Walking across the Pyrenees on the Camino Frances

Walking across the Pyrenees on the Camino Frances

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11 Days From

$1880

Walking across the Pyrenees on the Camino Frances

11 Days Starting in St Jean Pied de Port, France and ending in Logrono, Spain

Visiting: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Roncesvalles, Zubiri, Pamplona, Puente La Reina – Gares, Estella

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

W10CF

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Moderate

Age range:

12-99

Activities:

Wine Tasting

From: $1880

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey walking across the Pyrenees on the Camino Frances, one of the most renowned UNESCO pilgrimage routes. Begin your adventure in the charming town of St Jean Pied de Port, France, and traverse the stunning landscapes of forests and mountains into Spain. Along the way, explore medieval towns like Roncesvalles and historic cities such as Pamplona and Logrono, the heart of the Rioja wine region. Enjoy carefully selected accommodations in family-run hotels or pilgrim hostels, with room upgrades available upon request. Savor continental breakfasts and six evening meals, while your luggage is conveniently transferred between hotels. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty, providing a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant traditions of the Camino Frances.

Highlights

  • Walk along one of the most famous UNESCO pilgrimage routes in the world.

  • Begin your walk on the world-famous Camino Frances by crossing the Pyrenees from France into Spain.

  • Explore the medieval towns of St Jean Pied de Port and Roncesvalles.

  • Visit the historic cities of Pamplona and Logrono.

  • Travel through spectacular scenery of forests and mountains.

  • Reach the heart of the Rioja wine region.

  • Visit the Gothic cathedral and explore the medieval old town of Pamplona.

  • Pass through vineyards and olive groves on your way to Viana.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival In St Jean Pied De Port

Location: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

Accommodation Name: Hotel Itzalpea

Arrival into St Jean Pied de Port. Spend some time relaxing in this historic town before starting out on your voyage of discovery along the Camino Frances. With plenty of restaurants and cafes on your doorstep, we have left tonight's dining choice up to you.



You stay at the Hotel Itzalpea

Day 2 : St Jean Pied De Port To Refuge Orisson

Location: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

Accommodation Name: Hotel Itzalpea

Meals Included: Breakfast

Begin your day with a visit to the old town and ramparts of this beautiful town, not forgetting to pick up your Pilgrim Passport at the Pilgrim Office. Founded in the 12th Century and situated on the River Nixe, the town has long been important for trade and pilgrims alike and definitely deserves some of your time, to appreciate the historic buildings, cobbles streets and numerous shops and eateries. You pause today at the Refuge Orisson before your transfer back to St Jean Pied de Port for your second night at the Hôtel Itzalpea. Enjoy the variety of restaurants near your hotel and try the local traditional food including wood pigeon stew, sheep's cheese and a wonderful trout dish.



You stay at the Hotel Itzalpea

Day 3 : St Jean Pied De Port To Roncesvalles

Location: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

Accommodation Name: Hotel Roncesvalles

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Transfer back to Refuge Orisson and complete the climb through the Basque Country with stunning panoramic views, arriving at Roncesvalles in the afternoon. Surrounded by lush forests and meadows this is where many pilgrims begin their journey. The town has a famous church with many interesting artifacts and the largest medieval hospice in the region (built in the same architectural style as Notre Dame). Enjoy a relaxing overnight stay at the Hôtel Roncesvalles, a resting place for visiting clerics and pilgrims since the 18th century, the hotel has been completely refurbished and serves delicious and traditional Pyrenean fare.



You stay at the Hotel Roncesvalles

Day 4 : Roncesvalles To Zubiri

Location: Roncesvalles

Accommodation Name: Hosteria de Zubiri

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Crossing two mountain passes, your journey continues through the quiet villages of the Pyrenean Navarre. You will venture through an ancient forest of beech and oak to arrive at Zubiri, whose romantic bridge has provided a crossing for pilgrims for centuries. Known locally as the 'Bridge of Rage' it was once believed to have supernatural properties, as it contains the remains of a saint who was said to protect animals from rabies! Spend the night at the family run, cosy Hosteria de Zubiri and enjoy a traditional meal of the Navarre region.



You stay at the Hosteria de Zubiri

Day 5 : Zubiri - Pamplona

Location: Zubiri

Accommodation Name: Hotel Alda Centro

Meals Included: Breakfast

Continue onto Pamplona, famous for its bull running festival and capital city of the Navarre region. A popular stopping point for pilgrims, visit the Gothic cathedral and explore the medieval old town with its markets and plentiful places to sample the local produce. Your evening meal is for you to decide as there are a wealth of options in this lively and bustling city.  A favourite haunt of the American writer Hemingway, Pamplona features heavily in his most famous novel, 'The Sun Also Rises'.



You stay at the Hotel Alda Centro

Day 6 : Pamplona To Puente La Reina

Location: Pamplona

Accommodation Name: Hotel Jakue

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Leaving behind the bustling city, today you will walk to the medieval town of Puente la Reina where all the pilgrim routes of Europe meet. There are many historic buildings of interest, including the churches of Santiago El Mayoe and of Crucifijo, founded by the Knights Templar in the 14th century.



