Janet and Kevin’s Very Big Walk

Day 12, San Juan de Ortega to Burgos.

We left San Juan de Ortega in the dark as we knew we had a long walk ahead. It was certainly a very atmospheric place at this time with the monastery looking particularly dramatic.

Our route initially took us through trees and then we climbed up to the highest point of the day. The land has changed and the locals describe it as being barren, remote and desolate! It is so different to just a few days ago when we were in the fertile Rioja region. We saw the first sheep of our journey as we made our way to the top.

At the summit, which was 3,550ft a huge cross had been placed to mark the pilgrims route. This height also gave us great views.

As we moved over the summit we could start to see the industry of Burgos ahead. Quite a contrast to our start this morning. Our route into the city took us past extensive roadworks, around the perimeter of the airport and through a busy industrial area. It’s certainly been a day of contrasts!

Finally, we have arrived in the city of Burgos with a population of over 180,000. As we walked in it was lovely to see the huge water feature that has been designed as a welcome to people walking The Camino.

2 Responses

  1. Just back from our travels and catching up with yours . Great pictures . Having lived in Spain you are bringing familiar names of places we have never been to to life.

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