https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/30/day-34-sunday-june-2815-our-last-post-as-we-depart-santiago-for-madrid-after-about-1425000-steps-over-some-950-km/2015-07-08T18:02:03+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/29/day-33-saturday-june-27-2015-santiago-to-finisterre-89-km-by-bus/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image246.jpgimageThe next series of pictures, hopefully in the order I want them to be! Tell the story of the joy and agony at the finish. Yes, some who completed the Camino were excited. Here I am at the Camino shell symbol in the very middle of the square in front of the Cathedral. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image245.jpgimageFor all you interested fisher folk, these are the rakes that are run ( for lack of a better term) up and down the ropes to gather the muscles. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image244.jpgimageThis picture is out of place, but I wanted to throw it in somewhere....Remember earlier in one of my science and statics classes, I spoke about the fact that 25% of Spain's electricity comes from wind and solar sources? And within 10 years they expect that portion to increase to 48 % .... You should see the quiet Giants along the shoreline near Finisterre.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image243.jpgimageA more subdued couple standing before the giant she'll symbolizing the end of the Camino. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image242.jpgimageAs I tried to get the right angle for this picture I was overwhelmed by emotions. These are real pilgrims. They have overcome adversity, they have struggled, some I am certain with every ounce of strength they have. Just like the thousands before them, they have learned the meaning of being a Camino Pilgrim.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image241.jpgimageAnyone care to take a wheelchair over 800 kilometres of steep vertical climbs, frightening descents, 30 degree rock faces, over 12 - 18 inch boulders, steep surfaces of round rocks that keep you from stopping your descent, water obstacles of mud to your boot tops, ascents of over 4000 feet in a day over a summit of goat and sheep trails.... Now that is a pilgram. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image240.jpgimageBefore we got too critical of those on horseback, we learned that some come, with their horses, from as far away as Brazil and Mexico, just to raise money for a cause.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image239.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image238.jpgimageXxxxxxhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image237.jpgimage2015-06-30T09:22:09+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/30/some-of-the-flowers-of-the-camino/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image264.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image263.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image262.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image261.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image260.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image259.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image258.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image257.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image256.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image255.jpgimage2015-07-01T05:16:46+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/27/day-32-friday-june-26-2015-santiago-spain/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image229.jpgimagePretty hard to see a field of stars with the Cathedral illuminated! Note the difference between the newly cleaned tower and the middle, yet to be refurbished.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image228.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image227.jpgimageThe Galetian celebration we attended at a small local theatre. 25 singers and more than 15 pipers, drummers and dancers entertained a very local audience. How fortunate we were to have been told about it. We suspect we may have been the only non-locals in the crowd.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image226.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image225.jpgimageThe view of the square in front of the Cathedral of Santiago, the exact " kilometre 0" of the many different caminos that cross all of Europe. The day we arrived almost 700 pilgrams were recorded as recipients of the Compostela, the certificate of completion of the Camino. What is special to us - this is the view from our room! Talk more later about the variance of feelings seen as pilgrams arrive.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image224.jpgimageGggg2015-06-29T22:41:48+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/26/day-31-june-25-2015-last-day-on-the-camino-rua-to-santiago-25-km/2015-06-29T00:16:16+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/25/day-30-wednesday-june-24-2015-happy-birthday-ryan-rest-day-near-rua-spain/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image207.jpgimageAll along the Camino home owners pay tribute to the trail by displaying the Camino shell in some way. Often it is in a fence, just like this. And of course there are always roses, by far the most prolific flower everywhere along the route. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image206.jpgimageWe know you have seen these shots before.... But it is so typical of many paths in the Camino - the umbrella of green provides welcome shade and probably lowers the temperature by as much as ten degrees. Today was hot - into the mid, maybe upper 30's so you can understand just how welcome this was!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image205.jpgimageThere were two resident dogs at the water mill hotel. Trotsky and I bonded ... He was such a gentle creature.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image204.jpgimageAnother view of the hotel and mill - Delana is standing directly over the gate that would have allowed the water to flow from the mill in the basement of the hotel, back into the stream. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image203.jpgimageOur last stay before arriving at Santiago was at an old water driven mill that had been built to grind corn. Delana is standing over the open spillway, were it closed the water would be diverted into the mill. 2015-06-25T22:18:30+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/24/day-28-monday-june-22-2015-melide-to-arzua-17-km/2015-06-24T16:23:05+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/24/day-29-tuesday-june-23-2015-arzua-to-rua-18km/2015-06-30T04:33:15+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/22/day-27-sunday-june-21-2015-fathers-day-palas-de-reid-to-melide-15-km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image186.jpgimageRod's new best friend.... The churro lady, she gave us some as a breakfast treat!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image185.jpgimageThat's a churro - like a sugared stick of donut. Only here you get a CUP FULL of melted chocolate to dunk them in!! https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image184.jpgimageWhat a great Father's Day dinner!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image183.jpgimageLove old bridges. When ever I see one like this I am reminded of the bridge in Ken Follett's Pillars of the Earth!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image182.jpgimageAnother kind of Horrereo, for drying meat or crops. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image181.jpgimageThat has got to be the biggest Camino shell that we have seen!