Linda passing by the Arco de San Benito on our way out of townCrossing an 18th century bridge over the Cea River. The cross monument marks the point where the Camino de Madrid merges with the Camino Frances. The bridge has its origins in Roman times.Tree lined walking paths passed by a very large athletic park with multiple athletic playing fields and structures.As soon as we left the park the Camino became a gravel path again, parallel to a two lane highway after maneuvering through a series of traffic circles and interchanges linking the national highway (N-120) and the Autovia.The path took us passed many cornfields and was lined with trees that form protection from the afternoon sun.Linda spotted a deer in the field adjacent to the path and Jim snapped it, even though it was pretty far away for clarity. When reviewing our photos for the day, we discovered a second deer near the first but missed when we took the shot.The path was pretty much like this for most of our 6 mile walk after leaving Sahagún.To break the monotony, Linda walked on the parallel paved road to change the walking surface for a while.our first glimpse of La Perala, our Albergue for the day and evening, just outside of Bercianos.A favorite of ours, La Perala is only 6 years old and has a very hospitable staff. At 46€ for a double room with bathroom, its a real value.Our room in La Perala was not only spacious but had two bedside tables rather than one, electric outlets for each bed, an additional table and two chairs, not just one.
We once again renewed a pilgrim acquaintance with Artur, from Leon, France. We have met him so far at Hornillos, Hontanos and now Bercianos. He is walking farther each day than we are, but injured his right shin a couple of days ago and stayed the past two nights recovering at La Perala. As we mentioned before, Artur is 80.
Artur and Jim after our lunch together today
After Jim told everyone he saw today that he was celebrating his 77th birthday, a surprise birthday cake was delivered to our table tonight for dessert, compliments of our gracious hostess.
Jimandi 