Astorga to Rabanal del Camino

12.8 Miles

This was a pretty easy walking day at only 12.8 miles, over a few ascents, with level walking in between as we approach the mountains.

We did have some rocky paths, but the scenery was lovely and we were able to walk a bit more leisurely. Generally, we enjoy arriving by early afternoon so we have time to relax, enjoy a drink and chatting with fellow pilgrims before dinner. If we have to hand-wash our clothes, it gives us plenty of time for that too.

Crosses Along the Way

One stretch of very uneven and difficult rocky road took us back to our Zubiri experience. The main difference being that we were climbing instead of descending. It was through a pine forest and along the fence were crosses made if random sticks stuck through the fence. It made us think about the rough and rugged road to Calvary’s cross.

People use random sticks to add their own to the fence.

Our albergue in Rabanal was really special, with a separate dining room and a social (common) room, complete with baby grand piano! We had an excellent dinner shared with our Canadian friends, Ian and Lorilee. Also the ladies we’ve met from California, who are walking for their friend who has cancer. We’ve been traveling along with them, but will not reach Santiago the same day. But we’re planning to be there when they come in to welcome them!

With a great night’s rest, we felt ready for the next day with the climb to the Iron Cross, and very steep descent into Molinaseca.

Wonderful chapel as we were leaving Astorga, with a pilgrims prayer.
Inside the chapel
Beautifully adorned fountain in a small garden as we enter Murias de Rechivaldo
Random vilaages seem to pop up out of the landscape.
Mountains again!
Our dusty road
Church and windmills.
Yep! Those are mountains all right!
Church as we enter Santa Catalina de Somoza
Very old stone structure
Time to refill the water bottle!
It's a sign!
The light was just right
Nice planter at the front door
Therse types of Crosses are everywhere
A small iron cross on a way marker
Our rocky road!
Wooden Crosses on the fence alongside that rocky road.
People use random sticks to add their own to the fence.
The mountains draw nearer...
Leon province way marker.
Key to our room!
The community, or common room.
Altar at the small church in Rabanal del Camino
Watching the sun set
And, getting about time to turn in.
Wonderful chapel as we were leaving Astorga, with a pilgrims prayer.