W. H Davies has a quotation:
“Ride, Pleasure said,
Walk, Joy replied

It was an arduous 24.8 kms with the last 11.5 kms in the hot 32 degree heat.

Janet, Rogerio and I left the Albergue La Casa Magica at 7:35 am with our destination of the day to be Los Arcos.

The first 3.7 kms to Estella were the easiest of the day. Twilight was breaking and the air had cooled over nite. We made the wrong turn and missed the church we wanted to see, so we walked thru. Our next destination was the monastery of Irache where previous pilgrims said that there was a fountain where you could have a glass of wine and be on a web cam too. It was 9 am when we reached this monastery but were disappointed as the wine fountain was not gushing red wine.

The path passed thru rolling hills with many vineyards and farmland. The day was warming very fast. We had lunch at Villamayor de Monjardin at a delightful bar that was playing salsa. We had a long rest. This village has a population of 150 people. High on the hill above the village is a feudal castle where the lord could oversee his fiefdom.

Those last 11.5 kms were downright dreadful. It was so-o-o-o-o hot. The last 3 kms were horrible dragging one foot in front of the other. I had filled my camel bak with a full three litres plus two cafe con leche and more water at each water fountain along the way. We reached Los Arcos at 3:36 pm. The first three Aubergues were full with the only one remaining was the municipal. We were able to secure the last three remaining beds.

That shower was also delightful. I think I stood there for at least 20 minutes. After reviving, doing my laundry, I went to the local bar where I have been sitting ever since. It is now 8:18 pm, I had a salad for supper, followed by ice cream and yogurt. It is now time to head back to the Albergue which has 25 bunk beds, housing 50 pilgrims and there is very little ventilation so it will probably be a warm night for sleeping. Thank goodness for ear plugs. Since I have consumed about three litres of water, getting up to use the washroom could be eventful because I am on a top bunk.

I am just thankful that I was able to reach our destination safely. And, yes, I did steal some more grapes from a vineyard but they were so juicy for my dry throat.

I have learned that I will not repeat this long a distance again especially when the temperature is to be in the 30’s.