Cahors

Lots of walking today: 23.5 miles/ 38 km / 53,000 steps. It could’ve been a little shorter, but I made a little detour. I wanted to see the convent at Vaylats. It’s an order of Sisters who dedicate their service to the pilgrims who walk the path.

I arrived hoping to meet the Sisters and see the convent. Unfortunately, I arrived just as they were commencing their cleaning in preparation for the pilgrims tonight. So my next walk will have to plan a nice stop here so I can spend more time.

The walking path is quite beautiful. The footing is very easy. My sore feet are very grateful.

I was sorry to say goodbye to my German fellow pilgrim. It’s a long day and it’s going to get hot. She was intent upon a brisk walk to her next stop while I tend to meander and take pictures.

I met a nice Canadian couple on the path at a shelter at noon. We stopped and shared our stories of walking the Camino Frances in Spain. We also tried to compare our experiences here in France on the chemin with those in Spain. We both agreed that the Camino Franis experience is more community driven. People tend to move together groups that gather informally. The, French chemin is a more solitary experience. The stages are much longer. As a result, the groups tend to splinter into singles and couples. While we were talking, a bold European robin shared the shelter with us.

I’m walking down these wooded paths with a nice shade. I’m paying attention to the bird sounds I hear. I definitely heard some kind of woodpecker activity. The Merlin app suggest a. Great spotted woodpecker.

6:23 PM. I’m checking at my hotel and if not a nice little bar/restaurant for a salad. Feeling very blessed.

I had an extra mile and a half on my walk today. I came across the bridge to the city. A welcome committee greets everyone including me. I stopped in and spoke with them and got a stamp on my passport. And then walked off without my walking stick. It was a character builder, but I passed that test.

Cahors is a fine little city. It to sits on the Lot River. There are beautiful bridges, crossing the river which is bordered by beautiful parks here in the city.

The hostel where I am staying is essentially an inexpensive version of the Eklo budget hotel, where we stayed in Montpelier France. It has a laundromat in the building, so I am well pleased

Tomorrow is a rest day. This looks like a good city to explore. I am looking forward to rest.

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