26.6.24

Well we started early today, John had a great idea to do an extra climb into the mountains. So we trekked up a steep incline from Villafranco in the half light of dawn, I was sweating so much that I had to change my shirt at the top! However, was it worth it with the most beautiful views.

The mist hung like a carpet in the valleys. We found a fantastic little hamlet at the top. A lovely local lady serving her home baked chestnut cake with our cafe con leche. Her cats were virtually demanding a portion but we managed to resist!

When we descended, we had a further 10k to hike along a very boring road albeit going through charming little villages. This is one of the issues I have with the Camino, there is just too much road walking that is just mind numbing. Considering the amount of income it brings to Northern Spain, I think it really needs some serious thought in making trails that are nice to walk on. How can you gather your thoughts and enjoy the fabulous scenery when there is serious traffic noise and busy roads to negotiate. Just consider the difference between the inspiration this morning and the drudgery when we came down the mountain.