You stay at the Hotel Jakue

Day 7 : Puente La Reina To Estella

Location: Puente La Reina – Gares

Accommodation Name: Hotel Yerri

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Meandering through farmland, part of which is old Roman road, you will arrive in Estella, also known as the ' Toledo of the North'. The medieval old town has much to see, including the Palace of the Kings of Navarre and many examples of Gothic architecture. At the centre of the city you will find the Plaza de los Fueros, which still holds a medieval market with the stallholders in traditional period dress.



You stay at Hotel Yerri

Day 8 : Estella To Los Arcos

Location: Estella

Accommodation Name: Hotel Monaco

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Passing through Irache with its monastery and famous wine fountain offering pilgrims a free beverage since 1991, (choose water or red wine). You will later arrive at Los Arcos and your hotel for this evening.



You stay at the Hotel Monaco

Day 9 : Los Arcos To Viana

Accommodation Name: Hotel Palacio de Pujadas

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Pass through the first of many vineyards and olive groves on your way to Viana, the historical location of many battles during the Middle Ages between Castile and Navarre. Visit the town square with its fortified medieval walls and the church of Santa Maria, final resting place of Caesar Borgia, the inspiration for Machiavelli's' most famous works, 'The Prince'.



You stay at Hotel Palacio de Pujadas

Day 10 : Viana To Logroño

Accommodation Name: Hotel Murrieta

Meals Included: Breakfast

The end of your journey is the town of Logrono, the heart of the Rioja region. Entering via the Puente de Piedra, cobbled streets lead you to the historic centre of the city, with plentiful places of interest including the Cathedral of Santa Maria and the Museum of La Rioja. Collect your Pilgrim Passport stamp and enjoy an evening at leisure sampling the rich wines and produce of the area.



You stay at the Hotel Murrieta

Day 11 : Leave Logroño

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a morning stroll through Logroño before your transfer back to the airport or train station. Alternatively, stay on for extra nights to explore this beautiful historic city.

What's Included

  • All accommodation

    All accommodation is included, featuring a variety of small family-run hotels or simple pilgrim hostels.

  • Meals

    All continental breakfasts and 6 evening meals are included.

  • Route directions and maps

    Route directions and maps are provided for the journey.

  • Luggage transfers

    Luggage transfers between hotels are included.

  • Walking transfers

    Walking transfers are included as part of the tour.

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included in the tour package.

  • Single accommodation

    Single accommodation is available on request and requires a compulsory supplement.

  • Solo traveller supplement

    A solo traveller supplement is required when only one person is travelling on a departure date.

  • Visas or vaccinations

    Visas or vaccinations are not included in the tour package.

  • Travel to the start and from the end point

    Travel to the start and from the end point of the tour is not included.

Food

All breakfasts and six dinners included.



We've included breakfast each day, with your evening meals provided in the quieter locations. Picnic lunches are easy to organise or if you prefer, stop off for some lunch in one of the many eateries along the way. At the start and end of your trip, and in Pamplona, the restaurant choices are huge, so  we have left your evening meal up to you. With the route clearly marked along your way, you can relax and truly immerse yourself in the pilgrimage experience, enjoying the wonderful camaraderie of your fellow pilgrims and the incredible scenery along the way of this unique journey.

Accommodation

Your accommodation has been carefully chosen and will be a variety of small family-run hotels or simple pilgrim hostels. Room upgrades may be available on request for a supplement. All prices are based on 2 persons sharing, with a compulsory supplement for a single room for solo travelers.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    The accommodation during the tour consists of a variety of small family-run hotels or simple pilgrim hostels. Room upgrades may be available on request for a supplement at select hotels.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, all continental breakfasts and six evening meals are included in the tour package. The evening meals are provided in quieter locations, while in places with more dining options, such as Pamplona, you can choose your own dining experience.

  • Is luggage transfer provided during the tour?

    Yes, luggage transfers between hotels are included in the tour, allowing you to walk without the burden of carrying your luggage.

  • What is the starting point of the tour?

    The tour starts in the historic town of St Jean Pied de Port, where you can relax and explore before beginning your journey along the Camino Frances.

  • What is the final destination of the tour?

    The tour concludes in the town of Logroño, located in the heart of the Rioja wine region.

  • Is travel to the start and from the end point of the tour included?

    No, travel to the start and from the end point of the tour is not included. You will need to arrange your own transportation to St Jean Pied de Port and from Logroño.

  • What can I expect to see in Pamplona during the tour?

    In Pamplona, you can visit the Gothic cathedral, explore the medieval old town, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city, which is famous for its bull running festival and was a favorite of the writer Hemingway.

  • What is the significance of the 'Bridge of Rage' in Zubiri?

