Day 31

Today I walked through the town of Hospital de Orbigo. Here in 1434 a famous battle took place on this beautiful bridge the main dude involved was a Knight called Don Suero, apparently he is mentioned in the novel Don Quixote, the battle and all things Medieval are recreated and celebrated here every year in the first weekend of June. They are getting the place ready for what must be a fun weekend and includes a Classic Car exhibition (not sure about the connection there) but, sounds fun and a lovely town.

Today I stuck to the road route, it was ok, I think the longer scenic route would have been good but I got there in the end, just as the rain started. I am staying in a small town just before Astorga, which is the last town in the “Mind” section of my Camino guide, so that is “Body” and “Mind” done. To come is “Soul” also I am about to start climbing again, shortly I will reach the highest point of the Camino, this is a significant place on the Camino and where we are to leave our burdens both physical, a symbolic stone bought from home and emotionally the burdens you carry internally can too be left behind. Looking forward to a lighter backpack after leaving my collection behind.

I’ve been down stairs for dinner, a few pilgrims emerged from their rooms, I am in a hotel with a bar and restaurant attached. At first it sounds like there are no English speakers so I thought I would be having a quiet solo dinner but then a lady arrives, she is from Sweden but Filipino by birth and has excellent English. We have a lovely evening learning about each other’s lives and sharing some vino Tinto and Camino stories. I had a great Ensalada Mixta for entree it was full of greens even radicchio and just what I needed then Chicken which had been cooked in a lovely paprika sauce. Dessert was a chocolate drumstick.

It’s pouring with rain outside. I hope that it clears by the morning!

Distance walked 22.4km

Elevation 925m

Not many Pilgrims today, most taking the alternative route away from the road.

Song of the day; Led Zeppelin, Stairway to Heaven.

Total Distance walked so far 510km

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