Stage of the Camino
St. Jean Pied de Port to Roncesvalles
From Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port To Roncesvalles
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Destination
Distance
24.50 km
Duration
9.00 h
Difficulty
Alta
Ascent
790 m
Stage of the Camino
Stage Description
Considered the queen stage of the Camino Francés, this section is a monumental challenge that marks the beginning of pilgrimage for thousands of people. The journey involves crossing the Pyrenees, a natural barrier separating France from Spain. From the picturesque Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the route ascends continuously and demandingly, especially in the first kilometers to Orisson, offering increasingly spectacular panoramic views of the Basque-French landscape. The effort is rewarded with arrival at the Col de Lepoeder, the highest point at 1430 meters, before embarking on a pronounced and technical descent through a lush beech forest leading to the legendary Roncesvalles. It's an episode that requires excellent physical and mental preparation but whose beauty and symbolism make it an unforgettable experience and a baptism by fire for the pilgrim.
The Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Roncesvalles stage is, without a doubt, the initiation rite of the French Way. This 24.5 km stretch is not only the first for most pilgrims but also one of the most demanding and memorable sections of the entire route. Starting from the charming medieval village of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, at an altitude of just 160 meters, the pilgrim faces almost immediate unrelenting ascent through the Pyrenees. The most popular route, known as Napoleon's Route, is a constant challenge that puts physical and mental endurance to the test right from the start.
The journey winds its way through green hills and pastures, offering breathtaking views as altitude is gained. A key milestone is the Orisson refuge, 8 km into the stage, a perfect spot for an early rest and to take in the route so far. From here, the ascent continues, passing by the statue of the Virgin de Biakorri, protector of shepherds. The landscape becomes more alpine and exposed, culminating at the Col de Lepoeder, 1430 meters high, the highest point of the day. From this summit, on clear days, a sea of mountains can be seen, with the descent into Spain awaiting.
The final third of the stage consists of a technical and often slippery descent through a dense and magical forest of oaks. This descent, although a relief for the lungs, demands great concentration and punishes the knees. The arrival at the Real Colegiata of Roncesvalles, 950 meters high, is a moment of deep emotion and relief. This historic enclave, loaded with Carolingian legends, welcomes the pilgrim to its impressive buildings and a hostel that is a symbol of Jacobean hospitality. Completing this stage is a true feat that forges an unbreakable bond with the Way.
The journey winds its way through green hills and pastures, offering breathtaking views as altitude is gained. A key milestone is the Orisson refuge, 8 km into the stage, a perfect spot for an early rest and to take in the route so far. From here, the ascent continues, passing by the statue of the Virgin de Biakorri, protector of shepherds. The landscape becomes more alpine and exposed, culminating at the Col de Lepoeder, 1430 meters high, the highest point of the day. From this summit, on clear days, a sea of mountains can be seen, with the descent into Spain awaiting.
The final third of the stage consists of a technical and often slippery descent through a dense and magical forest of oaks. This descent, although a relief for the lungs, demands great concentration and punishes the knees. The arrival at the Real Colegiata of Roncesvalles, 950 meters high, is a moment of deep emotion and relief. This historic enclave, loaded with Carolingian legends, welcomes the pilgrim to its impressive buildings and a hostel that is a symbol of Jacobean hospitality. Completing this stage is a true feat that forges an unbreakable bond with the Way.
Last updated: 12/08/2025
Where to Sleep
Accommodations in this Stage
Find the perfect place for your rest in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port o Roncesvalles.
Casa Rural Bergara
GR12 D.3 Ibañeta-Roncesvalles
Maison Fleurie
Gîte BIDEAN
Maison E.Bernat
Quesería Artesanal Aspace Roncesvalles
Chambres d'hôtes
Aritza
Auberge Etchoinia
Garicoitz House: Guest House - Bed & Breakfast
Maison Bidegain Berria
Museo de Roncesvalles
Ayuntamiento de Auritz -Burguete
Hôtel Camou
Hôtel des Pyrénées
Hôtel Restaurant Mendy
Hotel Roncesvalles
Maison Bakea
Association Lagun
Centro de migración de aves Roncesvalles
Iglesia de San Nicolás de Bari
Pierre et Vacances Le Parc Arradoy
Restaurant Hotel Itzalpea
Hostel 20 Ramuntcho auberge de jeunesse
Hotel Loizu
Le Relais de la Nive
Casa Sabina Roncesvalles
La Posada de Roncesvalles
Hôtel Restaurant des Remparts
Agricultural College Frantsesenia
Banco Santander Agentes
CaixaBank Agrobank
Banca
Dolmen Epersaro
Fuente
Mancomunidad de Servicios Sociales Auñamendi
Roncesvalles
Txabola Lapurzilo
Uhart-Cize
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