Day 16. Leon to Astorga 16km

We were advised by a Leon local to skip walking out of Leon. Industrial, busy roads and flat. A collective decision was to catch a bus from Leon to Hospital de Orbigo, a 30 minute ride. A wise decision as the towns/countryside on the bus ride were uninspiring. We started walking at 9:30am, initially on a busy highway and soon after rejoined the official route. A very pleasant gravel road walk of 16km took us to Astroga. An extremely pleasant Albergue run by a Swiss German woman. Modern and clean with a sunny aspect. Up there as our favorite accommodation to date. Cold beer on arrival most certainly helped.
Due to our bus ride we are 1 further day ahead of our schedule. This means that we are walking with a totally new bunch of pilgrims. We meet Mary from Derry (Northern Ireland). An absolute character with an almost impenetrable accent. She works in a shelter for victims of domestic violence and is raising money due to recent government funding cuts (sounds familiar). She is a power house so our 2 hour encounter may well be the last. The Camino way.
The last hour was spent with 2 delightful American women. Seasoned travelers with budgets well beyond ours. A highlight of the day was a donation fruit spread. Very welcomed in the midday sun.
Finally leaving the flats and heading into the hills. Tomorrow's destination is at 1450m so the extra layers may well be worn. We are both looking forward to views from high places. Tall Paul is having a few shin splint issues but is being stoic and is determined to push on. What a man.Read more