Viana

Breakfast at 6am and then on the trail. Good progress this morning with Cafe con leche at Torres del Rio. Holly was in great pain so took a cab to Viana. Said goodbye to Zita and Heather as they marched ahead. We´ll see them next in Smithers. Stopped at another Knights Templar church with amazing stone carvings around the domed ceiling. Looked very similar to the church at Eunate of a few days ago. A lovely lady took our money and watched us carefully. Just a few km. further on we came across another small curch what appears to be called Ermita. A very friendly man led us inside. Very small but a beautiful altar with fresh lilies and roses but no seats. Came across a number of small stone structures which we couldn´t decide what they were. In the end we think they are some of the original refugios or shelters for pilgrims. A very small doorway with a raised stone bed. Thank God for good mattresses! The day got progressively hotter with less trees but we walked into Viana about 1:30. Staying in the municipal hostel where the bunk beds are 3 high!! Fortunately I am only in the middle. The top looks way too scary. After our usual chores of arriving we wandered around the town. Sitting in the sqaure outside with the wind blowing in all directions we attempted to eat lumch. The going is tough but we are hanging in with avariety of minor ailments. My only complaint is a bit of sunburn so I am very thankful. The scenery is very varied with olive trees, almond trees and many vineyards to pass through. The weather is pretty good temp for hiking as long as we set out early. Hope all is well at home. Till next time. Daphne