Distance walked so far : 96 kms
Distance to Santiago de Compostela : 716 kms
Mark and l left the Augusto albergue about 5.30am to minimise walking in the heat of the day. It
was a sensible idea but we had no idea it would be such a long day. Fortunately, the gradients
of the climbs were nothing of the knee- crunching nature of yesterday.
A note of comforting graffiti as we leave through a Marquina underpass.
Full moon over the farmyards.
A creative Basque stable.
We walked along the river but it wasn't long until we had crossed into another valley.
More towns on the route which were convenient for regular refreshments.
A special moment this morning when the path took us through the medieval monastery,
Monasteries de Zenarruza. It has a 14th century Gothic church and courtyard. As we were
Investigating we heard singing and Mark suggested we go in. The Cistercian monks were fully robed
In red, so it must be a saint's day. Accompanied by the organ, the sung service was very peaceful - and I realised for Mark, this wasn't a religious experience, as I assumed. He wasn't praying - he was going to sleep. This was just an excuse to have a bit of a rest, before I could push him back on the trail.
Some slippery slopes with moist mud and damp stones caused some delays as we carefully
navigated our way down.
Mark found access to a river at about 1pm and soaked his feet, and cooled down.
Lots of friendly pelegrinos on the road. Not much shade in this section.
Mark found some respite on a new pathway into Gernika. Fortunately the locals have eliminated
one ascent and corresponding descent due to pine tree clearance.
It was 39o as we walked into Gernika. A modern city, as a result of the devastation wreaked by Franco in the Spanish Civil War in 1937. Few historic buildings remain.
The main albergue is only open in August so we've opted for a one star hotel (50 euros),
recommended in the guide book, Hotel Bolina - bar, restaurant and clean rooms, ours is unfortunately on the 4th floor - our luck, no lift!
The magnificent entrance to the Church of Santa Maria, one of the few buildings not destroyed
during th Spanish Civil War.
Just along from the church is a replica of Picasso's Gernika, in response to the horrors inflicted on the city.
Washing done in our scrubber bag. A quick and effective way to wash all our clothes.
Google it to see how it works.
My feet see in great shape, despite the daily hammering. I'm wearing toed liner socks. I'm
finding they are protecting my toes very effectively.
While we were in the Tourist Office we found out about the semi-final Jai Alaii game on tonight, so we bought some tickets, as it is close to where we are staying. Hope we can stay awake.
It's a game played with a team of 2 players. They use a scoop to throw and catch a small hard
plastic ball against the front and back walls of the court. Great atmosphere with the crowd appreciating the remarkable dexterity of the players. Another Basque treat.
10.45pm and it's still 24o.
M&M
