LIVE from the Camino Camino Frances, starting in SJPDP on Mar 25, 2022

[cardifflad52]

Arrived safely today from UK quiet but did notice 8 or 9 pilgrims in the pilgrim office including 4 from Singapore , having a beer now then booking into my hostel and get ready for tomorrow ...

 

[flewitheagles]

Buen Camino!

 

[MFord]

I would be interested to know if the pass is open to go via Orisson. I will be there in less than a month. Buen camino!

 

[brianne fitzgerald]

Arrived safely today from UK quiet but did notice 8 or 9 pilgrims in the pilgrim office including 4 from Singapore , having a beer now then booking into my hostel and get ready for tomorrow ...

I will be looking out for u as I begin next Tuesday

 

[brianne fitzgerald]

I arrived wednesday and had a WONDERFUL first evening at Belairi It was the best way to start with a meaningful sharing between the 6 pilgrims and Joseph/Jaqueline the owners. I am now in Roncevalles after a night in Valcartos. All the conditions are just perfect.

I arrive at Belairi on Monday. So excited

 

[cardifflad52]

I would be interested to know if the pass is open to go via Orisson. I will be there in less than a month. Buen camino!

The pass opens up on 1st April so you be OK

 

[cardifflad52]

I will be looking out for u as I begin next Tuesday

I be leaving Pamplona by then

 

[lt56ny]

I arrive at Belairi on Monday. So excited

One of the best albergues on any camino.

 

[cardifflad52]

Buen Camino!

Thank you ..3 of us in the alberque tonight and we off for a pilgrim meal opposite from us so that should be fun

 

[cardifflad52]

I arrived wednesday and had a WONDERFUL first evening at Belairi It was the best way to start with a meaningful sharing between the 6 pilgrims and Joseph/Jaqueline the owners. I am now in Roncevalles after a night in Valcartos. All the conditions are just perfect.

Yes that is where the three of us will be at 7.30 as we staying opposite we met this afternoon while chilling out . Tomorrow a nice breakfast before we set out .

 

[cardifflad52]

One of the best albergues on any camino.

That's our evening meal tonight with Joesph

 

[cardifflad52]

I would be interested to know if the pass is open to go via Orisson. I will be there in less than a month. Buen camino!

Yes it be open then

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 1: SJPDP to Espinal

After a lovely evening last night headed out at 7.45 ..Everything nice and easy then just after Valcarlos the trek through the woodlands was often dangerous with a small path layered with rocks one mistake and that would have meant certain death slipping of the edge and into the river below ..with many breaks it took 5 hours to get to the monastery..should have stuck to the road as it was very quiet whenever walking on it . I suffered cramp in the shin area of both feet at one point when resting I just wanted to stay the night in the woods but having my backpack transfered I knew I had to move on ..throughout the day I had company of two lively ppl man and wife from Singapore in their 50s and Daniel who stayed at the same Alberque as me last night he is 21 and from Mississippi..
I carried on to Espinal arriving at 5pm o break up my walking for the next two days when I shall be in Urandiz then Pamplona Monday both days only 17km ..
If I don't respond to anything in the next few hours I apologise as I am so tired .
Have a lovely evening my fellow pilgrims
Regards
Terry

[Edited by moderator to combine threads, so we can follow @cardifflad52 more easily - on one thread]

 

[cardifflad52]

After a lovely evening last night headed out at 7.45 ..Everything nice and easy then just after Valcarlos the trek through the woodlands was often dangerous with a small path layered with rocks one mistake and that would have meant certain death slipping of the edge and into the river below ..with many breaks it took 5 hours to get to the monastery..should have stuck to the road as it was very quiet whenever walking on it . I suffered cramp in the shin area of both feet at one point when resting I just wanted to stay the night in the woods but having my backpack transfered I knew I had to move on ..throughout the day I had company of two lively ppl man and wife from Singapore in their 50s and Daniel who stayed at the same Alberque as me last night he is 21 and from Mississippi..
I carried on to Espinal arriving at 5pm o break up my walking for the next two days when I shall be in Urandiz then Pamplona Monday both days only 17km ..
If I don't respond to anything in the next few hours I apologise as I am so tired .
Have a lovely evening my fellow pilgrims
Regards
Terry

 

[mspath]

Cardifflad52,
Thanks for your update and pics. It is good to learn that you are safe and sound in Espinal. Have a good dinner and a long rest.
Carpe diem.

 

[Stellamaris]

One of the best albergues on any camino.

I agree entirely

 

[nycwalking]

Cardifflad52,

Keep posting.

Enjoy.

Buen camino.

 

[cardifflad52]

DAY 2 Espinal Rural Haisea to Urandiz
I left the private Alberque at 8.45 and made my way to Gerendian it looked like a stop over for Pikgrims a lovely cafe arrived at 10:15 where I met my 5 camino friends from Singapore ..After 20 min I was about ready to leave when my camino friend from Mississippi came over the hill so I stayed to have a chat we were in the same Alberque in St Jean and walked together on the first day , then my two friends from Singapore arrived and I had a chat with them before I left at 11:00
It was a long slog to Zubiri with uneven paths had to be extra careful as one mistake would have spelled the end of the camino .while enroute to Zubiri many hikers appeared from no where , I did wonder if it was a hiking club or just families having a day out .. After a gruelling day arrived at Zubiri at 2.30 went to the shop for some fruit to take with me tomorrow to Pamplona..
Left Zubiri at 15:00 to walk the 3km to Urdaniz and found a rock to sit on just passed the quarry works next thing I knew I had been there for 45 minutes , so up I got went through a farm pass the Abbey then saw the signpost for the Alberque ..pilgrim dinner tonight at 7 them it's shower then bed as making my way to Pamplona tomorrow after breakfast .. pretty worm out ..there is only one other person here but she seems to be very private oh well I can put up with that . ..have a nice evening everyone and hopefully 8 catch you tomorrow ..oh by the way been lovely so far but on Tuesday its due to rain 4 days just as the Mountain pass opens on the Napoleon way ..
Leave you with a thought ....
A fellow pilgrim asked me if I hope to get to Santiago ..I looked at her and said ..I have no hope of getting there , but I do have faith to get me there. She did not know how to respond ...hope is like a negative word yet Faith is a positive word so if you have faith you can achieve anything you want .

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 3 Urandiz to Pamplona

This is late as you are well aware the camino throws up unexpectedly things ..so I keep it brief ..
At the Alberque in Urandiz the host could only speak Spanish so used something like Google translater ..the only other person staying could only speak Portugues ..so all three of us were having to use the translator ...in the morning at 7am myself and the other pilgrim from Brazil named Elainor left for Pamplona ..it was still dark and never saw anyone else till about 6km from Pamplona so we all walked to Pamplona together , if only every day was like that , eventually we arrived just after mid day after finding the only cafe open 4km from Pamplona but it was worth the wait ..
I was the only one not booked into am alberque tonight so I said my goodbyes and headed for my place on avendia pix 11 a lovely twin room with en suite for 25,€ ..
After a couple of hours rest I had my shower did some washing and headed our looking for the camino trail for tomorrow which I found , I then got a message to ask if I wanted to meet up in the plaza Castelle for a bite to eat and all together there were 9 of us ..the best evening I had for a while ..
So tomorrow its of to Puernte de Reina , think its about 10km further ..I see if what suitable pics I can find for today especially a video clip of an old man who stopped us by Pamplona to ask us a few questions ..
Good night
Take care
Terry

Ps I try and upload the clip tomorrow as I cannot get WiFi password to work ..night night

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 4 Pamplona to

Day 3 Urandiz to Pamplona

This is late as you are well aware the camino throws up unexpectedly things ..so I keep it brief ..
At the Alberque in Urandiz the host could only speak Spanish so used something like Google translater ..the only other person staying could only speak Portugues ..so all three of us were having to use the translator ...in the morning at 7am myself and the other pilgrim from Brazil named Elainor left for Pamplona ..it was still dark and never saw anyone else till about 6km from Pamplona so we all walked to Pamplona together , if only every day was like that , eventually we arrived just after mid day after finding the only cafe open 4km from Pamplona but it was worth the wait ..
I was the only one not booked into am alberque tonight so I said my goodbyes and headed for my place on avendia pix 11 a lovely twin room with en suite for 25,€ ..
After a couple of hours rest I had my shower did some washing and headed our looking for the camino trail for tomorrow which I found , I then got a message to ask if I wanted to meet up in the plaza Castelle for a bite to eat and all together there were 9 of us ..the best evening I had for a while ..
So tomorrow its of to Puernte de Reina , think its about 10km further ..I see if what suitable pics I can find for today especially a video clip of an old man who stopped us by Pamplona to ask us a few questions ..
Good night
Take care
Terry

