CFra ROUTE 1. Saint Jean Pied de Port to Logroño

*(from 1st April to 31st October)

This is one of the most challenging stages due to the crossing of the Pyrenees. From Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the path ascends through the Col de Lepoeder at 1,450 meters of altitude. It is a steep ascent, followed by a similarly steep descent down to Roncesvalles in Navarre.

Roncesvalles is an iconic place on the Camino, home to the famous Monastery of Roncesvalles, dating back to the 12th century, a major historical and spiritual site for pilgrims. It is said to have been founded by Charlemagne to provide shelter for pilgrims crossing the Pyrenees.

The Royal Collegiate Church of Santa María is a stunning Gothic church, known for its beautiful architecture, impressive altar, and the Chapel of Santiago.

In the surroundings of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, there is a spring known as the Fuente de la Virgen (Fountain of the Virgin). According to legend, an ancient image of the Virgin Mary was found at this spring by a group of shepherds. From that moment on, the spring began to flow with water believed to have healing properties, and it became a place of pilgrimage. Many claim to have experienced miraculous healings after drinking from its waters.

The Bridge of the Pilgrims in Roncesvalles marks the entry into Spain and is a significant landmark for us.

*(from 1st November to 31st March)

This stage from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Valcarlos is mandatory in winter as it reduces the risk of dangers due to adverse weather conditions. However, it still includes sections along roads with curves, so it is important to stay alert. Additionally, it is a better option for those who are not in good shape.

While Valcarlos is a quiet and tranquil place, it offers some interesting sights, especially the Church of Santiago Apóstol de Valcarlos. This charming church is an important historical and cultural site in the village. The Valley of Valcarlos offers beautiful natural landscapes with lush forests, streams, and stunning mountain views.

If we choose this split, the stunning views of the Pyrenees will be an unforgettable experience for us.

The stage from Roncesvalles to Zubiri is a beautiful and moderate section of the Camino Francés on the Camino de Santiago. This leg is less physically demanding than the previous ones in the Pyrenees, making it a pleasant walk through the scenic Basque countryside.

The terrain begins with a gentle descent from Roncesvalles, then continues through lush forests, picturesque valleys, and rolling hills. The path is a mix of dirt trails, country roads, and forest tracks. Though there are a few moderate ascents and descents, the route is overall easier than the earlier stages in the mountains. We can enjoy peaceful surroundings while walking along quiet paths.

The journey concludes in Zubiri, a small village known for its historic Puente de la Rabia. This medieval bridge, which crosses the Arga River, is a highlight of the stage. According to local legend, the bridge was believed to have the power to cure animals of rabies, adding a touch of folklore to the area. The village offers a charming and tranquil spot for us to rest after our walk.

The lap from Zubiri to Pamplona is a relatively easy and enjoyable section of the Camino Francés. This stage is characterized by a gradual descent and follows a mix of rural paths and small roads, making it less physically demanding compared to some of the earlier stages.

The route begins by crossing the Puente de la Rabia in Zubiri, then continues through lush farmland, picturesque valleys, and small villages. As we walk, we can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding hills and the rolling countryside. The trail passes through the Beriain Valley, offering a peaceful atmosphere with abundant natural beauty. The landscape gradually changes as we approach Pamplona, the capital city of the region of Navarre.

The stage ends in Pamplona, a vibrant city with rich history and culture. Pamplona is famous for its Running of the Bulls (Encierro) during the annual San Fermín festival. According to the legend, San Fermín was a young bishop who lived in the 3rd century. He was a missionary who spread Christianity throughout the region, and he became well-known for his kindness and teachings. However, after he was captured by the Romans for his beliefs, San Fermín was sentenced to death by beheading. After his death, a miraculous event occurred. As his body was being transported, a wild bull appeared and began to protect the saint's remains, preventing anyone from disturbing them. This miraculous occurrence was seen as a sign of his sanctity, and the bull became a symbol of San Fermín's protection.

The city also offers historical landmarks, such as the Plaza del Castillo, the Pamplona Cathedral, and the old city walls. We can explore the city’s charming streets, enjoy local cuisine, and rest before continuing our journey on the Camino.

The route between Pamplona and Puente la Reina takes us through picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, vineyards, and rural farmland, offering an authentic experience of the Navarre region.

The path begins with a gentle climb from Pamplona, passing through the villages of Cizur Menor and Zariquiegui, offering views of the surrounding countryside. The terrain is varied, with some gentle ascents and descents, but it is not too strenuous.

One of the highlights of this stage is the ascent of Alto de Perdon, a hill with a panoramic view of the area and a well-known landmark: a series of wind sculptures representing pilgrims. This sculpture was installed in 1996 as a tribute to the thousands of pilgrims who have crossed this pass over the centuries. The name of the pass is said to come from the medieval belief that pilgrims could "forgive" their sins at this point, making it a place of penance and spiritual reflection.

