Albergue in Roncesvalles (revisited thread)

[tipperary]

Hi
Just back from camino as far as Burgos. The new albergue in Roncesvalles is open,it is in the building which previously housed the Youth Hostel . Pilgrims will be amazed at the facilities, no expens
e has been spared. Banish all thoughts of penance this is LUXURY.
Let me list some of its facilities,
Spacious reception area hosted by Dutch volunteers. Thank you.
Stainless steel kitchen ,cooker hobs ,microwaves,Cold drinks machines, chilled convenience meals.Cutlery and delph are in short supply at the moment, but no doubt that will change.
There is a large dining area.
The dormitary area is divided into alcoves with four pilgrims in each. Each pilgrim has a locker with key and a power outlet.
All this is in a historic beautiful old building. The cost is now 10euro.
Thanks to all made this possible and especially to the volunteers for their welcome
Buen camino
justin

 

[annakappa]

That's good news Tipperary! I wonder if it's suitable for someone who has an 8 hour jet lag, plus approx 20 hours non stop travel? Normally we sleep at La Posada the first night, specific for this reason! We don't mind getting up early - in fact it's the best way to adapt to the European time. What do you think? Anne

 

[smileymadd]

We were thinking along the same lines as you Anne with regards to needing a good nights sleep after travelling Melbourne-Barcelona-Pamplona-Roncesvalles all in one go so to speak. This albergue which would obviously be our first experience sounds fabulous. Anne, we thought we would stay at La Posada also and emailed off a request for reservation three weeks ago, should we have heard anything back to confirm, not sure what the procedure is. We don't have the confidence to ring as our Spanish is next to non-existant, what do you think?

 

[annakappa]

In fact, by now you should have received a reply. I'm going to send you a PM with a couple of suggestions.Anne

 

[grayland]

Just to clear up my usual confusion...the new albergue replaces the old main albergue with 120 beds in one room....right?
The last time I was there (March 2010) we were all CRAMMED into a makeshift room with the double bunks against each other. One bathroom for all,.including the overflow Pilgrims in the old reception area.

 

[cecelia]

Just to clear up my usual confusion...the new albergue replaces the old main albergue with 120 beds in one room....right?

Hi Grayland - no it's not the large albergue. The youth hostel was first and to the left as you come down the hill at the back of the main albergue - a little hard to notice unless you are looking for it.I have stayed there a couple of times and thought it was great as it was. The first time I had no idea what I was doing and I just stumbled into it. The last time I was there it had 8 beds to a room and was very comfy - at least where I was. I did try the larger albergue once just for the experience - and it is that - an experience!
Cecelia

 

[Rebekah Scott]

Un-rest assured, the dirty, overcrowded dump is still operating as usual in Roncesvalles.

 

[tipperary]

Hi all,
Anne you dont have to cancel your booking at La Posada!. Pilgrims in the old albergue tended to be restless at night and this is still the case. This renovated building opens on to a coachyard just above the church. For pilgrims who have been in the renovated albergue in Burgos, its along the same lines. Needless to say it has extensive bathroom facilities.
The old albergue has memories for many and is still in position. Who can tell, but in high summer it may still be pressed into use as an overflow facility.
By the way for pilgrims who fail to get a boooking in Roncesvalles, there are many good value rooms in Burguete 3km away. Many are in guides and Google wiil identify some.
Best wishes to all
Justin

 

[irishpilgrim]

Hi Tipperary,
This sounds wonderful. Does it mean that the alberque which was operating in the very old building with the huge 100 bed dormitory and the services, toilets, showers etc in the basement is no longer in use or is this new one an extra option?
Anna

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Both are open. The "new" one is in the old youth hostel, which was available for overflow for many years. If you want a hotel/hostal, make reservations. They rarely have openings for drop-ins, and there are only two. Burguete is only 3 km further down the road, and it has several hotels for accommodations.

 

[simdel]

We were thinking along the same lines as you Anne with regards to needing a good nights sleep after travelling Melbourne-Barcelona-Pamplona-Roncesvalles all in one go so to speak. This albergue which would obviously be our first experience sounds fabulous. Anne, we thought we would stay at La Posada also and emailed off a request for reservation three weeks ago, should we have heard anything back to confirm, not sure what the procedure is. We don't have the confidence to ring as our Spanish is next to non-existant, what do you think?

Hi Smileymadd,
I have a similar voyage and thought the same thing. I will be arriving in Roncesvalles for my first Camino on July 4 after a flight from Hong Kong to paris, then an overnight train journey to SJPDP followed by a taxi to Roncesvalles! I know I will be tired and jet-lagged and will need a comfortable bed for the first night, plus I will arrive early afternoon, so I made a reservation with La Posada and I got a reply almost immediately. Basically, they told me a room was reserved, but I need to call them to reconfirm a day or two before arrival. I suggest you try again. I used the reservation page on their website and wrote in very rusty Spanish, although in fact you just have to put down dates and tick a box.

 

[smileymadd]

Thanks simdel, I did make the reservation via their website but I'm giving it another go. I admit I am quite technologically challenged (much to the frustration of my IT employed husband), maybe one slip on the keyboard and my request went astray Thanks again.

 

[Jochen_Schmidtke]

Un-rest assured, the dirty, overcrowded dump is still operating as usual in Roncesvalles.

This is not correct. The refuge in the old Collegio is opened with 30 places only in winter time.
Refuge Roncesvalles
Buen Camino
Jochen

 

[smileymadd]

Hey simdel, I definately must have done sonething wrong with my first attempt at the online reservation at La Posada, tried again today and three hours later got a confirmation, so thanks again for your advice, I'm feeling much happier now I know we definately have somewhere to sleep the first night.
smileymadd.

 

[countrycasita]

Sorry to be a bit slow here but I didn't think you could make reservations for albergues in Spain?? Is this not true? If I can make a reservation for this fine sounding new hostel in Roncesvalles, what is the procedure please?? Many thanks
Paul

 

[tipperary]

Hi paul,
In spite of what other posters report, this is now the only Albergue in Roncesvalles. It is run by Dutch volunteers just like the Albergue it replaces. It is in the old Youth Hostel which had been closed for at least 3 years. Like almost all Spannish Albergues it does not accept booking.
Buen Camino
justin

 

[grayland]

Sorry to be a bit slow here but I didn't think you could make reservations for albergues in Spain?? Is this not true? If I can make a reservation for this fine sounding new hostel in Roncesvalles, what is the procedure please?? Many thanks
Paul

They are talking about making reservations at La Posada which is a private Hostal near the Monastery on the main road/.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Websites now say that the old albergue has been closed for renovation, since the new one was opened in March, 2011.

http://caminodesantiago.consumer.es/albergue-itzandegia

It looks very nice in the photos.

Reminder: you need to make reservations for the Pilgrim Menu in either of the restaurants, and pay in advance. It is a nice meal; you will meet a table-full of fellow pilgrims; and there are no drop-ins accepted. The family-style meal is a bit of a who-can-grab-the-most, so don't be shy!

 

[grayland]

However, both restaurants still have (or did) a regular menu including the "menu del dia" which is not much more the the Pilgrim menu and does not require reservations if you don't/can't make the pilgrim menu. They also have simple items as well so not to stress too much about it. :wink:

 

[countrycasita]

Thanks for the explanations! I'll be there next week...I can scarcely believe it.
Paul

 

[camino07]

Only 10 sleeps until I start my Camino. Pre Camino nerves as usual and another worry now. Will there be enough beds for all if the large,old albergue in Roncevalles is closed for renovation? Does anyone who has been there recently know exactly how many beds are in the new one ? I am a worrier from way back!!
Heather

 

[tipperary]

Hi Heather,
Dont worry, just back. The renovated albergue has just as many beds as the old one
Buen camino
justin

 

[Deleted member 3000]

From the above link:

Impresión general:
Estado de conservación: Abierto el 18 de marzo de 2011
Disponibilidad del albergue: Todo el año. De noviembre a marzo se traslada al albergue de la Colegiata de unas 30 plazas
Precio: 10 euros
Plazas
Plazas totales: 183
Nº de plazas en litera:
Nº de plazas en suelo:
Nº de colchones en suelo:
Nº de camas:
Descripción de habitaciones: Tres plantas con 72 plazas en las dos primeras y 39 en la última
Reserva de plaza en el albergue: Sí, hasta un cupo máximo de 60 plazas
Condiciones de admisión para acceder al albergue: Ser peregrino con credencial
Hora de apertura: 13:00
Hora de cierre: 22:00
Posibilidad de salir o no cuando se cierra: No

So they have 183 beds, still not enough when 250 pilgrims show up.

