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Autumn 2024
  • timandjacky uk
  • timandjacky uk

Autumn 2024

Meandering along ancient pilgrimage routes in France and Northern Spain Read more
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  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Pretty Plaza at the center of the village
    Some lovely cool streets in the villageView from the footbridge of the river Carrión which flows through the villageThe Royal Monastery of San Zoilo has a huge impressive facadePart if the monastery is now a hotel, but still retains its looksThe current bridge dates from the 16th century and used by pilgrims on the CaminoThe free, small motorhome parkup is connected to the village by a footbridge and has all services

    Carrión de Los Condes, Palencia

    Sep 26–27, 2024 in Spain ⋅ 🌬 21 °C

    Our night stop is in the town of Carrión de los Condes which stands on the banks of the Carrión River. The centre preserves several medieval religious buildings and is a place of passage for pilgrims.
    We are just next to the park and a short walk over a footbridge to the centre.    Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Léon Cathedral is recognized as one of the greatest examples of gothic architecture in the world
    Building work started in 1205. The cathedral is a stunning building inside and out.The cathedral sits on one of the main Plazas with plenty of restaurants and cafésArt nouveau building by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, now a museum displaying Spanish paintings.The alter in beautiful San Marcelo church, a 10 minute walk from the cathedralThe San Marcelo church is very unassuming on the outsideLunchtime! When you just fancy a pizza. Restaurant El Topo on the cathedral plazaHomes behind the cathedralIglesia de San Pedro de Los Huertos just behind the cathedralThe main choir inside the cathedral feels hugePillars and arches stretch impossibly highThe cathedral is recognised as having the largest collection of medieval stained glass in the worldThe cathedral has 125 stained glass windows. Entry into the cathedral was €7 ea.Light shines through the rose window as the sun setsThe cathedral cloisters is a serene and quiet space in the middle of the bustling cityThe cloisters are very well preservedThe cathedral and towers caught the sun as we finished the tourA fantastic tour and well worth the visitNew free aire with all services, 10min walk from city centre

    Léon, Castilla y León

    Sep 27–28, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ⛅ 15 °C

    Today we have visited the city of León. So lucky to have free motorhome parking within a 500m walk of the city centre with fantastic weather to enjoy this beautiful place.
    We explored every bit of the city and had a fabulous tour of the Catedral de Santa Maria de León.
    Niska had a well earned break and guarded the motorhome (god help us if we thought Niska would make a good guard dog......easily bought by a biscuit and loves a nap!!)    Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    The cruz de Ferro is a must visit landmark on the camino for pilgrims
    A small hermitage was erected in 1982 near the cruz de ferroAt 1508m one of the highest mountain passes this trip (Pyrénées pass was 1258m). Ben Nevis is 1345m.Spotted the height limit (we are 3.25m) so turned back at this poinr

    Puerto du Foncebadon, León

    September 28, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ⛅ 12 °C

    After a lunch stop at Astorga we took a beautiful mountain drive to Puerto du Foncebadon; this is one of the most arduous stretches of the Camino Frances.
    At the top there is an impressive iron cross and a hermitage for pilgrims to offer worship.
    We turned around at this point as there was a 3m height restriction in the village of El Acebo about 10km ahead. We didn't mind retracing our steps on the absolutely beautiful mountain road.    Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Enjoying an evening walk through the towns central plaza
    The large Plaza Ayuntamiento with plenty of eating places even on a Sunday eveningSprawling fortress occupied by the Knights Templar in the Middle Ages, with a library of rare booksThe fortress has commanding views over the surrounding countryside. Tourist information in frontThe 'Lambrión Chupacandiles': A unique Nazarene who announces Holy Week in PonferradaThe Basilica stands in the town centre, the bells can be heard all over the townSome very nice streets and shops lead up to the main plazaPolice station on the plaza. Today was the feast of the patron Saint of police in Pomferrada.Views from the fortress over the new town, with the surrounding mountains in the backgroundOne of the many pilgrim hostels or albergues in the town. This one is next to the motorhome parkupThe motorhome parkup had all basic services and pleasant views over the fields and mountains.

    Ponferrada, León, Castilla y León

    Sep 28–30, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 17 °C

    We've had a very nice couple of days in the city of Ponferrada, another major stopping point on the pilgrim route.
    We've had fabulous weather to enjoy this very interesting place, lots of notable historic buildings and a place full of tradition. Lots of people out and about on this lovely autumn weekend. This place has a great vibe.Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Fantastic views from the lunchtime stop over the Galician Massif mountain ranges
    Parkup would make a great night stop, we wanted to push on to Sarria for the night

    O Cebreiro, Lugo, Galicia

    September 30, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    We stopped for lunch at the mountain village (1300m) of O Cebreiro on the Camino Francés. Fantastic views from a grass parkup, at the top of a steep slope. Lunch was a little later than usual as we stopped for diesel (£1.02/ltr cf £1.38/lt UK) and a weekly shop in Lidl.Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Nice walk along the rio Sarria into the old town about 10 minutes away
    Niska loves exploring the Spanish towns and makes lots of human friendsSteep steps up to the old town form part of the pilgrimage routeOnly 114km left to walk to Santiago de Compostela. 667 km Completed from St Jean pied de portChurch of Saint Mariña is in the centre of the old townA single lookout tower is all that remains of the Castle of Sarria at the top of the hillChurch of Saint Mariña is a small but beautiful church used by pilgrimsThe town was full of pilgrims. Sarria is a starting point for a shorter pilgrimage to SantiagoView of the river from the footbridge.This part of Spain is surprisingly green for this time of yearLooking towards the town with the church tower visible. Riverside cafe was open.The Aire had all services and was next to the leisure centre. Very quiet later on.

    Sarria, Lugo, Galicia

    Sep 30–Oct 1, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ⛅ 21 °C

    The beautiful town of Sarria is another major stop on the Camino Francés. The old town which is the most populous on the Camino was alive with people; including lots of pilgrims enjoying the autumn sunshine.
    Our stopover bordering the park is a ten minute walk partly alongside the river with a climb up the stone staircase to take us to the old town.
    Another beautiful drive today, Northern Spain is totally captivating.    Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    San Pedro de Portomarín stands at the end of the main street near a pretty park
    Stone crosses are found all over this area of Northern SpainIglesia de San Juan is unusual as a fortress-church and was moved stone by stone in the 1960sThe parish priest who oversaw the rebuilding of the church. It rained for us when we visited as wel!The village felt quite prosperous with well kept housesPlaza in the centre of the village with the town hall. Plenty of places to eat surround the plaza.Rows of shops, restaurants felt more regimented than we have come across in SpainPleasant park in the middle of the village

    Portomarín, Lugo, Galicia

    October 1, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    We started the day with a stop in Portomarín a stopover town on the Camino Francés.
    The town has a remarkable recent history.
    In 1963 with the construction of the Belesar Dam, the town of Portomarín which was founded on the banks of the Miño river was flooded by the river. The town was subsequently rebuilt on higher ground. Some of the most important building were disassembled and rebuilt with stones being numbered and reassembled in their present location. (When the level of the reservoir drops the remains of the old buildings, the jetty and the bridge are still visible).Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Quiet free aire, would make a great stop. Water and waste water on pitch and Free electric.

    Guntin, Lugo, Galicia

    October 1, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    We had a lunch stop in Guntin, a countryside location. The aire had free electric hook up so we took advantage and charged up a couple of devices.

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. The end of the camino pilgrimage.
    Pilgrimage museum dedicated to the various caminos to Santiago de CompostelaOne of the many hotels in the city.Very wet and rainy street down to the cathedral. Hikers and pilgrims arriving all dayThe 10th century monastery is home to the museum dedicated to the history and art of the cathedralThe 11th century cathedral is massive inside with high ceilingsLooking towards the altar.The large gold altar at the centre of the cathedral is very ornate and unusual in designHuge cathedral organ also had ornate decorationOne of the few stained glass windows.The area around the cathedral was very busy, despite the weatherView of the cathedral from the Plaza de la QuintanaMotorhome aire (shared with coaches) was free and about 30minute walk to the cathedral

    Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña

    Oct 2–3, 2024 in Spain ⋅ 🌧 20 °C

    Today we arrived at the end of the Camino Francés in Santiago de Compostela. We are parked up about a 30 minute walk from the Cathedral.
    It has been a very wet day today but the rain eased after lunch and Tim and I headed out to walk to the Cathedral. The area was busy with pilgrims celebrating the conclusion of their walk, a very nice atmosphere.
    We had a tour of the Cathedral which is pretty amazing.    Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Parkup had views of the Cantabrian Mountains in the distance. Rain is in the forecast
    One of the local residents was surprised to see usThe parkup was level, had all services and free WiFi in a dedicated part of a leisure centre carpark

    Jarrio, Coana

    Oct 3–4, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 18 °C

    Jarrio was a very quiet night stop in a very sleepy place, not much here at all! We always find somewhere for a walk though! We found another stopover about 2 km away in Navia the following day (we stopped there to fill up with water) which we would use instead if we revisit this area.Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Parkup was alongside the rio de Villaviciosa and is still a tidal estuary at this point
    Lovely views over the river and up into the distant mountainsBehind the parkup was a large wetland natural park. The edge of the town is in the distanceViews of the wetlands and Cantabrian Mountains from a bird hideLots of wildlife in the wetlands including birds and fishThe main motorway goes under the wetlands and can be seen emerging in the distance1We spotted a grey heron hunting in the wetlands1And several spoonbills1Mother and foal donkey were grazing nearby, Niska decided she didn't want to investigate themLots of egrets in the surrounding treesMotorhome aire was very pleasant and well equipped. It was very busy on Friday night.

    Villaviciosa, Asturias

    Oct 4–5, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ⛅ 20 °C

    Our drive today was beautifully scenic following the old main road and encountering very little traffic as followed a very winding mountain route. The weather had been fantastic today.
    Our stopover is in the charming town of Vilaviciosa and we are parked next to wetlands which were abundant with beautiful wildlife (there were lots of twitchers taking photos!) the mountain backdrop making it all the more stunning.
    Our aire was full by 6pm with lots of motorhomes parking on nearby roads or wherever they could find a space, it's not surprising this lovely spot is so popular!    Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Pleasant river running through the town and just behind the parkup
    Lovely walk along the river banksTown over the river had smart coffee shops and cafés and was quite busy for a Sunday morningTown had a large shady park, with large sign for pilgrims to pose byView back into town, roads were very quietTown hall and main streetParkup for several motorhomes had all services and was close to a railway line

    Puente San Miguel, Cantabria

    Oct 5–6, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 25 °C

    More beautiful scenic driving today, mountains roads and beautiful coastline in lovely weather so great visibility.
    The end of our drive today is at Puente San Miguel. Its a lovely little town and we found a really nice circular walk through the town and alongside the river. The motorhome park up is popular and was full by early evening.Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Nice quiet free parkup for 4 motorhomes despite the road proximity , all services available free

    Larrabetzu, Biscay, Basque Country

    Oct 6–7, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 25 °C

    Today we have driven east of Santander and Bilbao through some really beautiful places along this stunning coastline.
    We are in the Basque country, an area we really like with its strong cultural traditions and distinct language. We are staying in the small town of Larrabetzu, we had heavy rain when we arrived but we decided to don our waterproofs (Niska included) and get out for a walk regardless....can't let the weather deny us an expedition!!Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Parkup was in a beautiful setting, all number of other motorhomes and vans joined us
    Lovely views out of the motorhome window in the morningNice circular work. With Pyrénées mountains in the distanceNiska enjoying some early autumn coloursThe camino norte passes down this track, way pointer on leftMain road up to the parkup was very quietThe park has taps and bbq points scattered around for visitorsNiska enjoyed checking bbq points for any treats

    Listoretta, San Sebastián, Basque Cntry

    Oct 8–9, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 22 °C

    We had a stop this morning to restock our fridge and had lunch before taking quite a long drive along very winding mountain roads, of course with amazing views and much better weather today.
    We have driven up into the mountains
    to a beautiful Eco Park in Listoretta; a fabulous place to spend our last night in Spain. We were soon joined by other motorhomes and vans from Spain, France, Norway, Germany and fellow Brits, a really nice mix of like minded travellers enjoying this amazing place.    Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    The town square was bustling, with a very busy boulangerie
    We had a lovely "la Tradition" baguette from the boulangerie for lunchSmart buildings around the town squarePleasant river running through the townViews of the church from the parkupMotorhome parkup in dedicated area of a large car park. Full free services available

    Saint Palais, Pyrénées-Atlantiques

    Oct 8–9, 2024 in France ⋅ ☁️ 23 °C

    We have traversed the border from Spain into France this morning across one of the Pyrénées passes. We love this part of France.
    We had a stop in Saint-Jean-Pied-Port for lunch. We had intended to use a Revolution laundry there but lots of people had the same idea so we found one in the nearby town of Saint Palais.
    We also found a nice park up in Saint Palais.    Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Erected Aug 1964, the Stèle marks the point where the 3 northern caminos meet to continue south
    The Stèle has various routes signposted on it base. Pilgrim artefacts left on the Stèle

    Stèle de Gibraltar , Uhart-Mixe

    October 9, 2024 in France ⋅ 🌬 22 °C

    We took a little detour this morning to the Stèle de Gibraltar which marks the point where the pilgrimage routes from the North meet in a single path. The Via Turonensis from Paris, the Via Lemovicensis from Vézelay and the Via Podensis from Le Puy en Velay.
    The Stèle is decorated with the Santiago scallop shell.
    The Stèle was erected in August 1964...same vintage as Tim!    Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Théâtre de verdure...an open air theatre
    Residences overlooking the theatreVillage bakery ....a must visit for us!Village squareMotorhome aire provided free by the community

    Villeneuve-de-Marsan, Landes

    Oct 9–10, 2024 in France ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C

    A very nice stopover on the edge of the village.
    The village has an open air theatre built around a lavoir (washhouse) from 1820. Some of the village houses overlook it.
    Nice walks around here too which we took advantage of.Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    The church is dedicated to cyclists
    The church gates are adorned with 2 penny farthingsStained glass windows depicting cyclistsA collection of champions jerseys are displayed insideDepiction of a monk offering water to a cycling pilgrimAnother cycling theme in stained glassThe church is in a remote countryside location

    Notre Dame des Cyclistes

    October 10, 2024 in France ⋅ ☁️ 16 °C

    In a secluded spot in the countryside in Labastide d'Armagnac is the Church of Our Lady of Cyclists which was converted in 1958 to a museum of cycling dedicated to racing and touring cyclists.
    The gates are fashioned with 2 wrought iron penny farthings, the stained glass windows depict cycling themes and inside are displayed numerous racing jerseys donated by champions.
    It wasn't open when we visited but we still managed to get a feel of the place. We will return here on another trip.    Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Motorhome aire in the park and sports area
    Église Notre Dame d'AillasAn imposing Church in this tiny village

    Aillas, Gironde

    Oct 10–11, 2024 in France ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C

    Aillas is a tiny village in the Gironde where we decided to stop after another day of very scenic driving.
    It is not unusual to find these small communes with quite imposing churches.
    We had a peaceful stop here.Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Motorhome aire; 10 spaces all taken by 6pm
    Lovely views from our walkRiverside walkRoman bridgeNiska looking at the camera this time!Village churchColourful village gardens

    Lembras, Dordogne

    Oct 11–12, 2024 in France ⋅ ☀️ 18 °C

    We are staying in Lembras a lovely rural village, adjacent to our aire is Le Promenade du Caudeau a walk that takes you through woodland alongside a lake and up to a Roman Bridge. Niska thoroughly enjoyed rummaging around and looking wistfully at the lake.
    We had beautiful weather again today.
    This is another popular spot for motorhomers, our aire was full with vehicles having to turn away.    Read more

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Boat trips on the Dronne
    1Le Moulin de l'AbbayeAutumn coloursViews along the DronneDragon sculpture in the river DronneBrantôme AbbeyLarge motorhome aire on the banks of the Dronne

    Brantôme, Dordogne

    Oct 12–13, 2024 in France ⋅ ☁️ 19 °C

    Brantôme; Venice of the Périgord will always be a favourite of ours.
    It has a wonderful lively atmosphere and attracts lots of visitors.

  • timandjacky ukAutumn 2024Traveler
    Views over the valley
    Orientation tableMotorhome park up courtesy of the commune

    Bénévent L'Abbaye, Creuse

    October 14, 2024 in France ⋅ ☁️ 21 °C

    We had a lunch stop at Bénévent L'Abbaye, worth the detour. We've put this on our list as a place to return to. It was incredibly scenic and peaceful, with lots of walking opportunities.

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