My Wife Insists We Start From SJPDP!

[barryg]

I wanted to start in Pamplona as I did last year, but since I only barely convinced my wife to even go and she asserts she wants to leave from SJPDP, I need SJPDP information.

If we leave from SJPDP May 1rst, how likely is it that the passes will be closed. Do we need heavy clothing? Are boots a must (I prefer sandals and was fine from Pamplona to SDC in June)? Or could I make it in sandals, or light running shoes? Is there a train that goes direct from Madrid to SJPDP, or must you go into Pamplona first, then take a bus/train?

Thanks for any information and thanks for putting up with all my varied posts.

Warmly,

Barry

 

[Anniesantiago]

You do not need heavy clothing. Just layers as always for May.
You do not need boots - I have worn trail runners every year for over 10 years
There is a bus from madrid to SJPP but not sure in May - you might have to take the bus from the Madrid airport to Pamplona, spend the night, then bus to SJPP from there. That's what I usually do anyway, spend a day or two in Pamplona getting over the time change. Then I can walk right through Pamplona on my Camino - don't have to stop b/c I"ve already seen it.

 

[spreadsheetdirtbags]

I believe there is an 'alternate' route from SJPDP that avoids the pass when there is inclement weather (stays lower) so you won't be trapped in SJPDP. There is info posted in town about the weather/conditions, and you can ask around for a 'go/no-go' recommendation regarding the pass. The office in SJPDP was very helpful on this =)

 

[trecile]

Are boots a must (I prefer sandals and was fine from Pamplona to SDC in June)? Or could I make it in sandals, or light running shoes?

I started on May 11th this year and wore sandals. Much of the trail over the Pyrenees is a paved road.

 

[C clearly]

Do we need heavy clothing?

You never need heavy clothing - see the other threads.

 

[KinkyOne]

You never need heavy clothing - see the other threads.

See the "other threads" for everything else also

 

[RumAndChupacabras]

Happy wife, happy life!

 

[KinkyOne]

Happy wife, happy life!

Is that when she run off?

 

[scruffy1]

I wanted to start in Pamplona as I did last year, but since I only barely convinced my wife to even go and she asserts she wants to leave from SJPDP, I need SJPDP information.

If we leave from SJPDP May 1rst, how likely is it that the passes will be closed. Do we need heavy clothing? Are boots a must (I prefer sandals and was fine from Pamplona to SDC in June)? Or could I make it in sandals, or light running shoes? Is there a train that goes direct from Madrid to SJPDP, or must you go into Pamplona first, then take a bus/train?

Thanks for any information and thanks for putting up with all my varied posts.

Warmly,

Barry

1st May? No, and no and no again! May 1 falls on a Friday - a national holiday in both Spain and France - an extra long weekend of revelry! Be prepared for just about anything - weird bus/train schedules, closed shops, crowds of people both on and off the Camino, packed restaurants and cafe/bars. For your own sanity, arrive a day or two before or leave a day or two after!
People once considered SJPP to be the only place where a real pilgrim begins the pilgrimage, a proper Camino starts there and if not an automatic apology/explanation was expected. That thankfully has receded but it's still there.

 

[Dorpie]

Well spotted @scruffy1 the date hadn't clicked with me.

The weather in May is always hard to predict, when I walked at that time of year it didn't rain once, others have not been so lucky.

I agree with the posters above, unless it's the absolute depths of winter I would never wear boots on the camino again, they simply aren't needed. As for heavy clothing, there's a clue in the description as to why it's not a great idea, it's heavy. I'd plan for moderate weather and if you get to Spain and for some reason it's freezing you can always add to your wardrobe, better that than lugging around a load of stuff you end up not using.

Buen Camino,

Rob.

 

[William Marques]

Why not compromise and start at Roncesvalles?

Until 2004 more pilgrims started in Roncesvalles than SJPP, since then SJPP numbers have increased by a multiple of 3.5 while Ronccesvalles numbers have dropped to 40% of the 2004 numbers.

 

[Deleted member 73526]

Why not compromise and start at Roncesvalless?

Starting in SJPP is the compromise. OP's wife gave ground by agreeing to walk the Camino. OP should be grateful that she isn't insisting on starting in Le Puy.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

For clothes I suggest bringing an old big shirt to go over your normal shirt and under your jacket in case of a cold spell. Throw it away when leaving Zubiri (in the trash, not on the ground).

