Refuge Orrison

Last night we stayed at Refuge Le Chemin vers l’Etoile in St. Jean. After walking the Camino in 2013, the owner left his life in Paris working in IT and restored a tired old building into comfortable housing for 54 pilgrims. He shared that the gift he receives from each person he meets has easily been worth his investment.

After an interesting night of sleeping in our first albergue, we had a quick breakfast and headed out at 6:45 walking into the dark morning. Our task today was a quick, steep, 2500’ climb in 6 miles. Oh, did I say steep? We had a short walk but am so glad we started early to see the day awaken. It was stunning.

Once at the Orrison albergue we quickly settled into a great group from Georgia, Portland and Portugal. The Camino has already supplied great new friends! At dinner everyone at the albergue shared where they were from and why they were walking. It was a special night.Read more