Arre to Cizur Minor - 16.5km (Total 91.4km) Day 6 The next morning in Pamplona we farewelled one of the South Africa couples Rob and Barbara (after 4 days of sharing the Camino) and we were invited to visit them in their home country. We spent most of the morning looking at the citys historical sights again and had an enjoyable day. The old pilgrim building is now going to be a 5 star hotel and the new albergue has been moved - we did eventually find it after many twists and turns and asking of directions to several locals. Walked to Cicur Minor which is just outside of Pamplona and stayed at the Albergue Anjuanista run by the Knights of St. John and our newly appointed hospitaleros were husband and wife Juan and Maria Jose ... read more

Pyrenees to Roncesvalles: Crossing the Pyrenees, going through a few forests full of beech wood tress and crossing the Col de Lepoeder summit at 1,450mt was wonderful with the most clear sunny day and mild temperatures. It was unforgettable. Going down from this summit, we found several pilgrims waiting and looking around Just before the descent into the forest, and wondered why???? We soon found out that this section was full of eagles flying about and using the warm thermal winds. They were majestic to watch. But we needed to move on. Since it was a great clear day with no signs of bad weather, we chose the more steep and difficult but shorter trail to Roncesvalles. It turned out to be one of my most memorable days of the trip. The forest was just gorgeous. ... read more

After many plan changes of our trip to Spain a final decision has been made to begin our Camino from the original starting point from St. Jean Pied du Port in France. Tired of not walking and eating ! Gained several kgs. and Rons pack has gained 4 kgs since Madrid! Not sure what has entered. He has however discovered Churros and Chocolate or Chocolaidy. He has learned to say Hola, gracias and caffee solo in Irish tounge Trips from OZ to China to Finland to Madrid to Valencia to Pamplona to France have all been long and hopefully worth it. We have been very lucky to get a room and tent . Looking forward to starting the treck UP, UP for 20km before reaching Spain again. No access to download photos. will do next time. ... read more

Sample down-load directly from digital camera. I think it worked!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now I will be able to send photos during my walk in Spain.... read more

For those of you who know me, I have been preparing for my pilgrimage in Spain now for more than 12 months. I keep buying new backpacks, and gear until I feel that it is right in weight, size and functional in relation to my needs. I know some are sick of hearing (son and daughter) about foldable hats, the grams of items etc. I feel I am finally getting to the end of this and will publish my complete Backpack items list for any one who is interested. It is only once you start to plan that you realise just how much time and effort it all takes. After all it is only a walk of only 800km long and crossing 4 mountain ranges - you need to think of things like all weather possibilities ... read more