Distance travelled so far : 420 kms
Distance to go : 392 kms
If you look at the topography of the route today the major climb of nearly 400 kms is not appealing to some. Julie and Bob have come to the end of their walk and fly to England and Europe in the next few days. I have swapped my pack for hers and indeed, being a smaller length made it more comfortable.
Much of the walk today was shaded despite the ascents, although it was very humid. We had some good company on the way and an unexpected adventure.
Early start and as soon as we left Villaviciosa we were walking past acres and acres of cornfields.
Big tick for this little cafe that was open on a Sunday. Great coffee to set us on our way.
Along this section, the Caminos bifurcate - the coastal route and The Primitivo deeper into the mountains.
We continued on the northern coastal route.
Up the Alto de la Cruz. A few rests on the way were needed.
The route took us down the road and we looked back at our achievement.
This Spanish walker was our companion for most of the morning. He reminded me of the White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland, checking his phone constantly, darting off and then stopping. I think he had a full set of office equipment in his bag, it definitely wasn't a picnic.
In Peon there was s friendly bar and they even had iced coffee. Very welcome rest point.
Apple orchards in this part of the valley.
Large cider barrels and equipment.
A huge hollow trunk of a tree fascinated passers-by. Here some of the French contingent use it as
a photo opportunity.
Some cyclists suggested we walk this path rather than the road because it was muy bonito (very beautiful) and mas corta (shorter). It was beautiful but when we completed it we were in unknown country with no markings to guide us.
Suddenly in the distance we saw a sign of life - an exclusive hotel. La Pintal. We wandered in non- chalantly, ordering a drink ...and a taxi, por favour. Little did we realise that we had discovered the main route.
It was quite a distance to Gijon and it had been recommended that we bus it a certain few kilometres. Our taxi driver showed us the impressive university and stadium as we drove through. We wanted to stay in the old town and it all opened before us. A magic day to arrive with so many enjoying the beaches and facilities of the town.
A Roman town from the third century.
Excellent examples of Roman baths and buildings.
Life around the Plaza Mayor.
Artwork near the 1902 battlements. Elogy of the Horizons by the Basque artist, Eduardo Chillida.
The Industrial side to Gijon. Now a port for the petro- chemical industry.
Last night out together for delicious meal at Dosmasuno. Put it on your list.
Excellent service and innovative cuisine.
Still 25o at 10pm. Everyone out enjoying a meal.
Short, but wonderful, stay in Gijon.
M&M
1 comment:
Your blog and pics is making me really look forward to Del Norte .I was a bit dubious before.
Thankyou h
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