kubapigora said:
What do you think of walking all the way to Roscenvalles same day? We are planning to do that this year (arriving from Bayonne 8.58am).
If you want to walk all the way from SJPDP to Roncesvalles, it's recommended that you leave SJPDP no later than 10AM, so that you don't get stuck in the mountains after dark - and that's when the weather is good. The pilgrim office is about a ten to fifteen minute walk from the train station, and by the time you get your food (the market is close to the train station), credencial stamp, briefing from the pilgrim office personnel, and your general bearings, you'll be pushing the 10AM cutoff.
However, keep in mind that it's a hard and long stage, especially for one's first day on the Way. I left with two folks before sunrise, and I didn't arrive in Roncesvalles until around 5PM or so. I had too much weight on my pack, and by the time I got there I was a hurting unit. Plus, you have to carry whatever food you plan to eat that day with you, so that adds to the weight.
Frankly, I would recommend staying in SJPDP for a day so that you don't have to rush. St. Jean is worth that amount of time to explore (neat shops, cafes, old church, and so on). Plus, you can get last-minute stuff taken care of, and also get into the spirit of the pilgrimage vs. rushing right into it. Whatever you chose to do, buen Camino! :arrow: