On to Pamplona

Day 3 was the journey to Pamplona. We’re having a rest day tomorrow to explore this city. So far we’ve walked 68 km or 42 miles. We caught the train from Bayonne and have then walked from St Jean.

Today was essentially downhill following the river towards Pamplona. The route was not however all along the valley bottom as we went up one side of the valley and then the other. Right at the end we had to ascend into the city.

The landscape is now changing from wooded hills to more rolling landscape. The noise background has also altered from wind and birds to industry and traffic. There are lots of flowers along the way. Today there were wild gladioli and pyramid orchids to appreciate.

There were several old churches but unfortunately none were open.

We walked through wheat fields for the first time and in the distance could see the land flattening out.

As we approached the city we decided to follow the river into the heart of Pamplona rather than trudging through the streets. It was a bit longer but tranquil and green. Interesting to see market gardens right on the edge of the centre.

All was going well with our alternative route until we needed to cross the river. Our plan was to go over a foot bridge but it was understandably closed. All the rain of previous days had to go somewhere. So it was on to the normal pilgrim bridge and up into the city.

It has been a good few days so far. The walking becomes a rhythm and other aspects of life start to fall away. There is a cleansing of the mind and an underlying peace. This is what we are doing now and other things can wait their turn.