Grado to Salas

We enjoyed the walk on today’s stage from go to woe - despite it being anything but flat (and they say we haven’t really reached the mountains)!

We began as the light was breaking on a beautiful sunny day and immediately out of town the road rose to meet us. ‘Be prepared for the 350 metre climb out of Grado,’ our little Guide Book said, ‘take it easy and enjoy the views.’ We enjoyed the climb in the cool of the morning, and there were more to come.

Along the way there were places where people have placed stones and symbols, some with names and messages.

There were also deserted old houses crumbling back into the fields.

On and on, up and up.

And over the top. Of the first climb anyway!!

These raised grain houses are everywhere in Asturias. We think it must be to do with storing grain and corn out of reach of moisture and rodents. (Note the two pilgrims camping near the wall.)

Sally, this would solve your firewood shortage for a winter or two.

Pick the odd one out!

Through a church arch and on into the warming day.

Here’s a lovely bucolic scene.

And a ‘little’ chapel - quietly present for centuries.

We’re always struck by the juxtaposition of ancient slow and modern fast in the same landscape. This elevated freeway cutting right through (above) the valley with its scattered small hamlets.

We had a delightful morning tea in the village of Cornellana alongside of which the eleventh century Monasterio de San Salvador still stands.

As we walked past we were asked by a young woman with a camera if she could take a couple of shots of us for a promotion she was doing for Asturian tourism. We are certainly loving this region and are happy to be the new face of Asturias!! In fact, it was sheer delight that inspired the (Neil’s) haiku for the day.

Being on this way 

I’m delighted constantly;

Savouring, I praise!

As with yesterday’s stage, we were tiring in the final few kilometres especially as the temperature rose. When we walked in woodland, it was better but there was plenty of walking through sunny fields of beans, corn and the occasional sunflower.

We arrived at Salas - a medieval town alive with people out enjoying the beautiful weather and the final weeks of their summer holiday. We flirted briefly with the possibility of walking further, but the town seemed so lovely we wanted to give ourselves time to savour it. And besides, we found a fantastic albergue, just metres from the central square. Here’s where we’ll be sleeping tonight.

And how’s this for the view from the window?

So another blessed day on the road. We are remembering Benedictus gathering in the next day, and send our love to the community. 

Buen Camino,

Neil and Sarah