Villafranca del Bierzo

Rain or shine, we were in it to win it today! I must say the rest day yesterday was needed. I was starting to get that pain (tendinitis?) in the bend of where my foot meets the lower leg in the front like I did last year. The last 5 or so days last year I had excruciating pain and I was fearful it was returning. Today, no problems! Amazing what a little rest can do. However, I was itching to walk today! It started out raining, not a downpour, but enough, so of course we geared up. We got to the other end of Ponferrada, it seemed to be clearing up and I was getting hot, so I took off the rain jacket. Of course it started in again, so back on it went and stayed on for the rest of the day. I’m so glad I opted for a rain jacket and rain pants this year versus the poncho. I am really enjoying the extra layer on my legs and top half when exploring villages, rather than having to put a big plastic cover on. I’ve seen ponchos blowing in the wind like a balloon or kite and it seems so annoying! Plus, they don’t cover the legs much so leggings or shorts get wet. I like the dual purpose idea of the pants and jacket. Honestly, whenever I’ve brought a poncho or rain jacket/pants in the past, I’ve only used them a couple times and thought of it was extra weight when packing this year. Not so, they are at the ready every day now!! Despite the day of rain, it was a fantastic hike. I absolutely love this beautiful area. We are getting closer to the Galicia region, known for lush mountains, forests, and of course, rain. I arrived in town feeling great, (no resting bitch face), taking photos of all the beauty and soaking in the last 8 days of this journey. Villafranca Del Bierzo is one of my favorite villages. They are known for their beautiful flower gardens in the center of town (although a bit out of season, still quite impressive) and I’ve counted 3 gorgeous churches. The window sills and decks have flowers cascading off of them and you can tell the residents take pride in their town. Great vibe, and it stopped raining once we got to town so exploring it was a joy. I have a grateful heart today. I felt really down on myself yesterday for skipping that storm, but just as the storm has passed, so has my depressed thoughts. Today I felt recharged and believe that it was a much needed break. I guess God knew when to throw me that curve, my body needed the rest and I never would’ve taken it if it weren’t for that storm. Tomorrow is going to be a be a tough one. Almost 4 miles uphill. We couldn’t get reservations in O’Cebreiro which is the top of the mountain, so we are staying in an albergue in La Laguna a mile or so before O’Cebreiro and the albergue we are staying at is the only thing in this mountain village. We are entering the mystical Cantabrian mountains. The views are absolutely stunning, and some say, compete very closely with the Pyrenees that are at the beginning of this 500 mile trail. I’m so excited to see this section, while difficult, nothing easy is ever that rewarding, right?! O’Cebreiro has quite a legacy. It is known for a miracle that took place in the church when the priest is said to have turned bread and wine into actual blood and flesh. This has made O’Cebreiro famous across medieval Europe and has brought pilgrims flocking to behold the sacred chalice, known by some as the Holy Grail, that held the Holy blood. We will arrive in this village day after tomorrow in time for sunrise. It’s one of my favorite spots on the entire Camino to catch sunrise. I’m excited to share this with you!! Here are some photos of the beautiful walk today and this adorable village. ❤️🌸Læs mere