Villa Franca to San Juan de Ortega

A little wet and wild today, a steep hill out of Villa Franca which takes us into a lovely Forrest of ancient oak and pine trees. It’s the first time we’ve walked with heavy wind and rain, the earth underfoot softens and attention sharpens. We reach a monument of Spains civil war and those who were executed, a grim reminder of the viciousness of war. As always we are happy to arrive at our destination, a small, hospitable bar seems to accommodate loads of pilgrims all disheveled, and dripping wet, looking for shelter. I’m always amazed how a couple of people serving can be so calm, happy and accommodating of such a diverse collective. Lovely, really lovely. The barista entertains himself and us with a bit of AC/DC, Kiss et al, joy, simply, joyful.Read more