Search 74,075 Camino Questions

Route Napoleon closed 1 Nov to 31 March

Kanga

Veteran Member
Time of past OR future Camino
Francés x 5, Le Puy x 2, Arles, Tours, Norte, Madrid, Via de la Plata, Portuguese, Primitivo
A reminder to members that the Route Napoleon is closed from tomorrow until the 31 March 2018. Here's a copy of the official notice: http://www.caminosantiago.org/cpperegrino/prensa/verprensa.asp?PrensaID=11129

Google translate:

The Government of Navarra has established measures restricting passage by the Eastern variant of Camino de Santiago in its first stage, at the entrance of Navarra, from 1 November 2017 until 31 March 2018. It establishes and their protection , which regulates, among other things, the itinerary of the Camino de Santiago as it passes through Navarre.

The first stage of the French Way, at its entrance Navarra, has two variants: the west which, starting from Saint Jean Pied de Port, runs through Valcarlos and the Ibañeta to Roncesvalles, and this that starts from the same point, runs through Huntto, Orisson and the Port of Lepoeder to Roncesvalles alike.

This variant is successful more than 1200 m level, plus small intermediate slopes. To overcome this gap, pilgrims wishing to face this stage must have adequate physical training situation which has been found not occur in a high percentage of them. This situation must be added the significant increase in required effort when there is snow or when weather conditions are bad, all without prejudice to the material equipment that must carry in these situations, which, likewise, have been found not carry on many occasions.

It so happens that this path Navarra This enters a high altitude 1288 m and the Navarre section has run - up the hill Leopoeder, 5 km after entering Navarra. They have made continuous improvement actions in signaling and periodically checking their validity. Today is thorough and only in situations blizzard may have trouble not followed.

However interventions persist in this area of rescue personnel, both professional and volunteer, often motivated by the weakness or lack of information and preparation of the pilgrims, given the harshness of this this route. Very difficult conditions for bailouts, including situations of risk for life - saving equipment, given the topography and climate of the area, and the serious difficulties of access, location and evacuation.

In previous seasons previous access restriction measures established by this variant, experience shows the desirability of maintaining these periods of restriction step in the interests of greater security of individuals and rescue personnel, both professional and volunteer.

Therefore, the Government of Navarra has decided to establish, for reasons of safety for people, measures restricting passage through this variant of the Camino de Santiago in the first stage of Navarra, providing a mandatory traffic on dates ranging between 1 November 2017 and 31 March 2018, the western variant of the Camino de Santiago (Valcarlos).

This variant will be closed on those dates at the entrance of Navarra, in point of geographical coordinates 43º3'2,02''N and 1º16'6,04''W, near the Collado de Bentartea.

These measures shall be published in the Official Gazette of Navarre for general knowledge.
 
...and ship it to Santiago for storage. You pick it up once in Santiago. Service offered by Casa Ivar (we use DHL for transportation).
If anyone would like a Tinker translation:
"The Route Napoleon is closed. It is shut. It is not open for the walkings. We have tried everything we can think of to try to persuade %&$£@ peregrinos to just walk via Valcarlos in the wintery bits and have a nice time but *&%)£. So: the Route Napoleon is shut. We thank you for your understandings."

And please don't post to tell us that you've done the Napoleon twice in a blizzard while only wearing paper underpants or that anyone with a pair of Dunlop plimsolls can hop it easily and that the marks in the snow make it easier to find your way back despite the frostbite......
 
If anyone would like a Tinker translation:
"The Route Napoleon is closed. It is shut. It is not open for the walkings. We have tried everything we can think of to try to persuade %&$£@ peregrinos to just walk via Valcarlos in the wintery bits and have a nice time but *&%)£. So: the Route Napoleon is shut. We thank you for your understandings."

And please don't post to tell us that you've done the Napoleon twice in a blizzard while only wearing paper underpants or that anyone with a pair of Dunlop plimsolls can hop it easily and that the marks in the snow make it easier to find your way back despite the frostbite......
You have done your duty too bad the other 50 languages aren’t included. Anyone translate into Korean, American, German, .....:p
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
A reminder to members that the Route Napoleon is closed from tomorrow until the 31 March 2018. Here's a copy of the official notice: http://www.caminosantiago.org/cpperegrino/prensa/verprensa.asp?PrensaID=11129
Thank you for the reminder that the hill is closed. I came across this form a few months ago and still appreciate the energy and time people give, Thank You. I will be walking feb/18 and looking forward to the Vacarlos route, even though most of the vlogs and youtube offerings refer to Route Napoleon, it looks great. Starting the walk on a secondary route seemed a bit of a let down at first, hoping the RV is rewarding in its own right, mainly because many form users say it is. The collective experience has/is putting my mind at ease.
 
Last edited:
Hi @Bill Anthony, and welcome to the forum. In case you are wondering why your post displays as it does, you must have entered your text inside these letters that close the quoted part your replied to: [/QUOTE]

If you want, you can click on Edit under your post, carefully extract your message and place it after those letters (or on the next line).

(Just trying to save you the time of trying to figure this out yourself :))
 
Thank you for the reminder that the hill is closed. I came across this form a few months ago and still appreciate the energy and time people give, Thank You. I will be walking feb/18 and looking forward to the Vacarlos route, even though most of the vlogs and youtube offerings refer to Route Napoleon, it looks great. Starting the walk on a secondary route seemed a bit of a let down at first, hoping the RV is rewarding in its own right, mainly because many form users say it is. The collective experience has/is putting my mind at ease.
Welcome to the forum Bill. The Valcarlos route is not a secondary route, it is the original route, the Napoleon route came later.
 
Fail to prepare? reduce your risk by buying this book full of practical info.
2nd ed.
2004%25202.JPG


Here is a modern print depicting Charlemagne mounted finding Roland dead in August 778 on what will become the Valcarlos route near Roncesvalles. (For a further description of this scene see this Roncesvalles monastery history page) Hence the village of Valcarlos was named in honor of Carlos ie. Charlemagne.

