Last night was spent in a room for 8 and again nobody snored which is unusual but the norm so far on this pilgrimage.
As usual we were up early as a result of the two giant German cyclist that had been allocated beds above us. The cyclists really tested the beds getting into and out of the bunks but the beds survived thank heavens. Breakfast was obtained across the road before we headed into the unknown on the Camino de Invierno. This was the third time that I have been in Pomferrada and the only time that l have not been lost.
The walk today was through a series of pretty villages (a combination of well kept residences and crumbling ruins) plots of cherry trees (being harvested) almond trees as well as gardens full of roses and other flowers.
Apart from several storks seen nesting on churches and a solitary squirrel we only encountered two other pilgrims which was during a stop for coffee at Toral de Merayo.
Through either good luck or judicious reading of our guide book, we managed to bypass most of the steep climb up to Castillo de Coratel, even if it did mean that we were a target for the cars and trucks travelling on the busy CL-356.
Tonight we are staying in a small rural hotel where we think we may be able to obtain a meal later this evening and if we are extremely lucky breakfast tomorrow morning.
Kate is now safely in London and has been sending photos of her blistered feet. As they are not a pretty sight, they will not be published here.
Tough terrain, as usual. I envy you the sight of pretty villages.