With the medieval GPS a little hazy I either passed the half way mark this morning or definitely by the time I reached tonight’s stop.

This stage is reputedly one of the toughest – As there is largely nothing to distract from each step – and a 30k hike to Moratinos (Pop’ 12 + Livestock ) forces you to consider why you’re here ( maybe a tad introspective for me ) or look on each of the 45,000 steps a day like this requires as an opportunity to appreciate what’s happening around you . ( more me !👍)

Here’s what a fellow traveller Heather McClure from Santa Monica US posted tonight – you’ve seen her pic on this blog before. Hope you can read it – it’s fab .

A good start – breakfast in Carrion de Los Condes ( Fuel up or your legs are useless within 2 hours !! )

Start in the Dark .

Some Panoramas from Heather . Who calls me “Irish Ian” and greets me with “Top of the …….. ” fill in time of day / occasion/ Drink here . No idea why – and am not going to dissuade her now 🤣

Of the 3 measures for the Camino Frances I’m going with 820k – it covers me for sightseeing and meandering .

So today is a big day !!! 🎶🍷🇪🇸👣 – half way – woo hoo 🍻✌🏼

Past Vast Monasteries

And out again into the Meseta – and then ………….. Nada , Nowt , Nothing for 7 hours .

Of course ….. relieved by the convo’ ,the common humour and in jokes of the – by now – symbiotic travelling band .

A photo you take when bored …..

A welcome late lunch and Beer …

Joined by Rikke from Denmark 🇩🇰 on the way to meet boyfriend in Santiago and then off to surf in Finisterre together .

3 more hours to …. days end

In Montanilla – this is our Hostal – one up from an Alberque- € 14 Euros ( flash eh ?) a comfortable haven for hot shower and chill should give us a shorter day tomorrow.

Surrounded by old Bodegas for wine storage. Hobbit Houses !

And ending with THE most bizarre “Camino Moment” . 3 Japanese pilgrims gave an impassioned impromptu performance in the Hostal common room.

Get this – somehow they have a BIWA with them – a Japanese musical instrument. – heavy to carry I suppose .

Each song introduced with care by this man .

Happy to be here . Totally bizarre and wonderful – i have video . They love the fact my Sister Kate is in Tokyo and will also see this !

Night all