1st April 2010

[AnthonyD]

This is my first time on the camino, im a bit worried that in april nothing will be open am i just talking rubbish? lol also i read that the train line to st jean is not running how else would i get there im flying to barritz on the 30th march? please help!

[Sil]

Don't panic - the camino always provides!
The train line to St Jean is under repairs but there are buses running at more-or-less the same times. So, from the airport you take the #6 bus to the station. It leaves about every 30 mins and takes about 45 mins. Here is the bus timetable
http://www.bus-stab.com/Privee/html/aff_pdf.asp?val=Ligne_06.pdf
Then you get a bus to St Jean. http://www2.ter-sncf.com
Go to the pilgrims' office in Rue Citadelle and they will tell you what accommodation is open. They'll also give you a profile map and a list of accommodation along the way. You can get your credential (pilgrim passport) there too.
Listen to the locals. If they tell you not to take the route Napoleon over the pass, don't! Pilgrims die every year crossing in snow storms and blizzards so take the road route through Val Carlos.
Have a wonderful walk,
Sil