The Valcarlos route was THE original medieval pilgrims' path through the mountains and pass to Roncesvalles; the present Napoleon camino over the mountains to Roncesvalles is later.

During past winters/springs the Napoleon route from SJPdP to Roncesvalles was filled with several meters of snow and in effect closed to pilgrims thus necessitating the use of the Valcarlos alternate. You can read about this hazardous situation in the Forum topic. >> http://www.caminodesantiago.me/board/el-camino-frances/topic16961.html

Whatever the season always ask for advice at the SJPdP Pilgrim office before setting out!

Buen Camino!
 
Last edited:
Thank you for the reminder that the hill is closed. I came across this form a few months ago and still appreciate the energy and time people give, Thank You. I will be walking feb/18 and looking forward to the Vacarlos route, even though most of the vlogs and youtube offerings refer to Route Napoleon, it looks great. Starting the walk on a secondary route seemed a bit of a let down at first, hoping the RV is rewarding in its own right, mainly because many form users say it is. The collective experience has/is putting my mind at ease.

Hi Bill (yes welcome), I walked the Valcarlos Route back on May 1st this year and I can vouch for it not being a secondary route. Have a short day and stay overnight in Valcarlos - there is a good albergue and a couple of choices to eat. Your next day includes that shorter climb from 200 metres (say 660 ft) up 1055 metres (say 3300 ft) before you descend to Roncesvalles. Have a great Camino!
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
We took the Valcaros Route inadvertently (that's what happens when your 14 year old daughter leads the way!) and we were 10 km into the way when we realised. Taking the attitude of "never make firm plans" we headed on and had the most amazingly scenic walk through beautiful villages, along gently running streams and amazing forests and finally up a very steep section to Roland's Pass, and down to the monastery at Roncevalles. The whole day we only met 2 other pilgrims and talking to others that took the Napoleon route we had the better weather conditions. It was one of our favourite days on the Camino and we have no regrets whatsoever taking the Valcaros route.
 
Here it is the info about the good Valcarlos albergue.
The village of Arnéguy is 3 (steep) km before Valcarlos. There are many big supermarkets, where you can buy bread (no bakery in Valcarlos), ham, cheese, etc. You can find them an odd place for such a big shop, but formerly it was a "real" frontier. This was smuggler's land...
Famous for the Basque underground operatives defying Hitler and Franco by returning downed Allied pilots to freedom during WWII. Famous for the back roads which allow Jambon Bayonne and Jambon Serrano move seamlessly across the border as well as some fine wines which escape the clutches of the Douanes from Rioja, Txakoli and parts of Bordeaux and Provence.
 
If anyone would like a Tinker translation:
"The Route Napoleon is closed. It is shut. It is not open for the walkings. We have tried everything we can think of to try to persuade %&$£@ peregrinos to just walk via Valcarlos in the wintery bits and have a nice time but *&%)£. So: the Route Napoleon is shut. We thank you for your understandings."

And please don't post to tell us that you've done the Napoleon twice in a blizzard while only wearing paper underpants or that anyone with a pair of Dunlop plimsolls can hop it easily and that the marks in the snow make it easier to find your way back despite the frostbite......

Laugh out loud, you are so funny!
 
Perfect memento/gift in a presentation box. Engraving available, 25 character max.
Fail to prepare? reduce your risk by buying this book full of practical info.
2nd ed.
Thanks for all the great information mspath. one evening a few weeks ago came across your vlog and got lost in it, the hours slipped away. The advise you give on a brew kit and provisions will be taken ( wasn't on my radar before ). Here is a big hug from Canada for your generosity of time and spirit.
:):):)
Been there done that! @mspath blogs got me over my fear of walking through snow. Well that is apart from walking through blizzards which still scares me. But one day I am going to do a winter camino. Though I hasten to add NOT over the Napoleon.
 
Last edited:
Heda:

There is walking through snow, and walking IN snow. It is one thing to walk in ankle deep wet snow, as is commonly found in late April and throughout May, especially at elevation.

However, it is another thing entirely to find yourself in knee or hip-deep dry snow, at elevation, with hard winds, and fading sun. That is life-threatening, and stupid...IMHO

The Napoleon Pass is: CLOSED / FERME / CERRADO / GESCHLOSSEN / ZU / GESLOTEN / 폐쇄 / ZAMKNIĘTA / Uždarytas / CHIUSO

To 31 March, 2018!

Hope this helps.
 
Heda:

There is walking through snow, and walking IN snow. It is one thing to walk in ankle deep wet snow, as is commonly found in late April and throughout May, especially at elevation.

Deep snow I will avoid. the daily walk to work is 5 km, post holing thru deep snow sucks. I've done it a few times after/during a snow storm adds lots of time/sweat not worth it! Can not image doing with a pack on in a strange place.
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
Thank you for the reminder that the hill is closed. I came across this form a few months ago and still appreciate the energy and time people give, Thank You. I will be walking feb/18 and looking forward to the Vacarlos route, even though most of the vlogs and youtube offerings refer to Route Napoleon, it looks great. Starting the walk on a secondary route seemed a bit of a let down at first, hoping the RV is rewarding in its own right, mainly because many form users say it is. The collective experience has/is putting my mind at ease.

Hi Bill,
Route Napoleon does not exist , he wasn't there mate.
Valcarlos was the way from as far as Paris as depicted on ancient drawings in Santo Domingo beside The Parador.

