoon. Surrounded by lush forests and meadows this is where many pilgrims begin their journey. The town has a famous church with many interesting artifacts and the largest medieval hospice in the region (built in the same architectural style as Notre Dame). Enjoy a relaxing overnight stay at the Hotel Roncesvalles, a resting place for visiting clerics and pilgrims from the 18th century, the hotel has been completely refurbished and serves delicious and traditional Pyrenean fare.
You stay at the Hotel Roncesvalles (breakfast and evening meal)

Day 4: Roncesvalles to Zubiri 22km/14mi/6.5hr

Crossing two mountain passes, your journey continues through the quiet villages of the Pyrenean Navarre. You will venture through an ancient forest of beech and oak to arrive at Zubiri, whose romantic bridge has provided a crossing for pilgrims for centuries. Known locally as the 'Bridge of Rage' it was once believed to have supernatural properties, as it contains the remains of a saint who was said to protect animals from rabies! Spend the night at the family run, cosy Hosteria de Zubiri and enjoy a traditional meal of the Navarre region.
You stay at the Hosteria de Zubiri (breakfast and evening meal)

Day 5: Zubiri - Pamplona 21km/13.5mi/6hr

Continue onto Pamplona, famous for its bull running festival and capital city of the Navarre region. A popular stopping point for pilgrims, visit the Gothic cathedral and explore the medieval old town with its markets and plentiful places to sample the local produce. Your evening meal is for you to decide as there are a wealth of options in this lively and bustling city.  A favourite haunt of the American writer Hemingway, Pamplona features heavily in his most famous novel, 'The Sun Also Rises'.
You stay at the Hotel Alda Centro (breakfast included)

Day 6: Pamplona to Puente la Reina 24km/15mi/7.5hr

Leaving behind the bustling city, today you will walk to the medieval town of Puente la Reina where all the pilgrim routes of Europe meet. There are many historic buildings of interest, including the churches of Santiago El Mayoe and of Crucifijo, founded by the Knights Templar in the 14th century.
You stay at the Hotel Jakue (breakfast and evening meal)

Day 7: Puente la Reina to Estella 23km/14.5mi/7hr

Meandering through farmland, part of which is old Roman road, you will arrive in Estella, also known as the ' Toledo of the North'. The medieval old town has much to see, including the Palace of the Kings of Navarre and many examples of Gothic architecture. At the centre of the city you will find the Plaza de los Fueros, which still holds a medieval market with the stallholders in traditional period dress.
You stay at Hotel Yerri (breakfast and evening meal)

Day 8: Estella to Los Arcos 21km/13.5mi/6hr

Passing through Irache with its monastery and famous wine fountain offering pilgrims a free beverage since 1991, (choose water or red wine). You will later arrive at Los Arcos and your hotel for this evening.
You stay at the Hotel Monaco (breakfast and evening meal)

Day 9: Los Arcos to Viana 18km/11.5mi/5.5hr

Pass through the first of many vineyards and olive groves on your way to Viana, the historical location of many battles during the Middle Ages between Castile and Navarre. Visit the town square with its fortified medieval walls and the church of Santa Maria, final resting place of Caesar Borgia, the inspiration for Machiavelli's' most famous works, 'The Prince'.
You stay at Hotel Palacio de Pujadas (breakfast and evening meal)

Day 10: Viana to Logrono 11km/7mi/3.5hr

The end of your journey is the town of Logrono, the heart of the Rioja region. Entering via the Puente de Piedra, cobbled streets lead you to the historic centre of the city, with plentiful places of interest including the Cathedral of Santa Maria and the Museum of La Rioja. Collect your Pilgrim Passport stamp and enjoy an evening at leisure sampling the rich wines and produce of the area.
You stay at the Hotel Murrieta (breakfast included)

Day 11: Leave Logrono

Enjoy a morning stroll through Logrono before your transfer back to the airport or train station. Alternatively, stay on for extra nights to explore this beautiful historic city.