Day 14: The Dreaded Meseta (Burgos to Hontanas)

As our municipal albergue saw fit to set off a 'rise and shine' alarm at 5:30 this morning we were off and out at our usual time of 6:30. Compared the the tourist thrum the previous day, Burgos now seemed silent in comparison. Its narrow feet echoed our foot steps and walking pole clicks as we made our way out of the silent city.

As today is starting the much dreaded Meseta I have opted to wear my Nike trainers rather than my walking boots and oh my word it's like walking on a cloud, I feel like I'm floating rather than walking! I didn't realise how heavy my boots were and how sore they made the bottoms of my feet.

The 30km passed with relative ease with only a few moderate ascents to contend with. The heat was bareable though we did drink gallons of water, an important item we will have to remember for the remainder of the Meseta.

When we finally arrived at the dip in the mountains which hid Hontanas, we were greeted by a very nice looking albergue which had sun loungers and a restaurant/bar. Although the man working there proved to be a miserable git, we still stayed as it looked so clean and lovely.

Drinking out cola like camels we soon meandered over to a pool that was at the bottom of the village. All of the local children were there having a wail of a time but sitting in the cool water was sooooo good for my aching legs and feet - sipping a Fanta at the pools edge and basking in the sun actually gave the mirage of being on holiday.

Having sunned up and drank our body weights in iced coffee we made our way back. Despite still feeling peckish I refrained from buying another meal. I find myself in a strange state where I don't want to spend too much on food but I also want to keep my energy up - I think I'm getting the balance right so far, though I am desperately missing the gym and my muscles are fading away to that of a marathon runner. It makes me very sad.

Oh well, there will be plenty of time for the gym later. I'll only be doing this once!