Iconic Locations: Alto del Perdón

Leaving SJPP, it’s a three day walk to Pamplona. What an exciting city! In addition to Hemingway’s ghost, the character of the city beckons one to rest a while before traveling further west.

The walk out of Pamplona is quite straight forward and it’s not until about the 6 kms point that one starts up the Alto del Perdón. The climb is modest compared to crossing the Pyrenees. About half way up is the welcoming village of Zariquiegui where the pilgrim can find some very tasty food and drink. It’s the perfect time for a break before continuing on to the summit.

On top of the Alto de Perdón, the very recognizable metal sculptures of Camino pilgrims becomes a mandatory photo and rest stop before heading down the rocky backside to Puente La Reina. Having watched the movie “The Way” numerous times, I looked forward to my climb that morning. This is one of the spots along the CF where there is a magical connection between the landscape and those walking to Santiago.