On the 5th September 2017 I departed Le Puy-en-Velay with the hope of walking just over 750 Ks (or as close to that distance as I could), to St Jean Pied de Port for a little girl named Wilai. Traditionally, this is the first part, known in France as "Le Chemin" of the Camino which ends in Santiago de Compostella Spain, a further 800 Ks on. Back in the 15th? or 16th? Century the Bishop of Le Puy reputedly walked, (presumably with an entourage), from the Seat ...

Why two nights? Not a lot to see, but the company who booked my accommodation was unable to find a place at my next destination. They came up with the idea that I could walk to the next place (Aroue) after the first night, then a Taxi would take me back to Navarrenx, to the Gite for the second evening and the next day take me to Aroue, where I had walked the previous day and start walking to the next place. Make sense? No? I thought not! Anyway this strange...

Like a horse turning for home I have experienced a spring in my step and pace as I see the end in view, but I was distracted last Wednesday afternoon. After travelling from Arzasq via Uzani I arrived in Bearn early afternoon- it was like Tombstone in serious depression- the only thing open was a supermarket. With a beer and packaged sandwich in hand, I joined fellow pilgrims in the sun- drenched town square many of whom I had already met along the way- one in p...

Greetings to all who have, with perseverance and patience, journeyed along the Camino with me and the blog. Please know you certainly have been my companions, given that part of the old concept of "pilgrimage" was doing penance for failures: firstly for one's own and then for others if there is room. Sadly on that score, I have to say "sorry", for you have been considerably excluded. But I do hasten to add you have very much been in my thoughts prayers and remin...

Travelling from Lectoure to Condom was uneventful, except that I missed a turn as I entered the town. So, I sought advice from a cashier at a super market, who in turn sought advice from two other colleagues. Fortunately, there were no customers in the shop at the time and after about 19 minutes of collegial conversation they agreed that they didn't have a clue, but suggested to head for the Cathedral, whose spire was visible and then ask someone there! I did....