Well, I made it. Day one of the Camino de Santiago is officially in the books, and let me tell you, after 16+ miles with elevation, my feet, my legs, and most of the rest of my body know it. I’m pooped, only 35 more days to go! LOL
This morning started very crisp & cool in St. Jean Pied de Port. I set off along the Valcarlos route since the more popular Napoleon route is not safe to travel this time of year. By late morning, the sun had done its thing, warming everything up just enough for me to peel off a layer and swap my wooly cap (that is what everyone calls them here, wooly caps) for my wide-brimmed hat. Practicality over aesthetics! Honestly though, I’m pretty sure no one looks glamorous while hauling themselves over the Pyrenees.
Sixteen miles today. A fair bit of elevation. Plenty of time to contemplate life, my packing choices, and the limits of my endurance. The scenery? Stunning. Rolling green hills, charming villages, babbling streams, and interesting conversation with fascinating people from akk over the world. Today I walked & chatted for a time with people from Canada, Switzerland, Australia, Hungary, and the UK. I’m not planning to write daily updates (let’s not turn this into a full-time job), but the first day on the Camino feels worth documenting.
I checked into the Roncesvalles Albergue, which is as functional and pilgrim-packed as I expected. Showered. Hand-washed the last two days of sweat-soaked clothes, and now they’re hanging up to dry while I prop up my feet and wait for dinner. Which, by the way, isn’t served until 7:00. I don’t know if that’s Spanish culture or just a cleverly disguised endurance test for weary pilgrims, but I’m starving!
Tomorrow, the road continues. But for now? Feet up, deep breaths, and maybe a quiet moment of relaxation.
Looking great, have fun
Thanks Tom!
Why are you sooo adorable in all your pics
Thanks Veronica 😊. Looking forward to catching up when I get back.
I’m so so excited to hear more about your adventure! Would love to know your endurance tips as you continue! I love this so much for you!
Thanks Niki,
I’ve been doing 1-2 half marathons per year since I turned 30 with some obvious downtime in there for things like global pandemics, haha. Anyhow, I think the marathon running is helpful since it really taught me to just focus on the next step, it isn’t soo much about reaching the destination when your working toward it the focus just on moving forward.
From a practical perspective I got a lot of guidance from my friends Jolene & Darrin who are walking the Camino for the 5th time this year. They are currently walking the Via de la Plata route which is longer than the Frances route I’m taking. The three of us are meeting in Santiago de Compostela along with about 30-40 others who all met as part of a financial independence and early retirement group. You can check out their website and all their Camino travel advice here: https://www.daretodrawdown.com/thru-hiking
Thank you for sharing this journey with us! You got this! Sending love and asking the gods and goddesses to send magical foot protection your way! XOXO
Haha, I don’t know about the gods and goddesses, but so far I have no blisters which is great compared to everyone else!
Looks awesome – can’t wait to see the next 35 days of pictures and posts!!
Thanks Tali! I think after this post I’m going to do a new post once a week, but I’m planning to share all the photos on each weeks post. Hope you and the family are ready for your respective trips!
You are an inspiration Colby! Thank you for sharing your journey. Safest of trekking to you!!
Morning! Thanks Trina. When walking everyone you pass here says “Buen Camino” which means good road or good way. The people have been soo amazing on this walk so far. 😊
Amazing! I am looking forward to following your journey.
Love the picks!! Sounds like you are having an amazing time so far. I can’t wait to see the next uploads!
Looks amazing Colby. And like you said, ONLY 35 more days to go 🥾🥾. So excited for you and looking forward to your updates. Stay hydrated and make sure to lather on the sunscreen.🧴 Love ya 💚