Walking in the Pyrenees

[john rogers]

Last year (April/May)when we walked from Ronceswvalles, a few people used
the pack carrying services. Some just for major climbs and others for most
of the trip. I never saw anyone challenged at a refuge.
In fact a team of 5 from France had up to 4 walk (good weather)and one drive
the whole way. Each night when they arrived, they hid the car, put on their
packs and entered the refuges signing as "a pied". Needless to say, they
were looked down upon even more that those who took buses between the stops.
It is very much an honor system.
If one can manage the total trip on one's own, there is a very real sense of
satisfaction.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Eyskens" <jeyskensaAUSTIN.RR.COM>
To: <GOCAMINOaPETE.URI.EDU>
Sent: Monday, February 16, 2004 1:38 AM
Subject: Re: Walking in the Pyrenees


> Using motorized assistance (pack carrying service) may prevent entry
> into many Refugios along the route, although I don't know specifically
> if Roncevalles is one.
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Road to Santiago Pilgrimage [mailto:GOCAMINOapete.uri.edu] On
> Behalf Of Bill Clune
> Sent: Monday, February 16, 2004 12:21 AM
> To: GOCAMINOapete.uri.edu
> Subject: Walking in the Pyrenees
>
>
> Mary Frances Harrison;
>
> I shared your concern regarding the Camino from SJPdP To Roncesvalles
> last year even though I had been underway for two months. The guide
> books had painted a very difficult picture and being 64 I felt it might
> be beyond my abilities. As a concession to my fears I rested a day in
> SJPdP before departing and then left in the early morning darkness of 11
> Aug. By daylight I met many other pilgrims some much older and many less
> fit than I. It was hot and the top two springs were dry, but local
> people were bringing water from SJPdP to the pilgrims and good cheer
> abounded. Before expected, the roofs of the Abbey of Roncesvalles were
> visible and by 1:00 PM I had arrived. It was much easier than expected,
> certainly not the most difficult leg of the Camino.
>
> Recommendations assuming you are sincere about undertaking a pilgrimage:
> 1. Train as often as you can before departure, you need to be able to
> walk the distance, about 16 miles 2/3 of it up hill. If you are unable
> to walk this distance comfortably, start in Pamplona for the 2nd day is
> just as difficult. 2. Have your pack transported to Roncesvalles and
> carry only water and your immediate needs. In inclement weather take the
> road route. 3. Have faith. You can do it. You will find many things
> along the Camino and pushing your comfort envelope is a requirement to
> learning. There will be uncomfortable experiences, joyous times, rain
> and times for tears; but these experiences will give you a satisfaction
> and insight in to your very soul that cannot be described.
>
> Very best wishes for a wonderful Camino and always remember you are not
> alone.
>
> Ultreia,
> Bill
>
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