Day 32 elevation profile
Today’s short distance might seem a bit wimpish – but believe me, it was most appreciated. My knees were still recovering after yesterday’s walk down the mountain.
We rose at our usual time but decided to have breakfast before we left. We were treated to a simple breakfast of toast and ham or jam cooked while we sat a chatted to our host. He had completed 27 Caminos, himself, over the years and now runs the hotel we stayed at. As we chatted he gave us some very useful advice – don’t drink the water from the fountains (it will make you ill), it is better to drink the wine and lastly, and most importantly, go slow.
So, we toddled off at a slow pace and really enjoyed the spectacular roses in the gardens along the way. We watched one pilgrim in front of us smell every rose bush we passed, he was certainly taking it slow.
Always take time to smell the roses
Before long we were in Ponferada, known for its mighty castle. We checked into our lodging before lunch and spent the rest of the day exploring the town- including the castle. It was very special, lots of history and interesting stories about the Knights Templar. Who are these men? They keep popping up everywhere we go.
What a stronghold for the early Christian church.
We took the opportunity for an early night, to be ready for a much longer walk tomorrow.