Day 4: Villava to Uterga

High point (literally, as in elevation) of today was the Alto de Perdón, about 7 miles past Pamplona. But I’ll get to that…

Much better day today. Started with a quick mile or two from Villava into Pamplona. The Camino enters Pamplona through an arch in what is left of the enormous Citadel of Pamplona.

Pamplona has an old city with classic architecture that eventually gives way to a more modern city near the university.

Many beautiful green spaces in the city. I spent time wandering around the Parque de Tocanera, complete with a random area with chickens, swans, deer, and even peacocks.

Tried to go to church. I even found the LDS chapel, but it was locked. Oh well. God and I had a good chat while I hiked through fabulous wide open countryside up to Alto de Perdón.

In addition to the sculptures on Alto de Pedrón, there is a wonderful cafe in a converted bus, as well as a Stonehenge-like stone grove.

So very refreshing!

Hike down off the hill and found my way to the tiny village of Uterga and the fabulous Albergue Casa Baztan. Pilgrim dinner was the best yet, the place is charming, and my dinner companions were fabulous. I even had a conversation in Spanish!

So good!

The floor in the entrance way is stone. Not so comfortable on the feet, but amazing to look at.

Chapel in the albergue.

Top bunk tonight. And we have a heavy snorer in the dorm. And the older gentleman on the bottom bunk breathes, coughs, and farts loudly. Definitely a white nose night! 😂

One last random note. I’m noticing that Spain is very clean. These recycling centers show up all over.