Backpacking
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Camino Day 1 – Across the Pyrenees
Thursday 20th April 2023 Distance 25.1 km (15.6 ml). Total Ascent 1390m (4560 ft) Saint Jean Pied de Port – Roncesvalles After an OK but disturbed night I was up as soon as possible ready for breakfast at 6.00am. I had paid for the breakfast when I booked so made the most of it. I…
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Camino Day 2 – It’s not all downhill
Friday 21st April 2023 Distance 21.9km (13.6 ml). Total Ascent 250m (820 ft) Roncesvalles – Zubiri The guidebook gives the impression that in contrast to yesterday today was downhill all the way. I didn’t feel quite like that though, but that’s getting ahead of myself. As would be the case most days on my pilgrimage…
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Camino Day 3 – A haven of peace and love
Saturday 22nd April 2023 Distance 12.7km (7.9 ml). Total Elevation 360m (1181 ft) Zubiri – Zabaldika People in the dormitory began moving around by 5.30. I quickly got dressed and found a quiet spot in the lounge downstairs to say Morning Prayer. The day dawned with rain, cloud and mist such a contrast with yesterday.…
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Wisdom from Zabaldika
The Sisters of the Sacred Heart who care for the pilgrims who visit the church of San Esteban at Zabaldika share their love and wisdom so freely. Their stamp in my pilgrim’s passport sums it up, the open heart of God surrounding the world. They have written down words of encouragement and challenge for pilgrims…
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Camino Day 4 – Down to Earth
Zabaldika – Pamplona Today started on a high physically, mentally and spiritually. I woke up, well rested at the Albergue at Zabaldika perched high on the side of the river valley. The weather was fine and I only had a short walk planned into the city of Pamplona. I too was still enjoying the spiritual…
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Camino Day 5 – Over the hill.
Monday 24th April 2023 Distance 23.8km (14.8 ml). Total Elevation 470m (1542 ft) Pamplona – Puente La Reina I finally got up at 6am. It seemed a thing that people start getting up anytime after 5am, some of whom start walking in the dark. Apparently the man in the bunk underneath me got up at…
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Camino Day 6 – Villages on hilltops
Tuesday 25th April 2023 Distance 21.9km (13.6 ml). Total Ascent 300m (984 ft) Puente La Reina – Estella I had a good sleep and woke up refreshed. I got up about 6am and was by no means the first. I was out of the Albergue as dawn was breaking and found a nice quiet spot…
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Camino Day 7 – A Day Off
Wednesday 26th April 2023 Distance 0km ( 0 ml). Total Ascent A load of steps up to the church) Estella I slept well and had a lie in. It was a real luxury not having to get up and out . I took the opportunity to empty my backpack and re-pack everything in its proper…
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Camino Day 8 – Vineyards and Wheat Fields
Thursday 27th April 2023 Distance 21.5km (13.4 ml). Total Ascent 370m (1213 ft) Estella – Los Arcos I was up showered and ready before it was light. I said Morning Prayer in the quiet of my room then once I could see where I was walking I was off. My day off had been a…
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Camino Day 9 – Bed Anxiety
Friday 28th April 2023 Distance 18.4km (11.4 ml). Total ascent 300m ( 984 ft) Los Arcos – Viana I woke early to the sound of pilgrims getting ready for an early start – it seemed like anytime after 5.00am was a good time. For many people they will be looking at the guidebook stage and…