However in Feb i would still be very careful , stopping at Valcarlos for the first night where there are good restaurants and Burguete the second day after a snack in Roncesvalles where warm accommodation awaits .
After Valcarlos if the weather is bad i would stay on the road until the water fountain and then head inland and up just before Roncesvalles [ It is shown on the local maps]
The forest floor can be very , very hard following bad weather [snow and rain]
Leave StJPP mid morning , no hurry , stop in Valcarlos.
Enjoy this beautiful section
 
We took the Valcaros Route inadvertently (that's what happens when your 14 year old daughter leads the way!) and we were 10 km into the way when we realised. Taking the attitude of "never make firm plans" we headed on and had the most amazingly scenic walk through beautiful villages, along gently running streams and amazing forests and finally up a very steep section to Roland's Pass, and down to the monastery at Roncevalles. The whole day we only met 2 other pilgrims and talking to others that took the Napoleon route we had the better weather conditions. It was one of our favourite days on the Camino and we have no regrets whatsoever taking the Valcaros route.
Hi dean's family. Are you the family I met at roncevalles on Sept 18. You are travelling the world home schooling your daughter and she plays the banjo it uk? I enjoyed your company in the kitchen of the large albergue but never saw you again after that first day. I arrived santiago October 16. I'm kay from New Zealand in my mid sixties. Wondered about your progress and had been looking forward to another evening chatting. I'm flying back to NZ sunday night. You guys???
 
Hi dean's family. Are you the family I met at roncevalles on Sept 18. You are travelling the world home schooling your daughter and she plays the banjo it uk? I enjoyed your company in the kitchen of the large albergue but never saw you again after that first day. I arrived santiago October 16. I'm kay from New Zealand in my mid sixties. Wondered about your progress and had been looking forward to another evening chatting. I'm flying back to NZ sunday night. You guys???
Yes, yes, yes! We walked into Santiago on the 16th Oct, rested a day, then walked on to Muxia and finished in Finisterre on the 23rd Oct. Awesome time and trod every cm of it, carrying our packs all the way. Sorry we missed you and thought about you at the wine fountain! Unfortunately the pump to the fountain was out of action on the day :( but that's life. Back in Perth and already working out logistics for a spring Norte. Woo hoo!
 
Train for your next Camino on California's Santa Catalina Island March 16-19
Starting the walk on a secondary route seemed a bit of a let down at first, hoping the RV is rewarding in its own right.
The Valcarlos route is not a secondary route, it is the original route, the Napoleon route came later.
Bill, be reassured that as others have said the Val Carlos is the older, authentic route. The Napoleon's claim to fame is (as far as I can tell) mostly hype from Hollywood (Shirley Maclaine's book, and then Martin Sheen and The Way), and Paulo Coelho's book.
Don't believe it.

And the VC way is glorious walking, not at all 'second-best,' as @dean's family fortuitously discovered:
we headed on and had the most amazingly scenic walk through beautiful villages, along gently running streams and amazing forests and finally up a very steep section to Roland's Pass, and down to the monastery at Roncevalles. The whole day we only met 2 other pilgrims and talking to others that took the Napoleon route we had the better weather conditions. It was one of our favourite days on the Camino and we have no regrets whatsoever taking the Valcaros route.
Lucky you...Buen Camino!
 
Starting to get very excited and more nervous, looking forward to when the excitement overcomes the nerves !

There is a restaurant full of pilgrims around the bend on left as you leave town,
Can't get lost , only one street.
Enjoy , ask advice and take your time
 
Last edited:
3rd Edition. Vital content training & pack guides avoid common mistakes, bed bugs etc
Not advising people purposely ignore the closure--just saying I was oblivious to the closure
This is a bit confusing. The closure was of the Napoleon route, which you didn't take. (Likely if you had headed toward the Napoleon route, you would have seen a closure sign.) Your experience was a good example of how the Valcarlos route shouldn't be considered a second choice.
 
A reminder to members that the Route Napoleon is closed from tomorrow until the 31 March 2018. Here's a copy of the official notice: http://www.caminosantiago.org/cpperegrino/prensa/verprensa.asp?PrensaID=11129

Google translate:

The Government of Navarra has established measures restricting passage by the Eastern variant of Camino de Santiago in its first stage, at the entrance of Navarra, from 1 November 2017 until 31 March 2018. It establishes and their protection , which regulates, among other things, the itinerary of the Camino de Santiago as it passes through Navarre.

The first stage of the French Way, at its entrance Navarra, has two variants: the west which, starting from Saint Jean Pied de Port, runs through Valcarlos and the Ibañeta to Roncesvalles, and this that starts from the same point, runs through Huntto, Orisson and the Port of Lepoeder to Roncesvalles alike.

This variant is successful more than 1200 m level, plus small intermediate slopes. To overcome this gap, pilgrims wishing to face this stage must have adequate physical training situation which has been found not occur in a high percentage of them. This situation must be added the significant increase in required effort when there is snow or when weather conditions are bad, all without prejudice to the material equipment that must carry in these situations, which, likewise, have been found not carry on many occasions.

It so happens that this path Navarra This enters a high altitude 1288 m and the Navarre section has run - up the hill Leopoeder, 5 km after entering Navarra. They have made continuous improvement actions in signaling and periodically checking their validity. Today is thorough and only in situations blizzard may have trouble not followed.

However interventions persist in this area of rescue personnel, both professional and volunteer, often motivated by the weakness or lack of information and preparation of the pilgrims, given the harshness of this this route. Very difficult conditions for bailouts, including situations of risk for life - saving equipment, given the topography and climate of the area, and the serious difficulties of access, location and evacuation.

In previous seasons previous access restriction measures established by this variant, experience shows the desirability of maintaining these periods of restriction step in the interests of greater security of individuals and rescue personnel, both professional and volunteer.

Therefore, the Government of Navarra has decided to establish, for reasons of safety for people, measures restricting passage through this variant of the Camino de Santiago in the first stage of Navarra, providing a mandatory traffic on dates ranging between 1 November 2017 and 31 March 2018, the western variant of the Camino de Santiago (Valcarlos).

This variant will be closed on those dates at the entrance of Navarra, in point of geographical coordinates 43º3'2,02''N and 1º16'6,04''W, near the Collado de Bentartea.

