Go for the Route Napoleon
I took Route Napoleon on May 19 and it was spectacular. Foggy and slight rain most of the day, but what a wonderful effect that made for photos. I have some fantastic atmospheric shots of misty beech forests and horses looming out of the fog. So don't be disappointed if the weather is not pristine and clear.
At that time, the accomodation at Orisson was rumoured to be booked out for 6 weeks ahead, so it may be a good idea to check out the latest situation before setting out. The Pilgrim Reception Centre at SJPDP will help - if they are not flat out registering new pilgrims!
Don't follow the big orange arrows on the road once you get to Ibaneta. They were put there for some local bike (?) race, but they confused a lot of novice pilgrims (like me!). We had got used to following them instead of the proper (yellow) pilgrim arrows and went straight across the highway at Ibaneta, instead of turning left to Roncesvalles.
This was a common mistake, because after a couple of km, a vehicle arrived to tell us we were on the wrong track and gave us a lift back to the road.
This is not an issue if you take the forest route from Col de Lepoeder to Roncesvalles - only on the route via Ibaneta.
Including getting lost and taking the day easily, I did the walk in 7 hours. Try to arrive in good time to find a bed, relax and go to the 6 pm Pilgrim Mass for the blessing of the pilgrims.
BTW, there are other spectacular mountain views on the
Camino Frances, such as the climb up to O'Cebriero.
Hope this is useful.
Regards
Bob M