Burgos and the Meseta

Day #13: Cardenuela to Tarjados, 14 miles 

Day #14: Tarjados to Hontanas, 12 miles

Friday, September 5

The day started out very well. We made fast tracks into Burgos, the biggest city on the Camino. We spent several hours there exploring the city, including the fantastic, ostentatious cathedral. 

Then the trouble started: we got lost leaving the city, Gracie broke her much-needed sunglasses, lost her water bottle, and developed some serious foot pain. Then we got lost again, more seriously. Tears were shed and bad words uttered. I had heard of "trail angels" on the Camino, and there he was in the middle of nowhere, leading us to the most wonderful albergue, a private room and even towels! Not real pilgrims! (see last post) but we don't care. 

Before we left home I read a book called "Walk in a Relaxed Manner."  It was about lessons to be learned on the Camino. Lesson of the day: Don't let difficulties deter you. Or maybe: Don't lose your sense of humor. 

Brunch in a beautiful Burgos cafe, Cathedral in the distance. 

Views of the Burgos Cathedral 

For you, Derek: I found some twizzlers! Love ya and muchas gracias for your support for my crazy wanderlust. 

Saturday, September 6

Today we begin the Meseta, the flat, arid section of the Camino that runs from Burgos to Leon, about nine days of walking. Contrary to Eliza Doolittle's words, the rain in Spain RARELY falls on the plain. Some people dread the Meseta so much that they take the bus through. Others feel it is the most sublime portion of the Camino because it leaves the most time for contemplation. We are committed (and should be committed?) to giving it a try. 

This man owned a little cafe where we stopped for coffee. He collected little tokens from his visitors from all over the world. Gracie added a $1 bill on which she wrote Mercer, PA. 

I actually prefer these beautiful little roadside churches to the big cathedrals. 

 The Meseta