Camino de Baztan

[geraldkelly]

Hi Everybody


In February/March I walked the Camino de Baztan from Bayonne to Pamplona and a couple of days ago I finally got round to putting the guide I compiled online. This Camino was a real treat and a revelation (despite some terrible weather). It passes through the Navarran Basque country, through rolling green countryside with beautiful Basque villages and friendly natives. Everywhere I went people told me I was the first pilgrim of the year! You'd have to walk on the 1st of January to achieve that between SJPP and Pamplona! It was like I imagine the Camino Francés must have been like twenty years ago.


Facilities are pretty sparse on some stretches and you'll have to carry some food with you but there's no problem with accommodation with pilgrim hostels conveniently located along the route once you cross the Spanish border. For the first night in France there are several options available. The hostel in Urdax/Urdazubi is in an old monastery and the village itself is wonderful.


The scenery along much of the route is stunning (in good weather). It's typical Basque countryside with rolling green hills, tidy villages of sturdy houses nestling in valleys and sheep and cows lurking behind every bush.


I think this is a great alternative to the SJPP to Pamplona. There are a few climbs but there's nothing like the all-day slog of SJPP to Roncesvalles.


Anyway, if you're feeling adventurous the guide is available now and if you do venture forth be sure to send me any updates and additions.


The guide's at Camino de Santiago Guide - St James Way - free guide to download just click on Camino Baztan.




Ger