Days 13-14 on the Camino

Yesterday I walked 14 miles to Belorado. I walked most of the day by myself but met up with friends at cafes along the way. There were several small towns to pass through on the path today, so lots of stopping opportunities. And when you pass a cafe and see other pilgrims sitting outside, generally you reconnect or introduce yourself, sit for a coffee or tea and snack. Sometimes it becomes a big party in itself. Yesterday was sort of like that with all the stops. It made the day go by quickly. It got pretty hot in the afternoon, though, so Belorado was a welcome sight. I had heard there was a hostel with good food and more importantly a pool, so I headed straight there. Luckily they had a bed. I found several Camino friends already there and I joined them in the pool. It was amazing to swim around and feel the weightlessness after pounding my feet every day! And the weather was perfect! They were playing light music, and we had a great few hours relishing the glory of a pool on Camino!

This albergue offered a pilgrim meal which means a communal meal with others staying there. Those are usually wonderful for the conversation and sometimes the food is good too. This food was great! And we had a wonderful evening.

Today I hiked about 8 miles, partially in the rain, partially with the Irish men, Padre and El Raymon, then took a bust to Burgos. I am skipping about 22 miles so I can make my deadline. It means I probably won’t see the many friends I’ve made over the past 2 weeks. Though a few of them like to do really long hiking days so they might catch up. I hate to do it but I have to get to Santiago by July 16. No worries. I’ll make more Camino friends and I am in touch with all the rest through text. It is the way of the Camino.

I already met new friends on the bus to Burgos. A mother and daughter from Michigan who gave me great tips for some places to stay later on.

And I landed in Burgos today in the middle of a big festival! Yay! So much excitement in town, lots of people, music, food, and celebration. It makes me so happy!

But before I could join the party, I had to see the cathedral de Santa Maria. This is something to behold. It is huge! And the intricate detail! The stone work! And the very interesting clock! See pics and video on Facebook or instagram.

After the cathedral I wandered around the festivities, ate some good food and then headed back to the hostel. Tomorrow I start the Maseta portion of the Camino. It is known for being flat, with fields that go on forever and very little variety or shade. Luckily, tomorrow it is supposed to be in the 60’s, cloudy and probably some rain, so shade shouldn’t be an issue. It shpuld be a 14 mile day!

Buen Camino!