The stage, step by step
Leaving Estella and passing through Ayegui
Estella has everything you need for breakfast, shopping and setting off prepared. The route passes through Ayegui and continues to gain height gradually before the stage's main climb.
The climb towards Azqueta
Between km 6.8 and 9, you climb 108 m at an average gradient of 4.8%. Azqueta lies in this section and is a useful place for a break; you can stop at Bar Azketako.
The central descent
Once you have completed the climb, the profile changes and you descend 151 m between km 9 and 14.5. It is a long, steady descent, so keep to a comfortable pace rather than tiring your legs by trying to speed up.
The final stretch to Los Arcos
After a short transition, the route descends again between km 16 and 21.3, losing 76 m. The final kilometres lead directly to Los Arcos, where most of the accommodation and facilities for recovery are concentrated.
What to see on stage 6
Iglesia del Santo Sepulcro de Estella
Iglesia del Santo Sepulcro is one of Estella's historic places of interest. You can visit it before setting off or at the end of the previous stage, as the walk to Los Arcos begins within the urban area.
Estella
Estella is the stage's main service centre. As well as being the starting point, it allows you to organise your water, food and accommodation calmly before entering a more open section.
Ayegui
Ayegui appears shortly after Estella and marks the beginning of the route towards Azqueta. It is one of the last significant settlements before the stage becomes more linear and rural.
Azqueta
Azqueta lies beside the climbing section and provides a useful reference for measuring your effort before reaching the top of the hardest part. The long descent towards the second half of the stage begins after the village.
Los Arcos
Los Arcos is the day's destination and where the final descent ends. It is best to arrive with your accommodation arranged, especially if you do not want to search for a bed after completing the 21.3 km.
Where to sleep in Los Arcos
Estella offers a convenient start with Albergue - Hostería de Curtidores, Albergue de ANFAS, Ágora Hostel and Albergue Capuchinos Rocamador. In Ayegui, you have Albergue San Cipriano de Ayegui, while further along there are La Perla Negra in Azqueta, Oasis Trails and Albergue CASA TIAGO. Los Arcos has several arrival options, including Albergue la Fuente - Casa Austria, Albergue Casa de la Abuela and the municipal Albergue Isaac Santiago.
Where to eat and refuel
Estella is the best place to stock up before setting off. Options include Taller Gastronómico Casanellas, Casa Carmen, Bar Restaurante Monjardin, Restaurante Navarra and supermarkets such as Dia, Carrefour Express, Eroski and Lidl. In Azqueta, you have Bar Azketako. The final section offers less flexibility, so keep food for the last descent and plan to recover at Cafe Abascal once you reach Los Arcos.
Practical tips for this stage
Make use of the early fountains
Plaza Santiago and Fuente del piojo appear at the beginning, around Estella. Fill your bottle before tackling the long section of the stage and do not wait until you are thirsty.
Pace the climb
The climb between km 6.8 and 9 gains 108 m at an average gradient of 4.8%. It is not endless, but it comes after leaving Estella and can feel long if you start too quickly.
Look after your knees on the descents
Between km 9 and 14.5, you lose 151 m, followed by another 76 m at the end. Keep a steady pace, especially if the ground is dry or you are carrying fatigue from the previous stages.
Buy supplies before leaving
The supermarkets are in Estella: Dia, Carrefour Express, BonÀrea, Eroski, Maxi Dia, Lidl and Alcampo. Buy your food for the day there rather than relying on finding an open shop in the middle section.
Frequently asked questions about stage 6
How long does it take to walk from Estella to Los Arcos?
It is 21.3 km, with an average walking time of 4.7 hours, 283 m of ascent and 252 m of descent.
Where is the main climb?
The most significant climb is between km 6.8 and 9: it gains 108 m at an average gradient of 4.8%, in the section near Azqueta.
Where should I buy food and water?
The most practical option is to do it in Estella before setting off. Plaza Santiago and Fuente del piojo appear near the beginning, while in Azqueta you can stop at Bar Azketako.