Today Day 2: Saint Jean Pied de Port to Roncesvalles is a long, and difficult day. Before setting out check the weather forecast in the pilgrim’s office at 39 Rue de la Citadelle. You will be advised of an alternative route if the weather is dangerous it would pay you to heed their warning. .
Walk through the village across the bridge and head to the mountains for a very steep climb. Starting at 172m above sea level, passing Huntto and Orisson before reaching Vierge de Biakorri (statue of Madonna) at 1.095m. She sits on top of a rock protecting the shepherds, their flocks, and Pilgrims.
Continue to climb the Pyrenees through Lepoeder mountain pass then you have a 480m descent to Roncesvalles crossing a beautiful beech forest.
Roncesvalles is the primary starting point for pilgrims, mainly Spaniards. Visit St James Chapel and the Royal Collegiate Church of Saint Mary.