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image180.jpgimageThis guy will do anything for a bit of grass!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image179.jpgimageNot too sure about why the nun is dancing with the pilgrim here but it is an interesting Camino statue.2015-06-23T16:55:56+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/21/day-26-saturday-june-20-2015-portomarin-to-palas-de-rei-25-km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image178.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image177.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image176.jpgimageHmmmm... On the menu it said anchovies. Those are the biggest anchovies I have ever seen and that's not olive oil, it's vinegar!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image175.jpgimageThe Camino trail is marked in many ways, the most usual being the shell in either metal or plaster / cement or simply a yellow arrow to indicate the way. Here the Templar influence incorporating the shell with the sword.2015-06-21T23:43:24+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/09/day-13-sunday-june-7-2015-astorgia-to-rabanai-del-camino-24-km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image89.jpgimageA special Pilgrims coffee.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image71.jpgimageTypical of our accomodation along the way - for the most part family run hotels, with as many as 20+ rooms and serving great european breakfasts ( fruit, yogurt, cheeses, meats, breads, fresh OJ and coffee to put Starbucks to shame! Dinner featuring huge portions of good food, including desert and wine is optional: the pilgram's meal that I have just described costs from 10 - 12 euros ( $14 to $17 CA ) https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image70.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image69.jpgimagePilgram's like to make cairns, inukshuks and leave rocks behind ( we are carrying a few - from our beach and from St Jean, where we started the Camino, both to be placed at the trail's end in Santiago). More about that tradition later. Here anything that could be used to make a cross has been used - over 500 meters of fence hosts thousands of crosses.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image68.jpgimageCamino capitalism at work. Here an artist has set up a table, miles from anywhere, and is selling his Camino inspired hand made items. Others set up a snack and drink stand, again strategically placed, just where a thirsty pilgram' really needs a break. But the Camino lesson: everything we have seen being sold on the Camino, is either by donation or at prices well below the already low Spanish prices.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image67.jpgimageEvery day we are treated to a chorus of songbirds, determined to lift our feet and spirits. Here is one little guy sitting atop some broom, just determined to make us smile.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image66.jpgimageIt is absolutely amazing what a little bit oh imagination can do. The yellow is from broom, the purple from petunias and the green - simply cut evergreens. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image65.jpgimageCovered in beautifully arranged fresh flowers, we caught this Corpus Christi parade entrant in the Cathedral.2015-06-21T17:02:26+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/20/day-25-friday-june-19-2015-rest-day-in-portomarin/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image168.jpgimageThe courtyard - that's our balcony above.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image167.jpgimageA new area and new foods! Here we are trying eels and a local cheese to die for. Other new food groups include: octopus, Spanish anchovies, pigs cheeks, and salted blanched peppers. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image166.jpgimageView of the inside of the 800 year old church that was dismantled, moved from the flood plain and rebuilt brick by brick in its current location. We thought that the colour of the stained glass was stunning and most unusual. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image165.jpgimage" these boots are made for walking" .... They haven't let us down yet. Backup by the way, are Tivas. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image164.jpgimageThe 'new' set of stairs leading to the new city site, high above the flooded valley. Last thing we wanted to do was to climb 50 stairs after a long days walk!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image163.jpgimageThe view from the dining room - that's the lake formed by the dam that flooded the valley with over 25 feet of water.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image162.jpgimageSuch a beautiful and restful rural hotel this was our balcony sitting area overlooking the courtyard. 2015-07-08T19:06:20+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/20/day-24-june-18-2015-sarria-to-portomarin-24-km/2015-06-20T17:41:01+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/19/day-22-tuesday-june-16-2015-triacastela-to-samos-17-km-including-to-gorolfe/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image146.jpgimageAnother perfect day as we depart Tricastela. While the people of Spain have all been so kind and friendly, our hosts in rural Spain have made us feel so very welcomehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image145.jpgimageA view of the front entrance to 6 to 7 story monastery. Unfortunately we missed the afternoon tour.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image144.jpgimageDescending into Samos, this was our first view of the Benedictine San Xulian Monastery https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image143.jpgimageEvery once in awhile there are shelters, especially along deserted trails. We have spoken to fellow pilgrims who have been so grateful for finding one. Here is one of the more primitive ones we have seen!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image142.jpgimageThere have always been some kind of rest areas along the Camino. They have varied from the most basic to those that would put BC Parks roadside areas to shame. Here, where slate is everywhere, the table tops and benches are beautiful slabs of smooth slate fit for a custom kitchen.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image141.jpgimage2015-06-19T12:44:31+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/19/day-23-wednesday-june-17-2015-48th-wedding-anniversary-gorolfe-to-sarria-9-5-km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image154.jpgimageCelebrating our 48th wedding anniversary https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image153.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image152.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image151.jpgimageThe alter at the Mary Magdalen Monastery. All of those flowers are fresh, such a smell so sweet and cool, you could have been in a garden. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image150.jpgimageBeautifully carved doors, a common sight. Between the handsome doors and the always present flower box display, even the time washed apartment can be so welcoming.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image149.jpgimageAnd some days you can't see the forest for the grass. ' Anyone seen a Camino Trail sign ? 'https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image148.jpgimageSlate is everywhere in this area. Imagine using meter wide slabs of beautiful grey slate for a fence! Interesting ( slate again) roof line on the house. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image147.jpgimageSome days it really is " a walk in the park" 2015-06-19T16:51:50+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/09/day-14-monday-june-8-2015-rabanai-del-camino-to-molinaseca-24-km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image79.jpgimageNear the top, we will descend to the bottom of those valleys before we get to take our boots off! In fact rod made a huge mistake: travelling with three kinds of foot wear, he wore his Tevas and was not carrying any back ups in his back pack. We had not been warned of this treacherous descent. Not the right footwear!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image78.jpgimageThe scene near the top of the Leon Mountains. What a beautiful sight. Bet those cows don't climb it every day. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image77.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image76.jpgimageGet the idea..... Not fun but once done, you feel a sense of real accomplishment. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image75.jpgimageAt the 4888 foot summit - the Cruz de Ferro ( Iron Cross) https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image74.jpgimageUntil the recent resurgence of interest in the Camino ( last year over 225,000 registered to do some portion of it) this area was in economic ruin. These stone walls are all that is left of centuries old buildings. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image73.jpgimageIt all started out as a beautiful day .... A walk in the park!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image72.jpgimageA Camino inspiration, home made cart, bandaged led and a whole lot of determination. 2015-06-16T21:10:30+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/14/day-18-friday-june-12-2015-villafranca-del-bierzo-to-las-herrerias-20-km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image121.jpgimageTypical of Camino Entrepreneurship: a small B&B, a coffee stop by day and a garden that is so exquisitehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image120.jpgimageThe church Delana mentions above, such a typical pilgrim's church along the way. Made of slate they are so simple but picturesque.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image119.jpgimageThought there no better way to show how steep the sides of the gorge leading into Galicia that to show this picture. To put the picture into perspective, that white object in the bottom right is a double trailer transport travelling on the main east west trans Spain highway. Those are cement covered sidehills!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image118.jpgimageBuildings along the road in the valley bottom leading out of Villafranca. While this is so typical of the decay we have seen across northern Spain, it is everywhere in this particular region and from what we have read, it will continue and worsen as we enter Galicia. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image117.jpgNow surrounded by slate roofed houses, this shows the size of the medieval Templar castle in Villafranca. The location of this fortress was strategically important, the next day's journey took us through a very narrow canyon where pilgrims were protected by the Templar knights from all the bad guys along the way.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image116.jpgimageTwo pilgrims , one kind of stony faced, the other very beautiful.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image115.jpgimageThe Posada Plaza Mayor, our resting very comfortable resting place in Villafranca. Showed you the view from it yesterday, here is it from the street. Wouldn't normally show our hotel, but this is so typical of our accommodations. Probably cost about $80 including a full and really nutritious breakfast. So very friendly and helpful staff, just like most others. 2015-06-16T20:59:28+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/16/day-21-monday-june-15-2015-rest-day-in-triacastela/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image140.jpgimageThe iron scallop shell symbol of the Camino in the gate of the old church where we later attended evening mass. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image139.jpgimageSet in a huge stone on the outskirts of Triacastela, the symbol of the Templar. Kind of an ominous sign to see, particularly when drawn in red.....https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image138.jpgimageRoses, roses roses everywhere on the Camino. Here outside the manor house. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image137.jpgimageAfter a long day on the Camino, there is nothing better than to soak away your aches in a tub. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image136.jpgimageSet away from the Camino, this was our home for two nights. Originally a rural manor, housing a wealthy land owner, its main dining room heated by a huge open fireplace, now serves modern pilgrims. Interesting, the local cow's milk cheese called tetilla or perilla produced the best cheesecake that we have ever had anywhere! https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image135.jpgimageThe Triacastela Chapel, originally built about the time of Columbus. There is a Pilgrim's mass held there every evening. We attended along with young and old, from every corner of the earth. 2015-06-16T21:19:19+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/08/31/day-three-to-zubiri/2015-06-16T16:08:54+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/15/day-20-sunday-june-1415-sabugos-to-tricastela-17km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image134.jpgimageAncient chestnut tree. How ancient who knows, the sign didn't say! Interesting that chestnuts are not just for human consumption but for animal fodder as well. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image133.jpgimageIt was such a beautiful walk down the last 5 km or so into Tricasela. The canopy of green foliage kept the rain off us, it was like a nippy stroll through a green tunnel. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image132.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image131.jpgimageOver the course of the past few days we have shared time with a US Vietnam veteran. A gentle man, we enjoyed sharing the Camino together. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image130.jpgimageGrain storage site - as designed in the Middle Ages. Complete with air vents and a post and lip to prevent unwanted creatures from entering 2015-06-16T16:03:31+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/14/day-19-saturday-june-19-2015-las-herrerias-to-saburgos/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image129.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image128.jpgimageThe forgotten old slate church that Delana referred to. Walking the Camino, at 'the pace of life' allowes pilgrams the opportunity and the time to open their minds and discover what has always been there, but never noticed before.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image127.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image126.jpgimageIt is tough fighting the wind. Need to stop and think sometimes - of earlier pilgrims without gortex, walking boots, maps and compass. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image125.jpgimageA palloza. From Celtic times 1,500 years ago, right up until the 1960s, the townspeople of O Cebreiro shacked in these humble, round stone huts with peaked thatched roofs. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image124.jpgimageAt the peak of O Cebeiro a map showing all the pilgrim routes from all over Europe, converging on Santiagohttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image123.