To get to SJPdP from Madrid or Barcelona fly, bus or train to Pamplona and then take ALSA/Conda bus. A different bus line goes to Roncevalles if that will be your start point.

 

[VAtoNC]

I wanted to start in Pamplona as I did last year, but since I only barely convinced my wife to even go and she asserts she wants to leave from SJPDP, I need SJPDP information.

If we leave from SJPDP May 1rst, how likely is it that the passes will be closed. Do we need heavy clothing? Are boots a must (I prefer sandals and was fine from Pamplona to SDC in June)? Or could I make it in sandals, or light running shoes? Is there a train that goes direct from Madrid to SJPDP, or must you go into Pamplona first, then take a bus/train?

Thanks for any information and thanks for putting up with all my varied posts.

Warmly,

Barry

On the trail runners vs. boots issue, I've tried 4 different pairs in preparation for my September Camino. I've decided to stay with my older, broken-in Lowa Renegade boots. With the other 3 pairs, including trail runners, hiking shoes, and a pair of lightweight Keen boots, I've experienced discomfort in the ball of my foot along with feeling every little rock and root through the soles. The Lowa's are heavier and perhaps warmer (something I've never experienced) but the thickness of the lug sole along with the ankle support have convinced me.

 

[scruffy1]

Don't need a soothsayer but I'll say it again: Beware of the Kalends of May!

 

[tpmchugh]

I wanted to start in Pamplona as I did last year, but since I only barely convinced my wife to even go and she asserts she wants to leave from SJPDP, I need SJPDP information.

If we leave from SJPDP May 1rst, how likely is it that the passes will be closed. Do we need heavy clothing? Are boots a must (I prefer sandals and was fine from Pamplona to SDC in June)? Or could I make it in sandals, or light running shoes? Is there a train that goes direct from Madrid to SJPDP, or must you go into Pamplona first, then take a bus/train?

Thanks for any information and thanks for putting up with all my varied posts.

Warmly,

Barry

I have started from St Jean in both early and late April. Both times there was still snow on the ground but the late April one was fairly pleasant weather wise. I watched other pilgrims in trainers/shoes struggle to get through the mud as in places it was more than ankle deep. So for me, light weight boots were the best. Came in handy on Alto de Perdon that we christened mud slide mountain. I know everyone has their own preferences but I prefer boots

 

[padre eric]

Just completed my second Camino, and both times we started from Roncesvalles. I know the majority of people I saw on the way were wearing low-quarter shoes either cross trainers or runners. Honestly, I dont know how they do it. I wear mid length Keens and more times than I can remember the ankle support provided from the boot saved me possible injury. The descent into Zubiri is a killer. Outcropping of rock at many and various angles is difficult to walk at day’s end. To each his own, but I will walk the Camino again at some point, and again wear my Keens for safety reasons (granted the remainder of the way is quite good (less the descent from the Iron Cross), but for me...better safe than sorry.

 

[Stivandrer]

Just completed my second Camino, and both times we started from Roncesvalles. I know the majority of people I saw on the way were wearing low-quarter shoes either cross trainers or runners. Honestly, I dont know how they do it. I wear mid length Keens and more times than I can remember the ankle support provided from the boot saved me possible injury. The descent into Zubiri is a killer. Outcropping of rock at many and various angles is difficult to walk at day’s end. To each his own, but I will walk the Camino again at some point, and again wear my Keens for safety reasons (granted the remainder of the way is quite good (less the descent from the Iron Cross), but for me...better safe than sorry.

Hear, Hear...

 

[natefaith]

1st May? No, and no and no again! May 1 falls on a Friday - a national holiday in both Spain and France - an extra long weekend of revelry! Be prepared for just about anything - weird bus/train schedules, closed shops, crowds of people both on and off the Camino, packed restaurants and cafe/bars. For your own sanity, arrive a day or two before or leave a day or two after!
People once considered SJPP to be the only place where a real pilgrim begins the pilgrimage, a proper Camino starts there and if not an automatic apology/explanation was expected. That thankfully has receded but it's still there.

I agree with Scruffy. If you can, do avoid leaving SJPDP on May 1. A couple years ago those who started on May 1 had problems finding beds all up and down the Camino Francés, as there were just too many people going after the same beds. Of course, we don't know exactly what this year will look like, but if you can start the Monday afterward, your chances would be greater of not being caught in a likely rush. If you must start on May 1, you can see how it goes and lag behind a day or two if there's a rush.

