Ponferrada to Las Herrerias - Vines & Shaded Streams

Vineyards open to the sun and shaded stream side pathways are images from the path from Ponferrada to Las Herrerias via Villafranca del Bierzo. 

Rich green vegetation springs from magically fertile red brown soils. 

This country side has been providing sustenance for millennia, like the Rio Sil flowing through Ponferrada.

The morning riverside walk out of Ponferrada was calm and cool and comfortable.

Breakfast at a cafe on the edge of town 

With a courtyard and plenty of room 

The type of bar that has a relaxed atmosphere and the right lifestyle. Hmmm maybe in the next life.

In a region famous for its wines!

I stopped at a regional wine cellar for a tasting . . .

Or two or . . . 

After checking out the back

It was out among the vines in the midday sun.

By mid afternoon Villafranca del Bierzo came into view

Set in a valley- an historic gateway close to the border between Castile y Leon and Galicia.

Like other towns on the Camino Frances, there is a noticeable divide between the pilgrims - having an early dinner (on the left), and the locals - coming from a live musical performance at theatre (on the right). 

Earlier to bed while the locals mingle

Then we pilgrims disappear in the morning light - and the pattern continues.

On our way to the next place, picking up wisdom as we go 

This morning walking stream side on paths designed for safety- thanks - said the grasshopper!

The path was comfortable and shady most of the way today.

Passing through villages

By evidence of local industry,

Past places I had stopped years ago,

And by places worth staying in the future.

Overhanging freeways and medieval pathways combine

Following the arrows . . . 

To the day’s  destination 

A  ‘new Albergue’  across the road from the one we stayed at years ago.

Tomorrow it’s up the hill into Galicia!