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image122.jpgimageInside that little nondescript chapel by the road are all the relics and treasures of the church - no guards, no cameras, no attendant. We like to think that they are protected by the spirit of the Camino. 2015-06-16T15:59:22+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/11/day-17-thursday-11-june-2015-rest-day-villafranca-del-bierzo/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image114.jpgimageThe view from our hotel room window. Kind and friendly staff, great breakfasts and a view of the main square, set out in typical European style - open air coffee / bar / restaurant fashion. A place for meeting neighbors, exchanging grocery lists and having coffee with friends. Not unusual to see older generation spend hours together in this perfect social setting.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image113.jpgimageAnother ancient pilgram found wandering the streets and cafes of Villafranca.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image112.jpgimageA fellow pilgram who stayed here in Villafranca while we were here. Since he seemed such an ancient pilgrim character, he was often asked to pose for pictures. While posing for this picture a woman asked how old he was. We were somewhat taken aback when this ancient celebrity turned out to only be 70!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image111.jpgimageThe mountains are a great source of slate, so unlike the rest of Spain where red tiles are the most economic roofing material, here beautiful and long lasting slate is used everywhere.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image110.jpgimageMore vineyards in the hills surrounding Villafranca. Note how the rows 90 degrees to the slope of the hillside. It was the same in Germany and had to do with improving the irrigation.2015-06-12T03:28:11+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/11/day-16-wednesday-june-10-2015-cacabelos-to-villafranca-10-km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image109.jpgimageSo many of the streets in Europe seem to be faced with buildings that come right to the sidewalk. In fact behind the car and front entrance doors are entrance eays to beautiful courtyards. Here we are looking into a gardened area that is like a courtyard back garden.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image108.jpgimageThis is the second floor of our beautiful hotel in Cacabelos, the green in the foreground is in fact the top side of an 8 foot ceiling of grape vines covering one of the 'outdoor' areas below.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image107.jpgimageThis is to try to show the different styles of slate roofing. There is an old roof on the left with two newer on the right, the newer with different shaped slate tiles. Regarding the weather, " the rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain" wow proved so true. Last night it poured and still was during breakfast this morning. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image106.jpgimageHere's a funny one: our hotel was beautiful, meant to be rustic and done in countryside style. The light switches were built to resemble a piece of wood. 2015-06-11T16:37:51+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/10/day-15-tuesday-june-9-2015-molinaseca-to-cacabelos-24-km/2015-06-10T20:06:44+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/12/251/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image127.jpgimageThis was the scene earlier this evening - what seemed to be a calm Friday evening in downtown Burgos. By early evening the streets were filled, we mean packed. with Spaniards of all ages walking the streets... it seems a routine thing to be on the streets of the inner towns till late at night. Lots of street noise, competing recorded music blaring from almost adjacent storefronts and children yelling. As I type it is after11 pm and it is still very noisy, complete with young children who do not seem to have bedtimes!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image126.jpgimageWalking a 4 -6 km long path through a nature conserve bordering Burgos which has a population of 200,000https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image125.jpgimageThis is the (or as some other pilgrims called it a "Prayer Circle". SOme pilgrim, many years ago started with a cairn and a few stones leading out starting a circle of stones around the cairn. Over time the trail of stones goes around and around, forming concentric circles with each circular trail about 2 feet further from the center. Didn't count but I would estimate that there were over 20 circles of stones.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image124.jpgimageHere Mutti adds a stone for each of our families. Dad spent a few moments walking a few of the inner circles, he felt it very moving to think of the thoughts and situations behind the stones placed so long ago.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image123.jpgimageThe steep climb to the top of the Matagrande ridge was a bit of a challenge. A couple of kms of rough going, great for goats.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image122.jpgimageOur funny little hotel in Atapuerca, population 202.Most houses have to be 2-300 years old.2015-06-10T15:03:15+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/13/day-20-september-13-rest-day-in-burgos/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image137.jpgimagewalking back to the hotel at sunset. A great day off!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image136.jpgimageThe beautiful cathedral. First started in the 12th and 13th centuries. When finished it did not have the spires ... I think it must have really resembled Notre Dame. Later in the 15th century the spires were added.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image135.jpgimageThe Rio Alanzon - obviously the scene of high water - note the centuries old walls on either side.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image134.jpgimageGoes to show how the evolution of man can go wrong......https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image133.jpgimageThis is a model of what a brain looks like under a microscope... with Mutti modelling what a brain really looks like!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image132.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image131.jpgimageWelcomed by El Sid.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image130.jpgimageHard to see, one of so many fanciful statues about town - this one a fountain with water falling off the umbrellahttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image129.jpgimageWe thought that this looked like Gavin and Christian!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image128.jpgimageThe beautiful scene we entered Burgos - fall colours and the 800 year old cathedral on the horizon2015-06-10T14:57:29+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/07/day-12-saturday-june-6-2015-rest-day-in-astorga/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image64.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image63.jpgimageEngineering marvel so far ahead of his time and yet functionally perfect and so artistically unique!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image62.jpgimageMagnificent entry doors to Cathedral.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image61.jpgimageOne of many statues along the Camino https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image60.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image59.jpgimageExcavitation of Roman buildings which showed remarkable engineering: including heated water and heated floors, separate areas for spas, cooking and sleeping. