Crossing the Pyrenees

[Rosina Lila]

    Although crossing the Pyrenees through Ibaneta appears shorter and less
daunting, it seems prudent to do the crossing as close to the highway as
possible.  First of all, the snow thereon is cleared out frequently, and if
one runs into trouble help can be obtained, if needed, from passing
motorists. Also, the likelihood of getting lost is diminished.
    While one may miss the more familiar markings and monuments, the view is
no less spectacular and somewhat safer, particularly during inclement
weather. It appears that the 79-year-old French pilgrim that was found dead
under the snow two days ago had gotten lost. True, he was found on a paved
road, but that road had not been in use for years. The Portuguese-Brazilian
pilgrim that died a few weeks ago had apparently fallen from a high cliff
near Valcarlos.  Perhaps if he had been walking close to the highway he may
have been more aware of the perils of the topography.
    Because of these two deaths, so close to one another, the Roncesvalles
Colegiata has commenced a  study to find ways  to make the crossing safer for
pilgrims.
    There is a private restaurant in Roncesvalles as well as a coffee shop.
There is also a small grocery store, in addition to the Colegiata shop that
sells cheese, bread and honey. Although the Colegiata shop is only open a few
hours during the day, the others keep normal business hours.