Day 25, Villafranca del Bierzo

Yet another delightful day on the Camino. I left Molinaseca early around 6:45 AM, to a brisk but clear morning. Apparently I was one of the first pilgrims out of bed this morning as I only saw a few behind me. The walk into Ponferrada was uneventful.

Upon arrival in Ponferrada, I expected to see another quaint mid sized city. Which Ponferrada could be if it were not marred with so much graffiti. While I have seen my fair share of it this far on the Camino, this town has an epidemic.

Thankfully the route through town included a walk through the river park. While also marred with graffiti, the natural beauty managed to overcome the noise shouting at you from any flat surface the spray paint canvassed.

Upon leaving Ponferrada, I ran into Israel. I don’t think I have mentioned him before but I met him about four days ago while leaving Leon. He has been traveling with a friend Karen who has had some physical challenges with the journey. We spent most of the rest of the day walking to Villafranca del Bierzo. Along the way we ran into Ju-An. We spent the last 3 km learning Spanish from Israel. ( Actually he was tutoring me most of the day.) This provide great entertainment, laughing with and at me as I struggled to remember any of the words. With that we finished off the evening with a great dinner and more laughter and conversation.

I bid farewell to these friends as the will continue on while I pause to collect Lori who is arriving Wednesday morning in Spain. I certainly will miss these two delightful people and hope to see them again soon.

Tomorrow I will take a bus to Santiago in order to meet her and we will return on Thursday after Lori has a rest day to overcome the jet lag. We will return to the Camino on Friday morning.

Lots of great pictures today as the journey included more vineyards and some of the best scenery yet.

Villafranca del Bierzo is delightful town. I am happy to be returning here in a few days to finish my Camino.