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image58.jpgimageThis shows the Cathedral on the left with Gaudi' building on the right. Look closely and you will see terraced planters with flowers in the foreground. We expect that you will see those again.... We love the idea and will try to copy the planter idea. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image57.jpgimageWe enjoyed seeing the Spanish architect Gaudi's work so much in Barcelona last year, it was only natural for us to spend time viewing his Bishop's palace in Astorgahttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image56.jpgimage2015-06-07T21:12:43+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/06/day-11-june-5-2015-villar-de-mazarife-to-astorga-a-long-and-testing-34-km/2015-06-07T18:57:54+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/06/day-10-june-4-2015-leon-to-villar-de-mazarife-24-km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image47.jpgimagebeen waiting to post this one: - a Camino Classic. Just before the town of Mazarife. This shepherd, along with "Martin" our old friend, and his three sheep herding dogs were tending a large flock of up to two hundred sheep. Love the umbrella! https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image46.jpgimageWe are leaving the flat land grain area known as the Mesatta, suddenly in hilly deciduous forests, even oak trees!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image45.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image44.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image43.jpgimageLooking almost like a western movie prop, here the facade of an ancient church has been restored and kept with a new building behind.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image42.jpgimageThe Camino is celebrated in so many ways by almost every small community along the way. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image41.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image40.jpgimageThe cloister of the former monastery in Leon. Now one of the most beautiful of the Parador chain of hotels - all former monasteries 2015-06-06T19:43:26+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/04/day-9-june-3-2015-rest-day-in-leon/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image39.jpgimageSquare in front of the Basilica San Isidora.2015-06-06T00:25:43+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/03/day-8-june-2-2015-mansilla-de-las-mulas-to-lyon-20-km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image31.jpgimageA portion of the wall circling the combined Roman and medieval town of Mansilla de las Mulashttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image30.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image29.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image28.jpgimageLavender, lavender.... Everywhere!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image27.jpgimageWe figured that this home took a lot of work too. Turns out that these storks migrate here from North Africa , short hops as compared to some found in Denmark who fly in from South Africa!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image26.jpgimageA new 'low rise' condo development.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image25.jpgimageHere a bridge over 500 years old with over 20 spans, most now spanning arid land - a sign of changing water conditions in The country.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image24.jpgimageHere is one of the thousands of the aqueduct gravity driven "pumping stations". To cross roads and other obstacles, wanted is piped under the obstacle and then brought up - to a lower level, for distribution downstream. Well engineered and sometimes very complicated systems distribute water over miles of otherwise arid land. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image23.jpgimageSpain is a major producer of fruits, vegitables, wine, grains and beef, all which require water. Most of Spain suffers from drought conditions and so crops can only be produced where there is irrigation. We have never seen a countryside so irrigated by miles and miles of aqueducts. 60% of all the farms in Spain make up only 5% of the farm land, while 50% of the land is held by only 1% of the farm owners.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image22.jpgimageIf you look closely you can see the detail of the rock work in this home. Took a lot of loving craftsmanship!2015-06-04T18:37:33+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/03/day-7-june-1-2015-el-burgo-ranero-to-mansilla-de-las-mulas-20-km/2015-06-03T18:25:45+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/06/01/day-6-31-may-2015-sahagun-to-el-burgo-ranero-18-km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image11.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image10.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image9.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image8.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image7.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image6.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image5.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image4.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image3.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/image2.jpgimage2015-06-03T14:37:38+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/05/31/day-5-30-may-2015-a-day-off-in-sahagun/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image42.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image41.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image40.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image39.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image38.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image37.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image36.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image35.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image34.jpgimage2015-06-01T13:30:31+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/05/30/day-4-august-29-2015-calzadilla-de-la-cueza-to-sahagun-23-km/2015-05-31T20:32:57+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/05/29/day-3-may-28-2015-carrion-de-los-condes-to-calzadilla-de-la-creza/2015-05-30T16:30:05+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/05/27/day-2-may-27-2015-fromista-to-carrion-de-los-condes/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image15.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image14.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image13.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image12.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image11.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image10.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image9.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image8.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image7.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image6.jpgimage2015-05-29T20:33:32+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/05/26/day-1-may-26-2015-boadilla-del-camino-to-fromista-6-km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/image3.jpgimage2015-05-27T01:39:17+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2015/05/24/may-24-2015/2015-06-16T23:58:45+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/21/day-24-september-17-castrojeriz-to-boadilla-del-camino-19km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image169.jpgimageThose are our Camino passports. Every day we would find some special place that would certify our passing. Next year that passport, when completed, will allow us to be awarded the a compostela, a certificate of completion of the pilgrimage.