Turned out to be a tougher day than I had imagined. Much of it was on pavements or asphalt which is pretty rough on the legs. Some steep hills at the end as it was getting warmer so the "micro" hotel was much welcomed. Only 6 rooms so nice and quiet. Beautiful food, again. Love that rice pudding! Nice little town but beginning to get the feeling that the season is coming to an end with fewer pilgrims around than the place can sustain. Not a bad thing from my poin...

An early start, in the dark, for a fairly challenging trek. We have well and truly left the Meseta behind. A 7km hike took me to the Crux de Ferro. I placed my pebble from home at the base of the cross and even for me it was quite emotional. I said a few words to whoever may may be listening, if anyone, and moved on. Finally arrived at Molinesaca which is a beautiful little town on the river. My hotel is right on the river bank and my "salon" has a view of the br...

Easy walk to Rabanal. The last 2 km were a bit of a camel track but ok as long as I wasn't on my bike! The final km in to Rabanal had crosses of all descriptions in all colours fixed to a fence. I was thinking of making one using duct tape but I may find better use for duct tape yet! Arrived before lunch. Left Astorga before sun up and therefore arrived before it got too hot. Also allowed me time for lunch. House salad, salmon, rice pudding and bottle of wine: al...

Leon is a big city so it took quite a while to reach the outskirts. Plus it was Monday morning rush hour I was on my best behaviour with my bike. About 7 degrees as I left but within a short time the sun heated the place up. A relatively uninteresting ride then to Astorga. Another beautiful old town where my hotel is again well situated in the town square with my balcony giving me views of the square. My bag didn't arrive until late in the afternoon so a 3 course...

Late brekkie then a tour of the hotel/monastery/museum in which I am staying. Quite stunning. After yesterdays perceived excesses at lunch, a more subdued affair was called for today. Salad and a few wines in one of the seemingly hundreds of squares was most enjoyable. Even more people in the city in the afternoon and evening so an early night to get some sleep before the final bike ride tomorrow.