Well, 8 hrs, 25km, up and over 1500m later I have completed the first leg of the trip. I can tell you that I got little emotional when I saw Roncevalles from afar. Mostly because it meant I did not have to walk uphill any more. Then I couldn't stop beaming... I MADE IT!!! This was the scariest part to me. And I really don't think I could ever do it again.

Having a café cortado now waiting for the refugio to open at 4pm. Reserved the menu del peregrino & will attend the mass for the Pilgrims Blessing @ 8pm.