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image168.jpgimageThat's a stork's nest on the top of our destination church. Look at the size!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image167.jpgimageOur destination the church at Boadilla del Camino, some 350 km from our start 25 days ago. We climbed 800 foot sidehills, avoided some thunderstorms and descended into valleys carved by the water erosion from the mountains to the south. From here next year we have a level s hot for 5? Days before getting into some serious vertical routes. Sadly the church was closed but we were able to get our Camino Passports stamped at the nearby auberge. Interesting comment that Rod heard while there " wow, a shower, my first in two weeks" . Pilgrims are willing to do without.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image166.jpgimageThis was unusual.... Yes for those who have lived on the prairies, that is a grain elevator and the first one we have ( ever!) seen in Europe. 2014-09-29T22:11:31+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/16/day-23-september-19-rest-day-in-castrojeriz/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image163.jpgimageThats the castle we were going to walk to.... yes, it shows how walking the Camino can change your attitude about a 'little hill' !https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image162.jpgimageThe School of Saint Mary of the Apple Tree... with the beautiful flowers in the foregroundhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image161.jpgimageThe School of Saint Mary of the Apple Tree... with the beautiful flowers in the foreground.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image160.jpgimageOur hotel is an old rural manor - are historical family pictures and memorabilia everywhere; both military and from the bull fighting ring. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image159.jpgimageThere is the blue room and the red room.. here is Mutti relaxing in a room filled with history.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image158.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image157.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image156.jpgimage2014-09-17T06:28:27+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/16/day-22-september-15-hornillos-del-camino-to-castrojeriz-21-km/2014-09-16T20:13:49+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/14/day-21-september-14-burgos-to-hornillos-del-camino-24km/2014-09-14T21:32:15+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/11/day-19-september-11-villafranca-montes-de-oca-20km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image121.jpgimageOur destination today - 6 hours of walking. This is Atapuerca population 202 (was 200 sixteen years ago). Typical of so many ancient villages - a huge church in the center of a very quiet village with many flower boxes and a single cafe, serving good coffee and fresh bread!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image120.jpgimagePilgrims leave some strange signs.... here concentric circles, the largest 50 feet in diameterhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image119.jpgimageYou have to look closely - these tiny blossoms seemingly arise from the dirt without stems or leaves. They appear to have been thrown there.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image118.jpgimagethe bells at the Romanesque monastery, in San Jaun de Ortega, built as a help point for pilgims 1000 years agohttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image117.jpgimageSuddenly we are almost back up at the 000 foot level. Here in beautiful pine forrest walking a fire line cut from the managed pine foresthttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image116.jpgimageNeed Garner and Emmitt's help here https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image115.jpgimageNot all is good and clear going! Note the ferns - we are in wet climates on rain side of mountainshttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image114.jpgimagePastoral scene as we depart Villafranca Montas de Oca ( translation - 'the geese mountains) 900 year old church, almost as old as we felt climbing the 1000 feet after leavinghttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image113.jpgimage2014-09-12T18:41:52+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/11/day-18-september-10-belorado-to-villafranca-montes-de-oca-12km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image112.jpgimageESPECIALLY FOR GARNER AND EMMITT... a big digger hauling a load of potatoes (Note - a New Holland product - see them everywhere here)https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image111.jpgimageThe stairs leading to the Queen's Room... where we are at the top of the stairs. This is a huge old beautiful hotel in the middle of no where. Good choice Mutti!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image110.jpgimageAnd finally - the Queen's Room.... three times the size of the one last night. And yes - a tub!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image109.jpgimage12 th century Hermitage of Saint Felix - who lived in this complete with his eco roof!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image108.jpgimage2014-09-11T07:31:53+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/09/day-17-sept-9-santo-domingo-de-la-calzada-to-belogrado-23km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image105.jpgimageThe boot / shoe room. All pilgrims remove their out door footwear in the auberge where accommodation is less than $15 a night. We ate at one tonight where the accommodation was less than $7https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image104.jpgimageOur hotel room tonight. Love the old outside rock wall. Probably over 300 years old. Run by a hard working family who keep it squeaky clean.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image103.jpgimageWe thought this was our hotel ..... Something out of the old west!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image102.jpgimageA friend we met along the wayhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image101.jpgimageEvery town has a " Calle Mayor" - translation: High Streethttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image100.jpgimageThat is a field of onions being picked and for Garner: that is a BIG RED TRUCKhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image99.jpgimageWe don't know what he is, but he was cute. Like a small white chested, 6 inch long, gopher.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image98.jpgimageA 600 year old baptismal fonthttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image97.jpgimageThis is the church that serves a town of less than 1500 people. It was built almost 600 years ago. Ladysmith is just over 110 years old.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image96.jpgimageA sunflower happy face done by pilgrams2014-09-09T21:46:30+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/05/day-13-august-5-logrono-to-navarrete-13km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image65.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image64.jpgimageA statue in the town square - that's a wine container on the bronzed statuehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image63.jpgimageA giant stylized bottle of wine from the winery just outside the town we are in - Navarrete. A bottle of some of the local wines sells for as little as $3 - it is considered food and therefore not taxed!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image62.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image61.jpgimagea Camino water tap... Rods poles beside. The poles are an absolute must. Makes for much easier climbing and safer descents. Thank you Heather!