Starting from SJPP April 15th

[AMR]

Greetings, fellow pilgrims! Longtime reader, first time poster. Much appreciation to all for the wisdom and welcome so generously shared on this Forum. After postponements experienced by many, I will now begin the Camino Frances from SJPP on April 15th. One part of me still can't believe that this is really happening. Another part feels such peace and gratitude for whatever unfolds. Details of travel and transport are arranged, and I accept that my preparation of mind/body/spirit is as it is and will hold me as I move forth, open to what will.

I do have two questions. I really want to go to the octagonal Church of St. Mary of Eunate, which I think is about 5 km from Puenta de la Reina. Are there markings on the Camino route that show how to get there, or do I need to Google map it from the Camino? Also, I’ll arrive in Santiago on May 22nd and plan to stay for a few days (wiggle room!) before flying back to US. How far in advance do I need to buy tickets to tour the Cathedral? I know I can enter when open to worship, but also want to visit the museum and tour.

Thank you again for all your advice and stories, and most importantly for holding the Camino spirit. Maybe I’ll meet some of you along the way!

 

[peregrina2000]

Welcome to the forum @AMR. Happy you will finally get to walk your Camino.

There is a turnoff for Eunate in Muruzábal, here is a recent thread. It will add a total of about 4-5 km to the day’s walk.

I think the hours on the website I link to are up to date, but it always is a good idea to check if you can before you walk there. Though I will say, even if the church is closed, the outside is beautiful and the setting very peaceful.

Horarios y Acceso – Santa María de Eunate

santamariadeeunate.es

As far as visiting the cathedral, you have lots of options. The rooftop tour and the Pórtico de la Gloria are the two I loved the most.

I would buy them online before getting to Santiago. Not sure how much advance notice is a good idea, but the website seems to only open up for a few months ahead anyway.

Ticket sale Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

Official website of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela for the online purchase of tickets for visits to the permanent collection, the Portico de la Gloria and Santa María La Real de Sar.

visitas.catedraldesantiago.es

Looks like you can only buy tickets through May now, and none of the days are sold out, so I would think a couple of days in advance is fine.

 

[AMR]

Thank you, peregrina2000!