Estella-Lizarra

One of the finest examples of Romanesque civic architecture in Spain. This 12th-century palace on the main square features intricately carved capitals depicting the battle between Roland and the Moorish giant Ferragut. It now houses a small museum with works by Gustavo de Maeztu.

Perched above the town, this church has a stunning Romanesque cloister with some of the most beautiful carved capitals in Navarra. Two sides of the cloister were destroyed in the 16th century when a nearby castle was demolished, but what remains is extraordinary. The views from the churchyard over the town and river are worth the climb.

A shaded riverside path runs through the centre of Estella. After a day of walking, find a bench by the water or sit on the old stone steps. The river is shallow and clear, and some pilgrims cool their feet in it. A quiet moment in a busy town.

The grassy grounds around the monastery are shaded by old trees and feel wonderfully peaceful. After the wine fountain and the monastery visit, sit for a while in the shade. There is no rush. The Camino will still be there when you are ready.

Estella had a significant Jewish community in the Middle Ages. The narrow streets of the old Jewish quarter, between the river and the Iglesia de San Pedro, still have a medieval atmosphere. Look for the carved doorways and the remains of the old synagogue site.

Navarra is famous for its rosado (rose) wine, and Estella sits at the heart of the wine country. Order a glass with a plate of local cheese and cured meats at one of the bars on the Plaza de los Fueros. The main square has several terraces that catch the late afternoon sun.