Day 8 walking Estella to Los Arcos April 29

We were expecting the worst as we set out from Estella this morning. Previous night was so cold, weather reports stating it was coldest day on record for this time of year. Predictions were for rain, cold weather for the next 3 days. Also heard that the pass over the mountain which we crossed on our second day was once again closed due to blizzards. News reports featured snow in Madrid. So we were expecting cold, and dressed accordingly.

But within 500m walking we were making the first wardrobe adjustment for the day. Change out of warm jackets into light ones. The day turned out to be quite good. We took the lower, slightly longer path which still held beautiful views of far off cliffs and snow capped mountains. We were so lucky.

Set off slightly later than usual, because our first point of interest was to the the Wine Fountain at Irache, and we'd read that it didn't open until 8am. We arrived there around 8.40am, and the wine was only a trickle. Maybe others had drained it before us. But, hey, it's free so what do you expect. We did the noble thing, and emptied one of our bottles of water, and collected about half a cup of Irache wine. Guessing it was the same wine we bought for 1.90€ from a store tonight. Gotta love it.

Today we met up with friends we had met up on the first days. It's like meeting long lost friends. Such a good feeling. Two Swedish ladies who had spent the previous night in a four star hotel in Estella and Pierre, Canadian friend.

Following the yellow arrows and camino signs is a bit like going on a treasure hunt. Pierre introduced us to his Australian friend David, an 81 yr old, who walked 250kms on one of the other camino routes before joining this one. This is his third camino. Amazing people. Scenery is spectacular, but the people you meet make the most significant memories.

During the day, the sky grew greyer, and just as we reached Los Arcos, rain started to fall. Great timing. About 3pm. Looked for a bed for the night. My greatest fear is that there will be no room at the inn. Close call today I think. We are in the Municipal Albergue. 34 beds closely packed into one room. Interesting.

Found an interesting bar, and headed out to taste some local culinary delights. Vino tinto - 3.50€ for 3 glasses. We ordered a pizza, and a paella - together costing less than 10€. Delicious.

But toooo cold so we are back in the Albergue.... In bed

BTW, it is 7.30pm as I write this, cold and wet so I'm in my sleeping bag on my bunk, with church bells continuing to ring out, and sounds of snoring very close. No it is not Lex.

Notes to self

• 21km Estella to Los Arcos
• Municipal Albergue - 6€ each for a bed. Given disposable sheet and pillowcase for the bed. Really close sleeping arrangements!!!!
• Enjoyed a few vino tintos and some food in local bar. Very friendly staff.
• My blister fared ok today, but doesn't feel too good now. So hoping for improvement tomorrow.
• David's tip for teaching/training yourself NOT to snore. He apparently bought a very thick Lonely Planet guide book. Put it in the middle of his bed- stopped him from ever sleeping on his back and consequently snoring. He thinks it is something that can be controlled and apparently told a bloke off the night before for keeping him awake.
• No recharge on ipad tonight as only power outlet is in the communal area. Not prepared to stand there or leave it unattended. Many do.

Nothing left of the Pizza and paella. Yummy

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