These measures shall be published in the Official Gazette of Navarre for general knowledge.
A good thing, when we began Easter Weekend in 2009 (early April) we chose to start in Roncesvalles because of unsettled weather. Along the way we met several people who had been evacuated off the mountain, one had spent some days in hospital with hypothermia.
 
Glad I found this thread. I am a first time pilgrim, walking at the end of April. I think the Valcarlos route sounds like a better option for me, even though I have booked a night at Orrison.
 
Ideal pocket guides for during & after your Camino. Each weighs only 1.4 oz (40g)!
Glad I found this thread. I am a first time pilgrim, walking at the end of April. I think the Valcarlos route sounds like a better option for me, even though I have booked a night at Orrison.

See how the weather is , if bad or misty you will see nothing , however there is great accommodation in Valcarlos
Next day send bags ahead and walk to Burguette.
Great food in the village restaurants of both.
 
Last edited:
See how the weather is , if bad or misty you will see nothing , however there is great accommodation in Valcarlos
Next day send bags ahead and walk to Burguette.
Great food in the village restaurants of both.
@Thornley & @Evy70
I would suggest going on to Espinal. The accommodation in Burguete (according to Brierley) is well above normal pilgrim budgets. I walked from Valcarlos to Roncesvalles (in May 2017) and being tired/cold/a little wet/hungry and facing a two hour wait to get into the large albergue I joined two other pilgrims in a taxi. They were heading to the Medical Clinic in Burguete and I went on to Espinal (Haizea was great). Cheers;)
 
A reminder to members that the Route Napoleon is closed from tomorrow until the 31 March 2018. Here's a copy of the official notice: http://www.caminosantiago.org/cpperegrino/prensa/verprensa.asp?PrensaID=11129

Google translate:

The Government of Navarra has established measures restricting passage by the Eastern variant of Camino de Santiago in its first stage, at the entrance of Navarra, from 1 November 2017 until 31 March 2018. It establishes and their protection , which regulates, among other things, the itinerary of the Camino de Santiago as it passes through Navarre.

The first stage of the French Way, at its entrance Navarra, has two variants: the west which, starting from Saint Jean Pied de Port, runs through Valcarlos and the Ibañeta to Roncesvalles, and this that starts from the same point, runs through Huntto, Orisson and the Port of Lepoeder to Roncesvalles alike.

This variant is successful more than 1200 m level, plus small intermediate slopes. To overcome this gap, pilgrims wishing to face this stage must have adequate physical training situation which has been found not occur in a high percentage of them. This situation must be added the significant increase in required effort when there is snow or when weather conditions are bad, all without prejudice to the material equipment that must carry in these situations, which, likewise, have been found not carry on many occasions.

It so happens that this path Navarra This enters a high altitude 1288 m and the Navarre section has run - up the hill Leopoeder, 5 km after entering Navarra. They have made continuous improvement actions in signaling and periodically checking their validity. Today is thorough and only in situations blizzard may have trouble not followed.

However interventions persist in this area of rescue personnel, both professional and volunteer, often motivated by the weakness or lack of information and preparation of the pilgrims, given the harshness of this this route. Very difficult conditions for bailouts, including situations of risk for life - saving equipment, given the topography and climate of the area, and the serious difficulties of access, location and evacuation.

In previous seasons previous access restriction measures established by this variant, experience shows the desirability of maintaining these periods of restriction step in the interests of greater security of individuals and rescue personnel, both professional and volunteer.

Therefore, the Government of Navarra has decided to establish, for reasons of safety for people, measures restricting passage through this variant of the Camino de Santiago in the first stage of Navarra, providing a mandatory traffic on dates ranging between 1 November 2017 and 31 March 2018, the western variant of the Camino de Santiago (Valcarlos).

This variant will be closed on those dates at the entrance of Navarra, in point of geographical coordinates 43º3'2,02''N and 1º16'6,04''W, near the Collado de Bentartea.

These measures shall be published in the Official Gazette of Navarre for general knowledge.
Hi Kanga fresh from SJPDP fools are fools 2 walkers seen and warned up around Orrison trying to go over the top, snow and wind and also leaving late as they were spotted around 11 this morning, their only come back when told was " We are Austrians and used to snow" . Very quiet at the moment only 18 signed into the office yesterday I start tomorrow big rest after flying in from Oz.
 
Holoholo automatically captures your footpaths, places, photos, and journals.
I'm starting out from SJPDP on the 20th April & have booked to stay at Orisson that evening. In the event that the Napoleon Route is still closed, is Orisson still accessible from the VC Way or should I cancel my booking that morning & walk through to Roncesvalles?

Cheers!
 
Valcarlos and Orisson are on different routes - you either go one way or the other.

If the way is open from SJPDP to Orisson, go there. If not, then the gite at Orisson will be closed anyway (and you can ask for your money back). Once you are at Orisson if something happens and the Route Napoleon becomes impassable, then I understand the hospitalero at Orisson will help arrange transport across to the Valcarlos route.

I hope that makes sense! The main thing to do when you get to SJPDP is to go to the pilgrims office in Rue de la Citadelle (known to all). The volunteers there will advise and help you.
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
Valcarlos and Orisson are on different routes - you either go one way or the other.

If the way is open from SJPDP to Orisson, go there. If not, then the gite at Orisson will be closed anyway (and you can ask for your money back). Once you are at Orisson if something happens and the Route Napoleon becomes impassable, then I understand the hospitalero at Orisson will help arrange transport across to the Valcarlos route.

I hope that makes sense! The main thing to do when you get to SJPDP is to go to the pilgrims office in Rue de la Citadelle (known to all). The volunteers there will advise and help you.

Thanks Kanga, that's extremely helpful. I really appreciate it!
 
