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St Jean Pied de Port

St Jean Pied de Port is the traditional French starting point for the Camino Frances. This guide covers 18 places to stay, pilgrim services, the Pyrenees stage toward Roncesvalles, and practical route context.

Route notes: The starting point of the Camino. The traditional route crosses the pyrenese mountains through Hontto and Orisson to Roncesvalles, but an alternative route can be taken via Valcarlos with

St Jean Pied de Port locality view on the Camino Frances route

Pilgrim hostels and albergues in St Jean Pied de Port

These focused listings prioritise albergues, hostels, and municipal pilgrim accommodation.

54 additional hotel, apartment, guesthouse, or other accommodation listings are available in the CaminoMaps app.

St Jean Pied de Port guide

St. Jean Pied de Port is a picturesque medieval town located in the French Basque Country, nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees Mountains. Historically, it has been a significant starting point for pilgrims embarking on the Camino de Santiago, particularly the Camino Francés route. The town's name translates to "Saint John at the foot of the mountain pass," reflecting its strategic location at the base of the Roncevaux Pass, which leads into Spain. St. Jean Pied de Port has a rich history dating back to the 12th century when it was established by the Kings of Navarre. The town flourished as a key stop for pilgrims, traders, and travelers, and its well-preserved architecture reflects this heritage. Notable landmarks include the 14th-century Notre-Dame-du-Bout-du-Pont Church, the 13th-century Porte St. Jacques gate, and the historic Rue de la Citadelle, which has been traversed by countless pilgrims over the centuries. Today, St. Jean Pied de Port remains an important and symbolic starting point for many modern-day pilgrims embarking on their journey along the Camino de Santiago.

Camino Frances stage context

From previous stage
N/A
To next stage
11.4 km
To Santiago de Compostela
761.8 km
Hontto next-stage stop on the Camino Frances route

Hontto

Distance: 4.9 km • 2 places to stay

Hontto is a small Basque village located in the Pyrenees, near the French-Spanish border. Historically, it has been a significant...

Open Locality Guide
Valcarlos next-stage stop on the Camino Frances route

Valcarlos

Distance: 11.4 km • 1 places to stay

Valcarlos is a small village nestled in the Pyrenees mountains, near the border between Spain and France. Historically, this...

Open Locality Guide

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CaminoMaps app locality guide showing stage information and nearby stays

Frequently asked questions about St Jean Pied de Port

Which Camino routes pass through St Jean Pied de Port?

St Jean Pied de Port is included on Camino Frances.

How many places to stay are there in St Jean Pied de Port?

St Jean Pied de Port has 18 places to stay listed on CaminoMaps, with ratings and booking or direct-contact options where available.

What services are available in St Jean Pied de Port?

Services listed for St Jean Pied de Port include ATM, Bar / Restaurant, Food Shop, Medical Clinic, Pharmacy, Post Office.

What is the next stop after St Jean Pied de Port on Camino Frances?

The onward options are Hontto (4.9 km), Valcarlos (11.4 km).

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