 

[natefaith]

I forgot to say: Buen Camino!!

 

[willydp]

Hello,
I prefer merino wool t-shirts (Icebreaker) as my basic layer.
Cool when hot en hot when cool.
I did the Inglés this year (June) with Hoka One One Bondi 6 running shoes without any problem.
It is as if you walk on clouds (soft cushioning), but stable.
Drying quick too.
I bought the Altra Lone Peak 4 (trailrunners) for a bit more space for the toes.
I just did run around a bit (house,shopping)
So my first impression:
The soles are very sticky to the ground=very nice and the toes have enough room=OK.
But the shoes have zero drop (I knew before buying) and the soles have less cushioning.
So, this shoes need 'some' adjustement time (4 weeks for a runner).
The Bondi 6 does not.
I can't tell more about the LP4 because they are brand new for me.
About May, is like lottery...you never know what weather you will get. And the warning about the weekend of the first May is a major one!
Shops are all closed and minimal services.
Start later
Buen Camino

 

[bikerkvw]

I wanted to start in Pamplona as I did last year, but since I only barely convinced my wife to even go and she asserts she wants to leave from SJPDP, I need SJPDP information.

If we leave from SJPDP May 1rst, how likely is it that the passes will be closed. Do we need heavy clothing? Are boots a must (I prefer sandals and was fine from Pamplona to SDC in June)? Or could I make it in sandals, or light running shoes? Is there a train that goes direct from Madrid to SJPDP, or must you go into Pamplona first, then take a bus/train?

Thanks for any information and thanks for putting up with all my varied posts.

Warmly,

Barry

Let your wife begin in SJPP and you meet her in Pamplona. You both can have some quite time and do what each of you want.

 

[Jean françois]

Do you live in St-Jean-Pied-de-Port?

 

[Bert45]

I'm surprised nobody has mentioned (unless I've missed it) the old saying that your Camino begins when you close your front door. There is really no official start to any camino, though, if you asked 100 peregrinos 99 would probably say that the Camino Francés begins at StJPdP. But some people begin their camino in Paris at the appropriately named Rue St Jacques. It is unfortunate that, if you begin at StJPdP, the first day is probably the hardest day of the whole camino, unless you stop at Orisson, in which case the second day is the hardest.

 

[willydp]

@Bert45 when it is a hard day that means perhaps that you didn't have enough training

 

[trecile]

if you begin at StJPdP, the first day is probably the hardest day of the whole camino, unless you stop at Orisson, in which case the second day is the hardest.

If you stop at Orisson, you make the second day to Roncesvalles much easier. It's only 17.5 km, and doesn't include the steepest part.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

It's only 17.5 km, and doesn't include the steepest part.

Just to be clear, the "it" that @trecile mentioned is the second day, not the walk to Orisson.

 

[Richard A Stead]

I wanted to start in Pamplona as I did last year, but since I only barely convinced my wife to even go and she asserts she wants to leave from SJPDP, I need SJPDP information.

If we leave from SJPDP May 1rst, how likely is it that the passes will be closed. Do we need heavy clothing? Are boots a must (I prefer sandals and was fine from Pamplona to SDC in June)? Or could I make it in sandals, or light running shoes? Is there a train that goes direct from Madrid to SJPDP, or must you go into Pamplona first, then take a bus/train?

Thanks for any information and thanks for putting up with all my varied posts.

Warmly,

Barry

If you want to have a sense of history ie Hannibal. Napoleon etc the do the high route
Not as difficult as people make out and massively rewarding. Is it seems too daunting book Orisson for the first night. Communal dinner and you’ll meet people who will be with you on and off for most of the journey.

 

[Tony Calhoun]

We flew into Madrid Barajas spent a couple of days enjoying Madrid, took a Renfe to Pamplona out of the Madrid Atocha Station, shared a taxi with other pilgrims from the Pamplona train station to the Pamplona Bus Station. Then a short scheduled bus ride over to SJPdP. Made for a nice day. Train and bus reservations were made from home before we left. Do enjoy the historic route through the Pyrenees. The Albergue at Orisson made for a good stop on both occasions. Many "cohort" groups have been made over dinner in the Albergue.

 

[Rod Murray]

Cool when hot en hot when cool.

So, my question is, how do they know to keep you warm or cool (tongue in cheek)?

