Woke up feeling refreshed in the Airbnb I got to ensure quality jet lag refresh sleep. Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port is a beautiful small mountain village. I drank my instant coffee and headed to the Pilgrims office in town to get my pilgrim credentials, which grant you access to the albergues, which are not open to tourists. The woman there told me I was starting late and if I got to Roncesvalles too late I wouldn’t get a bed, but turns out I had plenty of time. Then I went to the little outdoor shop and snagged some cheapo hiking poles, which I felt very grateful to have today.

Today was supposed to be one of the hardest days of the Camino because of the distance (15.7 mi) and elevation gained (4000 ft). I found it challenging but manageable and kept a good pace while I was cheered on by goats and sheeps.

The fog swaddled Pyrenees were as magical and eerie is I imagined. Definitely will be back here some day.

Had a simple but delicious meal at the Roncesvalles albergue including an entire trout. Feeling good and ready for more tomorrow.