Hola - all prospective Orisson treckers. According to Brierley there is a "road" from the Napoleonic track, it branches of just before Cruceiro. Judging by the map it does appear to be a very steep descent into Valcarlos. At a guess its about 2 or 3km walk. Of course you then have the "joy" of the day 2 11km walk, with a 650 metre climb. A very Buen Camino to all early season treckers!!
 
Judging by the map it does appear to be a very steep descent into Valcarlos.
But you know where that bar is once you reach Valcarlos .... don't you St Mike;)
 
Last edited:
3rd Edition. Vital content training & pack guides avoid common mistakes, bed bugs etc
Not good, in my most humble opinion

I concur , its in a wild area if the weather is inclement.
Why on Gods earth would anyone walk to Orrison in misty weather and then turn right to Valcarlos?
Go direct to Valcarlos , stay the night after a late start and enjoy.

And please if you have not been either way , as we have , don't comment .
 
Hola - all prospective Orisson treckers. According to Brierley there is a "road" from the Napoleonic track, it branches of just before Cruceiro. Judging by the map it does appear to be a very steep descent into Valcarlos. At a guess its about 2 or 3km walk. Of course you then have the "joy" of the day 2 11km walk, with a 650 metre climb. A very Buen Camino to all early season treckers!!

With respect Mike, I think this is quite dangerous advice. If the weather is sufficiently bad that crossing via Napoleon is out, then I would not encourage people to wander off on minor roads. It would need a local guide. If you look at Google Satellite Maps and the roads in that area you will see they are full of switchbacks and lead all over the place - very steep ups and downs. I tried finding the road across and following it on Google maps (in sallelite or street view) and found it terribly confusing. In bad weather, and with the physical challenges, too much chance of poor decision making, taking a wrong turn, and getting lost, or worse. Good GPS tracks would help, but even then I would not do it in poor weather.
 
I've examined that "bailout" road before a number of times on maps and streetview. It is D128 going to Arneguy. D128 is the route suggested by the pilgrims' office to get to Valcarlos so it CAN be taken from the ridge to get to Valcarlos but this would be a bad bailout to take in a life threatening situation. It is fairly long and winding and with a number of side roads going who knows where that could get you lost or backtracking a lot. From maps and photos it looks like open country and so could be exposed to the same weather. If you are not on the main road but one of the side ones a taxi or rescue vehicle may not be able to find you if you manage to call.

Best thing to do is to get advice from the pilgrims office before you go either way and then take it.

Edit: Looking at a GPS file I have from the Route Napoleon to the Valcarlos albergue via D128 is 10 km (6.2 miles) of a fairly steady 8.5% downhill.
 
Last edited:
Perfect memento/gift in a presentation box. Engraving available, 25 character max.
Transport luggage-passengers.
From airports to SJPP
Luggage from SJPP to Roncevalles
With respect Mike, I think this is quite dangerous advice. If the weather is sufficiently bad that crossing via Napoleon is out, then I would not encourage people to wander off on minor roads. It would need a local guide. ....Good GPS tracks would help, but even then I would not do it in poor weather.
Hi K. I did not think I was encouraging anyone. I replied to a post about alternatives to the Napoleonic Route if one had reached Orisson. Whilst Brierley maps are not always 100% accurate it is a published map, publicly available and was attempting to point out this alternative.
 
Hola @Rick of Rick and Peg & @Kathar1na
I have not used this D128 (in fact I did even know it had a route designator), as for the distance of this road from the Napoleonic Track to Valcarlos - I gave an approximate distance based on other "similar" distances quoted in Brierley.
As I said I have not walked it, nor did I see it come in to the D-933/N-135 (the French & Spanish designators for the St Jean to Roncesvalles road) however I will agree that it does appear to be a very steep descent (which I indicated in my original post).
As for choice of route - yes the wise pilgrim should always used the advice from the Pilgrim Office in St Jean and also public weather services. (For me the advice from the people in the Pilgrim Office was less than satisfactory and I made the decision based on actual weather reports - and my own self interest of protection). Cheers to all, see you all again in 6 weeks!!
 
as for the distance of this road from the Napoleonic Track to Valcarlos - I gave an approximate distance based on other "similar" distances quoted in Brierley.
Brierley states explicitly that the maps in his guidebooks are designed to "show relevant information only" and "are not to scale". The distance in question is 9-10 km and not "approximately 2-3 km"!!! See images below where the connecting road is marked in blue: on the left as sketched in the Brierley guidebook and on the right as shown on a proper map. The difference is striking. Brierley's maps cannot be used to estimate distances. The only reliable distances on his maps are those that are explicitly indicated.

D128.webp
 
Last edited:
Fail to prepare? reduce your risk by buying this book full of practical info.
2nd ed.
I would love this to be the last post on the turn right scenario , but i hope in vain
If the weather is fine go over the top , stop wherever you like
If the weather is NOT fine enjoy the Basque village called Valcarlos and go there after a late start
I cannot fathom why they leave St JPDD early as the next 2-3 evenings before Pamplona are very less in desire than STJPP..
 
Last edited:
I'm sure you meant well and Brierley's maps serve their purpose but he states explicitly that these guidebook maps have been designed to "show relevant information only" and "are not to scale". 2-3 km is not an appropriate estimate for an actual distance of 9-10 km ;). I amused myself today by making a comparison that shows how this connecting road (marked in blue) looks like in the guidebook (on the left) and on a proper map (on the right). The difference is striking:

View attachment 40436

In that case I'm not carrying it - if a map's not accurate I'm not interested - where is the map on the right from? Can I buy it in SJPP
 
In that case I'm not carrying it - if a map's not accurate I'm not interested - where is the map on the right from? Can I buy it in SJPP
Brierley's maps are very useful for many Camino walkers and serve their purpose: to keep you on track and to show you what you need to know to stay on track. Just don't use them to plan any walks off the Camino track which was the point in question here.