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image60.jpgimageThis is a funny one. This is a picture looking straight down into the water below a small bridge. Pictured are many carp, and a single duck, all fighting for the cookie crumbs that Rod dropped into the water. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image59.jpgimageLook at the beauty of the green and gold combinationhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image58.jpgimageAn upscale pintos bar...(we know it as tapis - a diagonal slice of French bread with all sorts of different meats, cheeses, veggies, fish, you name it. Three is a meal.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image57.jpgimageSee how the balconies have been extended and enclosed. Most have windows that open. Makes for a very beautiful exterior. Other pictures follow.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image56.jpgimageLooking across a beautiful park towards the tall 5 and 6 story renovated apartment buildings, most a few hundred years old2014-09-08T18:57:18+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/08/day-16-september-8-rest-day-in-santo-domingo-de-la-calzada/2014-09-08T16:55:04+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/07/day-15-sept-7-najera-to-santo-domingo-de-la-calzada/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image86.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image85.jpgimageThis is a potato growing area - here is the mascot for the local potato company - for the grandchildren!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image84.jpgimageMany of you reading this will remember our beloved dachshund "Yeager".... We felt for sure that this was our old buddy and not a tree line on the horizon.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image83.jpgimageThat's not Mutti waiting for a bus... During our cross country jaunt we needed some rest and shade. We found cool protection in a water culvert tunnel.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image82.jpgimageWe did something a bit off piste today. Seeing that the Camino course was going to be longer and with a higher pass, we decided to cut out on our own. Part of our overland ( and dale) route took us through vineyards and really basic dirt paths. It was hot and dirty going. Don't think we will try that again. If the proven Camino path is good enough for the hundreds of thousands before us, we accept that it is good enough for us.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image81.jpgimageOff in the distance, a rock built, igloo like structure that could house 10 or a few more. We understand that these are used to accommodate the seasonal grape picking migrant force from Africa.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image80.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image79.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image78.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image77.jpgimagePretty hard to see but there is a viaduct running across the hillside. Much of this area is served by an interconnected cement viaduct system to distribute the valuable water2014-09-08T08:35:38+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/06/day-14-september-6-navarrete-to-najera-19-km/2014-09-06T20:11:28+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/05/day-12-september-4-rest-day-in-logrono/2014-09-05T23:32:30+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/04/day-11-september-3-viana-to-logrono-10-km-thats-right-just-10/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image55.jpgimageI anyone thinks that Rod likes frozen yogurt, take a look at the expression on Delana's face... Great end to a super day!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image54.jpgimageFrozen Yogurt .... ahhhh feels so good at the end of a hot day!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image53.jpgimageLa Redonda - cathedral in Logrono, just next door to our hotel. Thought it looked so beautiful at night.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image52.jpgimageThose are very small snails - behaving like parasites on plants that look like dandelions. They seem to be the only ones they attack. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image51.jpgimageA rare sight - straight, flat, even surfaced and in the shade! Wow happiness is!!!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image50.jpgimageRod didn't want to stand beside this plant (alo vera) but Delana wanted the picture...https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image49.jpgimageJust down the street from our hotel was another church, another large but beautiful one. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image48.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image47.jpgimageThat is probably 50 feet high - all gold gilt. Makes you wonder where the money came from....https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image46.jpgimageFrom yesterday's written entry "Our hotel Palacio de Pujadas was once a family palace. It exhibits many artifacts from centuries ago, including the family confessional." So on our way out of the hotel we tried it out!!2014-09-04T21:23:23+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/04/day-10-september-2-los-arcos-to-viana-18-5km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image44.jpgimageA pilgrims shelter, we have seen these in long stretches between any areas of habitationhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image43.jpgimageAn idea of the slope of some areas. This would be really difficult in the rain!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image42.jpgimageOne of my favourite pictureshttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image41.jpgimageYet another collection - these about 2 feet highhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image40.jpgimageAs we have pointed out before, inukshuks (milladoiros in Spain) are a common sight on the Camino - but this was the largest collection yet. Many have a note (sometimes plasticized) paying tribute to a lost loved one or a note of successfully dealing with an issuehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image39.jpgimage2014-09-04T17:43:34+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/04/day-9september-1-estella-to-los-arcos-23km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image35.jpgimageWalking the Camino is much about attitude. We found great support in our interpretation of this sign, to us it says 'THIS ROUTE IS OEN TO ALL 70 OR OLDER"https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image34.jpgimageThat is a lot of hay! We had never seen such large rectangular bales of hay, each about 3' x 5' x 8'https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image33.jpgimageTo give you an idea, it is just after 1 pm. See the second hill top from the left (about a third of the horizon from the left side), now come down from that green hill side and it looks like a brown valley - that is where we started this morning. A good but hilly - up and down, walkhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image32.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image31.jpgimageThe "Fuente del Vino" monastery winery serving wine or water to the pilgrims2014-09-04T16:25:37+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/04/day-8-august-31-rest-day-in-estella/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image30.jpgimageDifferent view of same church.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image29.jpgimageThe view out our hotel window. Front row seats as the bells chimed every quarter hour. Funny - you get used to it - an occurrence in every town.