The way, after exiting Pamplona, begins a soft ascent that takes us first to the villages of Cizur Menor and Zariquiegui, and then to the Alto del Perdón (Hill of Forgiveness), one of the most iconic places of the Camino. From the top of the hill we’ll be able to enjoy a spectacular view of the surroundings, as well as contemplate the sculpture dedicated to the pilgrims.

While descending the Alto del Perdón we’ll pass through Muruzábal, and we may take a detour here to visit the enigmatic church of Santa María de Eunate, one of the few romanesque churches in the world with an octogonal plan. The road continues, taking us to Óbanos and then to Puente la Reina, a beautiful village with an impressive medieval bridge that we’ll cross while departing it on the next day.

Today’s stage begins crossing the Mañeru river valley, with a short but steep climb. After that we arrive at Cirauqui, where we’ll be able to see one of the best conserved parts of the ancient roman road that communicated Bourdeaux and Astorga.

We go on, crossing Lorca and Villatuerta, until arriving to our destination at Estella.

Right after departing Estella and crossing Ayegui, we’ll find the famous wine fountain, completely free and maintained by Bodegas Irache. After tasting a bit (or more than a bit) of the local wine, we go on until the monastery of Irache, which was featured in the movie “The way”.

The road goes on and crosses Ázqueta and Villamayor de Monjardín. Starting from there, we’ll find a 12 km. stretch with no villages nor trees, so we’ll have to take care of being well supplied, as well as be careful if the weather is too hot.

At the end of this stretch we arrive at Los Arcos, with its famous square next to the church of Santa María.

We exit Los Arcos through the so-called portal of Castilla, built in the XVII century, and we walk among vineyards until arriving at Sansol and Torres del Río, two villages that are right next to each other.

In Torres del Río we must visit the church of the Saint Sepulchre, one of the most original buildings of the Camino, attributed to the Knight Templars. After this village, we find ourselves in a zone of steep descents and climbs, where we’ll have to cross several ravines. It’s convenient to be careful, specially if we are cycling. After it we’ll arrive to Viana, known for being the place where Cesare Borgia was murdered and buried. Many pilgrims continue to Logroño, but if we are tired after today’s stage, we can spend the night here.

This stage is quite short and simple, since it passed through flat farmlands. At its end we’ll arrive to Logroño, capital of La Rioja region, a beautiful and quiet city where we can enjoy all kinds of activities: visit the cathedral, try the pintxos in Laurel St., take a trip to a nearby winemaker…