As we had crossed over the 100km mark yesterday, we had a celebration; the food and drink was a plenty; we didn’t retire until 1 am.
From pilgrims who had walked the way previously, their advice is not to stop at the albergues in Los Arcos; our next stop. We tried for a hotel but they were all booked up.
With Sandra’s feet still causing her problems we opted for a short day and try for Villamayor de Monjardin. Then we can shoot past Los Arcos tomorrow aiming for Torres del Rio.
First we had to go to Decathlon to get new shoes for Sandra. As it didn’t open until 9am we headed to a café for some breakfast in the meantime. Once eaten and shoes obtained we head back on the Camino.
After 3 km we reached another iconic spot on the Camino; the ‘Fuente de Irache’. This is a winery that has two fountains, one dispensing wine the other water. It had been a tradition for the winery to offer a drink to pilgrims.
Just before this we came to a blacksmith who was selling trinkets and metal sculptures at a quirky little shop. He also had a stamp for our credentials. I picked up a little metal shell with the Santiago cross on it for good luck.
We reached the fountain and sampled the wine. It was like paint stripper, Brian joked it would cure alcoholism!
The path forked as there is an alternative path going through Luquin, but ours is to the right for Villamayor. It was easy going; walking along vineyards with amazing views of mountains in the distance.
We came in to a small village called Azqueta, 2km from our destination. As there was no rush, we stopped at the bar for a cold drink before moving on.
The path to Villamayor is overlooked by a castle ruin on top of a free standing hill, adding to the aesthetics. Just before our end point, there is a medieval fountain; it was tempting to soak our feet in the cold water.
We reached the albergue to find out it was full, however the concierge phoned an albergue in Luquin and reserved 5 beds for us. This was only 2km further away but on the alternative route to Los Arcos.
With the accommodation sorted we had dinner at the bar opposite the albergue, relaxing and enjoying the moment.
Once fed and watered we left for Casa Tiago, our albergue for the night. We arrived just before 5pm and booked in. It is a quaint little place in a sleepy village. A fully stocked kitchen to use, included in the price. However the best part is a terrace with stunning views.
The bar in town has a swimming pool and serves tapas. That’s tea sorted!
Stu's Camino 