 

[bbates225]

You do not need heavy clothing. Just layers as always for May.
You do not need boots - I have worn trail runners every year for over 10 years
There is a bus from madrid to SJPP but not sure in May - you might have to take the bus from the Madrid airport to Pamplona, spend the night, then bus to SJPP from there. That's what I usually do anyway, spend a day or two in Pamplona getting over the time change. Then I can walk right through Pamplona on my Camino - don't have to stop b/c I"ve already seen it.

Didn't know there was a bus from Madrid to Pamplona... I flew, spent the night, then took a bus to SJPP the next morning. Also didn't know there was a bus from Madrid to SJPP. Guess I didn't do my research enough in 2017. Will look into buses next year when I plan to return to SJPP and try again.

 

[Islandjoe]

I wanted to start in Pamplona as I did last year, but since I only barely convinced my wife to even go and she asserts she wants to leave from SJPDP, I need SJPDP information.

If we leave from SJPDP May 1rst, how likely is it that the passes will be closed. Do we need heavy clothing? Are boots a must (I prefer sandals and was fine from Pamplona to SDC in June)? Or could I make it in sandals, or light running shoes? Is there a train that goes direct from Madrid to SJPDP, or must you go into Pamplona first, then take a bus/train?

Thanks for any information and thanks for putting up with all my varied posts.

Warmly,

Barry

I wear Lowa Renegades and am on my 3rd pair. Also Ininji socks and bag balm on my feet. Never take a blister anymore ... great boots protect your ankles from twisting and there is a LOT of rock in Spain as you know.

I recommend merino wool layers ... add or subtract to suit weather. They wick and dry fast. Expensive but worth it.

Walking from SJPDP is great if you can spend you're first night in Orrison ... you must have a reservation ... but it is fabulous community and a wonderful start to a sacred Camino....
Buen Camino ...
Vaya con dios ...

 

[bbates225]

I wanted to start in Pamplona as I did last year, but since I only barely convinced my wife to even go and she asserts she wants to leave from SJPDP, I need SJPDP information.

If we leave from SJPDP May 1rst, how likely is it that the passes will be closed. Do we need heavy clothing? Are boots a must (I prefer sandals and was fine from Pamplona to SDC in June)? Or could I make it in sandals, or light running shoes? Is there a train that goes direct from Madrid to SJPDP, or must you go into Pamplona first, then take a bus/train?

Thanks for any information and thanks for putting up with all my varied posts.

Warmly,

Barry

I went over the Pyrenees June 3/4, 2017 and nearly froze. No snow, just lots of cold rain. I didn't have heavy clothes, just layered with what I had, but I would have given anything for a pair of warm gloves. A pair is going with me when I return next year. Hopefully I won't need them. Oh, and I wore boots, but that's just me.

 

[rmckay]

Hi Barry, we started in St Jean this week. Flew into Madrid, got the train to Pamplona and had a transfer taxi pick us and deposit us in St Jean.

 

[trecile]

Also didn't know there was a bus from Madrid to SJPP

I don't believe that there is a bus from Madrid to SJPdP. You have to take a bus to Pamplona and change there to a bus to St Jean.

 

[willydp]

So, my question is, how do they know to keep you warm or cool (tongue in cheek)?

Ask the ,lol.
Try one and you will know
It is the Merino wool specific features

 

[Bert45]

So, my question is, how do they know to keep you warm or cool (tongue in cheek)?

Stan Boardman (Liverpudlian comedian) used to say: Thermos flasks are clever, aren't they? They keep hot things hot and cold things cold, but how do they know?

 

[Mamama13]

You do not need heavy clothing. Just layers as always for May.
You do not need boots - I have worn trail runners every year for over 10 years
There is a bus from madrid to SJPP but not sure in May - you might have to take the bus from the Madrid airport to Pamplona, spend the night, then bus to SJPP from there. That's what I usually do anyway, spend a day or two in Pamplona getting over the time change. Then I can walk right through Pamplona on my Camino - don't have to stop b/c I"ve already seen it.

Were your trail runners waterproof? I’ve hear waterproof shoes are a must. We’ll be on the Camino trail Mid-Sept through Mid-Oct from SJPP to Santiago.

 

[trecile]

Were your trail runners waterproof? I’ve hear waterproof shoes are a must. We’ll be on the Camino trail Mid-Sept through Mid-Oct from SJPP to Santiago.

