Astorga, Spain
September 22, 2022
Dear Family & Friends:
San Martin del Camino to Astorga, September 21, 2022 (19.4 miles)
This was a long walking day, but I enjoyed every minute of the walk. First, the scenery was beautiful as the trail is not near any major roads. Second, I was anticipating my reunion with Lisa, Lori, Amy & Elle in Astorga. I was stressed about flight delays and bus connections at the airport that would take them to Astorga. But, there were no flight delays and they managed the connection beautifully. I arrived at the hotel in Astorga at 2:30 pm and they arrived at 3:30 pm. As I prepare this blog, I think they are all taking much-needed naps.
Astorga is a charming, walled city with a population of 11,153. According to legend, both St. James and St. Paul preached in Astorga. We are staying at the Hotel Spa de la Plata, which is the nicest hotel in Astorga, and one of the nicest hotels I have stayed at on this trip. The hotel features a full service spa. Lisa received a massage at the spa. The hotel is located in the center of Astorga and there are lots of great restaurants that are near the hotel. Astorga is also the Chocolate Mecca of the Camino. Tomorrow, we will take a rest day to allow the girls to recover.
Rest day in Astorga, September 22, 2022
Today, we rested and toured the City. We started with a tour of Gaudi’s Palacio Episcopal, designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi and intended as the residence of the Bishop of Astorga. The Bishop felt it was too flamboyant for him and the building was repurposed as a pilgrimage museum. We then visited the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria. This was a truly enjoyable day.
Tomorrow, we walk to Rabanal Del Camino, a distance of 12.3 miles.
Miles walked: 322.7
Miles remaining: 160.8
Walking to Astorga
The Crucible de Santo Toribio above Astorga
Astorga in the background
Seniors playing dominos in Astorga
Joined by Family Pilgrims
Gaudi’s Palacio
Cathedral de Santa Maria
What’s wrong with that picture? Four young ladies have been sitting in a plane and need a nap ! A slightly older Camino Trekker walks 19.4 miles and is writing his blog.
A trip to a chocolate factory/museum is an A+ stop while in Astorga. Continued blessings as all of you begin trekking together.
Rick
Great family shot and everyone looks ready to go! Enjoy your reunion and the next few miles!
How very nice to be with family!
I’m 72 and with each passing year I value my kids, grandkids, and extended family more and more.
What a blessing to have them by your side for the remainder of your Camino journey.
Gaudi’s Palacio reminds me of Neuschwanstein in Bavaria. Completely OTT. For once I agree with a bishop..
Such a joyful family reunion! How amazing it will be to walk the rest of the Camino together.
Bill, Thank you for letting us be a part of your pilgrimage. Blessings to you and your family.