DAY FIVE - Pamplona to Puente la Reina

A long walk through town led us past the university and into the mountains.

         

This is the view after walking half-way up the mountains. I still needed to walk to the top, over and down.

We continued to walk up and up and up and then, up some more. As I walked over millions of rocks, I thought about those who walked these roads a thousand years ago in sandals. Enduring what we've done so far seems it should have been penance enough for one's sins.  Reaching the top of these mountains, in the heat of this 80+ degree day, with no shade, was a major accomplishment.  When we reached the mountain top, this is what we saw

The metal sculptures at Alto del Perdon (placed there in 1994). The great metal sculpture representing pilgrims on foot and on horse reveal the eternal nature of the walk. There is an inscription on it in Spanish “donde se cruza el camino del viento con el de las estrellas” which in English means “where the path of the wind crosses that of the stars”.
 

After a brief rest, it was mostly a very steep descent toward Puente la Reina.  The rocks were even more troublesome on the way down.  The need to be extremely cautious made for a slow descent and banged up toes. Eventually, Puente la Reina was in sight. Total distance for the day was 24.42 kilometers and 485 meters elevation gain.

First sight of Puente la Reina.   A view of the river & bridge.     Sign for the night's auberge

 

I found out today that two of my fellow pilgrims had to throw in the towel.  Knee issues forced them to end their Camino and take a bus to Santiago, for an early return home.  They were two very nice guys from Ireland.  I will miss their wit and easy disposition.