16.6 Miles
For some crazy reason, we woke up early and were on the road by 6:45! This was a good thing since today was predicted to be a hot one! And it was.
Unexpected Shade
Yesterday, coming into Bercianos, we were treated to a shady, tree-lined walk for about 6km, all the way to the edge of town. As we picked up our trail upon leaving town, we discovered the same shady path. We suspected.that it might go a similar distance, but it actually took us all the way to the edge of Mansilla! Obviously planted deliberately about every 30 meters, some trees are older than others, but they all provide some shade. Discovered later that they are a type of maple tree.
Miscalculation
We’re usually pretty good at planning, or at least anticipating stops during the day. When we start early, we don’t have breakfast, but plan to hit a cafe in one if the first couple of towns, depending on how far out they are. And we have enjoyed some great breakfasts!
Today, the first town was 7.4 km and we thought the 2nd was about 6 km further on. It wasn’t. It was 13.1 km! Over 20 km from our starting point. In addition to just being hungry, a rest after walking about 2 hours is a good idea…especially for me (trying to keep the knee healthy!) Luckily, we had popped into a market at the first town and bought a small baguette. We had eaten just a bit of it and shared a banana while walking on.
We did stop very briefly a couple of times for shoe/foot checks, but I was starting to feel some discomfort in my right shin just above the ankle. Finally just stopped at a random bench to eat some trail mix and bread, and rest. Unfortunately, I was feeling more serious pain (which I’m sure runners will recognize as shin splints). Ice, Ibuprofen, Voltadol Forte gel (my secret weapon!), and rest. Hmph!
We have a short walk tomorrow to Leon, and 2 nights and a rest day! (YAY!) However, unless I’m much better, not too much sight seeing. (BOO!) After a good dinner out, we hit the hay!