Nice early start to get as many kms done before the heat. On the road by 0630 so very dark. Trail not particularly well marked to leave the town but we wound along the lit streets and came to the edge of the town. It was dark and we could not see any indicating arrow. We realised our mistake in not purchasing head torches. What a careless oversight! Feeling total despair, when out of the dark shadows came Alistair! There is a saying that the Camino always provides. If it is true, then this was the moment for us. Pure coincidence of course, but throughout the entire day (and yesterday) there have been no other pilgrims. And now, one miraculously appears at exactly our time of need to not only point us in the right direction but to provide a shining light (literally, with his bright torch) for us to see our way through the forested section ahead. Plus he is Australian. No language issues. (A side note: Alistair is from Melbourne and this is his eleventh Camino.)
Along the way we crossed a long wooden bridge, the planks of which were not of consistent height. Despite being entirely aware of this I managed to trip and plough heavily head first into the bridge. Under the weight of my backpack there was no room for negotiation to circumvent my fall. Was a definite shake up and I bruised my nose, mouth, hand, knees and elbow (and pride). But able to rise again and soldier on. Alistair stayed with us a while and we had coffee together at a place he was able to locate in the next small town (we would most definitely have missed it.) Then he bid us farewell and took off at his normal speed. Given he averages 40 - 50km a day, we don't expect to cross paths with our 'Camino angel' again.
Walking and walking, onwards and onwards, one step after the other. Varying surfaces, getting more stoney as we progressed. A heart starter hill to the local casino and again I was spent. Two more 'sit-stops' with skerricks of shade and then finally after hours of slogging it out in the demoralising heat, a shady tree and green grass emerged. Sheer exhaustion, total collapse, cool refreshing breeze, dormant bliss. Remained motionless about 30 minutes, an essential rest to enable a final burst of energy into Jerez de la Frontera. (‘Jerez’ = 'sherry') And then that amazing feeling that pilgrims know only too well of having achieved another day. Exhausted but exhilarated.
Our room is superb. Fully equipped including a washing machine. Perfect! It is the ground floor (even better!) of an old fascia building. Accessing it was challenging but definitely worth it. For anyone interested, the name is La Faraona. Just a short walk to a very ornate and grand cathedral and in the heart of old town Jerez. The city is active and vibrant. Very inviting. Would be a great place to hang out longer.
Early start so early to bed.
Ouch David really hope you are OK. Your in good hands with Jen. Please stay safe and we'll.
Sorry to read about your fall Jen. Are you sure only peripherals injured? No back or leg injury? I guess not as you continued the walk. Do take care though. Jerez looks lovely.
Well done guys, looks like it is heating up. Hope you pick up a headlamp shortly. Take care