August 23, 2018é
Our first day on the Camino was a killer! Talk
about baptism by fire! We left St. Jean @ 8:30 am and, after passing through
the Porte d’Espagne (our exit out of town), the uphill climb began immediately.
We had chosen to walk the Route de Napoleon up and over the Pyrenees, the most
arduous climb of the 3 possible routes, but also the most scenic. Too bad the
weather didn’t cooperate as far as scenery goes. We had low clouds/fog during
most of the climb, but the temperature was pleasant, making for good hiking,
even if we couldn’t see much below us as we climbed higher and higher into the mountains. Total
mileage today was 15.5 miles with almost 5,000 feet of elevation gain in the
first 12 miles. The steepest part was within the first 5 miles, although the
last 3.5 mile downhill stretch taxed us also. It was very steep and rocky and
one had to watch one’s footing every step of the way. By the time we reached
our destination in Roncevalles, Spain we were all spent. We all did great, but
I’m particularly impressed with Rich and Jerry who had never walked this type
of distance before, especially one so challenging! Only 33 more stages, 35 more
days (we have a few rest days planned along the way), and 474 more miles to go.Buen Camino!
At the Porte d'Espagne on our way out of town
Rest break part way up (notice the fog in the background)
Trying to get a view of the valley during a break in the fog
Rest break at the top
View of the steep, rocky downhill trail
Great pics and thanks for the updates!! Sounds like a really rough uphill climb!
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