This morning, we embarked on the first day of walking on the Camino. Most of us were up and out the door before 8 a.m. As we walked through central Pamplona, the town was mostly still asleep, and it took a moment to find a place that was actually open for coffee. The big San Fermín Festival (running of the bulls) starts this weekend, and the whole town seems to be preparing for that event, with preparations visible everywhere.

You could feel the excitement among the pilgrims as we finally set out on the trail. They were eager to measure the expectations of the Camino against the reality, and from the stories I heard, they were not disappointed. The first big hill is challenging, but the views from the top of Alto del Perdón are simply incredible, stretching both east and west.  The picture above is from the top and there are some monuments there that make for a great picture opportunity.

As we descended to the towns below, we were treated to another great experience: Mass at the Church of the Crucifix, built in the 12th century. We concluded our time there with the Salve Regina, chanted together. There's nothing quite like a room full of men chanting that prayer, the echoes resonating off the ancient walls.

We ended the night with wonderful fellowship. After raiding the little grocery store in town, we had more than enough snacks and wine to enjoy as we shared stories with the group. Onward to Estella tomorrow!