Day 33 - Basques Country (Landaco à Ostabat 23 km)
Today was one of those days when it is impossible for my pictures to convey the beauty that I was privileged to witness. It was the most beautiful morning that I have seen so far on this journey.
Leaving the gîte before sunrise meant that as I reached the peak of the initial hill about 30 minutes after departure, I was able to be a part of the incredible stillness and colour of this glorious morning. It was absolutely stunning. I had a smile on my face for the rest of the day because of this sunrise.
The morning was perfect for hiking through the numerous hills, valleys and forests on this, the second last day of the journey to my initial destination. I chatted with a few pilgrims I had not seen before but for the most part, I was on my own in some amazing scenery.
Early afternoon I caught up with Pierre and Rachel who had stopped for a rest on the top of a rise overlooking the Pyrenees. With only five km to go, a long rest was well-deserved and given the incredible views, was difficult to leave. Once again, the word stunning is how I would describe this beautiful spot.
Arrival at the village was followed by a stop at the local establishment for a beverage where we sat with Laurent. Ankemaria joined us as she passed by on the way to her gîte and it was lovely to see her and get caught up.
Back at our gîte, we met Max, a young German who left Bordeaux a few days ago and is heading to Santiago. He had several entertaining stories to tell us, including one about staying with a clown a couple of days ago. It was both funny and frightening but you'll have to find him on the Camino to get the full story. Max is one of the many new people we have seen as this is the convergence area for three separate paths leading to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port.
Today was another fantastic day capped off with great company and conversation. Tomorrow we arrive in SJPP.
