A perfect morning to begin our pilgrimage. The walk starts easy, through lush meadows into the foothills of the Pyrenees.

Spectacular views give the perfect excuse to stop and catch our breath as we begin the climb to 1,450m.

Across the top of the Pyrenees live herds of wild hill ponies. Surprisingly friendly and curious given the French still breed them for horse meat.

We are blessed to have a perfect clear day and can see for miles. Many pilgrims struggle up engulfed in low cloud and unable to enjoy these breathtaking vistas.

Shrines to Our Lady appear all along the route as symbols of devotion, even at the top of the Pyrenees.

A gentler and more sheltered climb through Beech woodlands before we reach the peak.

We are not sure how reliable some of these way markers are but regardless it’s a long journey ahead.

All downhill from here! The 17th Century Monastery at Roncesvalles in the distance, where we will spend our first night.

Part of the monastery complex at Roncesvalles, this church was built in the 12-13th century to take care of pilgrims after crossing the Pyrenees.

Outstanding restoration of the original monastery, complete with magnificent medieval rolling stone flooring.

We fell in love with these beautiful stone floors, although they were a little hard to take with sore feet, once we took our boots off!

View to dining room at the Hotel Roncesvalles through medieval stone wall and archway.