Rabanal to Acebo de San Miquel

Left Rabanal for Acebo de San Miquel at 8 :15 AM. Approximately 21 km's. We are not in Kansas anymore, Dorothy. Back in the mountains again. In order to reach the Famous Iron Cross, had to climb into the thin air. Unlike the first mountain phase where your hip muscles was screaming for blood flow, your ligaments and tendons for flexibility, and your lungs for oxygen your body has adapted. Like Robyn Bess said earlier you just can't adjust for that straight downhill. Just brutal. On this very arduous downhill you realize that your trekking poles have added value. Not only do they assist your downhill, but they also serve like windshield washers with the back and forth keeping the swarm of flies out of your face. After a while you are satisfied just keeping the flies out of your mouth. The view from the albergue is awesome. There are no words that will accurately describe it. Back to the Iron Cross. I felt his spirit there today. It was so gratifying, made all the fatigue have value. Will machine wash clothes, then air dry. Very tired, but very fulfilled. Robyn, again I am in total agreement on trying to ascend a mountain on slate rock for a few km's. Very, very difficult. I am happy for today. Will bid you a fond adieu. Buen Camino.Read more