Day 14. An afternoon in the sun, Atapuerca. 5 May

Atapuerca - The is the place where the oldest living remains ever have been discovered. There's a large archaeological museum just outside this small village.

Packing up in the dark with many sleeping was NOT easy, especially when we had done some washing, and it was also all over the place. But we made it out just on sunrise. Beautiful clear sky, promise of a sunny day, but sooo cold. Dressed for sun so we just had to weather the cold air.

We had seen the profile for the day's walk, and we knew it was uphill. But every corner revealed another uphill! It went up and up and up, through pine and oak forests. Views out to nearby mountains revealed snow capped peaks. Stunning. What goes up must also go down, and the downhills were very steep, and much colder.

The cafeteria at the first village, San Juan de Ortega was very popular. We joined other pilgrims in the sun with shoes and socks off. Oh no, another blister. Who gets a blister on the end of a toe!!!

We pushed on further, delicious ice cream in Agés, and an Albergue with a great sunny outdoor area in Atapuerca.

Notes to self

• 18km  Villafranca Montes de Oca to Atapuerca
• Atapuerca Albergue. 8€ each. Enjoyed an afternoon in the sun, fresh bread, salami, sheep's cheese, and a bottle of red.
• Villafranca is a good starting point for the next stage which includes 12km before the next stop with absolutely nothing. A long slog, and best tackled fresh early in the morning.
• Really wish Lex could be convinced to turn his alarm off.... Many people are already moving by 6am, but not always. Today was one of those days, and unfortunately, even though he heard the alarm this time, his fingers refused to work. Switching it off took ages.... Arrrggghhh
• Quite warm in the sun (and possibly dangerous), but very chilly in the shade.
• First afternoon nap. Really needed it

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