Zabaldika

Camino Frances

To end of camino
708.7
Altitude
510

Irotz

1.00

Zabaldika

1.60

Arleta

The somewhat confused signs through Zabaldika are the result of local politics interfering with tradition. In this case, the ayuntamiento has managed to one-up the culturally significant Iglesia de San Esteban and the original Camino Francés. To follow the original way, turn right in town and look out for the signs which take you across the main road and up a trail to the church in the upper half of Zabaldika. There is no need to retrace your steps, as the other camino does the very same some 100m down the road.

City Map
Accommodation in Zabaldika.
Parochial
Camino de Santiago Accommodation: Albergue Parroquial de Zabaldika

Comments

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Stayed here 21st Sept 2024. I was keen to get there early as I read in previous posts that others got turned away when they came later. It was recommended by friends and I knew it was a must for me on this Camino. And I was not disappointed. It was one of the highlights of my walk. The sisters opened the alberguel a bit earlier as it had been raining with lots of wet pilgrims arriving. The church is magical and so old. Rang the bell and there was a beautiful service for pilgrims in the evening and, those who wanted, got to share their camino story and we were blessed and prayed for. Wonderful communal dinner and breakfast. Comfortable beds and I had my best sleep so far. Great sense of community and felt so cared for. Left feeling rested and refreshed in body, mind and spirit.

All Caminos App User (not verified)

I got to ring the church bell in the steeple. The volunteers were lovely (only spoke Spanish). We attended mass on Saturday night which was a special experience. Highly recommend this place. We got lucky and only had 4 in our room. No reservations. We got a spot at 3:45, but others were turned away.

All Caminos App User (not verified)

The sister welcomed us into the garden and church which was like a little oasis after the steep climb up the goat track and the busy past few days in Camino. The church was beautiful and we were invited to climb the stone spiral staircase to ring the bell to listen to the sound and to welcome pilgrims. Wonderful home cooked shared family meal with the other pilgrims by kind volunteer hospitaleros. Special highlight of Camino for me.

All Caminos App User (not verified)

strong recommendation!

All Caminos App User (not verified)

The hospitality was amazing! The hostel is superb, very clean, excellent bathrooms, great outdoor area, great area to do hand washing laundry and a wonderful meal was welcomed. Learning about the history of the attached church was an add bonus. I highly recommend staying here on the Frances, it is an authentic camino spiritual experience which I will treasure forever. I left feeling rejuvenated. Thank you to the sisters of the church and the great hospitaleras

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Zabaldika is a lovely spot above the main camino. It's a short steep climb, but worth it if the church is open. You will be met by a sister who will provide information about the church in your language, as well as a pilgrim blessing sheet for you to keep. You can also climb the tower and ring the bell to announce your arrival!

The route continues above the road, through wild flowers (june) and fields before rejoining the main camino

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Mathew 11 has one of Jesus’ most known quotes. “28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

This is a good context of what a pilgrim will find here. If this resonates with you… then come with an open heart. If you choose to share your story all the more blessings will be seen.

You will leave to continue your walk and your spiritual work.

Ultreia!

All Caminos App User (not verified)

Excellent

Camino de Sant… (not verified)

This is a wonderful place that is very spiritual with kind and patient volunteers who work there, the church and the nuns provide a peaceful and prayerful experience. It was our pleasure to be generous with our donation at this donativo albergue.

All Caminos App User (not verified)

If you are disappointed with the last of genuine hospitality. This allergens will redeem it. The host and the hostess are both very sweet and genuine people. The place was cleaned and feels like a home. Meals were simple, but we all gathered around with joy. It was exactly what I needed. A sweet and simple place with warm hearted hosts.