Day 36: Villafranca del Bierzo to Herrerias

I had such a touching moment this morning when I left my ‘digs’…..

But maybe I sound tell you about the really lovely placed I stayed at – and, once more the really lovely people I stayed with, it was a small hostel, right opposite the castle at Villafranca del Bierzo and my room was, well, quirky, here’s a picture

And there was even an English novel there for me to read – I didn’t! But what a nice touch, and my meal was excellent, ravioli followed by Veal stew (and chips!). When I left this morning I said to the signora that I loved her hostel and she replied “we love you too” and gave me the most loving and sincere hug. I was so touched by her loving attitude, the kindness of strangers….. this, my friends, is The Camino….

My travels today took me close to main roads, via a little path that runs along the verge, but then veering off to lush pastures and babbling books, and cows with calves, and sheep with lambs. Then into a village for cafe con leche, and on and on, an easy path, but always veering close to the road. It was a walk of contrasts, two women working in an orchard, with a huge viaduct above them….

The constant ringing of bells from around the goats necks….

And flowers peeping through everywhere and gladdening my heart….

And lots of “ripe for conversion” properties…..

And over all this, massive viaducts high up in the air with, it would seem, “normal” Spanish life going on hundreds of metres below…

I wonder how a project like this is ever started, does the Forman turn up with the plans and the measurements and “stuff” and say right chaps, dig a hole here? Is there lots of head scratching? There is certainly lots of concrete, invented I believe by the Romans….. the whole concept fascinates me from beginning to end…..

Babbling brooks and roaring rivers, and now we have thunder and lightening, and I am safely in my Pension, warm and dry, aching, and happy….

Love Susan x