Leaving St Jean Pied de Port

Got a bit enthusiastic and set off with Bob in the dark to go to the pilgrims’ office by 7 but, after hilariously getting lost 5 mins in, found that it didn’t open until 7:30

Went and got a tea and a croissant in a cafe and returned half an hour later and got the all-important first stamp and an info download in Franglais from the helpful woman there.

She told us that the famous Napoleon route over the mountain wasn’t open because of snow, so we had to go the alternative Valcarlos way. I was disappointed at that, and especially as she said it was even harder than the Napoleon way, which I’d been training for on the inclined treadmill!

It was soooo warm, right from the off. I’d put on my hat and gloves but they were soon off, along with my down jacket.

Met Nick and Tom, the Aussies, at the pilgrim office and Bob walked with us the first km or so but he’s going to set off tomorrow.Læs mere