During the course of your Camino research, you will become well acquainted with the famous “Orisson”.
Located between St. Jean Pied de Port and Roncesvalles on the Camino Francés, Orisson sounds like the name of a town. But it’s not. It’s a popular auberge (albergue in Spanish) on the French side of the Francés. Refuge Orisson.
The first stage of the Camino Francés takes you over the Pyrenees. And it can be a long and difficult stage to do all at once. It’s 24 km of mountain terrain and takes roughly 7 to 9 hours.
Many, ourselves included, opted to break that first stage into two. Orisson is 8 km from St. Jean Pied de Port. And getting there is not too strenuous. In fact, neither of us could believe we made it there so quickly!
Staying at Orisson is, at least in our minds, a must.
It sets you up for what is ahead. It will be your first introduction to communal living on a smaller scale. You will not overly exert yourself on the first day. And, most importantly, you will meet people here that you will see off and on throughout your entire journey. Your Camino family.
Starting from St. Jean Pied de Port is both exhilarating and terrifying.
You are finally taking that first step on the journey you have been dreaming about, planning for, training for and talking about for months, maybe even years! Our advice is not to dampen that beautiful spirit by making your first day so arduous. You don’t want to spoil the first week of this journey.
The gracious hosts at Refuge Orisson have designed a first night on the Camino with joy, connection and celebration in mind.
You get a comfortable place to sleep, whether it’s a bunk, semi-private or private room. And once you settle in, you’ll want to grab a glass of wine and your fellow pilgrims and head to the panoramic terrace. The mountain views are breathtaking.
Included in the cost of your bed is a communal meal. Your first! And hopefully not your last – although not all places will offer a meal quite like this one.
Dinner at Orisson was an unforgettable experience that still gives us goosebumps!
We took a seat at long rows of tables where libations and mingling began instantly. Before our delicious meal was served, each person took a moment to stand up, introduce themselves and say where they were from. And, if we felt comfortable doing so, we shared our reason for walking.
The experience at Orisson is so special that it’s on everyone’s list! So, believe us when we say that you need to book your night here well in advance. We’re talking weeks or even months, depending on when you plan to walk.
Head to their official website where you can reserve a bed.
So, should you stay in Orisson? The answer to that is a resounding YES!
Buen Camino!