The stage, step by step
From Pamplona to Cizur Menor
The route leaving Pamplona is still urban, but soon turns into a path through sunflower fields. You pass through Cizur Menor and tackle an initial climb between km 3 and 4.8, gaining 47 m, before entering the longest section.
The climb to Alto del Perdón
The main climb begins near Zariquiegui and runs from km 5.5 to 13. It gains 294 m at an average gradient of 3.9%; the terrain becomes drier and steeper, with very little shade.
The descent towards Uterga and Muruzábal
Alto del Perdón marks the turning point of the stage. Between km 13 and 20.3, you descend 333 m over rocky sections that require care. Uterga and Muruzábal then provide clear landmarks before you continue towards Obanos.
Obanos and Puente la Reina
From Obanos, you tackle the final descent between km 20.8 and 23.8, losing 63 m. The approach to Puente la Reina is easier than the descent from Perdón, but you will be glad to have saved some energy for the final kilometres.
What to see on stage 4
Cizur Menor
Cizur Menor is the first notable settlement after leaving Pamplona. From here, the route gradually leaves the city behind and heads towards the fields and the climb to Alto del Perdón.
Zariquiegui
Zariquiegui lies at the foot of the main climb. It is a useful place to check your water, settle your pace and calmly prepare for the kilometres leading to the summit.
Alto del Perdón
Alto del Perdón reaches 750 m and offers panoramic views, but it is exposed to wind and has no shade. The descent begins with rocky sections, so reaching the summit is not the time to let your guard down.
Obanos
Obanos appears in the final section, after the long descent from Alto del Perdón. From the village, the final stretch towards Puente la Reina has a gentler profile.
Puente la Reina
Puente la Reina is the day's destination and one of the main points on this section of the Navarrese Camino. Reaching it after crossing Perdón gives you a clear sense of progress.
Where to sleep in Puente la Reina
Most of the albergue accommodation is concentrated in Pamplona. Options include Albergue Casa Ibarrola, Albergue Xarma Hostel Aterpea, Aloha Hostel, Albergue Paderborn Aterpetxea, Albergue de Jesús y María and Albergue de Pamplona/Iruñako Aterpea. There is also Albergue Diocesano Betania. In Puente la Reina, the option you have identified is Hotel Jakue, so if you plan to finish there, book your bed before leaving Pamplona.
Where to eat and refuel
Pamplona is the best place to have breakfast and shop before the climb: you have Carrefour Express, Covirán and Alimentación Iruña, as well as restaurants such as Asador Maitagarri, Sibuya Urban Sushi Bar and La Olla. Once you leave the city, do not expect the same variety; carry water and some food for the climb and descent to Puente la Reina.
Practical tips for this stage
Get water before Perdón
Alto del Perdón is exposed, with no shade or shelter at the summit. Leave Pamplona with plenty of water and do not count on being able to sort out hydration once the climb has begun.
Protect yourself from sun and wind
The stage starts among sunflower fields and becomes more arid as you approach Alto del Perdón. Take sun cream, a hat and a light layer for the wind at the summit.
Descend carefully
The descent between km 13 and 20.3 loses 333 m and includes rocky sections. Shorten your stride, use trekking poles if you have them and do not try to make up time on the way down.
Book in high season
Pamplona has plenty of beds, but Puente la Reina is the usual destination. If you want to sleep there, arrange your accommodation before tackling the 23.9 km.
Frequently asked questions about stage 4
How much ascent and descent does the stage have?
There are 354 m of ascent and 461 m of descent over 23.9 km. The main climb is Alto del Perdón, between km 5.5 and 13.
Where is the hardest section?
The climb to Alto del Perdón is the main effort, gaining 294 m at an average gradient of 3.9%. The descent afterwards also demands care because of the rocky sections.
Is there shade and water at Alto del Perdón?
There is no shade or shelter at the summit, and it is exposed to the wind. It is best to leave Pamplona with plenty of water and sun protection.