Bayonne/St. Jean Travel Question

That is absolutely fine. I stayed at the Hotel Cote Basque, very close to the train station, but there are multiple options. Orisson is very manageable, even on a short day. The only downside of this plan is you won't be able to spend much time in St. Jean, beautiful town.

You will probably meet other pilgrims at the airport whom may have a taxi booked you may be able to share post on this forum for others doing similar staying in St Jean in May i found extremely busy i would organise a taxi from airport as you will miss the last bus coming in so late book a Hostel or Hotel as above poster states. Remember to pick up your pilgrim passport as soon as possible and get it stamped usually quite a lot of queues in St Jean picking up a passport but with you arriving early may not be a problem. Great spot staying at Orrison you will meet your first Pyrenee Horses here with the bell around there neck and watch out for the eagles and Buzzards. Orisson is not too far away from St Jean and advice here is to stop every so often and take a look back were you have come from so many people kissing the hill forget to look around dont forget to bring a peeble from home and place it at the cross on your last mountain before Santiago. Be Safe Enjoy and look after your feet.

StFina said:

I arrive very late at the Biarritz airport on a Sunday in May to begin the Camino Frances. It is too late for the last train from Bayonne to St. Jean, and all the transfer services are horribly expensive due to the hour and day. I am thinking of staying the night in Bayonne by the train station, and taking the 7;45 train to St. Jean and starting my walk a little later. As I have reservations in Orisson for the night, there is no pressing need to begin walking early.

Does this plan seem sound? All input is appreciated. - Steve

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A good plan, particularly as if you can't make the 2100 train ... you really want to get settled for the night.

Steve, as mentioned by many, your plan is sound. No problem there. The alternative, which you can possibly do is leave your life and need for preparation behind at home. It is a pilgrimage. Let life take you where you need to go. When you land in Biarritz, step out the front door of the airport and see who has a backpack. If you can find three others, group up and find a taxi. Pay 25 euros each and in an hour, you will be in SJPP, for supper. If you can, get your passport, then find an alberge and then go eat.

Next morning, you can start as leisurely or as fervently as you see fit. The outfitter store opens very early, or, do they ever close? I was not around long enough to figure that out. Fill your water bottle by the church just inside the Gate of St. James, walk thru the Gate, cross the bridge and you will be on your way.

Buen Camino

C clearly said:

Sounds very sound to me! There are various places right by the train station in Bayonne. You might want to reserve something if you are arriving late. There's a bus from the airport to the station but I don't know the hours of service.

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You can use Blablacar that works well
https://www.blablacar.fr/
Buen Camino