Ps I try and upload the clip tomorrow as I cannot get WiFi password to work ..night night

Day 5 . PAMPLONA TO PUENTE LA REINA 6 HOURS 30 minutes

It is now 4:35 am a couple of hours before the group set out for Estella for stage 5..
Yesterday I met with our two camino friends from Brazil and Russia , the latter was starting her first day .
We stopped at a bakery at the top of town for a coffee and a pastry at the top of town before heading out of Pamplona ..
It was another lovely day as the climb ascended up the steep mountain range to the iron statues of the pilgrims .After a short break we decended down the boulder creek similar to day one after Valcarols and day 2 towards Zuburi..
We stopped at an alberque for light refreshments where everyone was charged the same price no matter what they purchased .
Final 4km to Puente La Reina was straight forward , and after booking into the council run alberque which was eventually full by 7pm , we went to the local and had a few drinks .
Today trip to Estella in a couple of hours will be an easier walk being that I paid 5€ to have my backpack transfered to Buen Camino in Estella which has very good reviews .
Have a nice day fellow pilgrims whatever plans you may have .
Terry

 

[CaminoDebrita]

Fun to follow your journey, Lad! Keep the great summaries and photos coming to us back home following along.

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 6:- Puente La Reina to Estella 5.15hr

The night before leaving Puente we had our version of a pilgrim lunch home made Pasta yummy just what we needed after a busy day walking ..we then went to the local had lager , wine and tequila.
Got back to the Alberque and I got into a chat with two German camino friends , oh they insisted I shared a bottle of wine ..lol
Went to bed but got up at 4am as someone next to me had his tourch on looking for something that's when I decided to get up .
At 7am set of for Estelle , strange really as I always had someone to keep me company over the past few days ..it gave me time to search for what I am looking for , the first climb out of Puente did not help , I struggle with all hill roads etc as my disability limits me to breathing issues sometimes..
Anyway it was nice to see the welcomed Cafe after which it was mainly walking through farmland with the last 7km flat all the way to Estella ..
So left at 7 and arrived at 12.:15 , my pilgrim friends whom I had come to know asked where I was staying etc , they then checked into one of the Alberque while I wanted some space and time to myself for a change so booked into Buen Camino on San Nicolas.
Had a nap in peace and quiet and off to shop now and see what to take tomorrow on day 6 to Los Arcos ..have a lovely day my pilgrim friends its very rewarding having the time to take to the Frances and the lovely ppl along the way and the lovely blessings .
Terry

Fun to follow your journey, Lad! Keep the great summaries and photos coming to us back home following

Fun to follow your journey, Lad! Keep the great summaries and photos coming to us back home following

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 6 Estelle to Torres Del Rio 9 Hours

Today started out at 6:15 got to the wine tap some 30 min later , yes it was available at that time honest lol ..only had a sip , then decided to take the alternative route via the main road and past the camping site and through wooded farmland and a slow asscent to Villamajor ..a lovely cafe there was opening as I soon got there at 9:15 as if the owner knew I was on my way ..of course it had to be cafe con leche oh and a bar of chocolate and departed 30 m8n later
Weather been good all week but expecting rain and snow at some stage .
From Villarmayor it was a slow decent into Los Arcos just over 7km of flat walkway not had that since day 3 into Pamplona ...
Was there at mid day a lovely lunch at the only cafe opposite the church and stopped for an hour before deciding to walk another 8km to Torres Del Rio ..again flat and through the forest and farmlands you could say it was a pleasant walk..
So tomorrow's agenda is the short walk 8nto Lograno and staying 9vernight in the private Alberque called the winederful cafe and bar with good reviews on booking.com
So what ever plans you have for rest of the day enjoy and stay safe
Terry

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 7 : TorresDel Rio to Logroño ..6 hours .
Shortly after leaving the Alberque at 7:00 was met with two snow storms before reaching Viana after 3 hours where a comfort break was welcomed for 30 minutes.
Shortly after leaving another snow storm came before finally arriving 2 hours later at Lograno ...As I went into the pilgrim office another snow storm came but thankfully my bed for the night was only a few minutes walk away .
All in all its a bad day but hey that's the camino which never two days are the same .
Take care my pilgrim friends , tomorrow is a 30km hike to Najerra ..
Regards
Terry

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 8 LOGRANO TO NAJERA 7HR 40 MIN
Worse Day so far for the weather especially the snow storm from Lograno up to Navertte ..it was not cold snow hence reason why it took 3 hours to get there , it was just persistent and never settled ..
Got to the cafe there and there was no room at the Inn as it was so small, so I had my coffee and chocolate pastry outside standing up as every seating area outside was wet
After 10 min I left and made my way up the dirt tracks to Ventosa only to find after a 2 hour slog that there was nothing open...
I did find a bench outside the winery 🍷 and sat on that for 10 min ..altogether the time it took me to get to Najera included about an hours break in between trying to dodge the snow showers ..
I did find a hut by a farmers field looks like it was made for the pilgrims to shelter from the weather as Najera was only about 3km away .so I would have been in this hut for a good 30 min until the snow shower left ..
Inside this hut was some stones to make a fire pit , and some wood to light a fire ...however I was disgusted to see that someone had a crap and never cleaned up after themselves . This is not a true pilgrim but one of disgrace .
Right shower time then out to the pharmacy for some Ibuprofen gel for my left calf which is not anything major ..I wonder if I can get a massage too lol something I could do with big time
Oh well only 20km tomorrow to Santo Domingo..
Have a nice day everyone and stay safe .
Buen Camino

 

[cardifflad52]

DAY 9 : Najera To Santo Dominigco.5hrs 20 min

TODAYS trail was more of a slog more than anything else was joined by a 73 year old lady from Boston to Santo Dominigo
But not sure where she was staying . after the overnight snow or rain left the paths turn into mud ....it made walking heavy and yes I got mud all over myself so the sight of Santo Domingo was a welcome one , but I did notice before hand that there are a lot of empty properties just laying around and the new builds at Centric which is a few km from Santo have been empty for years maybe they should give them to the refugees of Ukraine ..
Anyway tomorrow is a trek to Belorado maybe starting out at 7:30 from the main alberque here..
Time for a shower before a group of us head out for lunch ..
Stay safe pilgrims and enjoy your day .
Regards
Terry
Buen Camino

 

[Former member 99816]

Day 3 Urandiz to Pamplona
I then got a message to ask if I wanted to meet up in the plaza Castelle for a bite to eat and all together there were 9 of us ..the best evening I had for a while ..

Im wondering if it is unusual for people to exchange phone numbers after meeting for a short time on the trail. And what app do you use?

 

[C clearly]

Im wondering if it is unusual for people to exchange phone numbers after meeting for a short time on the trail.

Not unusual at all, but it is more common to exchange WhatsApp IDs or email addresses, or Facebook names.

 

[cardifflad52]

The bar next to the municipal albergue was full tonight with pilgrims alike ..lovely food only 15€ for 3 courses and the wine so look it up if ever your in Santo Dominigo

Not unusual at all, but it is more common to exchange WhatsApp IDs or email addresses, or Facebook names.

Im wondering if it is unusual for people to exchange phone numbers after meeting for a short time on the trail. And what app do you use?

I tend to use WhatsApp as on the trail alot of times we use it as a form of communication if we are staying in different locations it comes in handy ..I am not saying we use our own personnel number as you can get sim cards for free and use WhatsApp that works for me .. it's handy as I don't have Facebook or twitter

 

[4RJN]

Hi there, I was wondering if you tell me what was required at the border of France and Spain while you were walking? If you could explain what was required and what the whole experience was like. I am planing journey for May 15th arriving in Paris and then taking a train down to SJPDP but I cannot find any information on what I need to cross the border. Thanks and Buen Camino

 

[4RJN]

The bar next to the municipal albergue was full tonight with pilgrims alike ..lovely food only 15€ for 3 courses and the wine so look it up if ever your in Santo Dominigo



I tend to use WhatsApp as on the trail alot of times we use it as a form of communication if we are staying in different locations it comes in handy ..I am not saying we use our own personnel number as you can get sim cards for free and use WhatsApp that works for me .. it's handy as I don't have Facebook or twitter

Also wondering about how you obtain "free SIM cards"?

