Ostabat-Asme → Saint Jean Pied de Port

The final stage of the Le Puy route descends into Saint Jean Pied de Port, the iconic starting town of the Camino Frances. The path crosses the Basque foothills with views of the Pyrenean peaks ahead.

Saint Jean Pied de Port ('at the foot of the pass') has been the gathering point for pilgrims before the Pyrenean crossing since the Middle Ages. The cobbled Rue de la Citadelle is lined with 16th-century stone houses, many bearing carved lintels. The pilgrims' office at the bottom of the street issues credentials and offers route advice. The town's fortified citadel sits above, offering panoramic views.

The evening atmosphere in the town's restaurants and albergues, as pilgrims prepare for the Pyrenean crossing, is electric with anticipation.