An early start to the day promises an early end at your destination, so a slight uphill climb out of Estella, designed to wake up ones thighs was almost as good as caffeine. Towards the top of the hill leading out of town, the most beautiful sunrise greeted the Camino.
Today’s walk was almost as gorgeous as the first day. Farmland, rolling hills, giant stacks of hay bales (not like anything I remember from Missouri), with mountains in the distance were the scenery of the day. Breathtaking. At the top of the conical peak of Monjardin (which we were dreading the possibility of actually climbing), are the ruins of Castillo de San Esteban from the 12th Century. A village just down the slope was a perfect spot for a coffee and a couple of selfies. Onward through vineyards and past olive trees to the town of Los Arcos.
The church in the main square is the Iglesia de Santa Maria from the 12th century, but with embellishments from later centuries Gothic, Baroque and even Classical elements were added to the Romanesque. I met up with several different groups for a drink and then dinner in the shadow of the church, and was particularly inspired by Bernard from Ireland, on his 3rd Camino. He had some wisdom that was particularly relevant to some thoughts spinning in my head about the people you meet along the way, and how to disconnect and yet take away something from each encounter.
Tomorrow I will walk partway with my companions of the last week, and then will go on to Logrono alone. Freddie and Mary are breaking up the 28 km day so I will head on alone. (Although I’m certain to find people to chat with should I want to). I will see them again as Logrono is one of my stops with 2 nights, and I’m looking forward to laundry, rest and rioja.