 

[cardifflad52]

DAY 10 SANTO DOMINIGO TO BELARADO .6HRS 55 MIN .
A long day in the sun and concrete footpaths with a few breaks arriving at 13.55 .
It was more a stop and go just to look round and see the surroundings , plus my left calf been playing up for a few days now ..
Not much to report really but like other villages en route I did notice bottles of water left outside front doors and thought if they were for passing pilgrims ...
The square in Belarado is lovely and the pharmacy was helpful so have my cream and pain kilkers ..
Tonight a few of us going local for a bite to eat before an early night at the municipal alberque before we head out to dinner later..
Tomorrow we go to San Juan de Ortega ..
So I say night night have a lovely day .
Regards
Terry

Also wondering about how you obtain "free SIM cards"?

Sorry I got mine before I left UK but i did see some supermarkets selling them for a few euros but if I was in a big town I would locate a phone shop and ask them to set it up for me so I have instant service to WhatsApp..then an app I would recommend for the camino would be Camino Ninja which has worked with no fault in my 10 days of walking so far 😊

 

[Former member 49149]

Before I read from the end, one line caught my eye: I learned the bottles of water were placed to deter dogs and cats and other creatures from peeing outside the homes of those who place the water in plastic bottles - seems the sun dazzles the critturs!
Edit: clearly, this is not scientific evidence 🤣

 

[J Willhaus]

The bar next to the municipal albergue was full tonight with pilgrims alike ..lovely food only 15€ for 3 courses and the wine so look it up if ever your in Santo Dominigo



I tend to use WhatsApp as on the trail alot of times we use it as a form of communication if we are staying in different locations it comes in handy ..I am not saying we use our own personnel number as you can get sim cards for free and use WhatsApp that works for me .. it's handy as I don't have Facebook or twitter

We use WhatsApp in Spain. Also a good laundromat in Santo Domingo near in the square where you posted the photo.

 

[J Willhaus]

Before I read from the end, one line caught my eye: I learned the bottles of water were placed to deter dogs and cats and other creatures from peeing outside the homes of those who place the water in plastic bottles - seems the sun dazzles the critturs!
Edit: clearly, this is not scientific evidence 🤣

Yes, that is also what we were told about the water bottles.

 

[cardifflad52]

We use WhatsApp in Spain. Also a good laundromat in Santo Domingo near in the square where you posted the photo.

Oh yes I am in Belorado now only to discover that my left calf muscle is swollen , got some cream and Ibuprofen painkillers from pharmacy hopefully it be fine in the morning

 

[Former member 49149]

Oh yes I am in Belorado now only to discover that my left calf muscle is swollen , got some cream and Ibuprofen painkillers from pharmacy hopefully it be fine in the morning

Was it here I read that English mustard (yes, English, not French!) dispels cramps, and that might extend itself to reducing the inflammation in your calf muscle? Warning: this is reportage, not science...

 

[cardifflad52]

DAY 10 SANTO DOMINIGO TO BELARADO .6HRS 55 MIN .
A long day in the sun and concrete footpaths with a few breaks arriving at 13.55 .
It was more a stop and go just to look round and see the surroundings , plus my left calf been playing up for a few days now ..
Not much to report really but like other villages en route I did notice bottles of water left outside front doors and thought if they were for passing pilgrims ...
The square in Belarado is lovely and the pharmacy was helpful so have my cream and pain kilkers ..
Tonight a few of us going local for a bite to eat before an early night at the municipal alberque before we head out to dinner later..
Tomorrow we go to San Juan de Ortega ..
So I say night night have a lovely day .
Regards
Terry

 

[cardifflad52]

Hi there, I was wondering if you tell me what was required at the border of France and Spain while you were walking? If you could explain what was required and what the whole experience was like. I am planing journey for May 15th arriving in Paris and then taking a train down to SJPDP but I cannot find any information on what I need to cross the border. Thanks and Buen Camino

For France I used my covid passport to show that I have had all 3 jabs ...nothing shown in Spain while on the Camino so far ..going back to UK I need nothing except my passport as our borders are open to anyone with or without covid syntoms

 

[4RJN]

For France I used my covid passport to show that I have had all 3 jabs ...nothing shown in Spain while on the Camino so far ..going back to UK I need nothing except my passport as our borders are open to anyone with or without covid syntoms

So when you crossed over the pyrenees into spain you were not required to show anything?

 

[vjpdx]

So when you crossed over the pyrenees into spain you were not required to show anything?

There's no passport control when you cross the French-Spanish border on foot.

ETA: at least between SJPdP & Roncesvalles.

 

[4RJN]

There's no passport control when you cross the French-Spanish border on foot.

ETA: at least between SJPdP & Roncesvalles.

Thanks, I very much appreciate the information!

 

[Kanga]

So when you crossed over the pyrenees into spain you were not required to show anything?

@4RJN via the Route Napoleón the border is marked by a cattle grid across a dirt path. That's it!

On the road route via Valcarlos there is a pretty little town at the border, called Arnéguy, with a bridge over the Rive Nive.

 

[cardifflad52]

DAY 11: BURGOS TO TARJADOS. 3HRS

I just like to say that after taking advice from the pharmacy yesterday in Belorado , I decided not to do any hill climbing due to a fault with my calf muscle ..this morning when I got up I realised I was not fit enough to do the hill climbs today ..so took the bus to Burgos then walked 10Km to Tarjados which was flat as a pancake ..tomorrow I do the other 10km to Hornillos ..
I know we all face some kind of injury but I am just thankful that after walking 3 days with calf issues it was not as bad as it could have been ..
Anyone out there on the walk just be careful , listen to your body as none of us are invincible..if you need to take a break then do so as its your camino.
Buen Camino

 

[mspath]

cardifflad52,

Sorry to learn of your troubles.
Why not just rest in Tardajos for a few days? La Fabrica is a fine spot with good food.

When walking November 2014 soon after leaving Burgos it began to drizzle then really pour. Totally soaked and cold at Tardajos I stopped at La Fabrica an old flour mill then recently repurposed to be an albergue/hostal. It was a GREAT find.

Each heated albergue dorm room holds 4 pilgrims with fresh linens on the bunks and a sleek toilet/shower adjacent. My chatty dorm-mate was a Japaneze tour guide from Osaka; we were the only pilgrims. The price per bunk was then 12€ including breakfast. Regular tourist accommodation was also available.

The busy ground floor bar/dining room was popular with locals as well as visiting hunters and the food was copious, tasty and good value. All in all La Fabrica was a pleasant stop before starting up the Meseta.
http://www.alberguelafabrica.com

Whatever you do decide, Buen camino.

 

[cardifflad52]

DAY 12:TARJADOS to HONTANAS 5HRS 20 MIN.

I left today at 7:30 and for next 5hrs or so there was nothing but dirt and gravel and almost flat as a pancake , with never ending roads or it felt like that .
Still sporting a swollen calf that never made things any easier and the heat oh the heat better than rain , there are no drinking holes in sight and only 2 villages one better stock up before you go especially if your starting 10km further back in Burgos.
The first comfort break was in Rabe de Las Calzados , only about 35-45minutes away, you walk in the cafe and there is a Cork board from one end to the other with messages from all over the world from pilgrims who have passed through .Good luck in reading all of them .
The other place I found interesting for a break 1km from my alberque for the evening was Castellinos , only been opened since last year , you cannot miss it as the entrance up a long drive is signposted..it was like a Spanish Villa ..lovely setting and the best place I have been to by far .
Now I am resting at Santa Brigida Alberque for the night with pilgrim dinner a bit later and the surroundings are lovely too with a beer in the garden.
Take care everyone and enjoy your day .
BUEN CAMINO

cardifflad52,

Sorry to learn of your troubles.
Why not just rest in Tardajos for a few days? La Fabrica is a fine spot with good food.

When walking November 2014 soon after leaving Burgos it began to drizzle then really pour. Totally soaked and cold at Tardajos I stopped at La Fabrica an old flour mill then recently repurposed to be an albergue/hostal. It was a GREAT find.

Each heated albergue dorm room holds 4 pilgrims with fresh linens on the bunks and a sleek toilet/shower adjacent. My chatty dorm-mate was a Japaneze tour guide from Osaka; we were the only pilgrims. The price per bunk was then 12€ including breakfast. Regular tourist accommodation was also available.

The busy ground floor bar/dining room was popular with locals as well as visiting hunters and the food was copious, tasty and good value. All in all La Fabrica was a pleasant stop before starting up the Meseta.
http://www.alberguelafabrica.com

Whatever you do decide, Buen camino.

