Camino: Day 20

Distance: 19 Km ( 11.8 miles)

Weather: cloudy, 49-58°

Time on trail: 5 hours including breaks

We welcomed our day with this glorious sunrise.

As we left town we noticed the church steeple had 2 large white stork nests waiting for the birds to return next spring.

As we walked, we passed these familiar crosses. I enjoy reading the messages left by pilgrims.

I loved this message left for friends who were further behind on the trail.

Many people take rest days on the Camino while others do not. With pilgrims walking at different paces, the saddest part on the Camino is no longer seeing friends you have made along the way. But then, you make new ones.

Here is a young Korean girl we met in the past few days. She speaks good English so we are able to have nice conversations.

I believe she is hiking on her own; but, with her friendly personality, she has no problem making friends.

Around 11:30 & past the half way point, we came into the small town named Reliegos.

I was hungry, thirsty, & needed a bathroom break, so it was perfect timing to find this small bar. By the time we left, it was full of pilgrims inside & out.

Reliegos is a cute town and feels like a tiny Santa Fe, NM. It’s known for its tomatoes. A meteorite also fell here in 1947.

A little less than 2 hours later we arrived in Mansilla de las Mulas.

This small town dates back to Roman times. In 70AD, the Romans built a wall around the city. Parts still exist today.

In the 11th & 12 Centuries, Mansilla was the largest & richest market town in this region, especially for livestock which explains its name “de las mulas” (of the mules.)

Mansilla has always been a major stop for pilgrims walking the French route. Although its grandeur has faded, it’s still a lovely place for pilgrims today.

After a short rest in our hotel, we took a stroll around town in the light rain.

Tomorrow will be our last day walking the Meseta which ends the 2nd major stage on the French Camino.