Left Sarria this morning in sunshine, but it soon turned to a windy, rainy day. Which is a good thing. It's good to use the raingear you've carried halfway across Spain! Got off the trail early and gave our feet a well deserved rest. The rain kept coming harder. It was beautiful hiking on the cool, leaf-covered trails. Autumn has hit northern Spain.
The hike here was one of the most beautiful hikes so far. Lots of gain and descent, but worth every step. A forest of heavy moss covered trees, mist over the valleys, fog, it had it all. Then you get to Sarria, wind your way through town, and find six flights of steps between you and your bed for the night. The Camino has a twisted sense of humor.
Hiked down from O'Cebriero this morning. Passed the sculpture tribute to the peregrinos...a tall, impressive statue looking towards Santiago. Nice! During the day, I had to share the trail a few times with local cows. I definitely gave them the right of way! Tomorrow...Sarria!
It's much cooler at this elevation, and this is probably one of the most charming hamlets along the way so far. Very old and spectacular buildings and views as well. Tomorrow we start down the mountain into Galicia.
Here are some of the nitty-gritty parts of Camino life...stamps in your Camino credential, airing out your well-used boots, and laundry. Laundry everyday! Sometimes your wool socks don't get dry, so you have to put them over your trekking poles in the morning. It's a real fashion statement.
What we thought was going to be a light day turned out not to be so. We did almost 13 miles up and over the mountain between Villafranco and Trabadelo. I'm feeling all the downhill parts especially. The hike was bigger than we all thought it would be. Cleaned up, did my daily laundry, and now off to bed!
A steep, long hike out of the mountains. But we went through a few wonderful little towns...Molinaseca, Campo and are spending the night in Ponferrada. There is a beautiful castle here, a church dating back to the Templars, and many 14th century bridges and buildings. We're not in Kansas anymore!
