The Road Less Travelled

Today was a step back into early spring. As we set out on the trail just after dawn there was an etherial mist rising from the fields around us. I had just left Tostanos with my Kiwi friends Liz, Margaretta and Judy and Laura (from Kentucky but soon to move to Winnipeg) After we passed Villafranca we entered the trail up through the Montes de Orca. This part of the Camino was one of the most feared in older times due to it´s steepness, dense undergrowth and harsh weather. Today we encountered a very steep climb at the beginning but the trail flattened out and took us through beautiful forested areas not yet fully leafed but with early spring flowers everywhere. One section was lined for over 3 kms with gorgeous purple shrubs of a type of tall heather (over half our height and many different shades from the lightest lavender to the deepest purple) The air was cool but we enjoyed sun and blue sky - perfect hiking weather.



The company of new found friends makes the time pass quickly and as we walk along we get to know each other. The variety in the people on the Camino is remarkable - there are all ages and occupations. A doctor from Australia might be sharing the trail with a student from Romania and a retired farmer from New Zealand. In the hostels all of us have chance to relax and unwind at the end of the long day´s hike and there are always new pilgrims as well as familiar faces. In some locations we are offered wonderful hospitality and comfortable (bunk) beds with modern if simple facilities. In other places the accomodations are primitive - thin mats on the floor of an old, drafty church with one toilet and shower for twenty people. However the situation, there is always something wonderful to celebrate and we are grateful. Some people are on a tight schedule and must cover over 25km in a day - others are "smelling the roses" and taking extra time to visit churches, historic sites or simply staying for the odd rest day in a town or village. I have allowed some extra time but find I want to stay connected with those travellers I´ve met along the way. So with a brisk pace (I like to walk quickly) I still manage to take hundreds of photos and keep up with the others.