Stage 221.5 km · up 520 mModerate

Roncesvalles to Zubiri

Distance
21.5 km
Walking time
5-7 hours
Ascent
520 m
Descent
830 m
High point
953 m
Difficulty
Moderate
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About this stage

Roncesvalles to Zubiri · 21.5 km · up 520 m, down 830 m

A predominantly downhill stage through dense beech and oak forests, descending steadily from the Pyrenean highlands into the Navarra valleys. The walking is shaded and pleasant, passing through a string of small Basque-Navarrese villages with distinctive stone architecture.

The route drops over 1,000 metres across the day, which is welcome after the tough climb over the Pyrenees but demanding on the knees. The path alternates between forest trails, quiet lanes through hamlets, and some road sections. The villages of Burguete, Espinal, and Bizkarreta offer cafes and rest stops at regular intervals.

The route between Lintzoain and Zubiri is fairly long at around 8km. Initially leaving Lintzoain you face some uphill hiking along forest trails, although expect to be exposed to the weather along the way so wear appropriate clothing as needed. As you reach the peak, you will see Zubiri in the distance but you know it's all downhill from here.

Zubiri is located on the Arga River, known for its medieval bridge (Puente de la Rabia). Services are adequate with accommodation, restaurants, and a small supermarket. The town marks the transition from the Pyrenean highlands to the rolling Navarra countryside.

Terrain: Forest trails, rocky descents, village cobblestones, some paved rural roads

Along the route6 towns and 1 highlight on 21.5 km

The day, stop by stop

  1. 0km

    A historic monastery complex high in the Pyrenees, the first stop in Spain after crossing from France. The Gothic Collegiate Church hosts a moving pilgrim blessing each evening.

    View town guide
    Restaurant
    Cafe
    ATM
  2. 2.9km
    View town guide
    Restaurant
    Cafe
    Grocery
    Water
    ATM
  3. 6.5km

    Aurizberri

    village
    View town guide
    Restaurant
    Cafe
    Grocery
    Water
  4. 11.6km

    Bizkarreta

    village

    Quiet Camino village in the Erro Valley with pilgrim accommodation, a few food options, a small shop, and the historic Church of San Pedro.

    View town guide
    Cafe
    Grocery
  5. 13.4km

    Lintzoain

    village

    Tiny Camino hamlet in the Erro Valley with stone houses, a small Romanesque church, peaceful scenery, and very limited pilgrim services.

    View town guide
    Water
  6. Steep descents

    Take care on the steep descents, which can be hard on the knees after the Pyrenees crossing. Walking poles help significantly. Zubiri's bridge is the first of several medieval bridges you'll cross on the Frances.

  7. 17.9km

    Food Truck

    Worth stopping for

    A roadside food truck on the stretch between Lintzoain and Zubiri, offering fresh-squeezed orange juice, snacks, and drinks at reasonable prices, along with a pilgrim passport stamp.

  8. 21.4km

    Zubiri

    village

    A small Navarrese village on the Rio Arga with albergues, cafes, and basic services. Known for the medieval Puente de la Rabia bridge at the entrance to the village.

    View town guide
    Restaurant
    Cafe
    Grocery
    Pharmacy
    ATM
    Clinic
    Post Office
Where to stay

Places to stay along this stage

Koala Picks first, then each town in walking order. Where a place does not book online, walk in, call or message them.

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