Gijon KM 350.5

The Harbour at Gijon

Hello from beautiful Gijon! Its been a couple of days since I have been able to post anything, but I think I needed a little break from writing as I was feeling a little blocked. Now I have lots to say, but little time to say it in!

Going up 400 metres en route to Gijon

In short, the scenery here on the Camino Del Norte continues to be spectacular. I don´t recall if I mentioned it before, but it is much like Ireland, only there isn´t as much rain here. Having said that it has been misty for the last two days, but this is ideal for walking as I have never felt too warm.

Camino Real

After leaving Ribadesella on Saturday morning, I walked about 28 km mostly along the coast, much of which was on the Camino Real -no, it isn´t a car, but the old road. Despite the uneveness of the stones, it was a thrill to know I was walking on such an old trail. And to prove it, there were signs everywhere say "Camino Real". About 4:30pm I landed at the Albergue in Sebrayo, where I decided to stay despite the fact that there were no crispy white sheets or and in-house massage therapist. And then I changed my mind... but here´s what happened. I paid my 3 euro, picked up my pack (which by the way has developed a fragrance all of its own and it isn´t that nice), walked around the corner into the dormitory and there standing before me was a man without any clothing on. This was not what I wanted to see at that time and thus I averted my gaze to the bunks. There, many people were resting after a long day and along with me and my pack the smell was more than I could bear. So, I took a shower, put clean clothes on, donned my pack, thanked the hospitalero, did not take my money back when she offered it, and walked another 6km to Villaviciosa where I found a good Pension with a quiet room for 15 Euros with - a bathtub, albeit a small tub but a tub nonetheless! What excitement, what joy... my body was so greatful for a good soak.

I had a restful night there and set off about 7:15 am today for Gijon. For the first time, there was mud on the trail, which I slipped in (now I know why mud wrestling is such a popular sport). And, I nearly, but didn´t, got lost following a myopic Spanish man on a treacherous logging path. I had to catch up to him to let him know I thought he was on the wrong road and that I was trusting my map. The problem is that this trail is not well marked and you really do need a map - its easy to get lost. Arriving in Gijon about 2:30 I had some pinchos and mineral water at a nice Irish Pub - not sure about the Irish part, but hey, the Pinchos were great. Pinchos are like little appetizers - tasty and perfect for after a long walk.

I had considered walking on but some Italians I met looked at my like I had two heads and asked me "why would you do that?", so I listened to the voices of reason and here I am. Besides, my feet continue to complain bitterly and needed a break. They are like a couple of burning logs at the end of my legs every day... will they ever improve? As you can see below, I have found a new use for a bidet. It makes an excellent foot soaker - I highly recommend it.

Soaking tired feet at the Hotel Pasaje

Now that my feet have had some pampering the in bidet, I am ready to further explore this pretty city. Tomorrow I am walking just 21.5 km to Aviles, where there is reportedly a truly special Albergue, which I do plan to stay in. Until next time...