9. La Roda or bust

Well here I am in La Gineta, a non-descript town half way (almost) to La Roda. The legs are holding up pretty well on this very flat stage. I’m just rambling along with massive horizons on each side and big sky above me. 

Here’s a few shots of the walk so far. There was a heavy shower in Albacete last night and with the ground a bit softer the farmers were taking time to re-grade their roads.

As Geoff reminded me yesterday, these 40+ stages are more mind game than leg game. So, like Geoff, I’m just being in my ‘happy place’ and rolling along with it. I’ve got myself a massive bocadillo here in La Gineta and hopefully that will sustain me for the next 25 or so. To the road! Hang on, where am I?

Now there’s a haystack!

‘Walk on, walk on, pilgrim walk on. Walk on, walk on, pilgrim walk on and on, walk on and on, pilgrim walk on....’

So, this is what the plains of La Mancha can do to you!

Later in the afternoon, the interminably straight road gave way to a more interesting winding path. It’s amazing what a bit of variety can do for the weary spirit.

This water was very tempting. Man I’m hot and tired.

Finally, La Roda came into view. There is always more walking to go than you think when the destination comes into view but seeing it sure keeps you going.

Now to find somewhere to stay and a drink - I’m parched. But hey, I made it!! Yippee!!

So, here’s the thing. When I managed to work a Spanish public phone and call the hospitalero, I discover that the municipal albergue is connected to the Plaza de Toros, in fact, it’s inside the facility! Wow, the Camino takes you into some amazing places.

I’m glad it is used as a place of hospitality more than for its original purpose.