A truly wonderful day with lots of energy flowing from me to the nature and from the nature to me. The experience in Roncesvalles where there is a reception structure capable of hosting more than 300 pilgrims per day, has been unique for grandiosity and also for the humility of receiving such attention level and facilities for just 10 euro per night. The overnight accommodation is provided by brand new restorations of the ancient monastery buildings.

Lots of volunteers really are there to help out in any way they can. For 2.70 euro they wash and tumble dry a load of laundry. So you can arrange to combine yours and other pilgrims’ stuff to make a full load. Anything that a pilgrim want to leave behind is arranged on a table where other pilgrims can take in case of need.

The breakfast in the dormitory is provided by vending machines or by the nearby restaurant. The group I am walking with decided to start at 7:30 so I just took a basic selection of hot chocolate and a candy bar.

The morning air was crisp and chilling, but I took a few moments for some shots around the place.

Last but not least I had someone to take a picture of me near the famous milestone sign with the road distance in front of us.

By then I was totally electrified and ready to go. After I short while I left down neat a white stone cross a stone for my NY cousin Mary Anne and her husband Jon.

Almost everywhere wanderers leave a stone with different meaning. The recurring theme is to regain balance and the stones are often arranged in a very precarious ways.

Water is abundant and the various streams give lots of opportunities to soak the sore feet for some momentary relief.

Here are some of the co-pilgrims that are sharing a part of the Camino with me: Deb from Ontario, Stig from Vancouver, an unknown German lady with an ingenious Camino cart.

Now is dinner time. Enjoy your meals, peregrinos!