The longest walk yet, 30 km, and I thanked my Camino angel Kim every step of the way. Who knew it didn’t have to hurt! The new boot are amazing, and while I’m writing this with my feet elevated and after a cold soak, that seems to be pretty typical treatment after a long walk!
The path wound it’s way through Logrono for some time; towards the city limits there were miles of parkland that was quite beautiful and an amazing art project mural on a wall and through a tunnel under the street. A big lake had dozens of swans and ducks and the way was well shaded. Further on one section of the route ran above the highway and in the chain link fence others on the Camino had placed hundreds of crosses in fence with twigs and bark. At the end of this section, before the town were the ruins of a medieval monastery of the Order of San Juan de Acre founded in the 12th C to look after pilgrims.
The first town on the route was Navarette, about 13 km on. And in the first cafe where I stopped for a cup of tea I found Johnny! We were unable to find him in Logrono because the albergues were all full, so he slept in an empty cabin that was at the edge of the town park. It was so wonderful to catch up with him since we had last walked together into Pamplona. We continued on together to the next town, Ventosa, and after another quick break and some almonds straight from a tree, he decided to continue on with me to Najera. The way was mostly through vineyards, so provided little shade, but there always seems to be a “man with a van” somewhere along the route with refreshments, and today was no different. Fresh squeezed OJ got us going for the final 5 km.
Najera was the capital of the Kingdom of Navarre during the 11th and 12th C’s. The Royal Pantheon, part of the Monasterio de Santa Maria de la Real houses the tombs of many illustrious people of historical Navarre.
I learned while walking that it’s just as wonderful to walk alone as it is to walk with fellow travelers met along the way. I’m glad to have had a bit of both today.
my only companions at the start this morning
part of mural on tunnel wall
Johnny!
These boots were made for walking
What’s the name/brand of these boots? So glad you were gifted them. Onward!
Lowa. They’re high ankle boots and while I don’t lace them tight all the way up they are plenty roomy and so comfortable! Been checking your blog too… looks like a great trip — love all the music/art/museum explorations. Beautiful part of America.
Finally getting the chance to read all the entries! This is so cool! I wish I was there with you. Well, maybe for the stops and the wine. Love you!!