To begin, the sun was shining. It rained most of yesterday afternoon and evening, and looked set to continue, so to rise to sun this morning was a grace in itself.
The albergue last night was pretty full and we are still adjusting to the increase in the number of pilgrims, particularly cyclists, who seem to be a breed apart! Here’s Uli with the best bed in the house.
Just around the corner from the albergue the route divides. The Sanabres to the left, the via de la Plata to Astoria to the right.
The old signs (above) are so much nicer than these new ones.
Slowly, it seems to me, the yellow arrows are being replaced with more standardised signs. Bring back the flecha, I say!!
The highlight of today’s path was the section crossing the Rio Esla and winding through the valley on the other side.
I like a good bridge.
Keith looks pretty happy too.
We noted affinities with tracks in Australia in this section.
Once through the gorge it was back to long straight dirt roads under huge skies.
As we approached Tábara we found ourselves in a paddock full of energetic cattle.
And then into the town - through the front door, of course.
One last rise to the finish for Keith. Well done, champion.
We’re in the albergue municipal run by Jose, whom my mate Mike says is the best hospitalero in the universe. He has made us very welcome already and we are looking forward to a shared pilgrim meal tonight (he’s even going to put our clothes through the washing machine - probably to avoid the spread of any disease!). Tomorrow, Keith catches a bus back to Zamora and then train to Madrid. I will walk on... Santiago or bust!
Buen Camino
Neils
So, you’re walking the Sanabres, through Ourense? I’ve been through Ourense, on the train.
ReplyDeleteNow you’ll be walking alone, but not really alone—you’ve got friends, and cyclists, for company!
¡Buen Camino!
Ken
Yes, the variant after the bridge is really nice. Glad you enjoyed it. And yes, the herd cyclists are a pain. Enjoy your day tomorrow. Another nice stage:) Geoff
ReplyDeleteHola! Brilliant, so pleased you took the scenic (cyclist free) route by the river, and made it to Jose's place! Well done Keith - a good way to finish (for now?) , and with clean clothes too 😀
ReplyDeleteHow was the paella?
Congratulations Keith!!! It's a mammoth effort to have done so much, especially given your broken hand, and I'm really glad your last day rewarded you with sunshine and a stunning river valley - I like a good bridge too! Well done the two of you, and may the pilgrim meal crown a day of grace. Go well as you travel to the US, Keith, and pilgrim walk on, my Neils!
ReplyDeleteYes it was a perfect finish day. Each day has been rich, even when it hasn't if that makes sense. Something i'll remember for a long time. On comparison Neil's journey is so much bigger but at present this is my poco Camino. Gracias to life.
ReplyDelete