The map on the right is taken from the interactive site of the French national geographic office IGN. A Spanish camino association has produced a leaflet with an accurate map of the section SJPP-Roncesvalles: http://www.caminosantiago.org/cpperegrino/servicios/pdf/MapaSosPirineos.pdf. The pilgrim's office in SJPP will give you a free schematic map for the section SJPP-Roncesvalles with many details.
 
Last edited:
A selection of Camino Jewellery
For lots of boring reasons, like earning a living, I need to carry a tablet with me, so I'm only taking electronic guides/maps/apps .

Briely I looked at the Library copy - but I must say his philosophy stuff did nothing for me. I assume that the majority of walkers don't use it because its only published in English (with no Kindle version I can find).

Yes that link is exactly what I'd call a proper map!
 
What about early October? What are the chances I get to cross on what will likely be the 9th? It's just one stage I know but it would be nice to see the trail across the Pyrenees in the traditional way which is part of the point in starting at SJPDP.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.
Yes, that may be true.

However, it really isn't necessary to be dismissive of something that is helpful to many, makes no false claims, and is not forced upon anyone!

Of all the guidebook maps I have seen, and I have quite a few guides, I like Brierleys maps the best.
For walking the CF at least, I would see no need for a 'real' map. Just follow the darn arrows ! :rolleyes:

But the 'simplistic' maps in the Brierley Guide are easy to read and provide just the type of information I need.

Name of next village, distances to the next village, accommodation options, cafes, water points, how much up or down, track or road...... I don't need anything else. And the colour scheme makes them easy to read on my phone ( I scan the whole guide)

On the CF at least why on earth would you carry a 'map' ?
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
In that case I'm not carrying it - if a map's not accurate I'm not interested - where is the map on the right from? Can I buy it in SJPP

I love maps. I spent over 20 years in the Military and 'lived' with maps. They were vital.
On the CF........they aren't ;)

I wrote this post a while back regarding planning and group tours.
But it's equally worth reading if you feel you need a map..........
https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/threads/how-much-planning.52121/#post-574476
 
Personally, I like to have some type of map either electronic or paper. There have been reports of arrows being tampered with recently. In the death of pilgrim Denise Thiem, a couple of years ago, the police believe that the killer deliberately altered the yellow signs. Having a map, even on the CF provides a reference as one goes along, especially for new Pilgrims!
 
the Valcarlos route is the original route, the Napoleon came much later.
I would like to see evidence for this statement, which is frequently repeated by various forum members. The only historical information which I have read is from Gitlitz and Davidson's "The Pilgrimage Road to Santiago" (c. 2000). The first chapter presents the Somport Pass as an ancient Roman road and the original pilgrimage route. See page 4, first paragraph: "The Somport Pass [Summus portus; 1,640 m.] has been the preferred Roman route across the central Pyrenees since since Cato conquered the Jacetania tribes around Jaca in 195 B.C.E. This relatively easy corridor from Oloron, France, has been favored by merchants, pilgrims and invading armies over the centuries. . . . The pass also channeled most pilgrim traffic until the 12th c., when Navarran and Basque bandits were brought under control, making the much easier pass to the west through Roncesvalles safe."
And in chapter 16, p. 55, on the route over the Napoleon Pass, known to the Romans as the Via Traiana, and the lower route through Valcarlos: "The lower route through Valcarlos. . . invited trouble, since it offered many opportunities for easy ambush of travelers. The higher route, to the east and over the high ridge, was preferred by the Romans - who hated being surprised - and by safety-minded pilgrims, and it is the route marked out as the hiking trail today."
No doubt there has been a great deal written elsewhere about these routes, but this book is a popular text on the main pilgrimage route to Santiago and as I have read nothing else discussing the routes into Spain from France I am unclear as to why the Valcarlos route is given the priority in forum posts. I would appreciate a brief comment with some historical reference from someone with a better historical knowledge of the caminos than myself.
 
Holoholo automatically captures your footpaths, places, photos, and journals.
You take the high road i will take the low road i will be there before you.i love mountains so high road for me 10 so far and next weeks away. Walked valcarlos route twice once because of weather but did not stop in valcarlos. Buen camino and stop carrying chip on shoulder
 
Get a spanish phone number with Airalo. eSim, so no physical SIM card. Easy to use app to add more funds if needed.
You take the high road i will take the low road i will be there before you.i love mountains so high road for me 10 so far and next weeks away. Walked valcarlos route twice once because of weather but did not stop in valcarlos. Buen camino and stop carrying chip on shoulder

Been over the top x 2 enjoyed the view.
Been via Valcarlos x 3 , loved the quietness , leaving late and we always stay in a beautiful CR when there , next day we arrive in Burguette or even venture further on occasions
Been over Somport which is a lovely way from France .
We always start in France a few says before STJPP thus the reason why Valcarlos is our place of choice.
We usually leave Ostabat and lunch in StJPP before continuing.

"You'll" take and " I'll " take ........yes a beautiful walk over the Scottish hills , stark , barren , wild and magnificent hills,
 
Last edited:
Thanks to everyone for responses. From her previous posts, I had a feeling that @Kathar1na would likely have some interesting historical material to add to this discussion. We pilgrims now, as in the past, will walk the routes which are safe, available to us and offer the services which we need. Many of us currently like the Napoleon route because it is scenic. And I enjoy the feeling of arriving in Spain over the border from France, which I have also done by the Somport Pass. But I am not sure of the place of tradition in helping us decide our routes.
 
When , how and why was it called this instead of remaining Via Traiana ?

The Peninsular War also had an impact on the Camino Frances near Roncesvalles and Pamplona.
Although Napoleon Bonaparte himself never was on this route the French troops were successful at the Battle of Roncesvalles 25 July 1813 against the British led by Wellington. Read more here of this event in the Peninsular war 1808/1814 and check out the map of the battle.
 
