It is very far from being the bogeyman which is its reputation: practically all pilgrims are astonished to see how easily they have completed it!
Nonetheless, either by route Napoleon or Valcarlos, it is a strenuous stage of 26 kilometers and 1100 or 1200 meters of ascent. It requires 7 or 8 hours for the average walker to complete.
It is posing no danger except for very specific winter conditions about which you would be advised.
You just have to be in a good shape.
Obviously, if you have never walked more than a few kilometers, and that without a backpack, it is certainly better to avoid starting with this stage !
In this case it will be for you suitable to get to Roncesvalles with motorized machine :
- Express Bourricot 0033 (0)6 61 96 04 76 .
- Taxis from Saint Jean Pied de Port: Nafarroa : 0033 (0)6 75 78 36 23 Goenaga : 0033 (0)5 59 37 05 00 et Maïtia : 0033 (0)6 83 94 69 32
- Bus Saint Jean Pied de Port – Pampelune, departure at 13h45.