Today is the day I slow down and walk with people. I wake up at my usual time, five something. Then I realise I have to wait for over an hour before even thinking about getting up. OK, it's fine. I'll wait for the chance to share my day.
I'm in a dark dormitory room at 2200. The lights went out half an hour ago.
Today is the start of my second Camino leg. It's also the start of the Meseta: the 180km flat, featureless stretch from Burgos until just after Leon. I wake up at 615, and I've had a good rest. I pack my bag and realise my sun hat is missing.
I was asked whether I was excited about the trip, and unable to give a fully positive answer. I think being wrapped up in preparation, the logistics of a very early flight and onward travel to Burgos had muted my anticipation somewhat. In the end, with a few minor hiccups, everything, as it often does, worked out just fine.
It was only supposed to be a training walk! Turned into a bit of an epic 26 mile (42 km) hike from my house in Brighton to Eastbourne via the South Downs Way. I picked a rather splendid day for it, and took a few nice shots on the way. I'm not usually one to post miles, but thought this was noteworthy, it's the longest walk I've ever done in one day, and the south downs isn't exactly light going, especially at the end. I'm off to finish the Camino Frances on Sept 14, so I thought I'd test and warm up the old pins.
Bilbao. In the hotel I wash and hot dry almost everything in an attempt to kill any biting stowaways. Bilbao is beautiful, but it feels a bit empty not knowing folks here. I see pictures on the group chat from the evening, it makes me a little sad so I turn it off as I walk around the city alone.