LIVE from the Camino Flooding on way to Villaviciosa 25 March

[Jan_D]

Hola peregrinos!
Walked (most of the way) from La Isla to Villaviciosa today but some parts were impassable due to the very heavy rains. Got a lift for a stretch as locals said the path was completely flooded. In the pics you'll see what I had to navigate.
Was feeling a little traumatised, ha ha, but my patxaran has just arrived so I'm feeling better already!
Anyway I'd recommended avoiding this stage tomorrow Monday 26 March (weather is meant to improve from Tuesday onwards).

 

[donalomahony]

Did you get to stay in an Albergue this evening or are you still finding them closed?

 

[Jan_D]

Did you get to stay in an Albergue this evening or are you still finding them closed?

Once I got to Villaviciosa I decided to skip tomorrow's stage and caught a direct bus to Gijon. After a few lone rural days I also figured I'd rather be stuck in a big city where I could ensconce myself in a vibey bar for the evening (mission accomplished).

As soon as my bus arrived I hobbled pathetically over to the closest hotel in my budget and they let me stay for €27.

I'd looked into albergues in Gijon but couldn't find much info (other than a room in the campsite on the outskirts of town?) Maybe someone has more info?

 

[donalomahony]

Not sure if this is of any help. https://www.caminodesantiago.me/com...lking-the-camino-del-norte.53145/#post-590987

 

[Jan_D]

Thanks. I've been using the Gronze site which is usually pretty up to date. They say the campsite in Deva (outside Gijon) has transformed some of their huts into an "albergue" (the reviews are pretty scathing). And apparently there's a private hostel on the outskirts of Gijon, not reserved for pilgrims, but €15 per night so quite pricey. Reviews are also really bad for some reason.

I've actually walked this stretch before, but can't comment on albergues as I shared hotel costs with fellow camino buddies. The albergues in this part of Asturias just seem to be rather awkwardly placed.

Anyway I remember enjoying the pilgrim albergue in Aviles, so will head there tomorrow. With the added treat of a Semana Santa procession through the old town in the eve!

 

[Paladina]

Well done for wading through all that water! Walkers from the west of Ireland have the advantage here: we have webbed feet.