Up and over the Pyrenees

Thank you to our trainer Kathy LeSage, we were able to go up and over the Pyrenees today without much difficulty. we woke early at 5:15, ate breakfast, and were on the trail by 6:15.

We knew that this would be the hardest day physically of our Camino with the greatest climb of over 2,000 feet.  The first part of the trail ascended only slightly for about the first two hours. Then we hit the steep section amount of continuous uphill climbing for the next two and a half hours. Fortunately, most of the trail was in the shade in the morning was still relatively cool.

At the summit was a12th century Church that was right off the highway. We met a cyclist from Ireland who had been riding from Amsterdam. There was also a group of Spanish tourists looking at the church who gave us hazelnuts and chocolate and wished us a Buen Camino.

After reaching the summit, we have plenty of energy to continue on for another five miles to the town of Espinal. A total of 12 miles hiking today. We are still in the heart of the Basque region and see the Basque language everywhere. we checked into the albergue and went to the restaurant for Marion's promised steak and french fries. A little incentive is always good to get her up a hill.

I couldn't be more proud of my family. Gisela tripped on throughout the day up the hills, even though she prefers the flat sections.  Juliana was strong throughout the day and carried extra weight to ease others loads. Marion has made great strides since two years ago and was able to complete the stage with little difficulty... And the promise of a steak.

The last two nights, we've been staying at smaller villages the most pilgrims don't stop at. it's been nice and quiet for some family time, but we miss talking to a lot of other pilgrims.  We will be playing it by ear and see how we feel going forward, and not sticking to any set plan.

At the summit

Marion at a Camino marker

At Roncesvalles

Roncesvalles

On the trail

Morning in Valcarlos

Passing through a herd of cattle

Town of Espinal

Pilgrim's Cross

hiking through the Pyrenees