Thank you for that , I managed to walk today after plenty of rest yesterday but will definitely see what the next day or two bring as I expect come tomorrow I only do 10km to Castrojeriz.....anyway thanks for the tips I know many of us has issues en route 😀

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 13: Hontanas to Castrojeriz 2hrs
Just a short 10km day we'll so the guide book says but think it's much less than that as I was at a snails pace tackling the strong winds .
Tomorrow is the climb out of Castrojeriz, my calf hopefully be fine seems I have only done 40km in three days ...
Apart from the lovely sight of the old convent at San Antonio think that's how I spell it where they used to leave out bread and wine to the pilgrims and of course coming into Castrojeriz you can see the castle on the Mount..how they managed to get the stone up there in the first place is hard for me to comprehend .
25km tomorrow by the looks of it to Fromista so an early night .
Whatever plans you have take care and keep smiling .
Terry

 

[Former member 99816]

Card, keen to get your observations useful for when I go: albergues, bars, food, masks. Gracias!

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 14: Castrojeriz to Poblacion De Campos ..7hrs 50 min.

Left just after 6.30 for the big climb out of Castrojeriz but it was not as bad as the beginning wether at Valcarlos or Pamplona .
However today was about battling against the wind never known it to be that strong , whether it was trying to push me off the mountain or push me into the canal a few km out of Fromisca .
I never saw anyone after the coffee stop in Itero de la Vega a straight flat road but the horrible dirt track .
My plan was to be in Fromista between 13:00 and 13:30 to catch the shops before they close at 14:00 I was fortunate to make it then had another 20 min or so chill out time before walking the last 50 minutes to my bed for the night .
Tomorrow I go as far as Carrion De Los Condes which be only 15km that way hopefully those I started to walk with from the first week will meet me there and we be able to cook a pilgrim meal in the Albergue kitchen just like we did in Puente de Reina .
Well time I got my shower then chill in the garden with a cold beer 🍺
Take care and have a nice day everyone .
Regards
Terry

Card, keen to get your observations useful for when I go: albergues, bars, food, masks. Gracias!

Everything seems relaxed masks yes whenever you enter a premises , alberques well your mixing alot so generally not many wear them ..bars out of respect when you order but after that it's fine not to wear them and as for shops wear them at all times ..I believe later this month Spain are doing away with masks

Card, keen to get your observations useful for when I go: albergues, bars, food, masks. Gracias!

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 15 oblacion De Campos to Carrion De Los Condes 3hrs

Just a half day departing at 8.45 after a lovely time at Amemecer en Campos last night , its been a while since I stayed at a place I found to be perfect everything about it was just lovely ..
Today it was the footpath on the side of the road which went on and on and nice weather for it compared to yesterday strong wind .
The only issue I had was the swarm of flies which would not leave me alone
So tomorrow I tend to leave about 7am to get a head start on the hot sun which is expected which reminds me I must go to the pharmacy and get some suntan lotion later ready for Terradillos some 26km away.
As you be aware I do have issues with my calf muscle, its been a week now , so to protect it I may go as far as Leon ETA Wednesday 13th , then get the bus up to Ferrol on the Thursday and do the Inglis instead of carrying on the Frances ....
Well I love and leave you , stay safe
Buen Camino

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 15 oblacion De Campos to Carrion De Los Condes 3hrs

Just a half day departing at 8.45 after a lovely time at Amemecer en Campos last night , its been a while since I stayed at a place I found to be perfect everything about it was just lovely ..
Today it was the footpath on the side of the road which went on and on and nice weather for it compared to yesterday strong wind .
The only issue I had was the swarm of flies which would not leave me alone
So tomorrow I tend to leave about 7am to get a head start on the hot sun which is expected which reminds me I must go to the pharmacy and get some suntan lotion later ready for Terradillos some 26km away.
As you be aware I do have issues with my calf muscle, its been a week now , so to protect it I may go as far as Leon ETA Wednesday 13th , then get the bus up to Ferrol on the Thursday and do the Inglis instead of carrying on the Frances ....
Well I love and leave you , stay safe
Buen Camino

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 16 : .Carrion De Los Condes to Ledigos .. 6 Hours .

After an evening at the monastery of Santa Clara I headed out at 6.30 to avoid the heat of the day which was expected to hit 22%c but it never materialised ..
Instead it was a brutal walk along the gravel path with no comfort break for 17km or 4 hours to me .
It was like a desert highway and did no help for my calf muscle so to see the sight of a bar was very welcomed with a refreshing glass of beer ...
After a 40 minute break I walked the last 7km to Ledigros for my booked bed at alberque La Morena a lovely beer garden where I arrived for 12.30 had a shower then a cool beer in the sun .
Tomorrow I have a 26km walk to Bercianos Del Real Camino before I am due in Leon On Wednesday .
My option would be to take the bus to Ferrol for the English Way to Santiago over 5-6 days , carry on the Frances for the next 20 days or go home and give my calf time to recover before I come back in the autumn to Leon to finish the Frances . It be interesting what you think even though its my camino ..yes it has been given me trouble for the past week ..
Well have a nice day and stay safe .
Terry

 

[mspath]

Day 16 : .Carrion De Los Condes to Ledigos .. 6 Hours .

After an evening at the monastery of Santa Clara I headed out at 6.30 to avoid the heat of the day which was expected to hit 22%c but it never materialised ..
Instead it was a brutal walk along the gravel path with no comfort break for 17km or 4 hours to me .
It was like a desert highway and did no help for my calf muscle so to see the sight of a bar was very welcomed with a refreshing glass of beer ...
After a 40 minute break I walked the last 7km to Ledigros for my booked bed at alberque La Morena a lovely beer garden where I arrived for 12.30 had a shower then a cool beer in the sun .
Tomorrow I have a 26km walk to Bercianos Del Real Camino before I am due in Leon On Wednesday .
My option would be to take the bus to Ferrol for the English Way to Santiago over 5-6 days , carry on the Frances for the next 20 days or go home and give my calf time to recover before I come back in the autumn to Leon to finish the Frances . It be interesting what you think even though its my camino ..yes it has been given me trouble for the past week ..
Well have a nice day and stay safe .
Terry

Cardifflad52,
These are great photos of the CF leading to Calzadilla de la Cueza! Sorry to read of your aching legs. Perhaps you might stop in Sahagun? Do take care.

 

[cardifflad52]

DAY 17: Ledigos to Sahagun 4hrs 15 min

Today was a short walk to Sahagun , like the past few days it been very flat .
Left Albergue La morena at about 7.45 and stopped a few times including 20 min at Morena for a coffee .
It was at this time that I could not help but notice a grass covered mount and people living in there deep inside fascinating to see the chimney pots sitting on top of the mount no doubt you do not need any heating to keep warm in the winter months ...
Then about 2km from Sahagun was a church with picnic tables where I had another break for approx 20 min before heading to my bed for the night at the monastery Santa Cruz a delightful place ..dinner tonight is by donations so I got two bottles of wine .
As for tomorrow if my 8njury holds up I plan to do approx 25km to be in Leon for Thursday , otherwise it is to Ferrol for the Inglis way ..
It's been a real nice day , hope its the same as where you are .
Regards
Terry

Cardifflad52,
These are great photos of the CF leading to Calzadilla de la Cueza! Sorry to read of your aching legs. Perhaps you might stop in Sahagun? Do take care.

Thank you for that ..I just got a swollen calf muscle which o been walking on for 11 days ..the pharmacist got me to purchase a strap but that never worked but made things worse , but the painkillers help .
I not had any blisters ao that is a blessing in itself ..

 

[Former member 49149]

Day 16 : .Carrion De Los Condes to Ledigos .. 6 Hours .

