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Yes. Stay at Orisson to break up that first stage. They fill up quickly, so as soon as your dates are certain book it.
refuge-orisson.com
This is rather exciting news and located 1k farther beyond Orrison is better imo, too.Or at the new Auberge Borda
Auberge Borda | Albergue de Peregrinos en Auberge Borda | Gronze.com
Información del albergue de peregrinos Auberge Borda, en Auberge Borda: Precio, plazas, características, etc...www.gronze.com
My mom always used to say "You don't miss what you don't know". I enjoyed the Valcarlos route so much that I chose it twice over doing the Napoleon and have not regretted it.
Interestingly, I rarely seem to read on the forum those who choose to do this; the majority speak of stopping at Orrison.
Considering that Orisson has 28 beds compared with the large albergue in Roncesvalles with 183, which is sometimes completely full, it's clear that most people don't stop at Orisson.
I totally get that. My point made only refers to the majority we "read" about on the forum are the ones who go to Orrison, and we read few accounts of those who walk all the way to Roncevalles in one day.Considering that Orisson has 28 beds compared with the large albergue in Roncesvalles with 183, which is sometimes completely full, it's clear that most people don't stop at Orisson.
Orisson is mentioned a lot here precisely because so many people, like @starwonder54 are concerned about this first stage.
There are very few that walk on the Valcarlos route. A few stops for food along the way, a couple of cute villages, a nice muni, and a variety of great views, and only one short stretch of road walking imo that a few others have mentioned.
Thank you...I am doing my walk through “Follow the Camino” in Dublin, and am booked into the Casa de Benificiades in Roncesvalles on my first night...So not an option not to walk the whole way...
I agree with Albertagirl. Although now at 82 my long distance walking days are over, in happier times I walked the
If you're like me then you were too tired to speak when you got to Roncesvalles! It wasn't the climb it was the descent at the end that did for me.
It sounds like @starwonder54 has already booked with a tour company, so the stages/route are already locked in.
I was just thinking that! I’ve walked the so-called Napoleon route 4 times and if there is a next time, I’ll take the Valcarlos route. At least it’ll be new
Can Follow the Camino transport your pack from St. Jean to Roncesvalles? Or use JacoTrans on your own. It would lighten your load. All you need is a daypack.
No one can tell you, you will be fine doing it-all in one day. They were fine! My motto is know thyself! You are the best judge of what you can do. If you take the Napoleon route it is a substantial climb. There are options!
Funny how we are all so different. The communal dinner was my favourite part of my overnight at Orrison.
Four choices as far as I am concerned-
I don't care what anybody looks like, but please
pack a bar of soap and clean yourself and your sweaty clothes up at the end of each day, especially when opting for communal accommodation. Thank you!
I have flown many times to USA (SF) from Europe and those 9 hours time difference flying west take me 2-3 days to overcome. Flying east is much easier for me. I don't know why.
Jesus knows if you take a lift, bus or taxi...
I also went the Valcarlos route. Truly, my afternoon, night, and the next morning stand out for me as an extraordinary experience. I loved everything about Valcarlos! I also did not regret it Camino Chrissy!
I've heard he is really big on forgiving though.Jesus knows if you take a lift, bus or taxi...
Your feet! Apart from the essential, obvious preparation, (good footwear, well broken-in; well-fitted pack, not too heavy; adequate hydration), carry extra pairs of socks, pinned outside your pack and plan to stop every 2 hours, remove shoes & socks to air your feet, massage in a bit of Vaseline or foot rub, then put on a fresh pair of socks before continuing for another 2 hours and your next rest stop. Yes, it will take longer but the stops allow you to admire the spectacular scenery and avoid the friction that will swiftly turn into blisters. This advice was given to me the Podiatrist I had to consult in Estella, for treatment of the blisters I acquired that first day en route to Roncesvalles. The sock changes seemed to be the most important element- you can pin the used, sweaty pair outside your pack and change into the dry pair, then alternate them through the day at your rest stops, as they dry quickly in the sun. But, if you forge on in sweaty, hot socks, you'll pay for it - I did. If the worst happens, Google for a podiatrist and get treatment early. Best €21 I spent on the entire Camino.
I agree. My wife and I enjoyed the dinner and met people who became Camino friends.
No soap = plenty of room at the bar
Meanwhile, the OP's package commits them to walking StJpdP to Roncesvalles in one go. All the helpful advice on happy communal meals in Taxis and getting a lift in the Auberge Orrison really don't help at all. Valcarlos may well have the best bar/restaurant in the whole of Valcarlos but our member will not have time to test that out as they have to get to their accommodation in Roncesvalles on the same day as they leave St Jean.
Helpful advice might contain suggestions like: start early; start slowly; drink lots (of water) and, as your bed is reserved, don't worry just walk.
Yes, if @starwonder54 arrives in SJPDP a day earlier they can spend two night there and shuttle between town and a point on the Camino using Express Bourricot's Mountain Shuttle.
On my first Camino Frances I was preceded by a Spanish peregrino who carried his daily needs in a supermarket carrier bag. I wasn’t aware of ‘luggage transfer’ at the time, but it was clear that his main pack contained few - if any - toiletries.
