The stage, step by step
From Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Orisson
Leaving Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port immediately sets the tone for the stage. You pass through Huntto and Orisson as the path climbs through grassy tracks and beech woodland. Save your strength here, because there is still a great deal of climbing ahead.
The climb towards Lepoeder
Between km 12 and 16.5, you gain 202 m. The views open up as you approach Collado Lepoeder, but the effort is not over yet: there is another climb between km 17.5 and 19.8, gaining 134 m at an average gradient of 6%.
The descent via Ibañeta or the shorter path
From Lepoeder, you can take the more direct, steeper descent or continue along the paved track passing through Alto de Ibañeta. The second option adds distance, but may be easier if the ground is muddy or your legs are already struggling.
From Ibañeta to Roncesvalles
The final section descends through woodland towards Roncesvalles. Between km 19.8 and 23.9, you lose 476 m at an average gradient of 11.4%. Take it steadily, as it is easy to slip or overload your knees before reaching Orreaga / Roncesvalles.
What to see on stage 1
Ruta de Napoleón
This Pyrenean pass forms part of the historic Camino Francés and is also known as Ruta de Napoleón. The climb makes it clear from the very first day that this is not a gentle warm-up, but a genuine mountain crossing.
Collado Lepoeder
This is the key point of the day and where you decide how to descend towards Roncesvalles. From here, you can take either the shorter, steeper route or the paved alternative towards Ibañeta.
Capilla del Alto de Ibañeta
The small chapel stands at 1057 m and has a monument to Roldán. It is one of the Camino's best-known historic landmarks in the Pyrenees and a useful reference before the final descent.
Roncesvalles
Arriving in Roncesvalles marks the end of the Pyrenean crossing and brings you to a place associated with the Battle of Roncesvalles in 778. After such a demanding stage, reaching Orreaga / Roncesvalles feels especially meaningful.
Where to sleep in Roncesvalles
The widest choice of accommodation is in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, before you set off. Options include Refuge Municipal "Ospitalia", Refuge Municipal Accueil Pelerin, Itzalpea, Gite Makila and Beilari. Between Saint-Jean and Roncesvalles, do not rely on finding somewhere at short notice; if you plan to sleep at the destination, book ahead.
Where to eat and refuel
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port has plenty of places to stock up before setting off, including Le Kawa, Comme a la maison, Restaurant Les Pyrénées and La Vieille Auberge - Chez Dédé. In Uhart-Cize, you will find Bar Snack Pausa and, further along, Ferme Thurburia. Even so, do not treat this as a stage with regular bars: carry enough food from the start.
Practical tips for this stage
Set off before dawn
This is an extremely demanding stage, so the advice is to leave very early, even between 4 and 5 am, giving yourself plenty of time to finish before nightfall. Do not attempt it unless you are prepared for a high-mountain day.
Carry water and food
The mountain section between Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and Roncesvalles has very few services. The Apez Iturria, Errolanen iturria and Andre Mariaren iturria fountains appear close to the end, so they will not help you deal with the main climb.
Mud changes the stage
In wet weather, the paths can become extremely muddy. Wear waterproof boots with good grip and, if conditions are poor, consider the alternative along the N-135 with great care.
Check the forecast
Snow and fog can make the Pyrenean pass dangerous, particularly between December and March. Check mountain conditions before setting off and do not push on if visibility is poor.
Frequently asked questions about stage 1
How many kilometres is the stage from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Roncesvalles?
It is 24.2 km, with an average walking time of 5.4 hours, although the height gain and ground conditions can make the day considerably longer.
Which is the hardest part?
The total ascent is 1,290 m, with two significant climbs before Lepoeder. The final descent is no easier: between km 19.8 and 23.9, it loses 476 m at an average gradient of 11.4%.
Are there services along the way?
Services are very limited between Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and Roncesvalles. It is best to set off with enough water and food for the whole day rather than relying on finding a bar in the mountains.