After an evening at the monastery of Santa Clara I headed out at 6.30 to avoid the heat of the day which was expected to hit 22%c but it never materialised ..
Instead it was a brutal walk along the gravel path with no comfort break for 17km or 4 hours to me .
It was like a desert highway and did no help for my calf muscle so to see the sight of a bar was very welcomed with a refreshing glass of beer ...
After a 40 minute break I walked the last 7km to Ledigros for my booked bed at alberque La Morena a lovely beer garden where I arrived for 12.30 had a shower then a cool beer in the sun .
Tomorrow I have a 26km walk to Bercianos Del Real Camino before I am due in Leon On Wednesday .
My option would be to take the bus to Ferrol for the English Way to Santiago over 5-6 days , carry on the Frances for the next 20 days or go home and give my calf time to recover before I come back in the autumn to Leon to finish the Frances . It be interesting what you think even though its my camino ..yes it has been given me trouble for the past week ..
Well have a nice day and stay safe .
Terry

Terry, whatever you do, it looks like you have the will to return if you do have to stop the CF. I did the Ingles from Ferrol just the summer before Covid. There are uppy downy bits, and we chose to book ahead, which was a first for us. Why? More people using this camino, and fewer options for municipals. I think what mspath says is good. Stick to the Cf, slowly. Get a bit of massage, maybe? Warming up exercises are so useful before starting off, and drinking tons of water and adding salts to the water you drink - my walking companion insisted that we put the old fashioned salts into the first litre of water every day. Not the modern trendy drinks, sachets from the chemist called litines in Spanish. I could be wrong - as a dear friend was wont to say - I remember I was, once before! I just love your reports! Don't go beyond what is good for you.

 

[cardifflad52]

Terry, whatever you do, it looks like you have the will to return if you do have to stop the CF. I did the Ingles from Ferrol just the summer before Covid. There are uppy downy bits, and we chose to book ahead, which was a first for us. Why? More people using this camino, and fewer options for municipals. I think what mspath says is good. Stick to the Cf, slowly. Get a bit of massage, maybe? Warming up exercises are so useful before starting off, and drinking tons of water and adding salts to the water you drink - my walking companion insisted that we put the old fashioned salts into the first litre of water every day. Not the modern trendy drinks, sachets from the chemist called litines in Spanish. I could be wrong - as a dear friend was wont to say - I remember I was, once before! I just love your reports! Don't go beyond what is good for you.

Thanks for that I see what tomorrow brings as I know I have plenty of hills to come after Leon , if I decide to return to the UK then I can always return in the Autumn as I have to take notice of what my body is telling me ..oh I know tonic water is good for cramp but for my calf injury we'll who knows maybe plenty of rest ..anyway thank you for that .
Terry

 

[J Willhaus]

You can take a train from Sahagun into Leon if needed and the bus as well. Or if you have the time, you could break the walk into Leon into 3 days to give your leg a rest? It's holiday time so make sure you have a place to stay in Leon. We always stay at he AC Hotel across from the Corte Engles away from the crowds when in Leon. Perhaps more expensive, but if you are cutting your time a bit shorter, it may be worth it to have the luxury of a hot bath and a room on a quiet street. Also Corte Engles has some good prices for lunches and handy shopping for stocking up if you continue the walk. (Still pretty flat walking until at least just before Foncebadon.) There are several other places to eat nearby so you would not have to walk much for a nice menu del dia. Its not the old town, but we've stayed there 3 or 4 times. Or maybe really splurge for the Paradore?

 

[cardifflad52]

Thursday 14th April ...Update
Medic in Leon advised me on Tuesday 12th to go home and seek medical assistance / physiotherapy on my calf muscle ..he was surprised that I been walking with a swollen calf muscle for approx 10 days and said at the same time I was stupid as it could have caused alot of issues .
Anyway I am at Madrid Airport , only 2 hours back to UK and a further 90 min to where it all began .
I met some lovely ppl on the walk from St Jean to Leon from all all walks of life, we supported eachother , had a good laugh , got drunk lol and even did our own pilgrim dinner..oh and not forgetting the lovely hospitaliers
But it's not over I be back on the camino to finish what I started.
And I thank you all who have taken interest in my brief comments for 17 days .
You all take care and those of you on the Camino , listen to the needs of your body ..don't over do anything and if in doubt the pharmacies are there to help in our time of need ,for me its not about getting to the next alberque before anyone else or getting to Santiago just to say i did it but it's about finding myself and that spiritual encounter and the lovely ppl I may never see again but the memories will live on .
Buen Camino

 

[mspath]

cardifflad,
Thanks to you for your honest updates.
Do rest and take care as you remember these past days on the camino.
The camino will be there when you can and wish to return.
Wherever you may be Carpe diem.

 

[cardifflad52]

cardifflad,
Thanks to you for your honest updates.
Do rest and take care as you remember these past days on the camino.
The camino will be there when you can and wish to return.
Wherever you may be Carpe diem.

Thank you for the message I just got back in the UK after leaving Leon at 00:15 .
Yes I know the camino be waiting whenever I am fully recovered , I go back tomorrow if I could but know how silly that would be ..
Most likely start up again in the Autumn when it is a bit more quieter ..

 

[nycwalking]

Get healthy.

Thanks for sharing.

Buen camino.

 

[Eve Alexandra]

I appreciate your honest comments on being careful and not overdoing. I’m considering some shifts in plans as well. Thank you.

 

[Schamber]

Hi there, I was wondering if you tell me what was required at the border of France and Spain while you were walking? If you could explain what was required and what the whole experience was like. I am planing journey for May 15th arriving in Paris and then taking a train down to SJPDP but I cannot find any information on what I need to cross the border. Thanks and Buen Camino

No border control if you aren't flying into Spain. There is a border walking over the Pyranees but no controls.

 

[cardifflad52]

Camino Frances Update .
After returning to the UK on Thursday 14th April , I have been doing some wild camping seems that is now my home for the time being .
As my calf muscle is no longer swollen up like a balloon I decided to go back for the last 317km .
So tomorrow morning I managed to find a flight to Madrid for 18€ and be back on the trail from Leon at 07:00 on Friday.
However I have to skip 100km between Ponferrada and Sarria as my original flight back is on 4th May from Santiago..
So I decided to walk over 4 days to Ponferrada then get the bus to Sarria then walk the last 100km from there .
However as you all know the camino is never straight forward , but I keep you updated .
Yes I know I said I most likely wait till the autumn to finish it but once the swelling was going down the more the camino was calling me back and the price of the ticket was hard to refuse .
The only pain in the backside , pardon the punt is Madrid Airport ..waiting around for the airport shuttle bus from Terminal 1 to Terminal 4 .. I have about 15 min to spare waiting for it otherwise its a 20€ taxi fare which I paid last week as the bus never came .
But again this is the part of the camino experience .
I hope everyone had a lovely Easter catch up with updates on Friday after my walk from Leon .
Buen Camino everyone

 

[Former member 49149]

Delighted to see you are back so soon! I just love your style - walking, writing, 'speaking' . I hope I don't miss any of your updates!
👣

 

[cardifflad52]

Delighted to see you are back so soon! I just love your style - walking, writing, 'speaking' . I hope I don't miss any of your updates!
👣

That's is very nice of you , though I could add more to my daily brief on the camino , I like to keep things simple .
I was going to get the bus to Sarria from Madrid but thought it would only be 6 days left on the camino then what ??? Yes I could have caught up with my camino friends whom I had a lovely 12 days with on the trail and walked to Santiago with but then what .???
But this is my camino and though I have met some lovely people whether it was at St Jean , Pamplona , Estella ,Lograno , Burgos there comes a time when we have to say our good byes .
When I eventually go back to the UK I shall get a little job and save for another camino who knows which one it may end up being .

 

[cardifflad52]

That's is very nice of you , though I could add more to my daily brief on the camino , I like to keep things simple .
I was going to get the bus to Sarria from Madrid but thought it would only be 6 days left on the camino then what ??? Yes I could have caught up with my camino friends whom I had a lovely 12 days with on the trail and walked to Santiago with but then what .???
But this is my camino and though I have met some lovely people whether it was at St Jean , Pamplona , Estella ,Lograno , Burgos there comes a time when we have to say our good byes .
When I eventually go back to the UK I shall get a little job and save for another camino who knows which one it may end up being .

Your welcomed..in Bristol for the night in a youth hostel with 4 beds to chose from and a lovely kitchen to help yourself to anything leave at 5:15 for the airport .got some photos of the area within a 5 min walk

 

[cardifflad52]

CAMINO FRANCES UPDATE ..THIRSDAY 21ST APRIL.

