This walk that we are beginning today as well as being a religious pilgrimage is also a UNESCO world heritage site.

Overnight Dozy Dave had morphed into Eager Beaver Dave and was awake at 4:30 and raring to go. We waited until daylight and as we walked under the gateway and onto the bridge over the river Nive the town bell struck 7:30.

The gentle walk out of town lulled us into a false sense that this first part of the walk wasn’t going to be too bad after all.

Along part of the Way there were also the white and red route markers that mark the French long distance walks. The marks lead walkers across the GR (Grande Randonnees) that Criss cross France. And after all, our walk begins in France. Here someone has added their own thoughts.

Though the walk was ‘challenging’ the views made it worthwhile and gave us an excuse to stop and give our lungs and legs a break.

Looking to the distance and the path still to travel.

Seven k’s mostly up and the mist that hung around all day gave the mountains an extra magic.

A gruelling 31/2 hours after leaving SJPdP we finally arrived. We had taken it slow and easy and arrived at Orrison where according to Fitbit we climbed 188 floors in 7 kilometres. Orrison a 16 year old purpose built Albergue. Only open from April 1 to October 20 due to bad weather and snow during the colder months.