Waterproof shoes are definitely not a must, and can have many drawbacks. Read the excellent post #2 from @davebugg in this thread.

https://www.caminodesantiago.me/community/threads/footwear-waterproof-or-not-waterproof.60049/#post-704495

 

[Karl Oz]

I would like to gently point-out to the OP that every post here is an opinion, largely based on the poster's own experience, and as such should not be taken as gospel applicable to everyone. I have liked a couple of posts above, not just because I might agree with the opinion, but also because they show humility in the poster, who recognises and acknowledges that the solution they adopted worked for them, but by implication, may not be applicable to all others. What troubles me are the posts that are more didactic and uncompromising (albeit well-meaning) along the lines of: 'Under no circumstances wear snow shoes' / 'I wore combat boots, and that is all you need'). Everybody is different and such declarative statements do not accommodate individual differences in height, weight, age, balance, fitness, experience and existing medical conditions. Great if they worked well for you, and it is a valuable perspective for others contemplating or planning the walk, but quite likely nonetheless not to be the ideal solution for all, and maybe a tacit acknowledgement of that would be valuable and reassuring to prospective pilgrims.
So Barry, you have to make your own decision, based on the evaluation of all information available to you. Then choose what you think will work for you. And you know what? You might still get it wrong! We all have, including myself this year when I tackled the Sanabres without a guidebook or sleeping bag. Freezing at night and getting Guinness-Book-of-Records lost are now life experiences, but I know others had different outcomes!
Bon Voyage!

 

[willydp]

I concur with @Karl Oz.
You will only know what works well when you did it, that means also you can do this before departure during your training.
And you should! You always can change your shoes, clothing, backpack, etc.
I wore always waterproof boots and I read on this wonderful forum that it was better not to do this in June.
So I did follow the recommendation by buying running shoes. I walked with them in all types of weather without backpack the first days and then with backpack.
Even going to work (smaller backpack with books 5kg total).
And i had to admit that they were just fine for me.
I'm wearing Merino wool (mid) socks and that did the trick when you're get a bit wet.
The running shoes are quick dry when you walk. I had some pouring rain last June during the C Inglés 5km before Santiago and shoes were dry when arriving at the Cathedral.
We all have different feet
Buen Camino

 

[barryg]

Starting in SJPP is the compromise. OP's wife gave ground by agreeing to walk the Camino. OP should be grateful that she isn't insisting on starting in Le Puy.

You are SO right! She is quite insistent on starting at the beginning. I can't convince her that there really is no official beginning. I'll do it, but it may kill me! Thanks for your reply.

 

[barryg]

If you want to have a sense of history ie Hannibal. Napoleon etc the do the high route
Not as difficult as people make out and massively rewarding. Is it seems too daunting book Orisson for the first night. Communal dinner and you’ll meet people who will be with you on and off for most of the journey.

Hello! We've since changed our date of departure to August 14th. How likely are we to find accomodations at Refuge Orisson? I've heard you need to make reservations, but I don't like to do that. Makes the trip seem more like a vacation than pilgrimage? Are there any alternate accommodations in Orisson? Thanks for your reply.

 

[trecile]

Hello! We've since changed our date of departure to August 14th. How likely are we to find accomodations at Refuge Orisson? I've heard you need to make reservations, but I don't like to do that. Makes the trip seem more like a vacation than pilgrimage? Are there any alternate accommodations in Orisson? Thanks for your reply.

You have to make a reservation at Orisson. They only have 28 beds, and reservations go quick. Sure, it's possible that they could have an empty bed or two, but not likely.
And I totally get why your wife wants to start at SJPDP. The walk over the Pyrenees is spectacular, and spending extra time up there at Orisson is a great start to the Camino.

 

[VNwalking]

u want to have a sense of history ie Hannibal. Napoleon etc the do the high route

Just to insert a fact check into the opinions:
The Valcarlos route is the older and more authentic of the two, and Hannibal never had anything to do with the Western Pyrenees: He was famous for crossing the Alps in the Second Punic War

Hannibal - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Hannibal's crossing of the Alps - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

 

[Anniesantiago]

Were your trail runners waterproof? I’ve hear waterproof shoes are a must. We’ll be on the Camino trail Mid-Sept through Mid-Oct from SJPP to Santiago.

Waterproof shoes are NOT a must.
In fact I strongly recommend against them.
They cause your feet to sweat and get soft, and cause blisters - for many (me included).
Trail runners will dry overnight if they get wet and even if wet, your feet will breathe.