Good evening my camino friends .
Just a quick note to let you know that I arrived in Leon 14 hours after leaving my base in the UK ..
Leave at 7am in the morning and head towards Hospital De Orbigo back on the trail after 8 days of resting my calf muscle .
Now I must pop to the store for some toiletries and get some dinner ..
Till tomorrow evening when I be back to posting my normal updates ..stay safe
Terry

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 18: Leon to Hospital De Orbigo 8 Hours

As I write this I am getting ready to leave the alberque and head for Astorga which will be today's hike (Saturday)
When I was leaving Leon yesterday in the pouring rain I was joined by a lady from Singapore who I kept company to her stop over in Santa Maria
The path itself followed the main road all the way to my destination last night nothing but rain rain rain but the poncho did me a good service .
After I parted company with my camino friend there was 7 more kms in the rain. I am glad I did come now as the hosts of the Alberque San Miguel are lovely spiritual couple highly recommend anyone staying there , and last night three of us went out for a pilgrim dinner which was lovely .
Time I was going now so have a lovely time and take care my camino friends
Terry

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 19 : Hospital De Orbigo To Astorga 4 5 hrs.

After a lovely evening at San Miguel Alberque I left this morning at 7 30am .
There were two paths to take one for the road and the other for the country .
I opted for the country and after the second village I came to I decided to go back on the road due to all the rain the country path would have been wet underneath .
At this point two big dogs approached me from behind , they did not look happy to see me and they made their presence felt ..no doubt they were defending the property I was passing and would not have hesitated to attack me if I made the wrong move .
Once I got back on the open road it was a straight 10km hike into Astorga and about 3km out there was a parade from what looked like to me was from Holy week .
I booked into the El Camino Alberque which opens at 11am , shortly I will go into town as I need some sticks tomorrow for the big climb ..
Have a nice day everyone and stay safe .
Regards
Terry

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 20: Astorga to Foncebardon 6 hrs

Today's walk was 25km with approx an hours break leaving at 7am and arriving just before 14:00 ..
The route was mainly walking along a dirt track in nice weather with a cool breeze . That was until Rabonal then a long slog up a gravel track to Foncebardon .
I know what your saying , there is a big climb coming my way to the cross tomorrow on the way to Ponferrada some 25km from here, but as I said before I work in miles so it don't seem that far .
My leg is holding up though I do need the odd pain killer but what does one expect after many days of walking ...it is expected to be another 10 days to Santiago then what ???
After all what's in my backpack is all I own , nothing else after giving away everything to do the camino .
Sorry there is no info on today's trip except to say I was given a warm welcome by my hosts at the Alberque Monte Irago with two welcomed drinks both home made and a community dinner at 7pm this is a recommendation to stay here ..
I say night night until tomorrow.
Stay safe .
Regards
Terry

 

[peregrina2000]

The only pain in the backside , pardon the punt is Madrid Airport ..waiting around for the airport shuttle bus from Terminal 1 to Terminal 4 .. I have about 15 min to spare waiting for it otherwise its a 20€ taxi fare which I paid last week as the bus never came

That is good information for forum members. I had never known what the intra-airport taxi cost would be. It’s 30@ into town from either terminal. Though this 20€ fare might seem high given the short distance, keep in mind that the taxi-driver will likely have been waiting for a few hours to pick up a fare, and imagine how annoying it would be to take someone for a couple of kms to another terminal, if the fare were going to be metered.

Sorry you found the intra-airport bus to be unreliable. I think it’s usually regular, but it’s good to know there’s a taxi option if you the bus doesn’t come.

 

[cardifflad52]

That is good information for forum members. I had never known what the intra-airport taxi cost would be. It’s 30@ into town from either terminal. Though this 20€ fare might seem high given the short distance, keep in mind that the taxi-driver will likely have been waiting for a few hours to pick up a fare, and imagine how annoying it would be to take someone for a couple of kms to another terminal, if the fare were going to be metered.

Sorry you found the intra-airport bus to be unreliable. I think it’s usually regular, but it’s good to know there’s a taxi option if you the bus doesn’t come.

At least when I finish the camino I shall be leaving from Santiago no more issues at Madrid to deal with , shame the bus don't go to all the terminals rather than just one ..handy though if you fly in and out of terminal 4 , at least I got passport control to stamp my camino passport lol

 

[peregrina2000]

shame the bus don't go to all the terminals rather than just one ..handy though if you fly in and out of terminal 4 , at least I got passport control to stamp my camino passport lol

I am not sure if you are talking about the intra-airport bus, but it has stops in T1, T2, and T4. T3 is a hop, skip and a jump from T2. Apparently T2 and T3 were closed for renovations for several years and have been reopened, and I think the single bus stop easily suits both.

See this airport information site

The above-linked website does show bus frequency, which varies depending on time of day.

 

[cardifflad52]

I am not sure if you are talking about the intra-airport bus, but it has stops in T1, T2, and T4. T3 is a hop, skip and a jump from T2. Apparently T2 and T3 were closed for renovations for several years and have been reopened, and I think the single bus stop easily suits both.

See this airport information site

The above-linked website does show bus frequency, which varies depending on time of day.

Sorry I meant the bus from Leon to Madrid airport could do all terminals and vise versa

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 21: Foncebardon to Ponferrada. 9 Hours..

This was the actual time in taking 3 hours off for breaks , one hour in Molinaseca having lunch with a Camino friend before we headed to Ponferrada then as we arrived early we had an hour in a bar having a large larger before heading into the city .
Lovely community dinner last night at Albergue Monte Iargo where I was staying then headed out to Ponferrada at 7.30am
After a steady climb in the cold came to the Iron Cross then 10 min later came the biggest decision I have made on the Camino
After the climb out of Rabonal yesterday I decided to take the easy option today and go on the road to Molinaseca.
It's not for the faint hearted as the road twists and bends through the forest and one has to have eyes at the back of your head and ears wide open watching and listening and occasionally stopping to look at my surroundings .
Being a lovely day the sun would shine on any vehicle coming my way giving me time to cross the road and waiting for the vehicle to pass before I started off again .
My first break came at 10am when I arrived at El Acebo and sat in the sun for 45 minutes having two cups of coffee and a chocolate pastry .
Back on the road I arrived in Molinaseca two hours later at 12.45 where I had a large glass of lager and an omelette for another 45 minutes , there joined a camino friend whom we stayed at the same alberque in Hospital De Orbigo on Friday night .
We walked into Ponferrada together , being it was Siesta when we got on the outskirts we headed into the bar for sometime before they headed for their Albergue for the night and I headed a further 4km to my bed for the night at a pension north of the city and only 1km from the camino ..
For only an extra 9€ I just needed my own place after a busy 30km on the road today .
Shortly I need to get a bite to eat before I get ready for bed it's just that I wanted to finish this first .
I know I was the only one on the road today ,you just have to be sensible and be on the lookout and cross over each side of the road to give the vehicle more room to pass you , the road was quiet and for the whole 18km into Molinaseca was fine with only about a dozen vehicles passing in each direction , and being that it was a lovely day it made it much easier ..mind you I would not have tempted this on the uk roads .
Tomorrow I head to Villafranca de Bierzo on the normal route at 7am , although I would expect to be there for 1pm , the camino is the camino so anything can happen ...
I gone on for two long now so have a nice day my camino friends , I going to pop over to burger King then shower and chill out with my lager before bed as I want to be up just before 6.30am .
Take care of yourselves .
Regards
Terry

 

[donalomahony]

Day 21: Foncebardon to Ponferrada. 9 Hours..


On your way tomorrow, you will pass this Bierzo winery. Have a glass and a tapas, use the facilities and watch how the locals but their wine! After Cacabellos...

New item by Donal O' Mahony

photos.app.goo.gl

 

[cardifflad52]

DAY 22 : Pontfreeda to Villafranca De Bierzo..5hrs 15 min.

With 1hr 30min to take off the time for breaks the 24km took less than expected .
I fact you could say it only took 3hrs 30 min of walking .
But that's impossible I hear you say , yes I thought the same when arriving in Fuentesnuevas for a 45 min breakfast break 2 hours after I left Ponferrada ..that's on time being its only just over 7km away , yet the place I was actually in was Cacabelos some 15km from Ponferrada.
Confusing I know then I realised because I was in the North of Ponferrada last night I saved myself quite a few Kms .
It's not much to tell really those of you who been through here will know there are a few wine producers passing hundreds of grape vines ..so not much to report so am sorry about that except one has to be careful on the road as its alot busier .
Tomorrow is the big climb so think I be having an early night ...
Take good care my camino friends
Terry

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 23 Villafranca de Bierzo to Las Herrerias..5 Hrs .

