Quick Facts
- You’re kicking off your Camino in France and ending the day in Spain – how cool is that?
- Distance: 25 km (15.5 miles)
- Walking time: Around 7 hours
- Difficulty: Tough (not gonna sugarcoat it!)
- Heads up: In winter, the Pyrenees route can be dangerous or even closed
Where to Stay in Roncesvalles
- Budget option: Roncesvalles Pilgrim Hostel
- More comfort: Casa Sabina or Hotel Roncesvalles
What You Need to Know About Stage 1
Your Camino Francés Adventure Begins!
So here we go! Your Camino starts in the cute French town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. This is where the Camino Francés officially begins and where the Via Podiensis (one of the French Camino routes) ends.
From St. Jean, you’ll cover 25 kilometers – but honestly, it’s not the distance that’ll get you. It’s those brutal elevation meters climbing over the Pyrenees and the Ibañeta Pass at over 1,000 meters altitude.
Real talk: This first stage is one of the toughest of the entire Camino Francés. Many pilgrims say it’s THE hardest one, looking back. And yeah, it kinda sucks that it comes right at the start when you’re not quite in your Camino rhythm yet.
In winter, the route can get seriously sketchy with snow and might even be closed. So definitely check if the path is clear before you head out.
Our top tip: Don’t be a hero! Consider splitting this stage with an overnight stop instead of pushing through to Roncesvalles in one go. Your feet (and your mental state) will thank you.
Want more detailed tips on crushing this Pyrenees stage? Check out our eBook „Camino Francés for Beginners“, where we dedicate a whole chapter to this beast of a first day.
Bottom line: Stage 1 is challenging, but it’s also incredibly beautiful and rewarding. You’ve got this! And remember – thousands of pilgrims have walked this exact path before you. If they can do it, so can you.
Buen Camino! 🥾
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Map of the first Stage: