Thursday, October 16, 2014

Ponferrada - Villafranca del Bierzo    23 kms

   I packed the camera in the backpack to start the day because of the rain. Sure enough, for the first two hours it was a steady rain. But lo and behold the projected downpour did not fully materialize and we had some reasonably dry hours to finish the day.
   Fortunate for us because we are in the heart of the Bierzo wine region - Mencia grapes. It was a very pretty walk through the vineyards, with Fall colors in all directions. The pictures do not do the scenery justice.
   Thanks again to Les' unbelievable fast pace of walking we were one of the first to arrive at our albergue. Hence, we were able to snag one of the available double rooms for a whole 2 Euro more per person. It's these little things that make a big difference.
   We will  explore the town after the rain lets up a bit. Already had a lovely lunch with a bottle of 2010 Bierzo tinto - off the wine list no less.  The bottle cost more than the 3 course menu at the Michelin suggested restaurant. On this issue I have my priorities....Les is sleeping off the vino...
   Tomorrow we arrive in Galicia. It will be a 31 km day with a steep climb up to O'Cebreiro - almost 3000 feet. The same elevation change we walked down yesterday.... But the weather forecast is improving.




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