Hi
@batty. I walked that path again just a few weeks ago. Agree with
@J Willhaus and the video from
@trecile gives an idea.
It was as glorious as I recalled from earlier times. A few vehicles from time to time but more often, cows, sheep, horses and other walkers. Certainly no manoeuvring around cars required, even on the first 8 kms up to Orisson. In that section, be sure to walk on the left side, i.e. facing the oncoming traffic.
Regarding the descent, this time we took 'the road' rather than the steeper path through the forest, which can be tricky at the best of times. Calling it a 'road' sells it short - it was a delightful walk often not on road at all. We saw no vehicles. About 1.5 kms from Roncesvalles it merges with the path coming from the Valcarlos Route for a pretty walk into Roncesvalles. I'd do it again. As
@Anniesantiago said
'just as pretty and much safer'.
If you have the opportunity and the weather in your favour, I’d highly recommend the Route Napoleon, whether you do it in one day or two.