Day 7 Belorado to San Juan de Ortega

Day 7 Belorado to San Juan de Ortega 29.9km

The small villages on the route today are sparsely occupied, each with less than 100 inhabitants. With the exception of a small food ‘window’, there are no other amenities.

After a great night's sleep, I awoke ready to go, excited for the day ahead. The route looked long, but interesting.
Not only was it difficult terrain today, but the temperatures were in the high 20’s / low 30’s with high humidity between 10.00 and 15.00. Total sunblock and lots of water.

Due to high demand, many walkers had been unable to book accommodation for tonight, including myself. The question is - Do you avoid booking too far in advance, as you are unsure how much you can walk per day, or do you stick to a rigid plan?

I set off at 05.15 am. It was dark, cool and fresh. As it was pre-sunrise I used my headlamp to guide my way.

The first part was a climb going from 750m to 1100m.
It was extremely heavy going on my legs and feet but eventually I reached the top. Then there was a long, forest stretch of 12 km with no option for food or water.
I was glad I had packed some in my rucksack.

On the Camino, when you see new faces you automatically look at their shoes. They tell the story. Dirty shoes say they have been walking far but our paths have just crossed and if they are clean they are new pilgrims just joining the Camino.

It was wonderful to experience the kindness, support and encouragement offered to everyone - real Pilgrim traits.

I arrived in Villafranca Montes de Oca and navigated my way to a cafe for brunch and a coffee. The town is small and the winding roads are very narrow. This keeps it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Having finished my food I commenced on what was a real tough climb. The heat was stifling and there was nowhere to steal some shade.

I repeatedly told myself to ‘Focus on the task in hand’.

Eventually I reached the top and began my descent, hoping for an easier path - which I didn’t receive. Rocky, unsteady, sandy…….

The next town was my destination for the night. San Juan de Ortega, more like a hamlet, consisting of a monastery, a church and a small cafe.
So much history in this town, but no time to explore at the moment as I have to find shelter for tonight.

There is a saying - “Your own miracle will happen on the Camino”.
Many tell of their ‘miracle’ - healed minds, refreshed thoughts, spiritual awakenings, gaining emotional strength for new beginnings……..

My miracle happened today. The monks had opened the monastery for those pilgrims who were unable to secure accommodation.Read more