The stage, step by step
Leaving Puente la Reina and climbing to Mañeru
The stage begins in Puente la Reina and soon gains height towards Mañeru. Between km 1.3 and 4.3, you climb 127 m at an average gradient of 4.2%. It is a short climb, but a steady pace will serve you well.
Mañeru and Cirauqui
After Mañeru, you reach Cirauqui, one of the most recognisable places on the route. The Camino passes through its medieval streets before descending between km 7.3 and 10.8, losing 85 m.
Towards Villatuerta
The profile climbs again between km 10.8 and 14.3, gaining 93 m. Villatuerta appears further on and is a clear place to stop before tackling the final section towards Ayegui and Estella.
Ayegui and the arrival in Estella
Between km 14.3 and 17.3, you descend 58 m as the path gradually approaches Ayegui. From there, you continue towards Estella/Lizarra, where the day ends and there is plenty of accommodation, food and other supplies.
What to see on stage 5
Iglesia de San Román de Cirauqui
The church is a 12th-century Romanesque building with a polylobed arch influenced by Islamic art. Its doorway is linked to those of Santiago de Puente la Reina and San Pedro de la Rúa de Estella.
Cirauqui
Cirauqui retains its medieval layout and was once a small place where pilgrims were welcomed during the Middle Ages. It is worth walking through without rushing, especially before continuing towards the central descent.
Basílica de Santa María del Puy
The basilica is one of Estella's important landmarks and appears at the end of the stage. It is a good visit for after your arrival, once you have dropped your rucksack and recovered your strength.
Iglesia de San Pedro de la Rúa
The church is one of the key examples of Navarrese Romanesque architecture in Estella. It completes the day's monumental route, which begins in the medieval surroundings of Cirauqui and ends among Estella's heritage.
Where to sleep in Estella
Puente la Reina has plenty of options for arranging your night before setting off, including Albergue de Peregrinos Padres Reparadores, Albergue Gares, Albergue Puente, Albergue Amalur and Albergue Jakue. On the way, you can stop at Albergue Lurgorri or Albergue de Peregrinos El Cantero, both in Mañeru, and Albergue de Peregrinos Casa Maralotx in Cirauqui. In Ayegui there is Albergue San Cipriano de Ayegui, while in Estella you will find Albergue Municipal de Peregrinos de Estella, Albergue Juvenil Municipal Oncineda and Albergue parroquial San Miguel.
Where to eat and refuel
In Puente la Reina, you can set off comfortably with Bar Restaurante Garés, Asador Ilzarbe, La Fonda de Tito and supermarkets such as Super Herti, Dia Market and Congelados Acebedo. Midway through the route, there are Los Cazadores, Latorre and Super Teofilo. Villatuerta offers Bar Lara and Supermercado Loli, while Estella has plenty of options at the end, including El Volante, Bar Alday, Panadería López and several supermarkets.
Practical tips for this stage
Fill your bottle before leaving
Fuente del piojo and the fountain in Plaza Santiago are both near the end, in Estella. Do not start the stage expecting to refill early: leave Puente la Reina with enough water.
Two climbs shape the day
The first climb, towards Mañeru, gains 127 m between km 1.3 and 4.3. Another follows between km 10.8 and 14.3, so save some energy rather than reaching Villatuerta with empty legs.
Take a break in Cirauqui
Cirauqui is naturally placed for a stop before the central descent. Take the opportunity to visit Iglesia de San Román and check your food and water before continuing.
Estella is a reliable destination
Ayegui and Estella offer the clearest options for accommodation at the end. If you are walking in high season, book before setting off, especially if you want to finish in central Estella.
Frequently asked questions about stage 5
How many kilometres are there between Puente la Reina and Estella?
The stage is 21.6 km, with an average walking time of 4.8 hours, 271 m of ascent and 196 m of descent.
Where is the steepest climb?
The first climb, between km 1.3 and 4.3, gains 127 m at an average gradient of 4.2%. There is another climb between km 10.8 and 14.3, gaining 93 m.
Is it worth stopping in Cirauqui?
Yes. Cirauqui retains its medieval layout, and its Iglesia de San Román is one of the stage's most notable landmarks.