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The one with the amazing sunrise, soaring eagles, and Superman!
? Location: Orrison to Roncesvalles ? Miles: 10.5 beautiful miles ⛑️ Health Update: It’s a blessing having a podiatrist in the group! I’ve been managing Cuboid Syndrome in my foot, likely from overuse, which has made each step a challenge. (I’ll rest when I’m home!) ?️ Weather: Another glorious day, as you’ll see in the sunrise photos. ? Food: Basic but hearty pilgrim fare.Highlights of the Day
? The Snore Symphony Last night, our dorm was treated to a unique performance: snoring in perfect harmony! At one point, a loud snore jolted one lady awake, which sent me into giggles. It was the quintessential “pilgrim choir.” ? 4:30 a.m. – A Quiet Start Awake before dawn, I slipped outside with my journal, captured yesterday’s memories, and settled into a morning meditation. It was the perfect, peaceful way to greet the day. ? 6 a.m. – A Simple Breakfast With movement stirring in the dorm, we were all packed and ready for breakfast by 6:44 a.m. Orrison has made a few changes since my last visit: no more giant bowls of coffee, but we do get actual cups and saucers now! Toast and jam with cornflakes fueled us, and I filled my little flask with coffee for the trail. As we headed out, we were greeted by a breathtaking sunrise. Wow! ? 7:45 a.m. – Setting Off Halfway up our first hill, Donna suddenly realized she’d left her sandwich behind, which led to her sprinting back to retrieve it. The sky was painted with soft pinks and oranges, and mist floated in the valley below, creating a serene landscape. With the crisp air and no wind, all we could hear was the rhythm of walking poles and the gentle clang of cowbells. ? A Majestic View and Wildlife As we climbed higher, an eagle circled above us in the open sky—a beautiful sight. Although there were no vultures today, we did spot herds of horses with their foals, hundreds of sheep, and even a few very large pigs roaming freely in the hills.
? The Food Truck
Our group stayed together for the morning, stopping after 4.5 miles at the Food Truck, owned by a local sheep farmer. I warmed up with hot chocolate while some tried the farm’s homemade cheese. It was chilly, so on went the gloves.
?️ 4,500 Feet – Entering Spain
As we crossed the cattle grid that marks the Spanish border, the group filmed a quick video singing “Hola and au revoir!”
? Unexpected Discovery
A pair of men’s boxer shorts was hanging on a fence by the trail. While I’ve seen lost gloves and hats, this was a new one on me!
? Lunch Break in the Forest
After catching up with Tash and Donna, we reached the hut where the rest of the group was snapping photos. It was still early, so we decided to hold off on lunch until we reached the forest section 30 minutes later.
? Into the Woods and a Conversation
We chose the steep descent through the forest, where one of our group members—a long-time prison officer—shared stories about the prison service, debunking media myths about space shortages. The things you chat about on a hiking trail!
? Arriving in Roncesvalles
Upon arrival, our new check-in system worked flawlessly. While the group enjoyed drinks at the bar, I organised our forms and checked everyone into their bunk pods. Beds 101-110 were our cosy spots, each with individual cubicles that felt like little havens. It’s funny how such small conveniences like a towel rail or plug socket can feel like pure luxury out here!
Evening Routine and Camaraderie
After hot showers and getting our Camino passports stamped, we gathered for dinner at La Posada, the other café in town. Seated with a spirited group of French pilgrims, including one who introduced himself as “Superman,” we enjoyed hot vegetable soup with pasta in the same bowl (odd combo!), followed by a choice of fish or chicken. Knowing the fish would arrive whole (heads and tails included!), I wisely opted for the chicken. Ann and Tash weren’t as lucky, and watching them handle the fish provided a good laugh! (let’s just say that napkins were involved so that the fish wasn’t staring at them whilst they were eating).
? Winding Down
By 8:30 p.m., I was ready to call it a night. I picked up our damp laundry from the monastery’s basement and headed to bed. Lying in my bunk, I could hear the laughter and lively chatter from the common room, a comforting sound as I drifted off. It’s a reminder of the simple joy of shared adventures and new friendships.
Night night. See you tomorrow.