Today I decided to take a shorter trip of 20km and walk up the highest point so far tomorrow .
Set in a peaceful location Casa Lixa Alberque is surrounded by woodlands and mountains .
I took an hours break altogether as I did not want to arrive too early .
Yes I could have carried on but with a niggling hip I decided to give it a rest till tomorrow.
Sat here with a beer before I head for a shower and chill out before dinner I see pilgrims passing mostly with just a day bag , then I see horses oh at a cost of 40€ to take you up the mountain if you don't want to walk it lol
Today it was following the road with a lot of busy traffic so not much to talk about really at least it was dry .
Not sure where my bed for tomorrow will be just yet I think about that after I had my shower , but it is likely I be in Sarria on Saturday .
I say night night , have a nice day whatever plans you have .
Regards
Terry

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 24 : Las Herrerias to Triacastela 8hrs 25min
What a sod of a day lol up down up down to the highest point so far too many rest stops to count on a hot day , even though the views were lovely , I could only manage 2 photos for the tuff 29km as my battery charger failed to work last night whete I was the only one at the alberque so got a new one today .
It's pass my bedtime so will write more tomorrow when in Sarria yes 2 stamps from now on ..
Take care
Terry

 

[Former member 49149]

Day 23 Villafranca de Bierzo to Las Herrerias..5 Hrs .

Today I decided to take a shorter trip of 20km and walk up the highest point so far tomorrow .
Set in a peaceful location Casa Lixa Alberque is surrounded by woodlands and mountains .
I took an hours break altogether as I did not want to arrive too early .
Yes I could have carried on but with a niggling hip I decided to give it a rest till tomorrow.
Sat here with a beer before I head for a shower and chill out before dinner I see pilgrims passing mostly with just a day bag , then I see horses oh at a cost of 40€ to take you up the mountain if you don't want to walk it lol
Today it was following the road with a lot of busy traffic so not much to talk about really at least it was dry .
Not sure where my bed for tomorrow will be just yet I think about that after I had my shower , but it is likely I be in Sarria on Saturday .
I say night night , have a nice day whatever plans you have .
Regards
Terry

Hope the niggling hip is quiet. Nothing about Nobody in the love post. Poor Nobody.

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 26 :- Triacastela to Sarria 5hrs 30min

On leaving at 8am I followed the path through woodlands as the alternative route was 7km longer , A BIG Mistake.
It was similar to yesterday's climb and stopping reguar to give my knee a rest with all the uneven pathway .
After approx 3hrs the wooded area came out onto the road it was then I decided to take to the highway for the next 8km or so .
My knee was transformed on the tarmac liking it far more than the normal route of the arrows .
Yes the road was quiet while at the same time I never took anything for granted using my poles I managed to reach Sarria at 1.30pm
I know some of you may say the road is not the safest way to do the camino but sometimes there is no choice if you are carrying an injury like mine .
Yet its all about what the camino gives and takes .
It is so easy to get a taxi , then what about tomorrow , the issue will still be there , you have to bite your lip and get on with it .
I am on the home straight now and asking myself what next ???
You see the camino has become my home and tomorrow is another day to Portomarin some 24km away .
Take care my camino friends
Regards
Terry

 

[cardifflad52]

Hope the niggling hip is quiet. Nothing about Nobody in the love post. Poor Nobody.

Oh my hip been OK it's my knee which is swollen lol

 

[Former member 49149]

Thanks for update - I did not check, it should have read last post, not love post.

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 27:- Sarria to Portomarin 6hrs50 min

First of all update ..many pilgrims on the March from Sarria then there is a group from Korea and a group of school children age 16+
I managed to book a bed through to Santiago arriving Wednesday and tonight I booked a flight back to UK on Friday morning for 9.99€ so it gives me time to go to Finnisterrie on the bus for the day on Thursday .
I wish I could live on the camino but unfortunately I cannot see how this would be possible .
Back to today I left at 8am and was shortly joined by a married couple from Argentina in their 60s but now live in Miami ..I post a pic on here of them , we talked all the way to Portomarin and I found out it was their first camino on their first day and they were truly worn out time we got here .
If I never got my knee sock from the pharmacy last night then I would not be able to walk on the ground we did , up down up down dirt tracks , gravel tracks through farm land .
We stopped about 4 times as the weather was hot so tomorrow its onto Palas De Rie, its going to be another of those days when I don't fancy getting up lol .
Who's company I have tomorrow is anyonrs guess ..
The Alberque Turismo looks new , no bunk beds but 4 single beds in a dorm with sheets and blankets and towels provided , overlooking the bridge as we cross into Portomarin.
I would highly recommend this place as the best Alberque I have stayed in so far .
I say night night sweetdreams everyone catch you tomorrow
Terry

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 28 : Portomarin to Palas De Rie 6hrs 15 min.
Evening everyone 8pm here , all settled into my Alberque for the night with the curtain closed around my bed so I am not disturbed , staying at Alberque Zendoria, I was recommended the Alberque Centro but happy I avoided that as all the school children from Sarria are staying there..they be on the March again at 8 so I wait till they have gone before I leave for Ribadiso.
Anyway about today been same as yesterday except been following the road through woodlands and farmland.
The civil guard was making their rounds again it's nice that they are keeping an eye on us now that there are maybe 200+ on the move.
I had an opportunity to speak to a few who only started yesterday as a taster to see if they can do a longer camino next time , they knackered and one has blisters even those who are sending their bags on are tired on their second day and they cannot believe it when I told them how far I have come but I have had my issues all to do with the feet minus blisters.
Sorry I not mentioned about the route today as I was saying it was the same as yesterday but longer by 6km but less time that's with the hours break .
So tomorrow its to Ribadiso, Tuesday to O Pedrouzo then Wednesday about 16km to Santiago .
My time has gone so quick I wish I could do it again but have a diary with me and maybe do it over a longer period on those difficult sections once I taken a week or two off to give my knee time to heal .
Take care everyone it's been a pleasure to write in the evenings even to the point where I am nearly falling asleep myself after a busy day ..
Oh well another push tomorrow.
Till then
Bye
Terry

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 28 : Portomarin to Palas De Rie 6hrs 15 min.
Evening everyone 8pm here , all settled into my Alberque for the night with the curtain closed around my bed so I am not disturbed , staying at Alberque Zendoria, I was recommended the Alberque Centro but happy I avoided that as all the school children from Sarria are staying there..they be on the March again at 8 so I wait till they have gone before I leave for Ribadiso.
Anyway about today been same as yesterday except been following the road through woodlands and farmland.
The civil guard was making their rounds again it's nice that they are keeping an eye on us now that there are maybe 200+ on the move.
I had an opportunity to speak to a few who only started yesterday as a taster to see if they can do a longer camino next time , they knackered and one has blisters even those who are sending their bags on are tired on their second day and they cannot believe it when I told them how far I have come but I have had my issues all to do with the feet minus blisters.
Sorry I not mentioned about the route today as I was saying it was the same as yesterday but longer by 6km but less time that's with the hours break .
So tomorrow its to Ribadiso, Tuesday to O Pedrouzo then Wednesday about 16km to Santiago .
My time has gone so quick I wish I could do it again but have a diary with me and maybe do it over a longer period on those difficult sections once I taken a week or two off to give my knee time to heal .
Take care everyone it's been a pleasure to write in the evenings even to the point where I am nearly falling asleep myself after a busy day ..
Oh well another push tomorrow.
Till then
Bye
Terry

Day 28 : Portomarin to Palas De Rie 6hrs 15 min.
Evening everyone 8pm here , all settled into my Alberque for the night with the curtain closed around my bed so I am not disturbed , staying at Alberque Zendoria, I was recommended the Alberque Centro but happy I avoided that as all the school children from Sarria are staying there..they be on the March again at 8 so I wait till they have gone before I leave for Ribadiso.
Anyway about today been same as yesterday except been following the road through woodlands and farmland.
The civil guard was making their rounds again it's nice that they are keeping an eye on us now that there are maybe 200+ on the move.
I had an opportunity to speak to a few who only started yesterday as a taster to see if they can do a longer camino next time , they knackered and one has blisters even those who are sending their bags on are tired on their second day and they cannot believe it when I told them how far I have come but I have had my issues all to do with the feet minus blisters.
Sorry I not mentioned about the route today as I was saying it was the same as yesterday but longer by 6km but less time that's with the hours break .
So tomorrow its to Ribadiso, Tuesday to O Pedrouzo then Wednesday about 16km to Santiago .
My time has gone so quick I wish I could do it again but have a diary with me and maybe do it over a longer period on those difficult sections once I taken a week or two off to give my knee time to heal .
Take care everyone it's been a pleasure to write in the evenings even to the point where I am nearly falling asleep myself after a busy day ..
Oh well another push tomorrow.
Till then
Bye
Terry

