Pilgrims walking in March from SJPDP - Napoleon closed

[Kanga]

A reminder to pilgrims walking in March 2022 from SJPDP (of whom there seem to be quite a few).

The Napoleon Route is closed until 1 April, and after that it is dependant on weather. If you are starting out in March then you will be walking via Valcarlos.

I have walked both routes several times, and the Valcarlos is just as lovely (maybe my favourite?) and it is the more historic route.

This thread was started in 2017, but it is still relevant.

 

[Former member 99290]

Totally agree @Kanga. My second camino Frances we started 1 April and the Napoleon route did not open as ‘scheduled’ due to snow. Initially a little deflated, we set out on the Valcarlos. Loved it. Definitely not a ‘second best’. Both are beautiful routes.

 

[mspath]

Indeed. Valcarlos is a beautiful route.

The Valcarlos albergue although municipal takes reservations.
See more here

Do be aware that from Valcarlos up to Roncesvalles monastery there are no services nor potabile water. Buy any trail snacks that you might need walking when you arrive in Valcarlos so that you can leave early from Valcarlos before the shops are open.

Be prepared!

For more info on this historic route see
https://www.caminodesantiago.me/com...your-experience-on-the-valcarlos-route.55151/

 

[Anniesantiago]

I have never walked the Valcarlos Route.
It's on my bucket list.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

I am a huge fan of the Valcarlos route for its variety of terrain, a couple of villages for a meal or an overnight, and a less traveled, tranquil walk.

 

[Former member 59618]

My second camino I started from Le Puy. After a decidedly more mellow walk through France, by the time I walked into SJPdP I was overwhelmed by the throngs of pilgrims. So I decided to take the Valcarlos route and was not disappointed. Peaceful, calmer and much quieter. I crossed the border into Spain and celebrated with a cortado at a quiet cafe next to the river; the perfect way to say goodbye to France. I was also impressed with the Valcarlos municipal albergue. Nice kitchen to cook a meal, clean bathrooms, lockers etc, and a gorgeous hillside to gaze upon.

Don't be fooled though, you'll still get yer butt kicked before the walk into to Roncesvalles.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

My second camino I started from Le Puy. After a decidedly more mellow camino in France, by the time I walked into SJPdP I was overwhelmed by the throngs of pilgrims. I decided to take the Valcarlos route and was not disappointed. Peaceful, calmer and much quieter. I crossed the border into Spain and celebrated with a cortado at a quiet cafe next to a river; the perfect way to say goodbye to France. I was also impressed with the Valcarlos municipal albergue. Nice kitchen to cook a meal, clean bathrooms, lockers etc, and a gorgeous hillside to gaze upon.

Well said @truenorthpilgrim. Everything you have written are many of the wonderful reasons to love the Valcarlos route!

Don't be fooled though, you'll still get yer butt kicked before the walk into to Roncesvalles.

So true!!!

 

[mspath]

It certainly was difficult cresting Ibaneta the first time.

 

[Camino Chrissy]

It certainly was difficult cresting Ibaneta the first time.

I loved reading the detailed description of your first trek up to the Ibaneta pass, Margaret; the first one of the many times you've done it.

 

[VNwalking]

Don't be fooled though, you'll still get yer butt kicked before the walk into to Roncesvalles.

Yup. Someone took this photo of me and another pilgrim as we were coming to the top, March 2015. It was not a cakewalk. I love this route though - it is very beautiful.
(If you are tempted to ignore the signs and go over the Napoleon Route when it is closed, don't be an idiot. That way is closed for a reason.)

 

[Former member 99290]

Yup. Someone took this photo of me and another pilgrim as we were coming to the top, March 2015. It was not a cakewalk. I love this route though - it is very beautiful.
(If you are tempted to ignore the signs and go over the Napoleon Route when it is closed, don't be an idiot. That way is closed for a reason.)
View attachment 118718

Wonderful photo