Ages, Spain

Linda

Russ wanted me to pass on the news that he IS crippled now, but is learning how to walk with the pain! His shins are sore, and also one ankle. I have my first blister, but it's a small one on the side of my heel so was able to walk today without much discomfort.
Yesterday we had our most unpleasant day yet, from Santo Domingo de la Calzada to Belorado. We were expecting a relatively easy and short (23km) walk, but the wind was very strong and right in our faces the whole time. To make it worse it was also very cold!! I was not happy the last hour of walking, as there were no bathrooms to use, and no trees or bushes as we were on a trail beside a busy highway! The guys have it made in that respect! It was our friend Margit's birthday, so we checked into hotel rooms that night rather than the cheaper alburgue, and felt somewhat better after being pampered.
This morning we were on the trail by 7am and although a bit chilly, no wind. Turned out to be a glorious morning and the trail was winding through golden fields of hay that had been harvested. No more vineyards and olive trees - just brown fields everywhere. The destination recommended in our guide was St. Juan de Ortega, however the only alburgue in that town has a bad reputation, so we opted to walk 4 kms further, to Ages. (total of 27.9 km)
We were the first ones to arrive at the municipal alburgue, and were ecstatic to score a room for four, so we are not sleeping with the rest of the pilgrims in the main room! We are feeling very smug.
Tomorrow we walk to Burgos, where we will spend two nights. We are both looking forward to a day off. We will see the famous cathedral there, and may also take a taxi to the archeological ruins at Atapuerca, which is close to the Camino, however we will pass it very early in the morning.
More later from Burgos.....


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