I have walked down from Foncebadon to Molinesca in the winter , twice, when the path was impassable. The road is longer, but you are able to keep a very steady pace. The path is steeper, narrower and rocky in certain sections. We prefer the road. That said, you must be conscious and alert for traffic, On weekdays, even in Oct there was not, however, substantial traffic…. a few buses ,trucks, and an occasional car or bike. Think differently… don’t expect others to stop easily for you on this downhill or uphill because the curves limit visibility, so giveway and allow them to pass. Though it is proper to walk against traffic (left side), you will need to occasional go with the traffic on certain curves because oncoming cars won’t be able to see you and there is literally no extra space at times. That said, I have done it four times and it is doable. I have seen a couple of pilgrims returning from SdC who were walking up the hill. It is a steep grade no matter which way you ascend from Molinesca. Key is to stay alert!