 

[Anniesantiago]

I don't believe that there is a bus from Madrid to SJPdP. You have to take a bus to Pamplona and change there to a bus to St Jean.

There is a bus from Madrid airport to Bayonne, from which you can catch a train or bus to SJPP, but to me, the easiest and best is going to Pamplona, spending a day or two adjusting to the time, then taking the bus to SJPP.

 

[VeganCamino]

I wanted to start in Pamplona as I did last year, but since I only barely convinced my wife to even go and she asserts she wants to leave from SJPDP, I need SJPDP information.

If we leave from SJPDP May 1rst, how likely is it that the passes will be closed. Do we need heavy clothing? Are boots a must (I prefer sandals and was fine from Pamplona to SDC in June)? Or could I make it in sandals, or light running shoes? Is there a train that goes direct from Madrid to SJPDP, or must you go into Pamplona first, then take a bus/train?

Thanks for any information and thanks for putting up with all my varied posts.

Warmly,

Barry

I agree with you that Pamplona is a great place to start. That would be my recommendation, if asked, by friends. My guess is light running shoes would be fine but sandals over the mountains is hard any time of year. I'm wearing Ecco sandals now and wish I had some close toed shoes for all the rocks.

 

[El Mayordomo]

Hi Barry, we started in St Jean this week. Flew into Madrid, got the train to Pamplona and had a transfer taxi pick us and deposit us in St Jean.

Starting following week (24th) Buen Camino

 

[David Tallan]

Just to insert a fact check into the opinions:
The Valcarlos route is the older and more authentic of the two, and Hannibal never had anything to do with the Western Pyrenees: He was famous for crossing the Alps in the Second Punic War

Hannibal - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Hannibal's crossing of the Alps - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

I'm not sure how Hannibal could march his army, complete with elephants, overland from Hispania to Italy without crossing the Pyrenees as well as the Alps. The crossing of the Alps may be more famous but crossing the Pyrenees seems to be a necessary prerequisite.

 

[hel&scott]

I'm not sure how Hannibal could march his army, complete with elephants, overland from Hispania to Italy without crossing the Pyrenees as well as the Alps. The crossing of the Alps may be more famous but crossing the Pyrenees seems to be a necessary prerequisite.

As Scott was interested in following Hannibals path we did a lot of research on this, but gave up as it became clear that much of the route through Spain would be under the tourist strip of Costal del Sol etc. Hannibal landed in Cartagena and went up the coast so while he did go over the Pyrenees it wasn't at the crossing pilgrims use coming from France. This crossing is more associated with Roland and Napoleon. It's always interesting to do a bit of research on whose footsteps one travels in.

 

[Kathor1]

I don't think that it will influence the decision of @barryg and his wife whether or not a person with a name known from history class or history books crossed the Western Pyrenées where they are planning to cross but here's my few eurocents.

Yes, you can feel a sense of history in a particular place but only when you know about that part of history and when you find it particularly appealing. I, for example, had such a sense at the monastery of Roncesvalles while many other people don't. Up and down the Pyrenées trail, I had mainly a sense of the beauty of the landscape and not of any particular episode of history; perhaps because I had researched it too much beforehand and I felt it wasn't what others had made of it . As to all these guys:

• The person who mentioned Hannibal was probably thinking of Charlemagne.
• Hannibal trekked from Barcelona along the Mediterranean coast to the Alps and then to Rome. The Eastern Pyrenées sort of peter out in that area. It's really the elephants in the Alps that capture our imagination.
• Charlemagne crossed once into Spain and back again. On the return journey to his homelands, he came from Pamplona. Where he crossed the Pyrenées mountain range exactly and where some of his leading military staff and other soldiers were killed during an unexpected attack is not known for certain. Ibañeta is a likely contender, mainly popularised through narratives developed several centuries after the event.
• Napoleon never crossed from SJPP to Roncesvalles or back. He didn't take the Valcarlos route and he didn't take the Napoleon route. He went to Spain once and travelled from Bordeaux to Bayonne and then to Vitoria and Burgos and back again via Vitoria and Bayonne. So he, too, avoided the higher Pyrenées passes, namely at their Western end. He's globally the best known personality of the three.
• There was a battle in the area during the Peninsular War. It seems to be mainly of interest to people from the two nations involved in it.

 

[hel&scott]

Yes you are right, it's confusing to call it the Route Napoleon as he never crossed it personally, rather it's associated with Napoleonic troups after the Battle at Ronscevales in 1813, and as @Kathar1na points out Charlemange and Ronald in the 770s? Sorry for taking over the thread on history geekdom, at least perhaps this will give the OP and his wife something to debate on their treck over the pass.

