Ayegui to Villamayor de Monjardin

In recovery mode, I headed out of Ayegui this morning around 7 a.m. I made it to Villamayor by 10.30 just over three hours to cover 8 kms, but again all uphill ..the weather has been ok to begin warm, but the clouds have come and temperature has once again dropped. The constant up was tiring but my what views, the countryside just bursting with vibrant growth...grapes, wheat, poppys and vege just so much to take in.

It was good to get out of bed, to say cheerio to Francesco, the hospitalier who looked after me for days and let me stay on. I had taken a walk on my second sick day to the supermarket in Ayegui and got myself some vegan food which he happily added to his "salad" for me. I sorely needed some vegan protein.

The road up to Villamayor was a it constant up as I said, so every 50 metres or so, I had to take a break to catch my breath. I'd find a seat somewhere and park myself. So many pilgrims stop to ask if I'm ok, which is lovely and very supportive and encouraging.

I thought as it was so early when I got here that I could keep going the next stop Los Arcus, 13 km away, but sitting, talking to a lass from Maryland US...whose mother she told me is a hypochondriac..said her mother would say don't overdo it because you can get sick again. .. so I stayed..I have to say though I was in two minds.

I lit quite a few candles in the old church and quietly sent up some prayers for everyone's health comfort and peace, my own included! I have foregone the pleasure of climbing to the top today ( another hour) to see the castle ruins...it's very very old 12 century owned by king Sancho garces..a very famous king of Navarre.

Tonight, we will dine altogether on a pilgrim menu all prepared by volunteers from the Netherlands again.Read more