Ciriñuela

Hola everyone.

Well, today was a pretty simple equation. About 20kms in a generally uphill direction, followed by 8kms on a generally downwards trajectory.

The broad acre wheat fields have given way to industrial scale vineyards now that we are in the Rioja region. As I left Logroño, I passed through the Parque S. Miguel which was a nice way to exit the city. The first time I stopped at Logroño, I was based in a very dead end of the town but my last two stops have had me placed where it’s all happening, and I have to say that I really like the place. Last night I ventured down to the Calle Laurel district which is Tapas-central for the city. Unfortunately, my timetable was a little early, but I did find a nice bar for a couple of pintxos and a G&T before heading back to my digs.

There wasn’t much to look at in the way of photos today, so my pickings today are quite meagre. It was an overcast morning, which is usually quite good for walking but there was a chilly westerly blowing directly front on. Before long, it was off with layers and on with my rain jacket to block out the wind.

About two hours out from Logroño, I came to the large reservoir that feeds the city. It was still very quiet being a Saturday morning but there were many locals who had walked out from Logroño and were now on their way back. After that, I headed for Navarette, which I knew would be quite busy with Pilgrims trying to catch a breakfast stop. It was also going to be very busy because it is the only stop on-route for the day. I elected to take a detour through town through a local area and managed to find a small supermarket where I was able to avoid the crowds and enjoy a quick drink before heading out. Ventosa is also a possibility for something to eat but it involves a detour which not many pilgrims take.

As I mentioned, there wasn’t that much to see, and today was one of those days based on “just getting there.” Some days are like that and you just have to put in the kms to get to the other end. About 8kms from town I crossed the ridge and could look down on my destination but it was one of those places where you seem to go on forever and never get much closer. Luckily, I met Gary and Alison from Neutral Bay, as well as Bill from Brisbane and we walked along together for quite a way. I also had a quick chat with Olivia from Perth who was with Bill. I’m not getting lazy and purposely seeking out Aussies, but they seemed to be everywhere today.

As we entered town, there was a huge party happening down by the Nájerilla river. Everyone was walking around with John Deere paraphernalia in one hand or around their necks, and a glass of wine in the other. Needless to say, quite a few were wearing the wobbly boot.

My observations for the day.: The Big Bang Theory in Spanish is just not the same; I noticed a proliferation of bikes today and a couple of us noted their aggressiveness in passing and not giving a lot of notice; The Spanish word for ‘whisper’ is ‘susurro’ but I don’t think it is widely used in Spain; Lots of Aussies appearing on the Camino; At this stage, the Camino is like a moving town - you see someone today and then maybe not for a few more, before seeing them again; Lots of familiar faces appearing; and, Tonight I had the best shower I’ve had since leaving home - remember, it’s the little things.

Tomorrow, I’m off to Santo Domingo de la Calzada, a shorter day of just over 20kms.

Click below for Efren Gonzalez’ vlog of the trip from Logroño to Nájera.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSiwf5V5X6E&amp…

Buen Camino Penguins.

Distance today: 28 kms
Total distance travelled so far: 191 kmsRead more