The Camino Francés, one of the most famous pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela, begins in the picturesque town of St. Jean-Pied-de-Port, situated in the French Pyrenees. This first stage is both breathtaking and demanding, taking pilgrims across the Pyrenees Mountains and into Spain, ending in Roncesvalles.

Historical Background

• St. Jean-Pied-de-Port: This medieval town, located in the Basque region of France, has long been a gateway for pilgrims embarking on the Camino. It was historically the capital of Lower Navarre and features a well-preserved citadel, cobbled streets, and a vibrant pilgrim community.

• Roncesvalles: A small village in Navarre, Spain, Roncesvalles is famous for its medieval monastery and its role in the legendary Battle of Roncevaux Pass (778 AD), where Charlemagne’s army suffered a historic defeat. Today, it serves as a key stop for pilgrims, offering accommodations and spiritual reflection.

The Camino Route

The journey from St. Jean-Pied-de-Port to Roncesvalles is one of the most challenging yet rewarding stages of the Camino Francés. Pilgrims have two main routes to choose from:

• Napoleon Route (24.5 km) – The more scenic but strenuous path, ascending Col de Lepoeder at 1,310 meters before descending into Roncesvalles.
• Valcarlos Route (24 km) – A lower-altitude alternative that follows the valley, ideal for bad weather or less experienced hikers.

Both routes offer stunning views, rich history, and a deep sense of camaraderie among pilgrims. Whether you seek adventure, spiritual growth, or cultural immersion, this stage of the Camino Francés is an unforgettable experience.

Route Map: St. Jean-pied-de-port to Roncesvalles

Departure point: St Jean-Pied-de-Port

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, situated in southwestern Francés, is a small but lively town that holds great significance as the starting point for the Camino Francés pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. This town boasts a rich history and offers various services and attractions for visitors, making it a popular destination.

Location and History

Located at the foot of the Pyrenees, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is an ideal spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the breathtaking scenery that surrounds it. Since the Middle Ages, it has been an important stop for pilgrims heading towards Santiago de Compostela. Moreover, the town’s strategic location played a vital role in several military conflicts, including the Hundred Years’ War and the Peninsular War.

Points of Interest

Visitors to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port will find a wide range of attractions to enjoy, with the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Porte St-Jacques, being one of the most notable ones. It is the traditional starting point for the Camino Francés pilgrimage and a remarkable gate built in the 12th century that has been welcoming visitors for centuries. The town also features a 17th-century citadel that was constructed to defend against attacks. The Gothic Church of Notre-Dame du Bout du Pont is yet another famous landmark, dating back to the 13th century. A 14th-century Gothic bridge across the Nive River is an ideal place to stroll and relish the picturesque views. The historic center of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is worth exploring with its quaint alleyways, half-timbered houses, and traditional Basque architecture.

Camino-related Services

As the starting point for the Camino Francés, Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port offers various services for pilgrims. These include hostels and hotels, specifically catering to pilgrims’ needs. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Basque cuisine served in restaurants and cafes. Essential services such as pharmacies and medical facilities are also available to pilgrims, making the town an excellent and practical place to embark on the Camino Francés pilgrimage.

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is a historically rich town, offering a range of services and attractions to visitors. Whether you are embarking on the Camino Francés pilgrimage or exploring the region as a tourist, this charming town is a destination worth visiting.

Route Description: St-Jean-Pied-De-Port to Roncesvalles

The first stage of the Camino Francés, from St-Jean-Pied-De-Port to Roncesvalles, is considered one of the most challenging stages due to the steep ascent through the Pyrenees Mountains. However, the stunning views and sense of accomplishment make it worth the effort. Here is a detailed route description for this stage. It’s recommended to spend the night here to rest and prepare for the challenging trek ahead.

Route Description

The route begins at the Pilgrim’s Office in St-Jean-Pied-De-Port and climbs uphill through the town’s narrow streets. After crossing the Nive River, the route continues through the countryside, with stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

Col de Lepoeder

After about 6 kilometers, the route reaches the Col de Lepoeder, the first significant ascent of the stage. The climb is steep and challenging, but the stunning views make it worth the effort.

Col de Bentarte

The route continues uphill to the Col de Bentarte, which offers breathtaking views of the Pyrenees Mountains. This section of the route is considered one of the most beautiful parts of the Camino Francés.

Roncesvalles

After the Col de Bentarte, the route descends towards the Spanish border and eventually reaches the town of Roncesvalles, located in a picturesque valley. The town has a historic monastery, where pilgrims can stay and attend a pilgrim’s mass.

Tips and Recommendations

• It’s recommended to start early in the morning to avoid hiking in the heat of the day.
• Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are few options for food and water along the way.
• Wear comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes with good ankle support.
• Be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring appropriate gear, including rain gear and warm clothing.
• Consider hiring a baggage transport service to carry your backpack, as the steep ascent can be challenging with a heavy load.

The first stage of the Camino Francés from St-Jean-Pied-De-Port to Roncesvalles is a challenging but rewarding journey through the beautiful Pyrenees Mountains. With stunning views, charming towns, and historic landmarks along the way, it’s an unforgettable experience for any pilgrim.

Destination: Roncesvalles

Roncesvalles is a small village in the Pyrenees mountains of northern Spain that is located on the Camino Francés pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. The village has a long and fascinating history, and it offers a range of attractions and services for visitors.

Roncesvalles is a beautiful and historically rich village that serves as an important stop on the Camino Francés route . Its location in the Pyrenees, range of attractions, and variety of services make it a popular destination for visitors. Whether you are a pilgrim embarking on the Camino or a tourist exploring the region, Roncesvalles is a village worth visiting.

Location and History

Roncesvalles is located in the Navarre region of northern Spain, close to the border with France. The village sits at the foot of the Pyrenees mountains and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Roncesvalles has a long and important history, dating back to the Middle Ages when it was an important stop on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. The village was also the site of a famous battle in 778 AD between Charlemagne’s army and a Basque force.

Points of Interest

Roncesvalles offers a range of attractions for visitors. One of the most notable is the Collegiate Church of Roncesvalles, a beautiful Gothic-style church that dates back to the 12th century. The church is home to a museum that contains many artifacts related to the history of the village and the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. Visitors can also explore the village’s historic center, which is characterized by narrow streets, traditional Basque architecture, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. The village also offers a range of hiking trails and outdoor activities, including the popular Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

Camino-related Services

As a stop on the Camino Francés pilgrimage route, Roncesvalles offers a range of services and amenities for pilgrims. Accommodation options include hostels and hotels, with many specifically catering to pilgrims. Visitors can also find restaurants and cafes serving traditional Basque cuisine, such as pintxos (small snacks typically eaten with drinks) and stews. Shops selling souvenirs and other essentials are also available. Medical facilities, pharmacies, and other essential services are also available for pilgrims, making it a convenient and practical destination.

St. Jean Pied-de-Port to Roncevalles [Video]