Day 9/24 Rabanal - El Acebo

Today is suppose to be one of the most challenging on Camino. The climb to Cruz Ferro (1500m above sea level, but we start at 1000m from Rabanal) and then the steep decent to Ponferrada (500m). But we will stop at El Acebo about 1000m down.

We headed away around 0830. There is a service that transfers your pack to your next destination for €5, so we have loaded Mike’s pack up and sent that forward. Keeps mine light and takes the load off Mike’s heel.

We are walking with Vicky today. Brian’s knee is bad so his turn to taxi to next village.

A mild morning and perfect walking conditions. First stop Foncebadon for coffee pana chocolate and a few snack supplies, as not much available for next 10k. I met Tara from Australia - not feeling great with a possible cold coming on. She joined us on our walk and we heard all about her “Travel Far Enough” blog and her travel adventures.

It was lovely later to hear that us teaming up today lifted her spirits and helped her continue her Camino journey.

We reached Cruz Ferro and did the ceremonial leaving of a stone or something similar. This is a place to leave your worries behind. See pic.

A steady decline to our overnight digs. A lovely B&B call “La Trucha” with glorious views.

We joined Vicky, Brian & Tara for dinner - pilgrims meal.

So many of the villages we passed through today are in major disrepair but due to the popularity of the modern day Camino are being restored and given new life.

Heel report - better by the day !

Breakfast & snacks €10
Dinner €28
Bed €50