Buen camino a todos!
I just wanted to hop on and remind any distraught travellers who cannot make the 25 km climb to Roncesvalles and also cannot find reservations in Orisson/Hunto/Borda that the Valcarlos route exists!
The Pilgrims office was suggesting to us that we power straight through to Roncesvalles until I specifically asked about it. I called ahead and Carlos (the albergue lead) said no problem—my friend and I ended up being 2 of 4 pilgrims there that day. Hot water, good water pressure, free washing machine, and a restaurant and small store in town resulted in a wonderful stay.
I am not sure why the Pilgrims office in St. JPP does not recommend it…there are definitely some rough hills at the end and about 30% of the walking is along the road which could detract from the experience. I know the views are probably not as good as the napoleónico/Leopoldo but for pilgrims who don’t want to or cannot plan months in advance to reserve at Borda or Orisson this is a good option. There is still a great view at col/church at Ibañeta!
Carlos is a great host at a great facility! I highly recommend! Anyone have thoughts as to why Valcarlos isn’t recommended in the summer?
I just wanted to hop on and remind any distraught travellers who cannot make the 25 km climb to Roncesvalles and also cannot find reservations in Orisson/Hunto/Borda that the Valcarlos route exists!
The Pilgrims office was suggesting to us that we power straight through to Roncesvalles until I specifically asked about it. I called ahead and Carlos (the albergue lead) said no problem—my friend and I ended up being 2 of 4 pilgrims there that day. Hot water, good water pressure, free washing machine, and a restaurant and small store in town resulted in a wonderful stay.
I am not sure why the Pilgrims office in St. JPP does not recommend it…there are definitely some rough hills at the end and about 30% of the walking is along the road which could detract from the experience. I know the views are probably not as good as the napoleónico/Leopoldo but for pilgrims who don’t want to or cannot plan months in advance to reserve at Borda or Orisson this is a good option. There is still a great view at col/church at Ibañeta!
Carlos is a great host at a great facility! I highly recommend! Anyone have thoughts as to why Valcarlos isn’t recommended in the summer?