Day 4: Pamplona to Puente La Reina

One word describes the day: Knee Pain. Departing Pamplona was tough. We did not have enough time to enjoy the city for one, and the food was just fantastic. Pintxos (Tapas) and then dinner, clams in a white wine butter garlic sauce, bread dipping same, and fish soup was beyond expectations. I could eat that every day. I’d be lying if I said I wanted to leave Pamplona, but no time for nostalgia. It’s a 300 meter climb out of Pamplona and a 350 meter descent though steep, rocky and muddy trail, and it’s tough on the knees. It’s also very scenic with swathes of yellow rape seed plantations everywhere. However, as we descended into the town of Puente La Reina, the damage was done to my friend Jeff’s knees. Tendinitis so painful he had difficulty walking up and down the stairs at our third floor hostel. My knees, while also sore, we’re not so bad. We found a pharmacy, purchased some cold press bags, two knee braces, and 400mg ibuprofen. The doctors recommendation, REST! Unfortunately, I did not take photographs of Puente La Reina, though in itself, there wasn’t much to photograph either. I did cross the queens bridge the next day.

So the decision was made with rain forecasted for tomorrow to take a taxi to the next town, Estella in the morning, barring a miraculous recovery. We did manage to relax, find a bar/cafe and have a nice meal. For me personally, my legs are sore, but I’m most happy that I have no blisters. Magic socks they are… knock on wood. Please enjoy the pictures of today’s 24km hike.

L-R: Jeff, Robyn (aka the Swede), and me

The main plaza, facing the cafe where Hemingway hung out during his time in Pamplona

Trail out of Pamplona. The yellow fields are rape seed, high is made into oil, what we Americans refer to as Canola Oil.

Looking back down on Pamplona from the trail

At the top of the club, Alto del Perdon, a monument to pilgrims.

At the top of the hill on the other side starting our decline to Puente La Reina

Navigating the wet trails

Stopping after navigating the steep decline, we take a break in the fields.

Green Peas

Rape Seed Fields

A rest in the hamlet of San Anton. The Halfway point for the day. I was feeling tired.