 

[Kathor1]

perhaps this will give the OP and his wife something to debate on their treck over the pass.

And they now have the option to educate others although I think many people would be disappointed to hear all this as they prefer the myths to the facts in this case.

 

[hel&scott]

Oh no, let's not be "those pilgrims" and try and educate people, we all love to cling to our myths dispite being slapped in the face with brutal facts... I must admit I was hoping to see the Basque Bigfoot until Scott told me we were in the wrong spot.

 

[Kathor1]

Oh no, let's not be "those pilgrims" and try and educate people, we all love to cling to our myths dispite being slapped in the face with brutal facts... I must admit I was hoping to see the Basque Bigfoot until Scott told me we were in the wrong spot.

. I couldn't agree more. I guess I write so much about these topics on the forum because I totally clam up about them on the road. You can talk to me about any topic with highly questionable historical or mythical interpretation and I will just smile politely. Oh, and someone who researches Hannibal's path and tries to follow his steps, even without an elephant, would be a person after my own heart.

 

[Derrybiketours]

I didn't have heavy clothes, just layered with what I had, but I would have given anything for a pair of warm gloves. A pair is going with me when I return next year. Hopefully I won't need them.

I thought the same then realized my spare Merino wool socks had multiple uses and less likely to leave them behind

 

[VNwalking]

I'm not sure how Hannibal could march his army, complete with elephants, overland from Hispania to Italy without crossing the Pyrenees as well as the Alps. The crossing of the Alps may be more famous but crossing the Pyrenees seems to be a necessary prerequisite.

Sure, but please look at the map attaced to my post, David, and read what I actually posted. The Eastern Pyrenees is far away from the Camino Frances.

Sorry for taking over the thread on history geekdom

Educating us all is what this forum is for. Getting basic facts straight isn't being a geek, it's a service to everyone.
Thank you @Kathar1na, for your patience and many interesting tid-bits - not just in this thread. I always enjoy your posts.

 

[bbates225]

I don't believe that there is a bus from Madrid to SJPdP. You have to take a bus to Pamplona and change there to a bus to St Jean.

Thanks for info.

 

[hel&scott]

Oh, and someone who researches Hannibal's path and tries to follow his steps, even without an elephant, would be a person after my own heart.

He didn't have an elephant, just me. And I would have followed him anywhere.

The OP is fortunate to have a wife who wants to walk with him, I hope they have a lovely time.

 

[Deleted member 73526]

Well I'm glad to have been disabused of the notion that Hannibal crossed at SJPP. I was gearing up to make the crossing in character. How foolish I would have appeared to any passing history mavens.

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[David Tallan]

Well I'm glad to have been disabused of the notion that Hannibal crossed at SJPP. I was gearing up to make the crossing in character. How foolish I would have appeared to any passing history mavens.

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I've been planning on recreating Hannibal's crossing of the Alps with elephants but I'm having trouble training them to use pitons and other mountaineering equipment.

 

[Deleted member 73526]

I've been planning on recreating Hannibal's crossing of the Alps with elephants but I'm having trouble training them to use pitons and other mountaineering equipment.

 

[Richard A Stead]

Ha ha actually Hannibal did cross the Pyrenees ( nobody knows exactly where ) but nice too give everyone a bit of fun. Perhaps finding jokes about Roland might be harder.

 

[GPeachy]

I left at the end of April in 2016 and arrived in Santiago June 1st. Leaving St Jean, it was not warm, but it was clear. They had to close the Napoleon Route a few days later due to snow and bad weather. I wore a fleece jacket almost every day. Mornings were chilly. Some nights were quite cold. I carried a sleep sack and some nights I wished I had a sleeping bag. I was glad that I brought enough clothes to dress in layers. Not complaining, just providing temperature info. I had a wonderful time and would do it again.

 

[barryg]

I started on May 11th this year and wore sandals. Much of the trail over the Pyrenees is a paved road.

Hi Trecile!

I just wanted to clarify: did you wear sandals from SJPDP to Roncesvalles? I wore sandals the entire Camino from Pamplona to SDC last year with trouble only once in deep mud. I am planning, again, to leave my shoes home. Mistake? I leave August 14th.

