Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port

We left Paris yesterday on a fast train. It may have been fast, but it was also packed, and a big group of Aussies trying to get up a narrow aisle to the very back with luggage was an experience to say the least.
It was a fun trip to St Jean Pied de Port, everybody in good spirits and lots of laughs. We changed trains for the final leg of the journey and it was more interesting than the first leg. Mostly standing room, but no fear of losing balance because we were so jam packed you couldn’t move. Hot and sweaty and smelly 🤢
I actually thought we started today so it was a lovely surprise that we had a day here, there’s been lots of jokes on me!
I had two rather tipsy phone calls from my boys during the train trip, which was lovely. The time difference means they can ring me after a night on the booze and I’m up for a chat xx
St Jean is the official starting point of The Camino Francés, and I didn’t expect it to be so beautiful. Surrounded by lush mountains, steep cobblestone paths, a beautiful river, archways, churches and gorgeous old buildings. I’m so glad I got my new phone before I left, it takes the most beautiful photos.
I know solo travel was the aim of this trip, but I do have moments where I miss sharing things with my people.
Beautiful accommodation, a quick dinner and a bath followed by a walk outside to watch the sunset. I could hear music from a nearby church and walked into a joyous choir singing California Dreaming - that was pretty cool. I’m still only getting about 6 hours sleep and I hope this settles down for me soon.
Today we were up and at breakfast at 8am. I do love a French pastry or two.
Meagan, one of my walking buddies, and I walked up a very steep staircase to look out over the old town. It started my heart racing and made me wonder how I’m going to go with it all.
Wandered around the streets and we got to witness a surprise reunion between one of our group members and his daughter, he had come to surprise his daughter and walk the Camino with her, tears all round
This afternoon we collect our Pilgrims Passport, stamped at each town along our journey. We also collect a scallop shell to tie to our backpacks as pilgrims.
I’ve just had a swim and I’ll head back soon to pack my daypack for tomorrow. It’s unprecedentedly hot for this time of year, but anything can happen in the Alps, so you need to prepare for everything.
I’m excited. I’m still running on adrenaline post Paris. I’m nervous for tomorrow, but in a good way. I’m know it’s going to be challenging, but I’ve given birth. I’ve done hard things before 🩷Read more