And we made it to Pamplona! We all felt stronger today, although it was very hot, and Lu scared us all by getting pretty severely dehydrated. We agreed to take the lesson to heart, and slow down the journey, taking plenty of time to stop, rest, eat and enjoy our amazing surroundings!
Today we passed into Basque country. Spain is made up of 17 provinces, and they are under a provincial government. They have their own cultures and are fiercely independent. As one pilgrim told me, it is difficult for them to agree on anything at all. The walk was pretty level and better than the last two days. The country side was beautiful. We followed a River for much of the day, and it was beautiful. We passed several parks where families we enjoying the beautiful day, and there was a swimming hole along side the river with folks sitting on the beach and enjoying the water. The beach however, was made up entirely of rocks, all about golf to tennis ball sized. Made me thankful for our beautiful sandy beach at home!
There was also a foot race going on, I can’t even imagine running up the climb we had into the city. But they received a hero’s welcome at the finish, complete with cannons!
Arrived in Pamplona about 3:30, and landed in the old walled city. Amazing. Entrance is through a drawbridge with a moat! Dry though…. We are staying at a very nice hotel with a lift! No steps or inclines! Has AC too. Heaven. Took showers and naps, then headed out to explore a little of Pamplona. Since it is Sunday, the town square was packed. There must have been a big football game today, there was much embracing, singing, shouting and merriment going on. It was quite obvious the green team were the victors, as they were exuberantly partying, while the fellas in red ( and their fans) were looking a bit sulky. The streets are very narrow, can’t even imagine the bulls running through, would be quite a sight to see!
Enjoyed a meal and ice cream, then back to the hotel. Did a little blister first aid - thank goodness for Compeed, but none of us are in a bad way, and we have seen some folks in a bad way!
Random pics, I gotta go to bed!
So proud of you guys! Such a combination of bucket list, good food of the country, beautiful sights along the way. Soak up every minute and yes take care of yourselves. Xxoo Linda and Rick
ReplyDeleteWhat an adventure and thanks for the travelog! Can't wait to hear your stories when you get back. Stay safe and keep taking care of each other.
ReplyDeleteWhat an amazing journey! Loving the blog and photos...so appreciate your sharing this with us! Love and many prayers continue your way.
ReplyDeleteBob and Sue.
I see the “She-Wolf” is there to guard you, at least in the Basque county. Quite the adventure!
ReplyDeleteN.
Love these updates! But keep that Lu healthy, k? We want her back ;-)
ReplyDeleteI like your resolutions to slow down, take good care of yourselves & each other, and enjoy the scenery! Very wise--and good advice for us all, I think.
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