Larrasoana to Cizur, Tuesday, October 4

We are looking forward to a shorter 14 mile walk. The weather has been fantastic and today will be the same. I thought I would share with you a typical day.  

We try and rise about 630 to 7. It typically is not a problem since the other pilgrims are doing the same. And, since you are sleeping in a room with 15 – 25 other people once one person starts to move around everyone begins to follow.  We get on the road by 730 and would like to start earlier but it does not get light out until after 8, the first part is in the dark. 

In 2-3 miles you begin to pray for a little town to come your way. Today we came around the corner and were geated by a little oasis. 

Sitting there are familiar faces of folkes you had dinner with the night before or others you have been walking with for days. A typical breakfast would be tortilla and cafe con leche   

You are then back on the trail and sometimes come across some wonderful and amazing sites. Our path today led us straight past a church that was open to view and pray.

There was these two lovely women inside passing out information on the church and inviting you to post a prayer. 

They also passed out prayers to pilgrims. 

Sometimes you come across a place where someone died and it reminds you of those that have traveled this path before you. 

You start out with a full bottle of water and can fill up along the way with water stops that have been provided for pilgrims for centuries. 

The trail took us through Pamplona. This is pic of the Portal de Zumalacarregi, also called Portal de Francia. It was built in 1563 and it was where all pilgrims from  neighboring  France entered and welcomed. 

After a nice lunch and rest, we headed passed the town hall and out of town. 

We then headed to our destination, Cizur Menor and found Albergue Maribel Roncal. 

A little about where you stay. There are Albergues along the trail every 5-6 km. Some are private and some are run by the municipal. The municipal is less expensive are first come first serve and cost around 10 eruo. You get a bed, typically a bunk, and a pillow. 

There is always an outdoor sink for washing clothes and lines for drying. The private ones are a bit more and you can make a reservation. Since we are off season we have luck with the municipals. 

The first thing you do-take a shower and get your bed ready. There is always a restaurant nearby that will serve pilgrim meals starting at 7.   After dinner folkes read, journal and chat using whatever language you can to have a conversation. Lights go out at 10 though most pilgrims are in bed way before then dreaming of the day ahead.