Land in Madrid at 1:30pm - Possible to get to SJPDP that nig

[nycovergrl]

I've looked into multiple different ways to get to SJPDP from Madrid, but those ways only work in the same day if I land in the morning. Flying into Madrid (no checked bags) and landing at 1:30pm, is it possible to get to SJPDP the same night? I know there are train/bus options to get to Pamplona that night, but is that as far as I can make it?
I get in Sept 1st, so there's still plenty of time to work out these details.
Thanks so much!

Cheers,
Abby

 

[Deleted member 3000]

Only by taking a taxi from Pamplona. The 1515 bus from the Madrid airport gets to Pamplona at 2015, so only a taxi will get you to SJPdP before midnight, and be very expensive. It is 77km, but you may be charged for both directions. On average, a taxi is 1E per km.

 

[nycovergrl]

Thank you so much for the info. If I decide to just start in Pamplona on the 2nd, instead of making my way to SJPDP, is there a great amount lost? Will there be plenty of people starting from Pamplona?

 

[tyrrek]

Hi nycovergrl!

Trying to get to SJPP in that timescale is just too stressful, so I think you'd be better to break your journey somewhere.

You could probably get to Pamplona on the same day fairly easily, so it's up to you whether you choose to go backwards to SJPP the next day or just start walking! I know what I would do - as soon as you're on the Camino there's only one way to go!

There will be lots of other pilgrims around.

Buen Camino!

 

[Deleted member 3000]

There will be people starting in Pamplona, but most of the pilgrims will arrive from SJPdP/Roncesvalles. I personally find it easier to start in Pamplona. I have climbed the Pyrenees twice, and that is at least once too many! The hike up from SJPdP is a memorable test of fire that can be one of the proudest moments in the lives of many. It also can cause physical problems that stay with you for several weeks! In the worst of worlds, the weather will be bad out of SJPdP, and you will never see the views! You get the exhaustion without the benefits...

 

[Thornley]

Hi Abbey,
Start in Pamplona and in a few years when you are addicted to other caminos start in Le Puy and you will get to St. Jean Pied de Port , 6 weeks later and full of pride.
Enjoy your camino and walk to Muxia/Finasterre for missing the first 3 days

David