• Bron PlaskowskiEl Camino de SantiagoTraveler
    A really striking mural, first one I've seen on this subject, presumably the Peninsular War.
    When you need a seat you aren't going to be too bothered it's made out of some old pallet.The clouds are so heavy, they look like they are going to touch the ground.The bridge and historically an area for jousting which has been recreated, in Hospital de Orbigo.Someone is burying themselves into the ground.Looking like a hobbit's houseCould have just as easily walked through the 'river'.At the top of the hill the view of the next town, San Justo and Astorga beyond was a welcome sight.By the time you wound your way up there, over the railway and all the way back down it was over 200mGlad I have a rucksack rather than a suitcase.Staying in a hotel tonight, does feel a little like cheating.Not quite sure why they appear to be making boxes.The town hall.Astorga cathedral.The Bishop's palace, designed by Gaudi.

    A Little Bit of Climbing

    October 6, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 15 °C

    I suppose this morning was payback for all the times the forecast said there was a 50% chance of rain and yet it never did. We had light rain on and off and a stiff breeze for the first 3 miles, though the rest of the day was dry and far less windy.

    It's interesting how having a rest day makes you feel out of sorts when you start back again. I spoke to people yesterday who felt exactly the same way, how their packs felt heavier and they were walking slower. Yet today we felt like we were back in the grove. I suppose the answer is simple.....

    The 2nd half of today's route included 4 short climbs, not too steep and each one about a kilometre long. Which made a change from the predominantly flatter terrain we've had this last week or so. The Camino's way of introducing us gently to the serious climbing a few days ahead in Galicia and on to the highest point of the whole walk, at just over 1,500m.

    We arrived at 13:30, showered, changed and out to do some sight seeing in this city dating back to pre Roman times. Unfortunately, it started raining almost straight away so we had to take shelter in an Irish bar with the Aston Villa v Man Utd game on. The first time I've seen English football on in a bar on the whole trip.

    The rain eventually stopped, allowing us to do a bit of exploring. This is the sort of place we could have easily spent another day in, but tomorrow is another day and another walk.

    Villadangos del Paramo to Astorga
    Distance: 18.12 miles
    Time: 5hrs 55 mins
    Speed: 3.1 mph    Read more