 

[jennysa]

7 more sleeps until I, together with 2 friends, start at SJPDP on 28th. We hope to make it in one go to Roncesvalles for the night of the 28th. Will anyone else be there?

Jenny

 

[camino07]

Thanks Tipperary, I feel better now. One less worry.
Cheers
Heather

 

[pete75]

7 more sleeps until I, together with 2 friends, start at SJPDP on 28th. We hope to make it in one go to Roncesvalles for the night of the 28th. Will anyone else be there?

Jenny

Hi Jenny, starting from SJPDD on the 30th, not too far behind. I hope the weather is good for route Napoleon. Buen Camino!

Pete

 

[Anniesantiago]

Can someone tell me the current cost of staying in the Roncesvalles albergue? Thanks.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

From their website, 10E.

 

[johan.steenkamp]

Can somebody help me with contact information for the Albergue in Roncesvalles. Email would be great

 

[peregrina2000]

According to the ERoski guide, http://caminodesantiago.consumer.es/albergue-itzandegia

their email address is info@alberguederoncesvalles.com

But their webpage, http://www.alberguederoncesvalles.com/, says they only accept reservations by phone. 948 760 000 (if calling from US add 011 34 to that number).

I was sort of surprised to see they accept reservations, actually. I've never reserved and never had a problem, but I only walk in spring or fall, and I've heard many stories about the crunches of high season.

Good luck with this. Laurie

 

[michelle grech]

Hi
Just back from camino as far as Burgos. The new albergue in Roncesvalles is open,it is in the building which previously housed the Youth Hostel . Pilgrims will be amazed at the facilities, no expens
e has been spared. Banish all thoughts of penance this is LUXURY.
Let me list some of its facilities,
Spacious reception area hosted by Dutch volunteers. Thank you.
Stainless steel kitchen ,cooker hobs ,microwaves,Cold drinks machines, chilled convenience meals.Cutlery and delph are in short supply at the moment, but no doubt that will change.
There is a large dining area.
The dormitary area is divided into alcoves with four pilgrims in each. Each pilgrim has a locker with key and a power outlet.
All this is in a historic beautiful old building. The cost is now 10euro.
Thanks to all made this possible and especially to the volunteers for their welcome
Buen camino
justin

Thanks for this info. Would one survive with just a silk liner as their site states that a sleeping bag is a must? Is it a cold place? We'll be there on 6 of May.
Thanks

 

[mspath]

Michelle,

Your silk liner will be adequate. The idea is to keep your body from directly touching the mattress cover. Early May might be chilly in those mountains. If so just wear your clean clothes for sleeping.

Buen Camino,

Margaret Meredith

 

[michelle grech]

Mspath, I am very grateful for getting back on this. I had a huge dilemma and although I walked part of the Camino before I'm not experienced with the first part which should be the coldest. I will stick to the liner, as you said I can wear clothes to warm me up if necessary.

Thanks a lot.

 

[owms2323]

Hi
Just back from camino as far as Burgos. The new albergue in Roncesvalles is open,it is in the building which previously housed the Youth Hostel . Pilgrims will be amazed at the facilities, no expens
e has been spared. Banish all thoughts of penance this is LUXURY.
Let me list some of its facilities,
Spacious reception area hosted by Dutch volunteers. Thank you.
Stainless steel kitchen ,cooker hobs ,microwaves,Cold drinks machines, chilled convenience meals.Cutlery and delph are in short supply at the moment, but no doubt that will change.
There is a large dining area.
The dormitary area is divided into alcoves with four pilgrims in each. Each pilgrim has a locker with key and a power outlet.
All this is in a historic beautiful old building. The cost is now 10euro.
Thanks to all made this possible and especially to the volunteers for their welcome
Buen camino
justin

Do you need reservations?

