Camino Francés - Day 6: Puente la Reina to Estella
I left Puente la Reina just after sunrise, following the familiar yellow arrows out of town. The morning was calm and cool, and the trail wound through a mix of industrial outskirts, quiet country paths, and small historical villages. It wasn’t the most scenic stage at first, but it carried a certain charm in its variety—each section offering a different rhythm to the walk.
Somewhere along the route, I passed an unmanned stand offering fruit, snacks, and water to pilgrims on a donation basis. I didn’t take anything, but the gesture made me smile—it perfectly captured the kindness and generosity that seem to flow along the Camino.
The path continued through olive groves and open farmland before narrowing into shaded lanes lined with stone walls and vineyards. Every so often, I caught sight of small chapels or old bridges, quiet reminders of how deeply rooted this trail is in history.
By the time I reached Estella, I was starving. I stopped at the first bar I saw and ordered my first menú del peregrino—a hearty three-course meal with bread and wine. The portions were huge, and I couldn’t have been happier. Afterward, I wandered through the narrow medieval streets to find my albergue, which was tucked away on a quiet side lane. To my delight, the beds had curtains—a small luxury that felt like such a treat after six days on the road.
History & Background
Estella (known as Lizarra in Basque) is a historic town in Navarra that became an important stop along the Camino Francés in the 11th century. Founded by King Sancho Ramírez, the town quickly grew into a bustling centre for trade and pilgrimage, attracting merchants and travellers from across Europe.
Its nickname, Estella la Bella—“Estella the Beautiful”—still rings true today. The town is filled with Romanesque architecture, including the Church of San Pedro de la Rúa and the Palacio de los Reyes de Navarra, both of which reflect its medieval prosperity. Cobblestone streets, riverside walkways, and lively cafés make it an especially pleasant place to rest and recover after a long walk.
Getting There
The stage from Puente la Reina to Estella covers approximately 21 km along the Camino Francés, alternating between paved roads, open countryside, and gentle forest paths. The terrain features steady ups and downs, making it a moderately challenging but manageable day.
Walking is the traditional and most rewarding way to experience this stage, offering a blend of cultural sites, quiet stretches, and insights into rural Navarra life. For those needing an alternative, buses and taxis operate between the two towns, providing flexibility while still arriving ready to continue along the Camino.
Route Overview
Distance: 21.37 km (Albergue Estrella Guía Peregrinos → Agora Hostel)
Total elevation gain: 473 m
Duration: 4 hr 25 min (with breaks 4 hr 46 min)
Difficulty: Hard
For the full day-by-day route breakdown, including distances and duration, see my complete Camino Francés route guide.
Cost Breakdown
Accommodation: Agora Hostel (booked direct) — €19
Food: €22.77
