The rain forecast yesterday held off until after bedtime, and a very light mist is still with us this morning. We can’t start without coffee though, and the bar doesn’t open until 7:30 (sunrise 8:15, no rush).
It’s very cool— I can see my breath, and the cloud deck hangs low over the mountains. It’s a steep climb up to the top, and a long way down. Fortunately the route is through forest — a first for this trip.
The town — a hamlet really — is names in honor of a saint who devoted his life to helping pilgrims by building bridges and hostels throughout the area. There is a huge old Cistercian monastery here; their albergue has 70 spaces! But I’m staying across the street at a newer place, 7 bunks and excellent pizza. Their terrace becomes the community lunch spot, and the afternoon is filled with interesting conversation and pilgrim stories.
Lodging: Albergue Descanco, San Juan Ortega
Kitsambler's Journeys 