After descending from Alto de Perdon, the route continues to Puente la Reina, a charming town famous for its medieval bridge (Puente la Reina), which spans the Arga River. The bridge was built in the 11th century to help pilgrims cross the river safely and has become one of the iconic symbols of the Camino. The town itself offers a pleasant atmosphere with its narrow cobblestone streets, historic churches, and traditional Basque architecture. Puente la Reina is also home to the Church of Santiago, a key religious site, and several other historical buildings, making it a delightful and culturally rich stop.

Aside from its historical importance, Puente la Reina offers a peaceful stop for us, with plenty of accommodations, cafes, and restaurants. We can rest and enjoy the town’s welcoming atmosphere before continuing our journey along the Camino Francés.

The stage from Puente la Reina to Estella is a scenic and relatively moderate section of the Camino Francés. The route follows rural roads and trails, passing through picturesque landscapes of vineyards, farmland, and rolling hills, offering a peaceful and tranquil experience of the Navarra region.

The stage ends in Estella, renowned for its medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. Estella has been an important stop for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela for centuries. The town features a charming blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance buildings, with highlights such as the Church of San Pedro de la Rúa.

One of the most intriguing legends of Estella is the story of the "Mysterious Stone of San Pedro de la Rúa." According to local folklore, a large stone in front of the Church of San Pedro de la Rúa is said to possess mystical powers. The legend claims that anyone who touches the stone while making a wish will have their wish granted—provided they do so with a pure heart and good intentions. This stone has been a part of Estella’s history for centuries, attracting both pilgrims and locals who believe in its magical properties.

Another local legend is connected to the Palace of the Kings of Navarre. It is said that the palace was once haunted by the ghost of a young woman who had tragically died in the palace's tower.

Moreover, the impressive Puente de la Cárcel is a medieval bridge over the Ega River. Its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant local culture make Estella a memorable stop on the Camino.

The walk starts with a gentle ascent out of Estella, passing through vineyards, olive groves, and farmland. The path offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys. 

The path takes us by the Monastery of Irache, famous for its Wine Fountain. In medieval times, the monastery was known for offering bread and wine to pilgrims, a gesture of hospitality that continues today in the form of the Wine Fountain. This is one of the most unique and enjoyable aspects of the route. The tradition of offering wine was revived in 1991, and now we can sample the local Rioja wine during our journey.

Later, we will pass through small villages like Villamayor de Monjardín, home to the ruins of a medieval castle.

After a steady descent, the stage ends in Los Arcos, a small village with a beautiful medieval bridge and a Romanesque church. The town’s name, which means "the arches," is derived from its medieval origins, particularly the arches of its Church of Santa María. It also features traditional stone houses, narrow streets, and a welcoming vibe.

Although Los Arcos is a small village, it has a strong pilgrim tradition, with several hostels, cafes, and restaurants catering to travelers. We can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before continuing our journey on the Camino. Los Arcos is a perfect example of the quaint, historic towns that dot the Camino Francés, offering a glimpse into rural Spanish life.

The final stretch into Logroño, the capital of La Rioja, involves a long walk through fields of vineyards, typical of the wine region. Along the way, we pass the picturesque town of Viana.

Viana itself is a charming town with a rich history, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the Church of Santa María, a 14th century stunning Gothic church with beautiful artwork and a rich history. The town's narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and charming atmosphere make it a delightful place to explore.

At the end of this stage, we will reach Logroño. It is known for its rich cultural and gastronomic heritage. We can explore the Calle del Laurel, famous for its tapas bars, and visit the Co-cathedral of Santa María de la Redonda.

This is the final day of our stage. If we have enough time, it is highly recommended to enjoy the city. If not, we can always come back to visit it and continue on our way to the final destination, Santiago de Compostela.

Logroño, dating back to Roman times, is the capital of the La Rioja region in northern Spain, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and strong connection to the Camino de Santiago. The city has long been an important stop for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. It sits along the Ebro River and has a historic old town filled with narrow streets, charming plazas, and significant landmarks.

One of the city's most prominent sites is the Concatedral de Santa María de la Redonda, a beautiful church that dates back to the 16th century, and the Puente de Piedra (Stone Bridge), a medieval stone bridge that crosses the Ebro River. Legend has it that the river below the bridge holds mystical powers, and some pilgrims believed that crossing it would bring them spiritual blessings for their pilgrimage.

Logroño is also famous for its wine culture, as the surrounding region is one of Spain’s premier wine-producing areas. The city is home to numerous wine cellars, wine bars, and tapas restaurants where we can sample the renowned Rioja wines and enjoy local specialties. In addition to its historical and culinary attractions, Logroño offers a welcoming atmosphere for visitors and pilgrims alike, providing a place to rest, explore, and experience the unique culture of the region. Its combination of history, food, and vibrant energy makes it a memorable stop on the Camino de Santiago.