The first stage of the Camino Francés after St.-Jean-Pied-de-Port is the toughest on the entire Camino Francés - the French Camino, in particular the first 10 kilometers from St. Jean Pied de Port, until you reach the top of the Pyrenees. During this 25 km. long stage, there is only one place to buy food or stop to eat and it is not possible to divide this stage, as there are no hotels/pensions along the way. Read more about the stage under the stage description.
The next few stages, until you reach Pamplona's suburbs, remain hilly. At the same time this is one of the most beautiful sections of the French Camino through forests, along rivers and through picturesque villages.
Under each stage description you'll find elevation maps and pictures of the terrain.
Service functions are relatively limited between St Jean Pied de Port and Pamplona. There are, however, several villages along the way with restaurants and other services, but the frequency is not as high as other sections.
More information on Saint Jean Pied de Port - Pamplona
The terrain after Pamplona is easier than before Pamplona. But, immediately after Pamplona, you will find that your hike is not completely flat. Instead, along the way, several hills must be traveled; although flat stretches become longer and more frequent the closer you get to Logroño, where vineyards start taking over. It is a lovely section of the Camino, with very diverse landscape and quaint villages.
You'll pass several small bodegas along the way, where it's perfect to make a short stop and maybe get a wine and tasting tour. In addition, both Navarra and Rioja are known for their excellent cuisines, two wonderful opportunities to experience excellent Spanish food on this trip.
Service functions are generally good with many smaller towns along the way.
More information on Saint Jean Pied de Port - Pamplona
The terrain becomes gentler before arriving to Pamplona without becoming completely flat. There will be several hills along the way, but the flat stretches begin to be longer, more frequent and easier as you as you near Logroño. Vineyards, quaint villages and a diverse landscape greet you through this lovely stretch of the Camino.
You'll pass several small bodegas along this stage, where you can enjoy a short stop and perhaps tour a bodega or two to include wine tasting in this region. We recommend enjoying and trying as much as possible.
In addition, both Navarra and Rioja are known for their excellent gastronomy, and provide you with plenty of really good opportunities to experience the cuisine of these two regions during your trip.
Service functions are generally good with many smaller towns along the way.
More information on Pamplona - Logroño