Pamplona to SJPDP--the Long Way

[Bob Howard]

I have flown into MAD twice and then on to Pamplona and a bus to SJPDP the next day. For this year, I'm thinking from Pamplona I will take the next day early bus to San Sebastian, connecting with a bus to Bayonne, and then the train to SJPDP.

No particular rational reason other than I like the idea of stepping off that train in SJPDP. And I suppose another reason would be to avoid the sometimes nausea-producing bus ride from Pamplona, especially after Roncevalles. But mostly simply arriving by train.

I'll figure out the bus/train itinerary to Bayonne. I'm just wondering if I am the only one to do this.

 

[Vacajoe]

Perhaps you may reconsider and walk from Biarritz tonSJPdP? It’s exceptionally lovely (more scenic than any part of the CF, in my opinion!) and only adds a few days into your journey.

 

[VNwalking]

I'll figure out the bus/train itinerary to Bayonne. I'm just wondering if I am the only one to do this.

I know this doesn't answer your question, but it seems so much simpler to fly direct to San Sebastian instead of Madrid. Then train or bus to Bayonne and SJPP, as you mention. Or fly via Paris then Biarritz.

 

[Bob Howard]

Oh yes, that is simpler, and I have thought of it. The problem is I'm already booked from SJPDP through Pamplona, including Orisson. And, I dearly love Pamplona. So, I get an arrival day night there, and then another night a few days later.

 

[VNwalking]

Ah. Ok.
Well...why not?

Depending on time, there are possibilities other than SS.

You could take the train or bus a bit farter to Irun, then walk across the border into Hendaye. Then either train or bus direct to Bayonne, or walk on the beautiful Voie Littoral to St Jean de Luz, taking the bus to Bayonne from there.

 

[naplesdon]

I would suggest one night in San Sebastián to partake in the tapas scene. Best place in world for tapas.

 

[lt56ny]

I would suggest one night in San Sebastián to partake in the tapas scene. Best place in world for tapas.

And as I have suggested many times awesome ice cream at Gelateria Boulevard.

 

[jsalt]

For this year, I'm thinking from Pamplona I will take the next day early bus to San Sebastian

You can also get a bus (Alsa) from Madrid airport to Irun, but the times may not be the most convenient to connect with your flight.

 

[tlandry]

Currently the train only goes to Cambo les Bains and you have to switch to a bus to get to SJPP. They are still working on repairs from storms last fall

 

[Kev&Kath]

I have flown into MAD twice and then on to Pamplona and a bus to SJPDP the next day. For this year, I'm thinking from Pamplona I will take the next day early bus to San Sebastian, connecting with a bus to Bayonne, and then the train to SJPDP.

No particular rational reason other than I like the idea of stepping off that train in SJPDP. And I suppose another reason would be to avoid the sometimes nausea-producing bus ride from Pamplona, especially after Roncevalles. But mostly simply arriving by train.

I'll figure out the bus/train itinerary to Bayonne. I'm just wondering if I am the only one to do this.

I quite understand. Felt very special disembarking from the train in SJPDP.

 

[naplesdon]

Currently the train only goes to Cambo les Bains and you have to switch to a bus to get to SJPP. They are still working on repairs from storms last fall

This is a seamless transition because it is all being operated by SNCF and the repairs could be completed by the time you go.

 

[Bob Howard]

And as I have suggested many times awesome ice cream at Gelateria Boulevard.

After my 2016 Camino ending in early July, I trained back to San Sebastian and stayed there for five days before going back to Pamplona to run with the bulls. Yes, I know, reckless and irresponsible, especially for a 69 year old man at the time. San Sebastian was so damn charming. And the tapas there in the Casco Antiguo were the equal of if not better than those of Pamplona, Logrono and Santiago. I think I would enjoy living there.