 

[barryg]

Starting following week (24th) Buen Camino

Thank you, belatedly! I decided to reserve an ALSA bus out of Pamplona, but am open to a taxi, if I can share the expense with other pilgrims. I'll just be out the 44 Euros for the bus ticket, but get there sooner.

 

[trecile]

Hi Trecile!

I just wanted to clarify: did you wear sandals from SJPDP to Roncesvalles? I wore sandals the entire Camino from Pamplona to SDC last year with trouble only once in deep mud. I am planning, again, to leave my shoes home. Mistake? I leave August 14th.

I wore sandals with socks on my entire Camino this year - the Frances from SJPDP to León, then the Salvador to Oviedo and connecting to the Norte to Santiago, then on to Finisterre.
I did bring a second pair of sandals for evenings. I found the sandals to be perfect in the ankle deep mud that I encountered last year. They cleaned and dried easier and faster than my trail runners.

 

[barryg]

Great! That's what I thought. I'm surprised about the socks, though. I'll do that. Last year, many people said how much they envied, as their feet were "roasting."

 

[trecile]

Great! That's what I thought. I'm surprised about the socks, though. I'll do that. Last year, many people said how much they envied, as their feet were "roasting."

If I don't wear socks my feet might turn into hooves. Also my feet and sandals get pretty stinky if I wear them all day, every day without socks. At the end of the day I wear my sandals without socks though.

 

[KinkyOne]

...
Oh, and someone who researches Hannibal's path and tries to follow his steps, even without an elephant, would be a person after my own heart.

Have you seen this documentary series:

Anyway I'm always enjoying your educative posts. Keep them coming, please

 

[David Tallan]

Ha ha actually Hannibal did cross the Pyrenees ( nobody knows exactly where ) but nice too give everyone a bit of fun. Perhaps finding jokes about Roland might be harder.

Well, Hannibal had his elephants but Roland had his Olifant (the horn he blew, too late!, to call for help). I believe that olifants are much easier to bring across mountain ranges than elephants.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

Well, Hannibal had his elephants but Roland had his Olifant (the horn he blew, too late!, to call for help). I believe that olifants are much easier to bring across mountain ranges than elephants.

Maybe not. Hannibal did cross two mountain ranges with the elephants. Roland only managed to get Olipant across the Pyrenees one and a half times.

 

[sammyje73]

My daughter and I started on the 1 May last year and went the Varlcarlos route as there was snow falling on the Pyrenees. We weren’t prepared for the chilly weather so bought lightweight down jackets in SJPdP that were fantastic and great value. We also just wore trainers for the whole walk and they were fine. I think it was a wonderful time of year to walk and despite a couple of changes in our initial plans I would do it the same all over again. Buen Camino.

 

[Lupe]

I wanted to start in Pamplona as I did last year, but since I only barely convinced my wife to even go and she asserts she wants to leave from SJPDP, I need SJPDP information.

If we leave from SJPDP May 1rst, how likely is it that the passes will be closed. Do we need heavy clothing? Are boots a must (I prefer sandals and was fine from Pamplona to SDC in June)? Or could I make it in sandals, or light running shoes? Is there a train that goes direct from Madrid to SJPDP, or must you go into Pamplona first, then take a bus/train?

Thanks for any information and thanks for putting up with all my varied posts.

Warmly,

Barry

We started April 20 in SJPD and had open passage.

 

[SteveSherry]

I wanted to start in Pamplona as I did last year, but since I only barely convinced my wife to even go and she asserts she wants to leave from SJPDP, I need SJPDP information.

If we leave from SJPDP May 1rst, how likely is it that the passes will be closed. Do we need heavy clothing? Are boots a must (I prefer sandals and was fine from Pamplona to SDC in June)? Or could I make it in sandals, or light running shoes? Is there a train that goes direct from Madrid to SJPDP, or must you go into Pamplona first, then take a bus/train?

Thanks for any information and thanks for putting up with all my varied posts.

Warmly,

Barry

 

[SteveSherry]

Always listen to your wife! The walk from SJPD is very special but try to be reasonably fit. I think sandals would be ok if you’ve used them before.

 

[Kathor1]

You are SO right! She is quite insistent on starting at the beginning. I can't convince her that there really is no official beginning. I'll do it, but it may kill me! Thanks for your reply.

¡Hola, @barryg! I'm relieved to see that starting "at the beginning" apparently didn't kill you as you are already in Najera. After all our efforts to provide answers to your questions, please do tell us how it went ... ☺