Book or not to book an albergue in SJPDP

[Lua]

Hi. I am arriving in SJPDP on the 17th May and have no albergue booked for the night. This time of year is there a need to book one in advance or am I ok to get one when I arrive around 5pm.?
Thanks.
Lua

 

[Anniesantiago]

I would book this year, for sure.

 

[domigee]

5 pm is a bit late ... I arrived at 4 pm and the albergue hadn't even kept my reservation, even though I had told them which flight I was on....
I'd book and make sure they know when you're arriving.
All this said, I did find a bed that night but...things may have changed this year

 

[LizC-S]

The 17th, 18th, 19th and 20 May is proving to be a bit of a nightmare bed wise in the following places: SJPDP, (Orisson booked out 17th, don't know about the 18th onwards), Valcarlos, Ronscesvalles, Burgette. I am not carrying a tent as it is too much extra weight for me to carry. Have decided to change my route to Route Valcarlos as I was going to do SJPDP to Roncesvalles in 2 days anyway. Buen Camino Lua and may see you on the way!

 

[bunnymac]

I have booked a hotel in SJPdP as I did on my last trip. This is the first night in an albergue for many people. It can be very noisy as people are meeting for the first time and a natural excitement ensues. In a word, it can be a little hectic. I have met many people on the first day of their journey who have had little or no sleep. By the time everyone reaches Roncesvalles, they're exhausted, all talked out, and all they want to do is sleep. Perfect prerequisites for a good night's sleep in an albergue.

 

[Lua]

Hi. I am arriving in SJPDP on the 17th May and have no albergue booked for the night. This time of year is there a need to book one in advance or am I ok to get one when I arrive around 5pm.?
Thanks.
Lua

Thanks for all the advice. I have now booked a place for the 17th in SJPDP.
Thanks again and Buen Camino.
Lua