12/4 Tuesday Ontón to Castro Urdiales 16km
Decent sleep after a lively evening and a full Albergue.
The original Camino from here took a fairly direct coastal route to Castro- only about 7km. Those in a hurry go that way but it is now blighted by the main coast highway and factories. The new Camino route wiggles inland for 16km with only a small climb up and out of the valley.

This was a good choice as it dropped down to a "Via Verde" following a disused railway line through Otañes where the old station is obvious.

Just about here my legs spoke to me and I listened. They needed a proper rest so I booked ahead for two nights in a cheap hotel in Castro which looked very picturesque.

I had the wind and birdsong for company and pleasant walking until the outskirts of Castro. I passed a churchyard that would have made a pretty lunch stop but decided at only just 12 a little early. Big mistake! There was nothing and getting hungry ended up eating my packed lunch beside the roundabout leading up to the main highway and with only flies for company. Next time forget the clock and take the opportunity when I can!

The Camino eventually brought me out at the top end of the eastern beach so a lovely walk along the promenade to my accommodation which was quite central.
No sea view or balcony for me but the room is a twin with en suite so everything I need. After a quick shower I decided my Achilles' tendons would find a walk in the sea therapeutic. I found a perfect rock seat where I could dangle my feel in the swell and write the blog to date - nice!

I met Michael again at the laundrette would you believe. He had been joined by his good friend Sabina and we met up for an evening meal together.