 

[mspath]

The new albergue in Roncesvalles has more than 180 bunks set in nooks for four pilgrims. In all probability you would not need a reservation, but you can reserve via this web page.

 

[Sandra Ashby]

Hi
Just back from camino as far as Burgos. The new albergue in Roncesvalles is open,it is in the building which previously housed the Youth Hostel . Pilgrims will be amazed at the facilities, no expens
e has been spared. Banish all thoughts of penance this is LUXURY.
Let me list some of its facilities,
Spacious reception area hosted by Dutch volunteers. Thank you.
Stainless steel kitchen ,cooker hobs ,microwaves,Cold drinks machines, chilled convenience meals.Cutlery and delph are in short supply at the moment, but no doubt that will change.
There is a large dining area.
The dormitary area is divided into alcoves with four pilgrims in each. Each pilgrim has a locker with key and a power outlet.
All this is in a historic beautiful old building. The cost is now 10euro.
Thanks to all made this possible and especially to the volunteers for their welcome
Buen camino
justin

What is the name of this albuques. ..I am on sjpp and would like to book for tomorrow.

 

[mspath]

What is the name of this albuques. ..I am on sjpp and would like to book for tomorrow.

The albergue in Roncesvalles monastery does accept reservations but they must be made at least 5 working days in advance of your arrival. See contact details on this web page.

 

[trecile]

What is the name of this albuques. ..I am on sjpp and would like to book for tomorrow.

Don't worry, I was there a couple of weeks ago. They have plenty of beds.

 

[Margaret A]

the well known albergue in the Roncesvalles monastery complex and @mspath has given you the contact details. It may do no harm to book as tomorrow is the second weekend in September, a now traditionally busy time for Camino Frances pilgrims in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and Roncesvalles.

@Katharina I had no idea we would need to book accommodation at Roncesvalles -we will arrive at SJPDP on Tues next 13th and plan to walk to Roncesvalles on Wed 14th. Would it be wise to book then? Buen Camino

 

[Mark Lee]

@Katharina I had no idea we would need to book accommodation at Roncesvalles -we will arrive at SJPDP on Tues next 13th and plan to walk to Roncesvalles on Wed 14th. Would it be wise to book then? Buen Camino

You don't have to pre-book, but I suppose it doesn't hurt to. I've stayed there more than once and never had to. The albergue holds over 200 pilgrims (plus overflow). If it was ever so full they had to turn you away, that would be an interesting, and busy start to a Camino.
cheers

 

[SYates]

@Katharina I had no idea we would need to book accommodation at Roncesvalles -we will arrive at SJPDP on Tues next 13th and plan to walk to Roncesvalles on Wed 14th. Would it be wise to book then? Buen Camino

The albergue in Roncesvalles is huge - no need to book. Buen Camino, SY

 

[grayland]

Check the dates on the posts above to be sure you are reading current information.

This is an old thread that was reopened.

 

[SYates]

Check the dates on the posts above to be sure you are reading current information.

This is an old thread that was reopened.

Perhaps it might be an idea to split this thread? Buen Camino, SY

 

[Margaret A]

If it was ever so full they had to turn you away, that would be an interesting, and busy start to a Camino.

I'm reassured and won't book - thanks @SYates, @Kathar1na, @marklee

 

[Mary Posey]

That's good news Tipperary! I wonder if it's suitable for someone who has an 8 hour jet lag, plus approx 20 hours non stop travel? Normally we sleep at La Posada the first night, specific for this reason! We don't mind getting up early - in fact it's the best way to adapt to the European time. What do you think? Anne

Please tell me the name of the NEW albergue in Roncesvalles that seems to be much better. It will be our first night on the Camino and we are getting bicycles delivered .

 

[trecile]

Please tell me the name of the NEW albergue in Roncesvalles that seems to be much better. It will be our first night on the Camino and we are getting bicycles delivered .

To my knowledge, there isn't a NEW albergue in Roncesvalles. There are a couple of hotels there in addition to the large albergue.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

Please tell me the name of the NEW albergue in Roncesvalles that seems to be much better. It will be our first night on the Camino and we are getting bicycles delivered .

Will repeat my post that was deleted: there is no new additional albergue, there is only one albergue in R.