27 May - Stage 2 - Venta del Escamplero to Cornellana 25 km

Left at 7.30 walking with the German. We walked for about 1 km together, then he went ahead. No bar or shop open at Venta. Thank goodness I bought 2 rolls last night as I ate one walking along. Have just reached the first toilet/bar stop, now at 10.30, probably have walked 9.3 km.

 

Walked on path/road along a river, sometimes very narrow, other times wide enough for a jeep. Beautiful countryside, similar to Knysna or parts of Cecilia forest before they started cutting. Silence. Birds. Running water. Small farms with hardworking people.

Last night there were probably 20 of us in the albergue, all over 60, and just 2 ladies. So much knowledge capital there, all retired and not using their knowledge!

Walk into Grado fine, gentle, then began the climb. 450 m over 3 km to Alto del Fresnu. Then in addition to the birds, the heart gave off sound. It was hot. I thought - I need a Clara drink - one-quarter lemon, the rest beer. It was a long time before I saw a bar, and got my drink. Today I drank 2 bottles of water filled from local fountains. This route does not have the infrastructure of the French route. Few people, quiet.

Tonight in an old abbey that is being restored so we could not go in. We have lovely dorms, tumble driers, nice showers, and toilet paper. 5 euros. We have a white owl to watch over us.

Such an old building! Built in 1024

! 

Below are images of the reconstruction work, and an owl nesting in the scaffolding.

And pilgrims using the dormitories