Pamplona/Iruña

Hola Amigos.
As mentioned in my previous post, today is a rest day in Pamplona. It is only three days into the Camino, and many people just keep on going, but I find it a good spot to take stock and draw breath before going any further. Do I need anything that I’ve forgotten, what do I need to re-arrange in my bag, etc., etc.? In addition, Pamplona is a beautiful place to visit and I enjoy just walking around and looking at people and families going about their day.

I eased into the day and was pleasantly surprised by a really great breakfast bar in the hotel here – it’s the little things folks. After that, I took care of some laundry and visited the Pharmacy which was an interesting experience. When I reached the store the line was stretching out the front door and along the street. After standing in line for about 10 minutes, I discovered that you were supposed to get a ticket and go back in the line. After collecting my number I returned to the line about ten places behind where I had been. Fortunately, the girl at the register could speak a little English and so between her English and my miming skills I got what I was after.

Early afternoon, I went looking for my favourite stop, the Gaucho Bar. However, because of the public holiday it was very crowded inside and too smoky outside. Next door I found a larger and less crowded place and had a late lunch/early dinner. The G&T didn’t measure up to the Gaucho Bar but there’s another good version coming up in Estella in two days’ time – what did I say about the little things?

Tomorrow, I head for Puente la Reina and have to cross Alto del Perdon so I’m looking forward to seeing how I go. Rain is forecast but it will be good to be back in the country again and out among the fields. Already the farms are changing from horses, sheep and cattle on the first couple of days to a few wheat fields that I saw yesterday. I expect to see more crops growing from here on.

All the best, and thanks for following along.

Buen CaminoRead more