MeAndering the Camino

Planes, trains and automobiles but Made it to St Jean Piet de Port. Train from Bayonne, FR was only two cars and was a nice ride for the hour and 10 minutes to St Jean. Tracks followed the Nive River, gradually climbing past pastures of sheep, fields of corn and flowers and at times rushing rapids. Was interesting to see where my mind went thinking about what was coming up and how many others were thinking the same. Arriving in SJPdP was exciting. Finally where we start!

After finding my accommodation. I set out to find the Pilgrims office and secure my credentials! The office issues you a “passport” in which one collects stamps from inns, restaurants, pubs. At the cathedral in Santiago, one brings their stamped passport to the office and receives their official document testifying completion of the walk. Technically only one stamp per day if the entire route is done is needed. Its looks to be a great reminder of this time!

Spent the afternoon wandering around this medieval town and learning the way I will start my walk up and over the mountains looming to the south. The central part of the town is a citadelle from the middle ages that has served as the market place for this Basque region and the stepping off point for pilgrims through the ages. Hoping during the night the light rain will let up. Could be more adventure than bargained for!