Pamplona to St. Etienne, France

Yesterday we did our big ride over the Pyrenees from Pamplona, Spain into the small village of St. Etienne, France. We left Pamplona following intricate intersecting pathways of walking and bicycle trails that were car free and lovely. Here we are at a small dam along the way.

Then, pretty much the road went up, and up, and up. Funny thing is that it did not feel as difficult as anticipated. And when did 5-6% grades actually feel comfortable and 10-12% grades feel manageable?I think I finally found my pace and legs in the Pyrenees and it was not a chore. I even enjoyed the scenery on the way up as well as all the way down.

At each milestone along the way we stopped for many photo opportunities. We were riding most of the day right along the Camino and saw many pilgrims on their journey. We stopped and spoke to many of them and met people from France, Germany, Canada and of course France.

I met these two ladies in the lobby of our hotel this rnorning and they are what they called "mutual mother's in law." Their children married and they became friends and they joyfully reported that they have four mutual grandchildren. Here is their blog if you'd like to follow along. http://granniesoncamino.blogspot

So more about the Camino - Spilling over the Pyrenees from France into Spain, the network of trails that make up the Route of St. James—or El Camino de Santiago—converges at the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. For more than a thousand years, pilgrims have trekked over the high plains of Castilla and the hills of Galicia, some to honor the Apostle James; others in the midst of their own spiritual journey. More photos to come.

When we reached the top we enjoyed even more spectacular views and got ready for our ride down the mountain into France. It was a full 28 km and before we began our descent we were happy we took the time to put on jackets.

Coming down the mountain I was a bit overwhelmed as I realized I had actually ridden this far and was entering France. I remembered the corporate days where we would ask "where do you see yourself in five years?" I certainly did not foresee myself flying down a road in the Pyrenees! I am actually amazed that I am able to do this. What a moment!

There is really not a border welcoming one to France but according to our maps this was the place and the signs changed from Spanish to French.

We made a quick stop in St. Jean Pied-de-Port for a quick look around. It is about seven miles from the hotel. This is where many of the pilgrims begin their trek. We have a rest day today and now that all the laundry is done we are going over to wander around St. John a bit. More about that tomorrow.

 

Posted with Blogsy