3rd Edition. Vital content training & pack guides avoid common mistakes, bed bugs etc
Not "always known" but in graduate school 50+ years ago I attended courses by the great medieval art/architecture historian Meyer Schapiro. Several erudite lectures focused on the architecture along the Camino Frances, not only great monuments but also simple vernacular buildings. He stressed the importance of carved shells as the major iconic motif for identifying all related to Saint James as well as the immense social impact of the camino path across northern Spain; the path became the 'main street' with ‘burgos de francos’ or independent neighborhoods settled by former pilgrims nearby and, thus, the towns developed. ... Bingo I was hooked and decided that someday I would walk that path myself. Forty+ years later I did; fifty+ years later I keep on dreaming.

Margaret Meredith

PS. See this earlier Forum thread re camino inspirations
 
Last edited:
As part of my degree in French, many years ago I read the Chanson de Roland in Old French. When I first heard about and decided to walk the camino de Santiago, I knew that Roncevaux (Roncesvalles in Spanish), near the beginning of the currently most popular route, was the location of the events narrated there. When I walked the camino Aragones through the Somport pass the next year, I had read Gitlitz and Davidson's book, "The Pilgrimage Road to Santiago" and was interested in the priority that they gave to the Somport route and to the hospice of Santa Christina, as one of the three great pilgrim hospices of the Christian world. I stopped briefly to view the ruins on my way through the pass. On my most recent camino, in Santiago I bought a copy (in Spanish translation) of book five of the Codex Calixtinus, the original 12th century guidebook to the caminos de Santiago. My Spanish is at last at the point where I can read it. My scholarship on the camino is extremely superficial, but I am interested in the traditions. However, for me the most interesting site is not Roncevaux, Somport, or Santiago, but San Juan de la Pena, where the early faith of Christians in the area and the history of the Kingdom of Aragon come together in an ancient monastery with the most fascinating architecture. Although the traditions interest me, I walk the caminos de Santiago as a pilgrim, not primarily as a lover of ancient traditions or architecture, except as they relate to the pilgrimage.
 
If anyone would like a Tinker translation:
"The Route Napoleon is closed. It is shut. It is not open for the walkings. We have tried everything we can think of to try to persuade %&$£@ peregrinos to just walk via Valcarlos in the wintery bits and have a nice time but *&%)£. So: the Route Napoleon is shut. We thank you for your understandings."

And please don't post to tell us that you've done the Napoleon twice in a blizzard while only wearing paper underpants or that anyone with a pair of Dunlop plimsolls can hop it easily and that the marks in the snow make it easier to find your way back despite the frostbite......

Very funny. Thanks for the laugh. ( I must say that's exactly what I was thinking as I read this through.)
 
A selection of Camino Jewellery
A reminder to members that the Route Napoleon is closed from tomorrow until the 31 March 2018. Here's a copy of the official notice: http://www.caminosantiago.org/cpperegrino/prensa/verprensa.asp?PrensaID=11129

Google translate:

The Government of Navarra has established measures restricting passage by the Eastern variant of Camino de Santiago in its first stage, at the entrance of Navarra, from 1 November 2017 until 31 March 2018. It establishes and their protection , which regulates, among other things, the itinerary of the Camino de Santiago as it passes through Navarre.

The first stage of the French Way, at its entrance Navarra, has two variants: the west which, starting from Saint Jean Pied de Port, runs through Valcarlos and the Ibañeta to Roncesvalles, and this that starts from the same point, runs through Huntto, Orisson and the Port of Lepoeder to Roncesvalles alike.

This variant is successful more than 1200 m level, plus small intermediate slopes. To overcome this gap, pilgrims wishing to face this stage must have adequate physical training situation which has been found not occur in a high percentage of them. This situation must be added the significant increase in required effort when there is snow or when weather conditions are bad, all without prejudice to the material equipment that must carry in these situations, which, likewise, have been found not carry on many occasions.

It so happens that this path Navarra This enters a high altitude 1288 m and the Navarre section has run - up the hill Leopoeder, 5 km after entering Navarra. They have made continuous improvement actions in signaling and periodically checking their validity. Today is thorough and only in situations blizzard may have trouble not followed.

However interventions persist in this area of rescue personnel, both professional and volunteer, often motivated by the weakness or lack of information and preparation of the pilgrims, given the harshness of this this route. Very difficult conditions for bailouts, including situations of risk for life - saving equipment, given the topography and climate of the area, and the serious difficulties of access, location and evacuation.

In previous seasons previous access restriction measures established by this variant, experience shows the desirability of maintaining these periods of restriction step in the interests of greater security of individuals and rescue personnel, both professional and volunteer.

Therefore, the Government of Navarra has decided to establish, for reasons of safety for people, measures restricting passage through this variant of the Camino de Santiago in the first stage of Navarra, providing a mandatory traffic on dates ranging between 1 November 2017 and 31 March 2018, the western variant of the Camino de Santiago (Valcarlos).

This variant will be closed on those dates at the entrance of Navarra, in point of geographical coordinates 43º3'2,02''N and 1º16'6,04''W, near the Collado de Bentartea.

These measures shall be published in the Official Gazette of Navarre for general knowledge.


A month from today I'll already be on day two of my Autumn Camino. Just a quick question: Will the Route Napoleon again be closed from 1 November? Thanks in advance.
 
Fail to prepare? reduce your risk by buying this book full of practical info.
2nd ed.
I join a mail received this week from the Authorities of Navarra,
The route is closed AND you can have to pay a fine of up to 12.000 € if you infringe the regulation, and of course you must pay rescue if needed.
 

Attachments

  • DSC_0001.webp
    DSC_0001.webp
    2.2 MB · Views: 42
  • DSC_0002.webp
    DSC_0002.webp
    673.4 KB · Views: 39
  • DSC_0003.webp
    DSC_0003.webp
    498.9 KB · Views: 38
A reminder that the Route Napoleon is now closed until 30 March 2020. Please read the whole thread if you have any questions.

The alternative Valcarlos route is open, but it can get difficult too, in bad weather. Make sure you get advice from the local Pilgrim's Office before setting out from SJPDP.
 
Ideal sleeping bag liner whether we want to add a thermal plus to our bag, or if we want to use it alone to sleep in shelters or hostels. Thanks to its mummy shape, it adapts perfectly to our body.

€46,-
A reminder that the Route Napoleon is now closed until 30 March 2020. Please read the whole thread if you have any questions.

The alternative Valcarlos route is open, but it can get difficult too, in bad weather. Make sure you get advice from the local Pilgrim's Office before setting out from SJPDP.
Walking the Valcarlos route in two days with my son!!
 
Thanks for bumping this, @Kanga! It's important.
The alternative Valcarlos route is open, but it can get difficult too, in bad weather. Make sure you get advice from the local Pilgrim's Office before setting out from SJPDP.
Yes. Do check. This was early March; which was fine and actually fun on a nice day- but it can be a whole lot worse in bad weather:
 

Attachments

  • IMG_7238.webp
    IMG_7238.webp
    1.5 MB · Views: 64
Last edited:
You have done your duty too bad the other 50 languages aren’t included. Anyone translate into Korean, American, German, .....:p
I doubt anyone is reading this forum who can't understand English. Nevertheless, I appreciate the comment. In my time as un hospitalero, I would estimate half of the Koreans I checked in could not understand English or Spanish.
 
Join the Camino cleanup. Logroño to Burgos May 2025 & Astorga to OCebreiro in June
Hi Bill (yes welcome), I walked the Valcarlos Route back on May 1st this year and I can vouch for it not being a secondary route. Have a short day and stay overnight in Valcarlos - there is a good albergue and a couple of choices to eat. Your next day includes that shorter climb from 200 metres (say 660 ft) up 1055 metres (say 3300 ft) before you descend to Roncesvalles. Have a great Camino!
Was the Napoleon route closed on May 1st?
 
Was the Napoleon route closed on May 1st?
No! Please, did you read the weather conditions?? (For information the Napoleon closes between November 1st and March 31st.) I have been in the aviation world for 20 years so I know how to read the weather. In this case I just believed that it was safer to walk the Valcarlos. That decision proved correct as I had dinner with an Italian woman who had walked the day before me and she was "literally" blown of track more that 20 metres. She ended up spending the night in hospital. Cheers
 
3rd Edition. Vital content training & pack guides avoid common mistakes, bed bugs etc
If anyone would like a Tinker translation:
"The Route Napoleon is closed. It is shut. It is not open for the walkings. We have tried everything we can think of to try to persuade %&$£@ peregrinos to just walk via Valcarlos in the wintery bits and have a nice time but *&%)£. So: the Route Napoleon is shut. We thank you for your understandings."

And please don't post to tell us that you've done the Napoleon twice in a blizzard while only wearing paper underpants or that anyone with a pair of Dunlop plimsolls can hop it easily and that the marks in the snow make it easier to find your way back despite the frostbite......
You have not said it in idiot talk.......you will be fined
 
No! Please, did you read the weather conditions?? (For information the Napoleon closes between November 1st and March 31st.) I have been in the aviation world for 20 years so I know how to read the weather. In this case I just believed that it was safer to walk the Valcarlos. That decision proved correct as I had dinner with an Italian woman who had walked the day before me and she was "literally" blown of track more that 20 metres. She ended up spending the night in hospital. Cheers
Great. I've also been in the aviation world approaching 20 years. USAF. A-10 pilot. Good luck
 
If anyone would like a Tinker translation:
"The Route Napoleon is closed. It is shut. It is not open for the walkings. We have tried everything we can think of to try to persuade %&$£@ peregrinos to just walk via Valcarlos in the wintery bits and have a nice time but *&%)£. So: the Route Napoleon is shut. We thank you for your understandings."

And please don't post to tell us that you've done the Napoleon twice in a blizzard while only wearing paper underpants or that anyone with a pair of Dunlop plimsolls can hop it easily and that the marks in the snow make it easier to find your way back despite the frostbite......
Well, thanks again for the info, I'll take the paper underpants out of my backpack........ LOL.
 
The one from Galicia (the round) and the one from Castilla & Leon. Individually numbered and made by the same people that make the ones you see on your walk.

❓How to ask a question

How to post a new question on the Camino Forum.

Most read last week in this forum

My husband and I are walking the Camino next June. We are currently booked into guest houses/hostels from Sarria to Santiago. I feel if we miss doing the meseta, I think we will regret it. That...
Hi everyone. I am in Roncevalles albergue right now in November 2024. I was quoted 100 euro for luggage transport from Buricot. They said it's slow season and they don't have any other luggage...
I’ve emailed both albergues a while back inquiring about booking for mid-April 2025. They both indicated that they’d take reservations in Nov/Dec. Outside of checking every day, do folks have a...
I have not had time to read this yet, but my spy on the ground tells me it outlines what it says on the tin, including a comment on the issue of how to improve the descent around Zubiri. I have no...
Back in 2018, I found an interactive Excel spreadsheet in the resource section for the Camino Frances that listed every town on the route and allowed you to pick your stopping point for each day...
I'm a total newbie and could use some help finding this little site so I can take a pic for a friend. It's near Burgos. I've found "Approaching Hontanas (Province of Burgos, Castilla y León)...

Featured threads

❓How to ask a question

How to post a new question on the Camino Forum.

Featured threads

Forum Rules

Forum Rules

Camino Updates on YouTube

Camino Conversations

Most downloaded Resources

This site is run by Ivar at

in Santiago de Compostela.
This site participates in the Amazon Affiliate program, designed to provide a means for Ivar to earn fees by linking to Amazon
Official Camino Passport (Credential) | 2024 Camino Guides
Back
Back
Top