Arrive in the historic town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees. This charming French village is the traditional starting point of the Camino Francés. Wander the cobbled streets, explore the medieval citadel, and pick up your pilgrim credential. Take time to enjoy the local Basque cuisine and prepare mentally and physically for the journey ahead.

Begin your pilgrimage with a challenging but unforgettable ascent over the Pyrenees. The path climbs steadily through open pastures, pine forests, and wide mountain vistas before crossing into Spain. Descend into Roncesvalles, home to a historic Augustinian monastery that has welcomed pilgrims for centuries. This stage is a powerful physical and emotional introduction to the Camino. Expect a demanding uphill section, followed by a long descent through forested switchbacks on uneven but well-marked mountain trails.

Descend gently through beech and oak forests, passing through tiny Basque villages like Burguete and Espinal, with their traditional whitewashed houses and red shutters. The walk leads you across ancient bridges into Zubiri, a quaint riverside town known for the Puente de la Rabia. Terrain is mixed today, with soft forest paths and some steep, rocky descents that require care in wet conditions.

Follow the Arga River through farmlands and wooded areas before reaching Pamplona, the capital of Navarra. Explore the city’s Gothic cathedral, citadel walls, and bustling old town, made famous by the Running of the Bulls. This stage transitions from quiet countryside to lively urban energy. The trail is mostly gentle, with a mix of riverside tracks, paved sections, and gradual inclines.

Leave Pamplona behind and ascend to the Alto del Perdón, where a striking metal sculpture of pilgrims marks the horizon. From here, descend through rolling wheat fields and olive groves to Puente la Reina, a medieval town named after its beautiful 11th-century bridge. This is a day of contrasts—windy ridgelines, broad views, and quiet villages. The ascent to the ridge is moderate but exposed; the descent is rocky in places, eventually leading to smooth farm tracks.

Walk past vineyards, olive trees, and fields dotted with tiny Romanesque churches. Enjoy the peace of the Valdizarbe region before arriving in Estella, a lively town known for its architecture and traditional gastronomy. The journey is pleasant, with rolling countryside and a few short climbs. Surfaces vary between gravel paths and country lanes, making for a comfortable and scenic day.

Today’s walk takes you past the famous Irache Wine Fountain, where pilgrims can enjoy a sip of local red wine straight from the tap. Continue through open farmland and quiet paths toward Los Arcos, a peaceful village with a welcoming plaza and historic church. This stretch is mostly exposed and sun-drenched, so an early start is advised. The trail is wide and flat for much of the day, with a few mild inclines.

Leave behind the peaceful town of Los Arcos and walk through gently rolling farmland and vineyards as you approach the region of La Rioja. The route passes through quiet villages like Torres del Río and Sansol before reaching the hilltop town of Viana, known for its historic centre and views across the wine country. Terrain includes undulating dirt tracks and gravel paths.

Stage one comes to a close in vibrant Logroño. Spend the day exploring the city’s historic centre, sampling local wines and tapas, and reflecting on your journey so far. You’ll return here soon to begin Stage 2 — but for now, enjoy a well-earned rest or continue on to your next destination.