Purgatorio route

[runboyrun]

I will walk from Irun to San Sebastián next weekend. A lot of rain is predicted then. Is it responsible to take the Purgatorio route / Jaizibel peak?

 

[mrlentz]

Possible - yes. In fact, when I went through this July, the Purgatorio was the way marked route, with the lower altitude option being signposted as an alternative (rather than the old mountaineering pilgrims only signs I had seen on the forum).

That said, I would DEFINITELY want poles for the initial ascent — it is quite steep and has mud/rocks that will slide with wet ground. If conditions were too bad, I might avoid the high route/turn around after getting a feel for that initial climb. if you are evaluating on the spot, do note that after the the initial ascent, the route itself is not that difficult, but it is exposed to the elements.

Hope that helps!

 

[lt56ny]

Possible - yes. In fact, when I went through this July, the Purgatorio was the way marked route, with the lower altitude option being signposted as an alternative (rather than the old mountaineering pilgrims only signs I had seen on the forum).

That said, I would DEFINITELY want poles for the initial ascent — it is quite steep and has mud/rocks that will slide with wet ground. If conditions were too bad, I might avoid the high route/turn around after getting a feel for that initial climb. if you are evaluating on the spot, do note that after the the initial ascent, the route itself is not that difficult, but it is exposed to the elements.

Hope that helps!

I too think you need poles for the Norte. There are so many ups and downs and when it is wet the downs can be steep and very slippery.

 

[trecile]

I would not take the Purgatorio route if it's raining. The only good reason to take that route,which is very very steep is for the views at the top. If there will be no views because of the weather there is really not point in my opinion.

 

[peshe56]

I agree, no that bad after initial climb but if it is bad weather you will not see any views !

 

[BombayBill]

When I went in September it was showery. Not so much to not attempt it but you definitely needed poles. The showers blew in off the sea but lasted a short time. The views were terrific. Towards the end of route there were less views as the vegetation was overgrown.

 

[poogeyejr]

Watch out for the Rain on the Brick/Stone road heading off the cliffs into San Sebastian. That road can be insanely slippery in the rain. (The last down hill before reaching the city at sea level.

 

[donalomahony]

I would not take the Purgatorio route if it's raining. The only good reason to take that route,which is very very steep is for the views at the top. If there will be no views because of the weather there is really not point in my opinion.

100% agree...

 

[Tincatinker]

I will walk from Irun to San Sebastián next weekend. A lot of rain is predicted then. Is it responsible to take the Purgatorio route / Jaizibel peak?

No. It’s a fair-weather route.

What is your motivation for attempting it?

 

[runboyrun]

No. It’s a fair-weather route.

What is your motivation for attempting it?

It's the start of my Camino. I would like to enjoy the view. In view of the weather forecast, I will take advice from my fellow pilgrims

 

[Tincatinker]

There are many views to come. Each as wonderful in its own way