Trip code: H10JL
Camino & Pilgrimages
10 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
9.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
Begin your pilgrimage in the charming French town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the traditional gateway to the Camino Frances and one of the most iconic starting points for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago. This first stage carries you over the foothills of the Pyrenees, through the Basque Country and the historic regions of Navarre and La Rioja, where rural landscapes and cultural heritage gently unfold at a walking pace.
As you move along this section of the French Way, you'll walk through villages like Ourisson, Roncesvalles and Zubiri, explore historic cities such as Pamplona and Puente La Reina, where several European pilgrimage routes converge. Much of the path follows ancient Roman roads and traditional waymarked trails, weaving between medieval churches, vineyards and the countryside that defines this part of the Camino.
The journey ends in Logrono, at the heart of Rioja wine country, where pilgrims often pause to reflect on the steady rhythm of their days on the Camino and the landscapes that have accompanied them.
TERRAIN
This walking route from St-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Logrono follows the famous Camino Frances across a variety of well-marked paths, country trails, and quiet rural roads. The terrain is diverse, shifting from the steep ridges of the Pyrenees to the gentler fields and vineyards of La Rioja, offering a varied pace typical of this early part of the French Way and ideal for walkers beginning their Camino pilgrimage.
Arrive in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a historic town where countless pilgrims have begun their Camino Frances journey. Take time to settle in and absorb the atmosphere before starting this celebrated section of the French Way.
YOUR ACCOMMODATION
To reflect the spirit of the Pilgrimage, we carefully select welcoming, simple accommodation along the route. We offer stays in hotels and guest houses. While these stays may not offer the same level of luxury as our classic Headwater holidays, they provide genuine hospitality and a warm, friendly atmosphere.
You will enjoy private rooms and private bathrooms wherever possible, ensuring a restful night after a full day of walking. On the rare occasions when this cannot be arranged, we will let you know in advance.
Most of the properties we work with are small and family-run, and availability varies depending on how early you book. Full details of your stays will be provided closer to your departure date.
Before beginning your walk, take some time to explore the charming old town and the famous Rue de la Citadelle, known for its weathered cobblestones and well-preserved 12th-century architecture. Your walk today ends in Ourisson, after which a transfer will return you to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port.
A transfer will take you to Ourisson to complete the scenic climb through the Basque Country, arriving in Roncesvalles by the afternoon. You will spend the night in Roncesvalles, home to the region's largest medieval hospice and a significant waypoint for pilgrims on the French Way.
Today's stage takes you to Zubiri, descending to an altitude of 528 metres. Along the way, you will pass through peaceful villages on the Navarre section of the Camino Frances. You will journey through an ancient forest of beech and oak. Upon reaching Zubiri, be sure to visit the legendary 'Bridge of Rage', once believed to hold supernatural powers that could protect animals from rabies.
Walk towards Pamplona, a city where Camino pilgrims have paused for centuries. Pamplona is the capital of the Navarre region, best known for its iconic Running of the Bulls festival. A popular stop for pilgrims, here you can explore its impressive Gothic cathedral, wander through the medieval old town, or seek out the locations featured in Hemingway's 'The Sun Also Rises'.
Puente La Reina, where several European routes merge into the main Camino Frances awaits you at the end of today's walk. This medieval town is rich in historic architecture, including the Church of Santiago el Mayor and the Church of Crucifijo, both with ties to Templar history. The latter is believed to have been founded by the Knights Templar in the 14th century.
Following an ancient Roman road towards Estella, often referred to as the 'Toledo of the North'. This charming medieval town is rich in history, featuring highlights such as the Palace of the Kings of Navarre and stunning examples of Gothic architecture for travellers on the French Way. Here you can visit the medieval market in Plaza de los Fueros, where stallholders dress in traditional period costume.
Continuing your pilgrimage, today's walk takes you through Irache, home to a historic monastery and the famous wine fountain, which has been offering pilgrims a free drink of water or red wine since 1991. You will pass through the village of Villamayor de Monjardin and its iconic hilltop, before reaching Los Arcos, a classic stop on the Camino Frances. You will spend the night in the charming town of Los Arcos.
Moving from Navarre into La Rioja, one of Spain's most renowned wine regions, the landscape shifts from open fields to a patchwork of olive groves and vineyards. Highlights along the way include the octagonal chapel of Torres del Rio and the fortified village of Viana, designed in the style of a French bastide. Both sites are steeped in medieval charm and offer welcome shade on warmer days.
Cross The Puente de Piedra into Logrono, located in the heart of the Rioja region. The city welcomes you to explore the vibrant city centre, home to the Museo de la Rioja and the impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria.
Enjoy the rest of your day exploring the town, and consider booking an extra night before heading home.
Depart Logrono for your onward travels, bringing with you the steady rhythm and rich heritage of this early section of the Camino de Santiago
Enjoy the rest of your day exploring the town, and consider booking an extra night before heading home.
These tour prices are per person, based on two people sharing.
Single supplement from NZ$832.
From London to Bordeaux
Arrival in St Jean Pied de Port
Departure from Logroño
From Madrid, transfer to Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) for return flights to London.
Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.
Camino & Pilgrimages
10 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2+
Moderate plus
9.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