Sorry but list connection while trying to download some more pics will add them tomorrow..night night

 

[J Willhaus]

Day 28 : Portomarin to Palas De Rie 6hrs 15 min.
Evening everyone 8pm here , all settled into my Alberque for the night with the curtain closed around my bed so I am not disturbed , staying at Alberque Zendoria, I was recommended the Alberque Centro but happy I avoided that as all the school children from Sarria are staying there..they be on the March again at 8 so I wait till they have gone before I leave for Ribadiso.
Anyway about today been same as yesterday except been following the road through woodlands and farmland.
The civil guard was making their rounds again it's nice that they are keeping an eye on us now that there are maybe 200+ on the move.
I had an opportunity to speak to a few who only started yesterday as a taster to see if they can do a longer camino next time , they knackered and one has blisters even those who are sending their bags on are tired on their second day and they cannot believe it when I told them how far I have come but I have had my issues all to do with the feet minus blisters.
Sorry I not mentioned about the route today as I was saying it was the same as yesterday but longer by 6km but less time that's with the hours break .
So tomorrow its to Ribadiso, Tuesday to O Pedrouzo then Wednesday about 16km to Santiago .
My time has gone so quick I wish I could do it again but have a diary with me and maybe do it over a longer period on those difficult sections once I taken a week or two off to give my knee time to heal .
Take care everyone it's been a pleasure to write in the evenings even to the point where I am nearly falling asleep myself after a busy day ..
Oh well another push tomorrow.
Till then
Bye
Terry

Ah yes, my memories of the school children walking is that they beat us to the bar on the way and drank all the cold drinks before I arrived...
They sang and chanted as they moved along. Phil loved them and they practiced their English with him.

 

[cardifflad52]

Ah yes, my memories of the school children walking is that they beat us to the bar on the way and drank all the cold drinks before I arrived...
They sang and chanted as they moved along. Phil loved them and they practiced their English with him.

They seem not to be with us today otherwise they would have caught up ..next weekend I expect they will start at Palas De Rie unless they wait till their next holiday season .

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 29 :- Palas De Rie to Ribadiso 8 hours

First of all the charge from Sarria looks to be less today and the children looks like to have gone home so that's good news .
Everyone seems to be spread out staying either here , at Melide some 10km back or ahead of here as there are those who wants to be in Santiago tomorrow ...there was even a young boy 8 or 9 walking to Santiago with his mum .
I had about an hour of comfort breaks along the route today walking by myself I lowered the pace for my irritating knee ...got some more Ibuprofen tablets in Melide they cost much more than the UK infact the price I payed I could have had 11pkts back home .
I booked in advance my last few days all alberques but with my own room I just needed time to myself and go to bed when I want for a change as I have been having very little sleep ..
After Wednesday it is going to be strange not writing after I have finished a walk ..but would I do it all over again , well I be mad to say yes but at least I would know what to expect with all the aches and pains and swollen joints lol and go in the fall when it gets quiet again but first I have to find a job and fund the trip as it is expensive .
So I have had 4 breaks today being that I was on my own and tomorrow I am in O Pedrouzo then in Santiago Wednesday for about lunchtime , then I say is that it , what was it all about ???
Right I need a shower then get ready for dinner then bed ..alberque Los Caminantes where I am staying looks like to be a former farm turned into about three alberques and a pension very lovely indeed .
Night everyone , sorry I not got any facts about today's trip hopefully something special will happen tomorrow.
Regards
Terry

 

[J Willhaus]

Day 29 :- Palas De Rie to Ribadiso 8 hours

First of all the charge from Sarria looks to be less today and the children looks like to have gone home so that's good news .
Everyone seems to be spread out staying either here , at Melide some 10km back or ahead of here as there are those who wants to be in Santiago tomorrow ...there was even a young boy 8 or 9 walking to Santiago with his mum .
I had about an hour of comfort breaks along the route today walking by myself I lowered the pace for my irritating knee ...got some more Ibuprofen tablets in Melide they cost much more than the UK infact the price I payed I could have had 11pkts back home .
I booked in advance my last few days all alberques but with my own room I just needed time to myself and go to bed when I want for a change as I have been having very little sleep ..
After Wednesday it is going to be strange not writing after I have finished a walk ..but would I do it all over again , well I be mad to say yes but at least I would know what to expect with all the aches and pains and swollen joints lol and go in the fall when it gets quiet again but first I have to find a job and fund the trip as it is expensive .
So I have had 4 breaks today being that I was on my own and tomorrow I am in O Pedrouzo then in Santiago Wednesday for about lunchtime , then I say is that it , what was it all about ???
Right I need a shower then get ready for dinner then bed ..alberque Los Caminantes where I am staying looks like to be a former farm turned into about three alberques and a pension very lovely indeed .
Night everyone , sorry I not got any facts about today's trip hopefully something special will happen tomorrow.
Regards
Terry

Looks like a lovely place!

 

[cardifflad52]

Looks like a lovely place!

I came across it on Booking.com. so using my eurocard up before I go back on Friday any euros left on it can be used up next time , did I just say next time omg lol as if the body has taken enough punishment ..need my knee sorted before I think of doing it again

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 30 :- Ribadiso to Pedrouzo 6hrs

Update ...Heavy traffic from Arzua due to the three routes joining up as one .
I left just after 7.30 and stopped for a comfort break two hours later at Calzada .
The next thing I saw was a river of pilgrims coming through , at first I thought there was not many staying in Ribadiso , until I was informed by an Australian couple that they are on the Del Norte .
Some where on the march through to Santiago or as close as they could get before calling it a day
After leaving my comfort break I had to stop again at Salceda as my left hip and ankle was aching , so off with the footwear and I notice the dreaded school bus so the children had to be somewhere , yet they were not walking yesterday unless they only doing half day walks .
I quickly put my shoes on and walked the remaining 8km to Alberque O Burgos arriving at 1.30pm .
Tomorrow be my last 20km as I enter Santiago. Not sure how I will feel as I have got some good memories along with the pilgrims whom I had the opportunity to meet on the way ..
Who knows maybe I can do another camino in the fall once my body recovers from the past 30 days or so .
Have a nice day and stay safe
Terry

 

[mspath]

Many years ago I stayed in the Albergue de Burgos and nearby/next-door dogs barked all night; hope that they have moved on.
Enjoy your walk tomorrow as you enter Santiago and see at last the cathedral.
Take care and Carpe diem.

 

[cardifflad52]

Many years ago I stayed in the Albergue de Burgos and nearby/next-door dogs barked all night; hope that they have moved on.
Enjoy your walk tomorrow as you enter Santiago and see at last the cathedral.
Take care and Carpe diem.

No dogs infact it was a pleasant night could have done with a lie in mind but the feet wanted one more walk lol

 

[cardifflad52]

Day 31:- Pedrouzo to Santiago 4hrs 15 min .

Now I am here what's next ??? Yes another one be lovely .
Left at 6.45 thinking there be a mad rush but this never materialised...infact it was a pleasant stroll in for a change and no one seemed to take a comfort break including myself .
I began to think this be my last post and it has been a pleasure to add something on a daily basis .
After I picked up my credentials I was invited for a cuppa by a volunteer to share my experience
One thing I been keep asking myself on the camino especially today is ...what's next ???
I survived yes , I seen the good and the bad in the ppl on the camino , I been through the snow storms in Los Arcos and the rain in Leon and then there were my injuries ...was it really worth it ...I will know the answer to that in the coming days or weeks .
Take care everyone and Buen Camino

 

[mspath]

cardifflad52,
Enjoy your time in Santiago. Thank you for sharing your days and pictures here on the forum. It was a pleasure to read your precise, pertinent entries as you moved along.
Take care and Carpe diem.

 

[J Willhaus]

Perseverance was your gift. Glad you were able to finish and I have enjoyed going along with you on your journey.

 

[cardifflad52]

cardifflad52,
Enjoy your time in Santiago. Thank you for sharing your days and pictures here on the forum. It was a pleasure to read your precise, pertinent entries as you moved along.
Take care and Carpe diem.

Thank you , hopefully I be on the road again soon the Porto perhaps , being its only over 10-12 days

 

[cardifflad52]

Perseverance was your gift. Glad you were able to finish and I have enjoyed going along with you on your journey.

Yes there been times when I could so easily have called it a day especially when I went back to the UK from Leon but the camino was calling me back and I knew it be playing on my mind until I returned despite my injuries ..now its done I am a bit jealous of those starting their journey