Hi starwonder54
Absolutely spot on!Hi starwonder54 and welcome!
You were feeling a bit overwhelmed by the thought of the hike from SJPP to Roncesvalles. Now you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed by this thread... I am!
Just a few hopefully reassuring points from me -
1 you've not mentioned your health/fitness. This is more important than your age (which we might hazard to guess from the '54 in your handle..?). If you are not very fit, but able to work on your fitness and do regular walks (eventually with a pack) - and you have plenty of time to get into that - it will really help and increase confidence. It's important to not think of Roncesvalles as the end-goal, because the very next morning you will have to 'go-again' and again and again, so stamina and mental resolve are equally important.
2 get your pack/weight sorted out as much as you can. FIrst timers tend to carry too much, so have a look at the multitiude of threads on this (also a bit overwhelming!)
3 everyone has a view of the status/challenge of this stage - try and assess the capabilities of the teller, as, in the exhilaration of it all some folks get a bit carried away with their descriptions of their adventures
4 go nice and easy on the climb up to Orisson. This is the steepest part and if you take it gently you'll have plenty left for the longer but milder stretch thereafter. It's actually not a long stage, and there'll be plenty of daylight in May - time is on your side and while others may whiz past you to make sure they secure a bed at Roncesvalles, you don't have that issue.
5 on the one hand, note that thousands of people of all descriptions walk this stage every (normal) year, so be reassured by that. But at the same time don't be lulled into a false sense of security. Make sure you check in at the volunteers' office in SJPP and hear their weather report and take their advice if they recommend going via the lower route.
From a distance it can sound daunting, but with a little bit of prep (depending of course on your capabilities) it should be fine and hugely memorable.
I found this section difficult. We split it up - stopped at Orrison then continued on the next day. It was a long day getting to Ronsecvalles - weather was cold, windy. In my opinion this day was one of the hardest on the Camino.
I have never trained before my caminos, so this will be a first this year, since my new knee needs working into shape. But I remember the walk up to Orisson. I was 68 years old and I did not find it difficult at all. I was a long time mountain walker, and I knew to adjust my pace to the terrain and just keep on going. I took very few rests, stopping occasionally to adjust my boots and socks. I never got out of breath, because I never pushed it. You need to practise on some mountain terrain before you start, to be familiar with the bodily feeling of steep up and down climbs. Know how to adjust your pace to the terrain, then walk in joy and do not be afraid. I found that a hiking stick helped me maintain my stability at times, and you may want to try out some sort of walking aid: stick, hiking poles, etc. Teach your body how to walk on mountain terrain before you leave home, and you will be fine.This opinion is coming from someone who did not really "train" before starting my adventure
You didn't train specifically for the Camino, but you already had done enough training in your regular activities.
It’s 3 days, any way you look at it to Pamplona.... nice to consider the stages differently- particularly, if one has walked this way before
Just to clarify, much of the Valcarlos route is on lovely paths should a person choose to avoid the road much of the time.
I actually had thought of that before posting!Hey stop! We don't want too many people knowing our secret.
Too late!... you are well known wise women. Looking into places to stay nowHey stop! We don't want too many people knowing our secret.
I'm encouraged that some my own age is undertaking this venture! I am electing the Portuguese Camino for similar considerations -- laying over in Lisbon for a few days (that's where my overseas flight ends thus a few days to recover) before jumping the train to Porto where I'll do the coastal route to Santiago. Maybe Finesterre to follow, depending. Training walks started yesterday. I'll see how this goes before setting dates for my trek. Meanwhile, buen Camino !
For me, the first Camino I did was CF in 2008. The next (holding thumbs) will be in late August 2021. I am trying to recapture my initial Camino for many reasons and Orisson plays a significant role. That said, any pilgrim starting out should seek and, strongly consider, the information contained in the Forum and the CSJ (UK), in those two sites, you will find the most accurate and up to date information available. This is most important, whatever you choose as your plan, the Camino will step in and throw a curve ball. or monkey wrench into the works. Do your research and leave nothing up to what you hope will happen, but rather what happens day to day.
The best plans go out the window when the first shot is fired. In your case, walking the beach route will likely expose you to sand fleas.
Hey, Arn. I'll take sand fleas over bed bugs any day! At least there are no land crabs (per S. Pacific Islands vs "other" interpretations - LOL). Lessons similar to sailing trips & USMC, to wit, 'The best battle plan falls apart at first contact with the enemy." I've seen many wonderful sailing adventures self-destruct due to strict adherence to a carefully planned schedule. Same with Caminos ... my concept? ... make a loose plan, throw away the watch & calendar, yield to weather effects and set out with the overriding concept of enjoying the experience rather than meeting deadlines or preset expectations.
You are one intelligent human. Or, super human...then, of course, you are a Marine!
You, too, Marine ... Ooh Rah
As far as 'smell, it depends on one's proximity to me.
I agree with you on that last point. No everyone feels comfortable disclosing their reason for walking the Camino. Some of us need that privacy.