    The 'Bridge of Rage' in Zubiri is a historic bridge that has provided a crossing for pilgrims for centuries. It was once believed to have supernatural properties, as it contains the remains of a saint who was said to protect animals from rabies.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews of this operator

Gergana Racheva  

Very helpful and prompt service

06-Jan-2023

Very helpful and prompt service. I called to check for an already booked trip and once we sorted this, the agent was ready to help me with another booking as well. He actually waited for me to book my flight tickets, answered all my questions, informed me of all my options. Exodus is a tour company I am using regularly due to the quality of their trips, ease of booking and helpfulness of their customer service team

Trustpilot
Tim Hardy  

Stunning walking. Walking the Amalfi Coast

04-Nov-2021

This trip takes you through the most beautiful parts of the Mediterranean walking with a guide and also discovering the wonders of Pompeii and Vesuvius. The hotel had a nice feel as family run, spotless and comfortable rooms, we were well looked after for breakfasts and dinner each day, and the barmen fixed some mean cocktails for us.!

paul green (Google Reviewer)  

Went on a tour of...

14-Jan-2022

Went on a tour of morocco in October and loved it ,mohamed the tour guide was excellent, probably go with exodus to India next year

Paul Green  

It's amazing what you can do in a week! Cycling the Dalmatian Coast.

08-Oct-2021

This holiday was extremely enjoyable. The itinerary is well planned and the route takes you to a variety of destinations. Not having been to Croatia before I didn't know there were so many beautiful small islands and I loved the ferry and catarmaran rides. The coastal route we took was dramatic and the World Heritage sites in Split and Dubrovnik very interesting and worth visiting. The Adriatic Sea was warm, blue and inviting, good for swimming even in October. The hotels we stayed in varied in size from medium to large. I particularly liked the one just outside Dubrovnik as I had a sea view. Tourists were plentiful in Split and Dubrovnik but in the other places we stayed there was an end of season feel and it was quiet on the roads and in the resorts. The food was good and our guide was always able to recommend a nice restaurant for our evening meal. The weather in October was good for cycling - not hot, partly cloudy most days and one day it rained!

Mrs Y Morrison  

Fabulous company and trip

06-Jan-2023

We went overland from Cape Town to Zimbabwe through Botswana and Namibia. What a fantastic trip. Our first time with Exodus although we have travelled extensively around the world. We would highly recommend this company for such a brilliant trip - we got everything and more all at a good price. Thanks to everyone involved. We are looking at our next trip!

Trustpilot
Ann B (Google Reviewer)  

We had a week walking...

08-Oct-2024

We had a week walking and wine in the Duro valley with two local guides Louis and Theresa. They were both exceptional, knowledgeable, professional and funny. Our group of 11 had a great time. This was a premium tour. Our 4 star hotels were both well located clean and with great views. We had several local meals arranged by our guides with local people cooking for us. We did not meet any other walkers during our hikes only two shepherds. I would certainly recommend this tour to anyone interested in the local produce and wine. We both felt as we had learnt a lot about Portugal during this tour. We will use Exodus again. One of our group had done 30 tours with Exodus over the years. Quite an endorsement.

Alison Payton (Google Reviewer)  

I've done 8 trips in...

17-May-2023

I've done 8 trips in the last 14 years with Exodus, and have been rewarded with a 10% discount on all future bookings. I feel very confident that I'll receive pleasant, efficient service, and have the unusual holiday experience that I'm looking for each time. I've trekked to the top of snow-capped peaks, wild-camped in the desert, seen amazing spectacles of nature, visited 4 capital cities in a week, and learned about local culture and experienced local hospitality in a way that I simply wouldn't on a conventional holiday. The quality of the accommodation and guides can vary, but this is mainly down to cultural differences and things that Exodus can't control. I've only ever complained once, my complaint was taken seriously, and I was sent a discount voucher - you can't say fairer than that. I remain a loyal customer.

David (Google Reviewer)  

Exodus are generally a good...

21-Aug-2024

Exodus are generally a good travel company. Things tend to run smoothly and trips well organised. Their customers tend to be at retirement age. Trips are a bit overpriced. I would also avoid trips in Europe, as these often focus on more coffee stops and meals, rather than walking. I would also recommend making sure your guide records any accidents you have, hopefully not applicable. I had one on Sierra de Aitana which the guide saw and knew about, but he and Exodus said it never happened when I followed up after the trip. I wasn’t putting in a claim, just suggested a safety improvement. They have since apologised and acknowledged this as an error. They are a good reliable option for outside of Europe trips.

Jacquelyn Moore (Google Reviewer)  

Food came quickly. Staff very...

07-Mar-2024

Food came quickly. Staff very friendly and polite . However the chef or person preparing the food did not seem to read the menu! If it says a meal should come with vegetables, you should not have to ask for them. They served shepherds pie with garlic bread! The munchies ice cream sundae said it should come in a glass with a flake but came in a little bowl with just a few munchies! When asking the staff were happy to replace and correct but customer should get what they order and what menu says first time round!!

johanna leonor (Google Reviewer)  

If you like to be...

07-Sep-2023

If you like to be mistreated Exodus is perfect for you. If you enjoy terrible choices for hotels and pseudo restaurants Exodus is perfect for you. Careless about their clients and loveless about their propositions. Exodus has been a dissatisfaction and disappointment about every dealing i and my group have had with him. Especially a man called Simone who just cares about the money he can get from you couldn’t care less about service.

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    Exodus Adventure Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exodus adventure travels charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

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