A Beautiful Place

Today was a fairly easy walk. We are slowly making our way to Santiago. Tomorrow I will make my way to a town called Las Herrerias before I make a major climb on Wednesday to O Cebreiro in the region of Galicia. Today we entered another wine area that looks a lot like the Paso Robles area. Beautiful rolling hills with lush fields. The rains have been very good this year, everything is green and lots of flowers blooming. Had an interesting conversation with a Frenchman who spoke English. I asked how he spoke such good English and he said, “because I worked with a bloody English company.” A perfect French answer. The town I arrived at tonight is Villafranca de Bierzo which could pass for a Swiss or Italian ski town. Mountains on all sides. Here are some of the sights for today.

Leaving Ponferrada Beautiful flowers along the wayThe VineyardsThis is characteristic of many towns you pass through. Lots of dilapidated buildings. There is opportunity for investment at a significant renovation cost. (I wouldn’t park my car here.)Front renovated, back needs work.Sign postBeautiful church inCamponarayaIt was actually very dim so the illumination of Jesus on the cross stood out even more than photoA milestoneIs this a kitty or a baby lion ready to pounce. What do you think Cosi, Linnea, Zeke, JJ, or Henry?VillafrancaThis was a church dedicated to St Francis of AssisiRiver through the cityAn old monasteryWine PressFinally looking for theological help. Put it out to some and I am still reflecting. Any thoughts appreciated. (Can be snarky)

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