Footsteps to Journeys

14.9 Miles

Well, today I was back on the trail! Very cool morning and we got good mileage behind us before we stopped for a bite of breakfast. We were sitting next to a window that looked out into a grassed courtyard and as we were finishing up, we noticed a hen and rooster. Then, we saw the most beautiful and unusual birds that did not fit the farmyard scene! When we asked about them we were told they were “Asian pheasants.” How they ended up in a little town in Spain?? It’s a mystery.

Meeting Old Friends

Crossing the long bridge out of this town, we were reminded of the legendary knight who (due to the hard heartedness of his chosen lady) had to defend it until he had broken 300 lances to restore his honor. Breaking up was even harder to do in those days apparently!

The land is slowly ascending and the mountains came into view. We will be crossing them in a few days as we enter the region of Galicia. We also ran into our birthday lady, Beverly, who had ab awesome story to relate. Her birthday was yesterday (5th), and she had brought a special tiara to wear, which she did for the entire day. When she got to her albergue that evening, her daughter, grandson, and son-in-law were there waiting to surprise her! She was completely overwhelmed!

More Surprises

We did have a long stretch without any available food or drink, but as we came around a curve, there was a complete peregrino oasis with shelter, benches, chairs, water, juice, fresh fruiit, and other snacks! A young couple live near there and keep it running for pilgrims. Donations only. More provision from the Camino and those dedicated to supporting it.

The day ended with a good climb to a special monument and a steep decline before coming down into the outskirts of Astorga, a fair-sized town. It was another 4 km into the city and to our hotel in the old Town. It was was a bit of a tough ending for me and my gimpy leg, but we got in early enough to tour the cathedral. We missed out on the museum of chocolate(!), but we did buy some and it was fantastic!

At the restaurant near our hotel, we enjoyed the best dinner I’ve had here so far. Then we laid our sleepy heads to rest!

Sunrise on the camino