You leave Roncesvalles behind you, passing the old monastery buildings. Before long, the path dives into the woods. Burguete is the first place you come to, and after that it’s an undulating walk through forest, meadows and small villages. The short climbs are manageable. After the Pyrenees, you’ll quickly find your rhythm.
The real work comes later, because today you descend far more than you climb: well over 800 metres downhill. You’ll notice it in your knees and toes. It can be steep in places, over loose stones, and slippery when it rains. Zubiri lies on the River Arga, with an old bridge at the entrance to the village. So take your time on the last stretch. A pair of walking poles is far from a luxury here.