You aren’t forced to do anything. I’m an introvert. I took it as an opportunity, other people opted to sit and listen. I had a great experience there and am glad I stayed. Unlike others here I wouldn’t have been able to do it in one day given the limited options for accommodation. And in fact the next day was made to feel very unwelcome by hospitaleiro at the large place in Roncesvalles. IMHO it’s better to stay at smaller places for all sorts of reasons.
You don’t have to finish first. Take it slow, turn around every so often to enjoy the view behind you. Don’t stay at albergues along the Napoleon route, nothing wrong with them but it’s a very doable days hike from SJPD to Roncevellas
While planning, I, too, had concerns about going all the way from SJPP to Roncesvalles but we thought the distance to Orrison was too short (we had limited time). Despite training for that long day, we still had concerns. Fortunately, we trained in the mountains so elevation gain was less a concern. The big day came, we started before first light, it was raining. We made it the whole way, stopping at Orrison for some hot soup. The rain, mostly light but sometimes heavy, didn't bother us at all!!! We had the right gear and the temperature was warm. In fact, the mist from the rain created mountain magic. We would hear the tinkle of bells then a flock of sheep would rise from the mist. A deeper bell clank prefaced the appearance of cows and horse bells had their own melody. In a wooded section the rain had stopped but the mist was heavy and I swear if a unicorn had loped across the path I wouldn't have been surprised. The sun finally appeared before we made the decent into Roncevalles. We arrived tired, hungry and thrilled. I think part of what sustained us that first day was the excitement of finally starting our Camino after months of planning and preparations. Everyone has to chose for themselves what will work - a shorter first day or the longer walk. Much will depend upon ability. Make sure you have done a good job of testing/breaking in your shoes and know that you can carry the weight of your full pack.
Train, walk up alot of long steep hills, for the most part Camino hills are steeper than trail hills in the United States. Rest when you are tired. Take off your pack drink some water, have a snack, take off your trail runners and in about 10 minutes start again. Don't fill your head with too much pre camino anxiety. It is going to be there accept it and until you walk you won't realize that most of it was crud. Everyone has it. If you do not know how to use poles you can buy some, they don't need to be expensive, and watch some YouTube videos on how to use them and train with thme. Just walk and breath and and keep putting one foot in front of the other and before you know it you will be lying on the floor in front of the albergue and outdoor deck in Orison feeling like you made it. Have something to eat rest and start again. When you get to the last 5k and it is wet or your knees hurt take the trail to the right. I never did it but I heard it is much easier. Remember if it is late fall or early spring check with the Pilgrim office before you go to see which route to take. If they recommend the Valcarlos route TAKE IT!!!!!
Having no plan works great especially if you are walking alone, as you are responsible for no one but yourself come what may. Add in one, two, or three additional family members or friends (as I have done) and it becomes more difficult to just wing it...just sayin'.
Indeed, and therein lies a big trap. We all walk different kms., different speed, etc. etc. I believe quite a few friendships/relationships have been broken on the Camino. Of course, one can also make strong bonds. It all depends. Personally, I prefer to walk alone with my thoughts.
Thankfully I have had no broken relationships, only good memories. The problem at times that was rather stressful was finding lodging to accommodate us when winging it, so eventually we resorted to booking ahead when there were more than two of us.
I am in the process of shopping for new boots and sandals, both of which I wore out on my last camino. From long experience, I would say that not all walkers need boots in a larger size than usual. I once bought a pair of boots 1/2 size larger than my usual boots. They were loose, and uncomfortable. Eventually, I donated them, nearly unworn, to a homeless shelter, and bought walking boots in my regular size. This is because I was an experienced mountain walker and my regular walking boot size is what works for me. This is not the same size as my city walking shoes. I now try to find my regular brand of boots (Timberland, for me: cheap and comfortable on my feet) in my regular size and fit them with my usual inserts and socks. They are likely to be my most important purchase for my next pilgrimage and worth the effort to get them right. I would say that this is true whatever you choose for footwear.
IYes. Stay at Orisson to break up that first stage. They fill up quickly, so as soon as your dates are certain book it.
REFUGE ORISSON | THE WAY OF ST JAMES | CAMINO DE SANTIAGO
Located in the heart of the Basque Country, on the GR65, between Saint Jean Pied de Port and the Bentarte Pass, REFUGE ORISSON is an ideal stopover before reaching the Lepoeder pass. It is the last accommodation before crossing the Pyrénées. Orisson’s position on route towards Roncesvalles...
Yes, I took the Valcarlos route and was not disappointed. I had done some research prior to leaving and I was intrigued by the Valcarlos route. The weather was the ultimate deciding factor.
Me too!
I agree with Henrythedog. I have walked 3 times and begun at Pamplona twice. However the question of beginning at SJPD is not difficult. We are good for what we train for.
I agree about the community dinner at the beginning, some walkers want a good night's sleep in SJPP and go to a hotel , all fine . But if you go to a popular albergue with a community dinner you will be introduced to perhaps a dozen people that you will see and walk with the whole way , some are better than others , but it's nice to see a familiar face in a Cafe or albergue .