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image28.jpgimageWandering about the town. The height of the cliffs behind the buildings gives you an idea of the terrain.2014-09-04T10:44:28+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/04/day-7-august-30-puente-la-reina-to-estella-23km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image27.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image26.jpgimageSuch a simple structure, four walls. Thats Delana to the left for a size comparison. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image25.jpgimageInside the Ermitage de San Miguel. This was the spiritual highlight to date: such a simple structure, over a thousand years old. Very powerful to think of the thousands of pilgrims who have stood at this alter. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image24.jpgimageTough goinghttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image23.jpgimageAt first I was so excited - there are olive trees everywhere ( as well as fig and almond) but it is a long long flavour journey from a green olive on a tree to a greek salad! Wow are they sour!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image22.jpgimageAll along the Camino pilgrims leave behind various expressions of their spiritualism. Here it was simply weaving sticks in the form of a cross in a highway fence.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image21.jpgimageAfter every bridge is a hill up the other side, this one moderately steephttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image20.jpgimagePretty good looking after a thousand years (referring to the bridge....)https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image19.jpgimageThe back wall of this lovely little hotel is actually part of the town's 1000 year old defence wall. We stayed in their bridal suite!2014-09-04T10:23:34+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/03/day-6-august-28-pamplona-to-puenta-la-reina-24km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image18.jpgimageWe hope you can make the wording out, it tells an interesting Camino storyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image17.jpgimageThe Camino is signed with many different types of markers, all originating from the shell. One explanation of the shell: the lines represent the many camino routes towards Santiago.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image16.jpgimageWe were amazed by how rock filled the fields are. https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image15.jpgimageThis was on the way down. It was a bit of a slow go. Here Rod carefully places a stone on an inukshuks https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image14.jpgimageThe information sign at the top of the hill. This tells a the story better than we canhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image13.jpgimageFinally at the top. The metal figures are explained in the next picture. A special place!!photo. It is https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image12.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image11.jpgimageThat's our climb ahead, note the windmills at the top of the ridgehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image10.jpgimage2014-09-03T20:33:34+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/03/day-5-pamplona-a-blessed-day-of-rest/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image9.jpgimageRod has found the ultimate meat sausage store!2014-09-03T17:54:17+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/09/03/day-4-august-27-zubiri-to-pamplona-23km/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image8.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image7.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image6.jpgimageOff in the distance is our morning's start point. Here we are in a sunflower field, have walked 8 km and are on our way to a 1500 foot high ridge topped with windmills supplying all the power for Pamplona, population 200,000https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image5.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image4.jpgimageThis is the scene at 9 pm, the restaurants so full that people are sitting on the streets to eat and it is standing room everywhere in front of every bar. What is amazing is that the waiters can remember every item when adding up your tab!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image3.jpgimageA photo in a coffee shop of last years Running of the Bulls... No thanks!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image2.jpgimageEntering Pamplona, about to go through the walls surrounding the 1500 year old city. We have just walked over the Magdalana bridge over the river Arga, that wall is over 60 feet high and 600 years oldhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image1.jpgimageWe took this picture because it shows that there are places with more dandelions that at Forever House!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/image.jpgimageDetermination... difficult to show an uphill grade. The wonderful news: sunshine every day!2014-09-03T17:24:38+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/08/30/day-2-aug-25-to-roncesvalles/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image28.jpgimageMorning coffee, really good. Best to order a large espresso with hot milk on the side hmmmmmhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image27.jpgimageA welcome break!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image26.jpgimageSome rocky and rough goinghttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image25.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image24.jpgimageNot everybody made it!!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image23.jpgimageWe were so very lucky that it had not rained. Many small rivers become pretty wide and deep following usual rainhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image22.jpgimageDelana and Martin... turns out that Martin will not go over a bridge.https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image21.jpgimage25 down, 790 to go!https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image20.jpgimageCast of "The Way" stayed in Roncesvalles https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image19.jpgPart of the beautiful auberge at RoncevallesPart of the beautiful Auberge at Roncesvalles. Usual lodging cost there is about 5 - 9 Euros a night, many in room, few showers etc2014-08-31T22:31:45+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/08/20/through-the-pyranies-by-pictures/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image18.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image17.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image16.jpgimage2014-08-31T21:58:40+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/2014/08/15/beginning-the-journey/https://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image15.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image14.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image13.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image12.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image11.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image10.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image9.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image8.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image7.jpgimagehttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/image6.jpgimage2014-09-08T18:36:52+00:00monthlyhttps://walkingthecaminotogether.com/about/2014-08-25T16:57:39+00:00weekly0.6https://walkingthecaminotogether.comdaily1.02015-07-08T19:06:20+00:00