Zubiri to Cizur Menor

Day 3

Headed out at 8 am after an awesome night’s sleep. I took advantage of the sound of the river and slept with the window open. Another glorious day in Basque Country. The old farm houses are enchanting.

The hills are full of wildflowers and butterflies at every turn.

I don’t know what these yellow flowers are but need to find out because the scent is heavenly.

This lovely wee gato Basque cooperated for a photo shoot so I offered her a bit of cheese I had left from yesterday. She was immediately joined by all her brothers and sisters. I made sure they all got some in her honor.

I’ve mentioned that it’s wet country. These peculiar snugs are everywhere. This was by no means the largest I’ve seen. They also have brown cousins that are “equally attractive.”

I’ve also mentioned how much music helps. Had a lovely hour with Gregorian Monks. And, I ventured into a few somgs today that I hadn’t yet listened to on this trip. I defy any of my hiking group buddies to listen to Mavis Staples’ “I’ll Take You There” (live version) while hiking and resist the urge to add just a little bit of a strut into your gait. And fellow Mr Blotto fans , especially my husband, need to listen to “Shoe Boot” by Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats as you’ll recognize a distinctive fabulous sound. 😎

After about six hours made it to Pampalona. The outside walls are at least 40 feet high and solid stone. In a word, formidable.

The hostels upon entering the city were a bit sketchy – offering space capsule sized pods as sleeping accommodations. I may someday venture into such accommodations but today was not the day. Plus, the buildings and bars were so close together in the heart of the town I could imagine it turning into chaos as the night went on. I wanted something quiet. In search of something more along those lines I had a lovely walk through this beautiful city and eventually found myself on the other side. I asked a passerby for the nearest albergue and they motioned me back 25 minutes. Never go back. The next town was 30 minutes forward so I kept going.

Found myself approaching the hill with the distinctive giant windmills peeking over the top and knew I was headed in the right direction. Went with the first albergue that I seemed to be drawn to. It’s pleasant and quiet – behind a walled courtyard with a fountain and I was assigned a bed in the women’s dorm. After a shower and washing of clothes I headed to a pilgrims dinner with some of the other women. Had lovely discussions over several courses of local Basque fare. I’ve already met some of the most amazing people from all over the world.

Over 14 miles today. Another early night.

More later…