Camino Day 6: Puente la Reina to Estella
“Those who flow as life flows know they need no other force.”
Day 6: 25.3 Kilometres - 37,500 Steps
This morning we cross the stately Roman bridge after which this town was named. Underneath the river Arga flows steadily, reflecting back on us our own image as we, like millions of pilgrims before us, cross safely on our way. Prior to the bridge, pilgrims were at the mercy of ruthless ferrymen, who would allow the current to carry them away from town, affording opportunities for burglary and other worse misadventures.
No misadventure for us. We wander safely along country lanes, through vineyards and olive groves. We pass through Ciraqui an extraordinary medieval hilltop village with atmospheric winding narrow streets, beautifully preserved buildings with impressive doorways and ornate balconies.
We are travelling on well preserved Roman roads, crossing original Roman bridges. We meet our ‘daily crazy’ today a pilgrim walking in a heavy red cloak and feathered hat, despite the heat. He is a jaunty figure from a distance, but up close, less romantic – he is hot and sweaty with bad shoes.
The walking is spectacular. Although Donna’s feet are sore, we have no blisters, the blessing of great boots. Our destination tonight is Estella and our hotel is directly across the road from the impressive flight of stairs up to the ruined church. I ask Donna to climb up with me but she is too tired, in the morning, she promises. She lures me to the bar for a drink and here we discover that Spain makes truly excellent Gin and Tonics, served in huge balloon glasses with loads of ice and sliced lemon. What a great wind down after a long walk. We sit at the bar and decide this should become a new daily ritual.
POSTCARDS FROM PUENTE LA REINA TO ESTELLA
