The albergue guy woke us all at 7am, offering a basic breakfast of coffee, bread and kiwi jam! Then out of the door at 8am. The Camino route passes by so just follow the yellow scallop shells, arrows and blobs.

I was wondering what weather was coming up as it was very grey and was soon walking in step with Sofia and Elisabet from Freiburg, Germany. Sofia was chatty with good English. Unfortunately for her she had made last minute plans for 10 days on the Camino and was wearing brand new boots and associated blisters.

We were soon out of town and heading up. Jaizkibel (545m) loomed a head with a cloud cap on. Ahead was Guadaloup Ermita where the sun shone briefly. Great views back to France and the edge of the Pyrenees.

Joined by a couple of guys we were soon at a decision point. The lower, easier route or the “alpinista” route over the top of Jaizkibel still in the cloud although the guide book said the views made the extra climb worth it - see photo!

It hailed and there was certainly no view to be had from the summit. Still a sense of achievement getting there. I needed calories and despite inclement weather stopped briefly whilst the others continued.

I walked down in my own company but did have a brief chat with a local walking his dogs. He was interested and advised on the best route down towards Pasajes.

I was down at the Albergue around 12:15 so covered the 16km and 500m climb in just over 4 hours. Enough for my first day. The Albergue opens at 4pm so I headed down into the village and found a panadería where I got coffee and a sandwich. It was nice to chat in Spanish to the owner as she was not busy. I also dodged more hail!

Then it was back to the Albergue to enjoy the view and wait for opening time.