The Best Albergue – Camino de Santiago – Day 14

Day 14

Hornillos – Castrojeriz

20.1 km / 12.5 miles

We will be walking through the Meseta (a high central plateau) for the next week.  There seems to be less people walking on the camino now.  From what I hear, a lot of people skip this section since it is considered to be boring to some, with long days and few stops.  I can not imagine skipping any section of the camino.  I would feel like I had cheated.  However, too each is own.

I see Emilie walking today.  We spend more time talking and getting to know one another.  She is smart and impressively wise for her age.  We can have in depth discussions on life and spirituality without emotionally getting involved, regardless of our viewpoints.  I enjoy her company.

 

The village I am staying in is called Castrojeriz.  It sits up on the top of a hill overlooking its surrounding area.  Emilie and I walk most of the day together.  I have seemed to have gotten used to the pain in my feet.  Walking never gets easier, however, the pain eventually does begin to dull.

The Best Albergue Thus Far

When I arrive into town, most places have not even opened yet for business.  I sit and wait for a room before any else has arrived at the albergue Iacobus.

I walk around the back to wide expansive views of the Meseta and village.  The view is pleasantly surprising.  I sit and drink a cafe and gaze at the horizon.  Cafe has become a part of my daily routine.  I do not usually drink coffee at home.  It has become a treat for me here.  I look forward to this part of my day when I can relax and sip on a coffee with toast.

I think to myself how lucky I am to be here.  Even thought I wish my loved ones could experience this, I feel grateful for being able to.  The sun is shining, the air is warm and I am done walking for the day.

I splurge for a private room again.  This is the second time I have splurged for a private room with a bath tub while on the camino.  Places like this make the under average place tolerable.  To be able to look forward to a bath with a private full size bed and no snorers is a MUST when doing something like this.