Day 23 Villafranca del Bierzo to Herrerias

Woke up this morning at 0520 and went through the usual routine of looking after myself,I am really annoyed I have got a blister making its presence felt on my left trotter, so I tended to that,I have seen the effect of neglected blisters,I was not going to allow me to fall into that trap.I met Agnes at 0600 and we set off to meet Martin and Jason as we have decided to walk together.

Then there was four.

The sun had not risen and it was very cold when we set off,it was due to be walking alongside main roads for today,it did not detract from the walking as the views were superb.

Soon we were to arrive Pereje and it was time for breakfast.

We are beginning to notice that the locals are getting more friendly as we move ever westwards.

We were gradually climbing back into The Pyrenees.

That time of day again DOAB.

We all could not believe that soon we would only have a 100 miles to go,just not possible !!II It was soon time for another break,it is hard to describe the relief when you arrive at a bar and take your shoes and socks off,you can actually hear your feet saying thank you.

Much to,our delight Mariet joined us then there was five.

We passed through Vega de Valcarce and saw this sign,I will never forget that sign at Roncesvalles 

We have come so far , what amazes me is that we know we have only got a 100 miles to go and we are nearly there,but it is the distance of The South Downs Way which is a celebrated British long trek.The truth is we are nowhere near Santiago,but to us it is a huge landmark,life  comes down to landmarks and miles to go.

We at last arrived at Las Herrerias,it constantly amused us that no matter how often we said Herreias it sounded like hairy arse !!!

We checked into our Hostel and had lunch.

Stats for today

Miles walked  14.04

Average speed 3.1

Walking time 4.36

Distance to go 102 miles

Today has been a great day,we have made good progress in short time,tomorrow is the big climb over The Pyrenees.

I know pain makes for a good story but my left toe  is killing me,I have had this problem since day 3,I think all this road walking is causing it to play up big time,it will not stop me I can assure you.

I am so tired much to my amusement I put my head down in my arms at the bar and fell asleep just now,where is a photographer when you need one.

Yesterday's blog has been updated.