17/4 Sunday Helgueras to Güemes 18km
Noja Aventura offered the worst breakfast experience! Toast made on the griddle so with an aroma of onion to go with the jam and margarine. We salvaged that by adding out own sliced tomato and forgetting the jam. Then dry cake and coffee only to find out the coffee was extra! Not impressed.
The walk began with hazy sun and a gentle breeze so perfect walking weather. I set off alone up through urban Noja for about 2km. Then out into gentle countryside but with more houses than most days. Walking was all on roads and pavements.
Stopped for a snack at San Miguel Church and listened to the service inside. Beyond San Miguel I stopped again by a river and then rose up to Barayo where I chatted to a lady tending her veg plot. She had the friendliest smile that reminded me of Corinne and Debbie's mum Sylvia.

Continuing I caught Katherine, from Germany, and spoke briefly before signs for the night's Albergue appeared. I also saw a couple of deer just before arriving at Güemes.

La Cabaña de Abuelo Pueto is clearly a special place run by Pastor Ernesto. On arrival the first thing I was asked was did I want lunch as they were about to eat! It would have been churlish to decline even though I'd snacked along the way.
I sat with Nina, Katherine, Izzie and Neche - all from Germany. Delicious ensalada mixta followed by lentil soup and a yogurt.

Then it was off to the Dorm to unpack, make up the bed, shower etc. Soon joined by Conrad from Germany and Ramon from San Sebastián who I had met briefly walking back for my poles a few days ago.

Looking forward to Ernesto's talk and a communal meal later.